It's tempting to start from the ground up after coming out of bankruptcy, but buying a new home isn't the best way to do so.
You'll need a bit of time to build your credit worthiness again before moneylenders can trust you again.
For the meantime, it's best to rent a home or apartment first.
There are basically two ways to do this.
First, you can decide whether to rent from a property management company or a private party.
Approaching these landlords entails different strategies, and you'll be expecting different things from them, as well.
Renting from a property management company can be challenging, because these companies often base their would-be tenants' credit worthiness through their credit scores, and your bankruptcy is going to be a big black mark in your report.
It's often a better idea to do your research about different property management companies before approaching any of them, just to see whether they've accepted tenants who just filed for bankruptcy in the past.
Renting from a private party can be easier, as you can appeal to the landlord's better side by negotiation.
Make sure that you don't look the part of someone who just went through bankruptcy.
Show up well-dressed, well-groomed, and well-mannered.
Tell the landlord that you've learned your lesson after your harrowing brush with bankruptcy and are already taking steps to improve your credit.
The second part of renting a home or apartment after bankruptcy is equally important - be honest with the landlord.
If you're trying to rent a place to live, but aren't really dedicated to improving your credit score, then you're probably better off not trying at all.
Don't waste your time and the landlord's - you'll need to find it in yourself to truly want to get out of your financial pit and live a new, financially responsible life.