Even if the name on the report seems to be you, make sure all of the accounts and references apply to you. Many people have the same name and improper recording of data occurs. If the adverse items on the report occurred because of illness, marital problems, job layoff or other temporary circumstances and were confined to a particular period of time, you should have provided the lender with a written explanation at the time the loan application was taken or at some other point in the process. If you didn't do it then, do it now. Assuming there has been sufficient time since the problems occurred for you to regain financial stability and demonstrate prompt payment of your obligations, there is a good chance the lender will reconsider the loan request.
Many lenders look for one year's clean payment record to offset past credit problems.
If the credit report is accurate and you have a questionable credit history, you need to start repaying outstanding balances on time in order to re-establish an acceptable record. It may take time, but there is no alternative when this problem stands between you and owning a home. Many lenders participate in housing programs designed for low and moderate income home buyers who would not qualify for home loans under standard lending requirements. These programs are sponsored by both governmental and private organizations. If you have a good credit history, or have not established a credit history at all, they may provide a source of financing for your home purchase.