How long does a deed in lieu stay on your credit?
Mia Ramsey
Published Apr 21, 2026
seven years
A deed in lieu stays on the credit report for up to seven years, the same as a foreclosure. Homeowners can use a deed in lieu of foreclosure as a method to avoid the generally harsher effects of actual foreclosure. Normally, it’s also an easier way for a homeowner to give up all interest in his home.
Which is worse foreclosure or deed in lieu?
Less damage to your credit: A deed in lieu agreement stays on your credit report for 4 years while a foreclosure sticks around for 7 years. Taking a deed in lieu agreement can allow you to buy a new home sooner than if you were to go through a foreclosure.
4 years
Less damage to your credit: A deed in lieu agreement stays on your credit report for 4 years while a foreclosure sticks around for 7 years. Taking a deed in lieu agreement can allow you to buy a new home sooner than if you were to go through a foreclosure.
Can I buy a house after a deed in lieu?
Although a deed in lieu negatively impacts your credit history, it still is possible to buy another home in the immediate future. It may take at least two years to become eligible again.
Is a deed in lieu considered a sale?
A deed in lieu of foreclosure is different from a short sale because it transfers the property to the lender instead of selling it to a new buyer. Similar to a short sale, a deed in lieu of foreclosure likely will not damage your credit as severely as a foreclosure or a bankruptcy.
Which is an example of a deed in lieu?
For example: In this example a deed in lieu of foreclosure would save the mortgage company the costs associated with the legal process of foreclosure, not to mention the fact that, over the next several months that foreclosure will take, the value of the home could decline further.
When to choose deed in lieu of foreclosure?
Homeowners who have defaulted on their mortgage payments, and have been denied a loan modification or short sale by their lender, may choose a deed in lieu of foreclosure when their mortgage is underwater and they don’t have any equity in the home.
Can a lender reject a deed in lieu?
Your lender will likely reject your deed in lieu agreement if they think they can recoup more money by putting you into foreclosure. Though a lender isn’t obligated to accept your deed in lieu of foreclosure, they have a few incentives to do so. Some of the benefits your lender gets when they take a deed in lieu include:
How long does a deed in lieu stay on your credit report?