There are many reasons for foreclosure and many people have faced it. In some cases, the foreclsure was simply an issue of poor money management. In others, circumstances took over. Medical issues, layoffs and other financial problems may have made payments impossible and foreclosure inevitable. For whatever reason, the deed is done and it’s time to start taking positive steps toward recovery.

Some people think that a foreclosure means they’ll never again be in a position to purchase a home. That’s not true, and there are even some steps you can take to get the process started.

First, realize that you’re not alone. Thousands have faced bank foreclosures and survived. This is serious, but it is possible for you to take the next steps and move on toward eventual home ownership again.

Next, you need to get copies of your credit reports to see what damage the foreclosure has done. If you had excellent credit before, you’re going to see a marked difference in your credit report after foreclosure, but don’t despair. Take time to carefully read your report. If you find errors, point those out to the credit reporting agencies that compiled the report. You’ve already got enough problems with your credit rating because of the real estate foreclosure – you can’t allow errors to stay on your report as well.

Foreclosures and most other negative credit information will remain on your report for seven to ten years. But keep in mind that many creditors don’t look at individual listings on your report, especially if those are more than a year or two past. Some only look at your credit score, which is a compilation of all credit activity resulting in a numerical score. That means that some creditors may be more lenient even after foreclosure if your score is good. Concentrate on getting that score back up. Apply for one or two secured credit cards as soon as possible after the foreclosure and start making regular charges and payments. Each of those will make a positive impact on your credit score.

Many people who have gone through foreclosure or bankruptcy can benefit from credit counseling services. Some agencies offer services at free or reduced rates and can help you negotiate payment arrangements for outstanding debts. Even if it’s too late to stop the foreclosure, this could help you with other bills. You could get your credit back on track much more quickly than if you simply let the process run its course.

One of the most important steps you can take toward owning your next home after you’ve gone through a foreclosure is to get your finances on track and start saving. You’re going to need a bigger down payment if you want to buy another house after your foreclosure. Make arrangements to put a set amount of money into savings every pay period. Create a budget that you can live with and that you can stick to – then stay with it.

If it was simply a case of poor spending habits that forced you into foreclosure in the first place, consider a buddy system. A spouse, parent or sibling makes a good “buddy.” Simply make a budget and then make a commitment that you’ll discuss any expenditures with your buddy before you make them. This has a couple of purposes – it makes you immediately accountable to someone else for your spending habits and forces you to take a step back before you spend the money. Often, you’ll find that you didn’t really need the item anyway.

Foreclosure may seem like the end of the world while you’re in the process. While it’s a very serious issue, you can recover. Just make sure that you pay attention to the old adage and learn from your mistakes.