It isnt my business but I'm not sure why you had to pay any of your Dad's debt....if I even read you right. At any rate, a bankruptcy stays on your credit report for 10 years, not 7. After this is all said and done with, if you are able to pay your remaining financial obligations on time, you will start to see your score eek up after about 5 years. But that doesnt neccessarily mean things are better yet. You may have to start applying for credit cards, cell phones (etc) all in your husband's name only for the next several years---assuming his own personal credit rating is OK. However, with a house, they'll check BOTH reports, even if you're a stay-at-home Mom without an income. In my most humble opinion, you are not near ready yet to buy a house and, if you do, you may end up in even worse condition. I know 5 years seems like forever, but it will make a world of difference in the amount you end up having to pay for your first house. Take that time to save up as much as you possibly can because the more you put down, the less you're monthly notes will be. Plus you could save tens of thousands over the first few years of your mortgage if you can save enough to avoid having to buy PMI. And while you're saving money, EDUCATE yourself on homebuying. This is a HUGE purchase---why would anyone go into it blindly and trusting total strangers to take you by the hand and look after your best interest?? The more the get out of you, the more goes into their pockets. Plain and simple. Arm yourself with education, You have the time to do it, and no excuse not to. Best of luck.