As a licensed mortgage broker and FHA-licensed banker, "Realtyexec" is right on. FHA is the way to go today because not only can you get a loan with a FICO in the 500s, but there are other advantages as well: 1) Interest Rate: FHA Rates are very close to conventional rates. 2) BK (Ch. 13 or 7): If you have been out of BK for at least a year and can document that the BK was due to "extenuating circumstances" (beyond your control), you can get an FHA Loan. If it's not deemed to be "extenuating", then you must be discharged for 2 years. 3) BK Ch. 13 (NOT Discharged): You can get a refinance loan through FHA if you are still in Ch. 13 status, but have been making timely payments for over a year! Best of luck! - Wed Oct 31 2007, 05:36