Navigating the Debt Dilemma: Should You Clear Collections Before Applying for a Mortgage?

By Bruce McClary, NFCC | Updated June 22, 2026 For millions of Americans, the dream of homeownership is a milestone defined by meticulous preparation. Aspiring buyers often spend years curating their savings for down payments, researching neighborhoods, and bracing for the complexities of closing costs. Yet, beneath the surface of these financial preparations often lies…

Read Full News

The Homebuyer’s Dilemma: Navigating Old Debt and Collection Accounts Before Applying for a Mortgage

By Bruce McClary, NFCC Updated June 22, 2026 (Originally published October 2016) The dream of homeownership is a milestone for millions, yet the path to the closing table is often obstructed by the lingering ghosts of past financial mistakes. For many prospective buyers, the journey begins not with picking out floor plans, but with a…

Read Full News