Bankruptcy or not?

[Elizabeth Sky]

Hi there-

I am in debt to credit cards. I have a low-paying job and at this point, no retirement. I am in my mid-50's, so I am a late bloomer to investing. I thought that claiming Chapter 7 would be a good idea, in order to wipe the slate clean, so to speak. Now, I am not sure and am questioning that decision. I have chosen to begin investing in real estate, within the year, after I reasearch and reactivate my Realtor's license. My question is: bankruptcy or not? I can barely pay my bills now, and have almost exhausted my work opportunities in my small town..I suppose I could wait the  years and then start, but I feel an urgency to get started pronto! Any and all advice / input will be highly appreciated. Thank you