If you have a good credit history and are prepared to invest in a home, you may be feeling pretty confident about the mortgage process. However, it’s important to be aware that there are things that can have a negative impact on your application. Whether you’ve just submitted your documents or are getting close to it, here are some things you may want to avoid.
Acquiring New Credit
It may seem silly that something as minor as a new credit card can be a mark against your credit, but applying for new ones can be a bad sign to lenders. The problem is that this can be signal an unmanageable debt load, so you may be considered a high risk for not being able to make your payments.
Forget To Pay Your Bills
It’s easy enough to get lulled into the feeling that your mortgage application will be approved, but this doesn’t mean that you should forget your financial responsibilities. If you’ve had poor credit in the past and neglected paying your bills on time, now is not the time to do this. Instead, ensure that you’re paying all bills and any applicable minimum payments in advance of the due date so your credit score is not impacted.
Close Old Credit Cards
Many people think that closing out old credit cards can be a positive financial step forward and a good way to streamline their finances, but this can cause damage to your credit score. Because closing a credit card will change your available balance and bump up your debt load, it may mean that your debt percentage will increase. Instead of risking this, leave them active until you’ve received approval.
Quit Your Job
Few people will have the ability to quit their job when they’re applying for a mortgage, but doing this or incurring other fluctuations in your monthly income can cause problems with your application. If you are self-employed, there may be peaks and valleys in your finances, but a huge shift in what you bring home can show lenders that you’re not a solid bet.
There can be a lot of stress that comes along with the mortgage application process, but by paying your bills on time and staying on top of your payments, you can avoid negatively impacting your approval. To start your home search, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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42806 N Hudson Trail Anthem, AZ 85086
$499,990
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,827
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6684033
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Private corner homesite, adjacent to common area on two sides, with only one single story neighbor next door! Highly upgraded Holiday model home includes stone flooring, upgraded tall white baseboards, granite countertops, tile backsplash, white cabinets, stainless appliances. Kitchen island and a pantry. New modern light fixtures, tons of natural light, and new carpet in the bedrooms. Main bedroom has a full bathroom with dual sinks & a walk-in closet. Oversized professionally designed backyard to watch the awesome Anthem sunsets. Extensive use of pavers and a natural gas fire pit. This home is immaculate!
40900 W Agave Road Maricopa, AZ 85138
$499,990
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,987
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6527806
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
READY FOR MOVE-IN!!! It's our popular Belice floor plan. - 3 bedrooms + flex space, 2 baths and a 3 car tandem garage. Multi Slide door off the great room that leads to the extended covered patio. Walk in shower at owner's bath. Stainless steel gas appliance package with microwave. Wentworth painted white cabinets with 42'' uppers in kitchen. AZT Calcatta Capella quartz countertops in kitchen and owner's bath. 2x5 DT Marble Attache Matte back splash in kitchen. 8' tall interior doors. Upgrade flooring includes level 9 carpet ''Urban'' in bedrooms and owner's closet. MZ Norwood 6x24 Norwood Oak tile in remaining areas of the home. Garage door and a 8' tall garage door for those high profile vehicles and much more.
30820 N 229th Avenue Wittmann, AZ 85361
$499,990
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,200
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6690723
Property Type
Manufactured Home
Price Type
--
Need your space to stretch out a little? This is the one for you! Come see this 3 bed, 2 bath, 2200 sq ft home situated on nearly 5 acres! PLUS a 1200 sq ft garage/workshop to store all your toys. The entire property is fenced and flat. Much of the home is updated including newer vinyl flooring, granite countertops, newer appliances and the AC is just 6 years old.
108 N 236th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396
$499,980
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,248
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6678396
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Recently remodeled 4 bed 3 bath with 3 car garage on a view lot with all new soft close kitchen/bathroom cabinets, quartz counters, designer tiled backsplash, modern cabinet hardware, stainless upgraded appliances, large farmhouse sink with commercial sprayer faucet, tile throughout main home, lush carpet and upgraded padding in bedrooms, new chrome interior door hardware, custom walk in tiled oversized master shower, his and her sinks, large master closet, walk out slider doors from master to back patio, blinds, ceiling fans, designer lighting, LED recessed lights, HUGE laundry room, new water heater, newly painted interior/exterior, huge covered patio with a professionally landscaped back yard with built in BBQ area, mountain views, and so much more to see in person!!
Tubac AZ 85646
$499,900
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,743
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6683032
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Adjoining the lush Santa Cruz River, the Trails Head community is a vibrant part of the Barrio de Tubac. You can enjoy proximity to the Historic/Artisan Village of Tubac itself which has recently been voted by USA Today as the number one up and coming Artisan Community in the Country. The Trails Head neighborhood also adjoins the renowned Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail which provides many miles of shaded areas to enjoy throughout the year. This 1743 sq/ft , 2 bedroom 2 bath plus den, home is positioned to take advantage of everything Tubac has to offer. Wether it is enjoying shopping and the art scene or experiencing the many outdoor opportunities, Trails Head in the Barrio de Tubac is a wonderful place to call home!
Pinetop AZ 85935
$499,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,740
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6695219
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Location, Location, Location! Complete renovation was completed in 2019 including plumbing, electrical & beautiful interior finishes. Including wood floors, granite countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms. The front yard offers apple trees, cherry, blackberry, raspberry, elderberry, strawberry plants, and many more ornamental flowering plants. Rock chip seal driveway new June 2021. Attic space offers 300+ sq ft of additional storage w.a pull down ladder installed 2021. A sturdy decorative stone mailbox was built in 2021. No HOA & close to Woodland Lake Park. Better Hurry!
3040 W Black Oak Loop Show Low, AZ 85901
$499,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,432
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6679189
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Brand-new home. Located in the desirable Torreon Golf Villas II. This stand-alone Villa is just what you've been looking for. Tall Ponderosa Pines surround this pristine new build. Enjoy granite countertops, a walk-in shower, open concept living area, with T&G ceilings. Luxury vinyl plank and 2'' wood blinds throughout. Spacious Kitchen. Gas Fireplace. Insta hot water heater w/filter. 2 garages. This split, Three-bedroom floorplan is ideal for a primary residence, or a place to get away. Just a short ride to the Clubhouse for a nice meal or a round of Golf. Don't forget to bring your fishing pole, to enjoy one of the beautiful lakes on the mountain. At the end of the day, watch the beautiful sunset in the crisp, mountain air. Owner/Agent and may benefit from proceeds
3550 E Edna Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85032
$499,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,157
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6659931
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Your dream home awaits! Meticulously cared-for Pulte gem, ready for its next chapter. Second owners, captivated by its charm. Mature landscaping, citrus trio, and a pergola create a private retreat. AMPLE STORAGE, 2 car garage with a Brand-new garage overhead storage, custom blinds, and windows, and fresh paint amplify interior allure. * Updated paint, light & plumbing fixtures and a stove with built-in air fryer! Make it your own or move in hassle-free. Proximity to top-notch dining, shopping, and seamless freeway access. Ideal timing for Spring Training! Embrace an active lifestyle with nearby trails. Modern convenience and security with a smart lock, new ADT system, and cameras. **Your peace of mind assured until July 2025 with an included home warranty. Come see your home in perso
304 N Stagecoach Pass Payson, AZ 85541
$499,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,054
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6669832
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in the sought-after Trailwood 3 Subdivision! This stunning 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home is tailor-made for the active family or couple seeking the perfect blend of convenience and comfort. Nestled just moments away from Rumsey Park, you'll find yourself immersed in a plethora of recreational activities, including ball parks, a library, dog park, hiking trails, tennis courts, pickleball, and soccer fields. And let's not forget about the nearby schools, ensuring your family's educational needs are met effortlessly. Plus, with shopping just a stone's throw away, convenience is truly at your doorstep. Step inside to discover a meticulously maintained property with vaulted ceilings and abundant natural light that fills the spacious kitchen equipped with stainless steel appliances. The formal dining room sets the stage for memorable gatherings with friends and family, making every meal an occasion to cherish. Outside, the charm continues with a fully fenced backyard offering privacy and security, while the front yard boasts a picturesque faux grass area, paver walkway, and patioa perfect spot for outdoor relaxation. Additional highlights include a 2-car garage, a new roof (installed in 2023), a new water heater (replaced in 2024), fresh carpeting, updated fixtures, a newly remodeled bath, an efficient pellet stove, and a new solar system (installed in 2023) to keep utility bills in check. Utility bills are available for your review, ensuring transparency and peace of mind. Retreat to the wonderful master bedroom retreat featuring a spacious walk-in closet and a double sink in the ensuite bath fresh, clean, and ready to become your sanctuary. With everything meticulously prepared and move-in ready, there's no reason to wait. Come and experience the epitome of comfortable, active living.
701 W Marlboro Drive Chandler, AZ 85225
$499,900
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,515
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6678423
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully remodeled 3/2 with a pool in a great chandler neighborhood. Remodel was just finished including new quartz counters, laminate wood flooring in bedrooms, new shower in hall bath, new vanity, interior and exteror paint, new backyard landscaping with turf. new plaster in pool and much more...
17852 W Jessie Lane Surprise, AZ 85387
$499,900
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,821
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6671520
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful move-in ready home with 4 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 baths w/ loft and study. Primary bedroom is downstairs with an en suite bath that connects to the laundry room. Open floor plan with a great room and eat-in kitchen. Large island and a Butler's Pantry. Gorgeous tile downstairs. Upstairs has a large loft with 3 bedrooms and a bath. Low maintenance backyard w/pavers, artificial grass and an RV gate. Perfect home for entertaining!
3535 W Acapulco Lane Phoenix, AZ 85053
$499,900
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,421
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6676367
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Stop the car for this immaculate remodeled gem in North Phoenix! This 4 bed/2 bath was taken down to the studs and painstakingly renovated from top to bottom. The home features ample natural light, striking wood-look tile in all the right places, new carpet in the bedrooms, neutral colors, and updated bathrooms. The modernized kitchen boasts exquisite quartz countertops, elegant Shaker cabinetry, a spacious breakfast bar, pendant lighting, and new stainless steel appliances. Outside, you'll find an expansive covered patio and low-maintenance landscaping. The home is located in a quiet neighborhood near the I-17, loop 101, ASU West Campus, and GCU. Welcome home!