u/Economy_Release6833

Currently almost 2 years into Chapter 13 (80% plan)

I’m a relatively high earner (~$200k income) with a fairly large monthly trustee payment (~$4.2k/month). I filed individually since all debt was incurred solely by me.

Current situation:

• Living in a condo with approximately ~$100k equity. Owned jointly with wife, BK attorney has mentioned I am only able to keep $18.5k of my portion of profits.
• Looking to move into a single-family home with more space/yard as my wife and I plan to grow our family
• Estimated increase in monthly mortgage/escrow would only be around $400–500/month compared to current payment
• Plan would be to keep the Chapter 13 payment unchanged and remain fully compliant with the plan

I know moving during an active Ch 13 can be difficult, but I’m curious if others here have successfully done something similar.

A few questions:

• Has anyone purchased a new home while still in an active Ch 13?
• Did you buy in your name, spouse’s name, or jointly?
• How difficult was trustee/court approval?
• Any lender recommendations that are more familiar with active Chapter 13 borrowers? (FHA/manual underwriting/etc.)
• Any pitfalls or things you wish you knew beforehand?