A credit bureau is an information clearinghouse that compiles information on consumers. The credit grantors, or lenders, report consumer payment history to the credit bureaus. The credit bureaus then compile that information together with information on tax liens, bankruptcies, and court judgments that is available in public records. In return, when consumers apply for credit, lenders can check credit reports to determine the creditworthiness of consumers.

Having a foreclosure on your credit report is like dropping a bomb on your credit score — almost cutting it in half in some instances. Your FICO Score will take a big hit that could remain on there for as much as seven years.