Yes, you can sell your home after bankruptcy, but the process and timing depend on the type of bankruptcy you filed and your discharge status. REALTOR® Marie-Noelle Metseye helps homeowners across Snohomish and King County navigate this process while protecting their equity, complying with court requirements, and rebuilding financial stability.

There are two main types of bankruptcy that affect homeowners: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.

• Chapter 7 (Liquidation): The court may sell certain assets, including your home, to pay creditors. If your home has limited equity or qualifies for an exemption, you may be able to keep it.

• Chapter 13 (Reorganization): You repay debts through a structured plan, often keeping your property while making monthly payments. You can sometimes sell your home during or after this process with court approval.

Before selling, it’s critical to know your bankruptcy type and whether your case is discharged or still active. If you filed Chapter 7, you’ll likely need permission from the bankruptcy trustee to sell. In Chapter 13, you may need court approval if your repayment plan is still ongoing. Marie-Noelle coordinates with your attorney to ensure all legal steps are properly followed before listing.

Washington State’s homestead exemption protects up to $125,000 in home equity (as of recent legislation). This means that if your home’s equity falls within that limit, you may be able to keep your property or sell it and retain the exempted funds. If your equity exceeds the exemption, the bankruptcy trustee might decide to sell the home to pay creditors.

Marie-Noelle helps you understand your home’s current value with a detailed Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), so you know where you stand before making decisions.

If court or trustee approval is required, you’ll need to provide documentation such as your home’s valuation, proposed sale terms, and how proceeds will be distributed. Marie-Noelle assists in preparing all necessary materials and coordinating communication between your attorney, the trustee, and escrow to prevent delays.

Once approval is secured, the sale process looks similar to a traditional home sale. Marie-Noelle ensures that your listing attracts serious, qualified buyers through professional marketing, staging, and strategic pricing. She also works closely with the title company to ensure that all liens, court documents, and trustee conditions are handled properly.

After the sale, proceeds are distributed according to the bankruptcy plan. In some cases, you may keep a portion of your equity if it falls under the exemption threshold. Marie-Noelle emphasizes financial planning post-sale, keeping documentation, rebuilding credit, and exploring homeownership options in the future.

Remember, selling after bankruptcy can be a stepping stone toward financial recovery, especially if handled strategically.

Even homeowners emerging from bankruptcy are finding success in the current Snohomish and King County markets. With continued appreciation in areas like Bothell, Lynnwood, and Shoreline, many sellers are discovering they still have positive equity and can sell profitably.

Marie-Noelle’s market expertise ensures that every decision, from pricing to negotiation, is backed by data and local insight.

Bankruptcy doesn’t define your future, it’s a financial reset. Marie-Noelle understands the courage it takes to rebuild and move forward. Her mission is to provide judgment-free, professional guidance that helps you regain stability and confidence while navigating the home sale process.

Selling a home after bankruptcy is entirely possible, and with the right support, it can be an empowering step toward a stronger financial future. If you’re in Snohomish or King County and considering selling your home post-bankruptcy, contact REALTOR® Marie-Noelle Metseye for confidential guidance, practical solutions, and peace of mind.