There are a variety of factors that are involved in getting your mortgage approved, but few things will have more of an impact than your FICO score and the credit history that goes along with it. Instead of leaving your score up to chance when submitting your application, here are a few ways that you can boost your financial well being and leave your credit score better off than it was before.
Put More On Your Card
It’s important to put purchases on your credit card that you can afford to pay off consistently, but many people are not aware that how much debt you owe can actually positively contribute to your credit score. While it’s good to use up to 30% of your available debt load, a significantly higher percentage than this can be a signal to lenders that you are experiencing financial difficulties. By putting everyday items on credit, it will be easier to give your score an instant boost.
Clear Your Credit History
Many people who think they have bad credit are too afraid to even review it, but it’s very important to take a look at your credit history when it comes to taking control of your finances and your FICO score. If there happens to be incorrect information on your credit report, this will enable you to contact the appropriate lenders and dispute the charges so they can be corrected prior to your mortgage application. It may not seem significant, but this can actually have a marked impact on the outcome of your application.
Make Your Payments On Time
It’s often the case that those who are struggling with debt may push away the bills altogether and give up on the minimum payment, but it’s very important that the minimum is made to keep your financial health in check. It may take a few months to see the results of putting down this amount before the due date, but it will improve your credit over time and forge good habits for the future.
Your credit score is an important aspect of determining your financial health for lenders, and this means that your credit history is of significant importance when it comes to your mortgage. Instead of leaving it up to chance, ensure that you’re making the minimum payments and correct any discrepancies in your credit report.
If you’re currently in the market for a home and are considering your options, give me a call for more information – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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21330 N 78th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,995,000
5
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,089
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6763817
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this beautiful, meticulously remodeled home nestled in the exclusive gated side of Raptor in Grayhawk of North Scottsdale. Offering a blend of modern luxury and convenience, you'll immediately notice the attention to detail and craftsmanship setting this home apart. With a spacious split floorplan enhanced by rich European oak wood flooring and natural light streaming in through large windows offering open space views, this home boasts comfort and functionality intertwined with elegant finishes. The updated kitchen is a masterpiece, featuring custom flat panel cabinets and stunning Taj Mahal and Panda marble countertops. Whether you're preparing a quick breakfast before school or hosting an event, this kitchen is equipped for every culinary occasion. The outdoor living space is an oasis, surrounded by lush vegetation and backing to a desert wash. The sparkling pool is a focal point, enveloped by a perfect balance of turf and stone creating walkways and patios for lounging by the pool or enjoying cool desert evenings by the firepit. A built-in barbeque makes it ideal for family cookouts or entertaining. This coveted golf community offers the perfect environment for families with walking distance to top-rated schools, parks, shopping or dining and a short drive to HonorHealth Scottsdale Thompson Peak Medical Center, Mayo Clinic and more. Truly the best of all worlds, this beautiful home is a luxurious retreat with easy access to the best of North Scottsdale living.
5440 N Calico Drive
Camp Verde, AZ 86322
$2,990,000
4
Beds
4
Baths
4,059
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6671977
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Equestrian Modern Custom Farmhouse w/ wrap around porch. Meticulously remodeled 2023-2024 is situated on 16 acres, 2 Wells 300 GPM, 4 Stall Barn, Oil Pipe Fence 100K+, NO HOA, luxurious 4 bed-two being Masters w/ ensuite, conveniently located on main level, 2 oversize bedrooms upper level with dormers, 4 Custom Bathrooms with granite wainscoting on walls, granite showers full walls to ceiling, Custom Vanities, wainscoting on walls in all bathrooms & laundry room, Gourmet Kitchen, Custom Glass throughout the Farm House & wood beam on stairs, custom glass window allows visual going to upper level keeping that grand open feel to the space, Wrap around porch with 20 ft glass sliders & 8 ft glass sliders on the back of the house to allow beautiful view Coconino National Forest. Dog friendly Screens on Sliders on back of home, Outside patio has fire pit fully enclosed yard for your furry friends. 2 New AC/heat units w/warranty, New roof w/warranty, 3 Car Garage, Water Treatment for entire house w/warranty, New lighting, New fixtures throughout, Fire & Smoke Alarms throughout the home. Main level has formal living w/wood burning fireplace & Antique Mantel, Office/Library. Primary Master offers Gas fireplace with Full Feature Wall of Granite with 80 Flat Screen TV, Elegant chandelier lighting, Sitting area, Custom Master Bathroom floor to ceiling marble & marble Wainscoting on walls throughout the master bathroom, Master Closets HERS & HIS in primary master. Makeup Vanity with Elegant chandelier lighting, Double Sink Antique Vanity with Huge Custom Mirror. Grand living space provides ample seating with a great room, dining room, Gourmet Kitchen with Wolf Induction 5 burner cooktop, Commercial size refrigerator/ freezer, farmhouse copper sink, double ovens, hightop bar and breakfast bar, granite counters and abundant storage. Custom Knotty Alder doors throughout Kitchen & House, Laundry/mud room equipped with a front-load washer and dryer, living/dining area has 20 ft. slider & 8 ft slider glass doors creating a seamless Indoor-Outdoor Living Space. Upper level, TV Theater Room, with Walkout DECK provides you with Direct access to the balcony to watch breathtaking sunsets with panoramic mountain views & STARS Wet Bar for snacks with your movies in addition you'll find two additional bedrooms, one with dazzling chandelier lighting, additional bath w/ walk-in shower, loft/media room complete with 2 built-in desk spaces inside the dormers plus a refreshment bar w/wine drink fridge, microwave and cozy WOOD Burning fireplace. New OIL PIPE FENCE $100,000 in fencing - Acres of leveled and planted with wheat to fertilize soil for growing pastures, crops 4 Horse Barn Oil Pipe construction 4 Turnouts for your horses Property - (1) registered well domestic (1) registered irrigation well approx -300GPM 6 Miles from I-17 on paved roads until you get to the Private Entrance to the Equestrian Estate Close to I -17 for easy access for shopping, dining, casino, concerts, fairs, in old town Camp Verde & old town Cottonwood. Close to SEDONA approximately 30 minutes for hiking, dining, entertainment and trail riding AMAZING Access to breathtaking panoramic mountain views of the majestic Red Rocks of Sedona, adjacent Coconino National Forest, views of the Prescott National Forest,Flagstaff's Snow Bowl San Francisco Peaks and Lights of Historical Jerome. Unobstructed Views you are surrounded by National Forest one will ever build in your view. Private & Direct access to the Verde River that stretches 18 miles meandering through town limits, the winding waterway creates a habitat for bald eagles, hawks, blue heron, beavers, and otters... Located in the Napa Valley of Arizona, surrounded by wineries, this property presents the possibility for your own vineyard, become connected with a thriving wine community. Some area attractions include Montezuma Castle is the third National Monument dedicated to preserving Native American culture, Out of Africa WildLife Park, Inflatable Kayak Adventure down the Verde River, Cliff Castle Casino. Western Horseback adventures & Horse Boarding at the Nashwa Farms Equestrian & Event Center Horse boarding stable only minutes from your Custom Equestrian Estate.
10648 E Greythorn Drive
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,980,000
4
Beds
6.5
Baths
7,000
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6759774
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Extraordinary desert estate w/ home theatre situated along the 14th fairway of Troon's prestigious championship golf course in gated Pinnacle Canyon. With dramatic drive-up appeal set against a picturesque Sonoran boulder backdrop, this home boasts breathtaking panoramic mountain & golf course views. Gourmet kitchen equipped w/ premium Viking appliances, granite counters, large center island, custom cabinetry, & walk-in pantry.Occupying the entire top floor, the primary suite offers a luxurious escape w/stunning views from the wrap around balcony, separate His and Her walk-in closets & spa-like bathrooms, a private office & elevator. Impressive family room features a custom gas fireplace, fridge, entertainment center & retractable slider wall that opens to the exterior. Step outside to your private paradise, complete w/heated pool, spa, BBQ & captivating boulder formations. This serene space is perfect for relaxation or hosting gatherings against the backdrop of the desert landscape. 3 additional well appointed en-suite bedrooms provide comfort & space for family or guests. The lower level features a dedicated home theater,exercise area, & steam shower w/convenient half bath. This extraordinary estate is not just a home; it's a lifestyle defined by elegance, comfort, and breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled in one of Arizona's most coveted communities, you'll enjoy unparalleled access to world-class golfing, fine dining, and outdoor adventures.
24038 N 84th Street
Scottsdale, AZ 85255
$2,975,000
7
Beds
5
Baths
4,406
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6767273
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Don't miss the chance to make this spacious, North Scottsdale estate yours. The owners of this ranch-style residence spared nothing when transforming the property into a welcoming, tranquil home. The fully renovated main house offers 3000 SF, 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, while the private casitas afford buyers an additional 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, kitchen and living space. There's plenty of space for indoor relaxing, outdoor fun, fitness, guests and more. The 2.2 acre lot includes, detached 4 car garage, two casitas, a pool, an organic garden and basketball court, still with room for more. Privacy gates provide peace of mind for residents, while still enabling the retreat feel. This property offers so much and has an incredibly special feel you won't want to pass up.
37200 N Cave Creek Road Unit 1073
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,975,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,024
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6778739
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Turnkey Elegance with Exceptional Views! This fully furnished home, including curated artwork, offers a rare, move-in-ready opportunity with outstanding views of the golf course, city lights, Black Mountain, and stunning sunsets. Lightly lived in, this home includes recently added furniture for a fresh, stylish appeal. Featuring 3 spacious bedrooms and 3.5 baths, the open floor plan is designed for comfort and entertainment, seamlessly connecting indoor and outdoor spaces with sliding doors. Enjoy a private pool and spa, tranquil water feature, BBQ area, and fire pit—perfect for year-round relaxation and gatherings. Located conveniently near the sought-after Seven Clubhouse, this property also boasts a tandem 3-car garage.
4477 E Turnberry Court
Gilbert, AZ 85298
$2,975,000
4
Beds
5.5
Baths
5,514
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6781609
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Your dream home awaits on this over 1-acre lot located at the end of a cul-de-sac in the desirable gated Estados of Circle G. Truly LUXURY from the inside out. Retreat to your own oasis backyard with lighted tennis court that can easily be converted to pickle ball also basketball court, mini golf course with 3 chipping pads, 2 large sand traps, built in BBQ, TV's, all why overlooking a heated sparkling saltwater pool & spa alongside a gas fire pit area to enjoy a cozy night in. State of the art Sonos & WI fi system interior/exterior. The inside does not disappoint, this over 5500sq' 4BR 6 BA home boasts a large home theater /game room with 110'' black diamond screen, Epson projection screen and Sony surround sound system, pool table, shuffleboard with its own beverage fridge, no need to go out, can enjoy family fun night in the luxury of your own home. The gourmet kitchen features Wolf appliances, gas stove top, 2 ovens, walk-in pantry, a walk-through coffee bar area, just around the corner is a separate wine room with large capacity wine fridge. The Master retreat has a cozy fireplace, large walk-in closet with custom shelves & lots of hanging area, also your own washer/dryer. All bedrooms include their own private en suite bathrooms and walk in closets. Wood shutters & solid wood doors throughout. Beautiful mature trees to offer lots of shade, separate gated dog yard. Enormous 4 car extended garage with air-conditioned workshop and lots of storage cabinets, huge driveway for plenty of guest parking, large rolling RV gate. The attic is equipped with a motorized lift with a large walk-in area to store all your Xmas decor. 3 new A/C systems 2023, new pool pump & salt system 2023, interior of home & exterior block wall has been sealed for scorpions. Fully secured by ADT security system and cameras on all doors, driveway, and yard. All of this and still there's more! Enjoy the country club lifestyle with Seville Golf & Country Club, you can ride your golf cart over to enjoy a day of golf, or family fun with 4 pools, water slides, tennis, pickle ball restaurants & more!! For info on the country club lifestyle please visit Seville Country Club.
10465 N 128th Place
Scottsdale, AZ 85259
$2,970,900
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,228
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6779348
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream retreat! This exceptional model home effortlessly blends luxury, style, and comfort, offering everything you need for refined living. Located in a highly desirable Scottsdale neighborhood with breathtaking mountain views, this property showcases exquisite designer finishes and a layout that invites indoor-outdoor living at its finest. The kitchen features custom cabinetry and a striking marble waterfall countertop. Outfitted with top-of-the-line Wolf/Sub-Zero appliances, this kitchen is ideal for entertaining. The expansive open-concept great room, features pocketing doors that seamlessly extend your living space to the outdoors. The pool and spa are complete with a serene waterfall feature surrounded by a lushly landscaped yard for ultimate relaxation.
6521 N 4th Street
Phoenix, AZ 85012
$2,970,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,014
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6787264
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Completed in 2021, this Classic Contemporary Home is better than new. Designed by current owner/architect/interior designer of K&I Homes and built by Starion Custom Residences. Tucked away on a large North-South facing cul-de-sac lot in prime North Central Neighborhood, the uber efficient split/open floor plan features 4 large en suite bedrooms, and a super-sized 4 car garage. Perfect indoor/outdoor living with 36-foot sliding glass doors opening up from the great room to the resort style back yard.
28101 N 109th Way
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,950,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
3,730
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6655267
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Serene is brand new gated enclave of 21 cutting edge single level contemporary homes designed by Swayback Architects & Planners and built by Sonora West Development. Each Serene home brings a new definition to the ''Lock and Leave'' lifestyle with open Great Room floor plans perfect for both entertaining and everyday living. There are four different models to choose from with lavish interior finishes created by renown interior designers Est Est. This Model A has a 2 car garage and available only on lots, 2, 4, 6 & 16. (3 car garage only on lots 7, 11, & 18 at additional cost). Base price shown does not include lot premiums but does include 25K pool and a 25k landscape allowance, Subzero & Wolf Appliances & BBQ. Backing to the North side of Pinnacle Peak Mountain in N Scottsdale Serene... is close to shopping, restaurants and over two dozen private and public golf courses. Don't miss your opportunity to take part in the Serene lifestyle.
7486 E Sonoran Trail
Scottsdale, AZ 85266
$2,950,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,740
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6714935
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your dream home in the exclusive, guard-gated community of Whisper Rock in North Scottsdale. This stunning Spanish-style residence offers 4,740 square feet of luxurious living space, featuring four spacious bedrooms, four and a half baths, and a dedicated office. Enjoy the elegance of arched doorways, multiple fireplaces, including a magnificent canterra stone fireplace in the great room, and a 720-bottle wine cellar for the connoisseur. The separate guest house off the front courtyard provides additional privacy and convenience. Outdoors, entertain with ease around your private pool & spa with a water feature, outdoor BBQ, firepit, and a covered dining area. The property, situated on a desirable corner lot, also boasts a meditation courtyard, an inground trampoline, and a lush grassy area surrounded by mature vegetation. As part of the Whisper Rock community, you'll have access to a community pool, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a state-of-the-art workout facility. This is not just a home; it's a lifestyle.
9501 N 52nd Street
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253
$2,950,000
6
Beds
5
Baths
4,389
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6766514
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to ''Elegant Oasis in Paradise Valley''—a stunning blend of luxury, comfort, and sophisticated design. This exquisite 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom estate is situated on a highly sought-after corner lot in the heart of Paradise Valley, offering over 4,300 square feet of meticulously designed living space on just over an acre of land. As you step through the grand entrance, you'll be captivated by the home's impressive architecture and the perfect blend of modern elegance and timeless style. The gourmet kitchen serves as the centerpiece of the home, a striking granite waterfall island, sleek cabinetry, high-end stainless steel appliances, and a wet bar—ideal for hosting and entertaining guests. The open-concept layout flows seamlessly into the living room, where a cozy fireplace and beautiful wood-beamed ceilings create a warm, inviting atmosphere. For those who love movie nights, the custom theatre room provides a perfect retreat for family and friends. The spacious primary suite is a true sanctuary, featuring dual walk-in closets, a spa-like bathroom with a luxurious soaking tub, and an oversized walk-in shower. The secondary primary suite is equally impressive, offering its own en suite bathroom and direct access to the backyard. Shutters are featured throughout the entire home, adding privacy and style to every room. Step outside and discover your own private resort. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, complete with a heated pool featuring a waterfall, a relaxing spa, and plenty of patio space for outdoor dining and lounging. The sport court offers endless opportunities for recreation, while the meticulously landscaped grounds provide a serene and tranquil setting for relaxation. The property also features an RV gate for easy storage of recreational vehicles. Recent upgrades make this home truly turnkey. The flooring was completed in 2022, and the ceilings were raised the same year, enhancing the home's open, airy feel. The two AC units and pool pump were replaced in 2024 to ensure ultimate comfort and efficiency. A new tankless hot water heater and a water softener ensure convenience and energy savings. The three-car garage features epoxy flooring and a 220-volt outlet, perfect for charging electric vehicles. This property has been meticulously maintained and thoughtfully designed to maximize comfort and flow, blending indoor and outdoor living seamlessly. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this estate offers the ultimate in luxury and style. Located in one of Paradise Valley's most prestigious areas, this home is close to top-rated schools, world-class dining, and upscale shopping. Experience unparalleled luxury in Arizona.
10471 E White Feather Lane
Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$2,950,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
4,562
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772437
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover this awe-inspiring, custom Pinnacle Canyon home sitting on over 2.6 acres. This residence showcases truly stunning panoramic views. Surrounded by striking boulders, the home offers ultimate privacy. With beautiful stone floors, elegant fireplaces & a serene backyard oasis, complete w heated pool, this home exudes charm and tranquility. Enjoy your morning coffee or evening wine in the cozy hearth room/breakfast nook or on the inviting patio, surrounded by the gorgeous Phoenix desert landscape. The chef's kitchen is equipped with gas range, a spacious island, granite counter tops and a large walk in pantry. Primary bath features a wet room, including a massive 40'' rain shower head. This unique property also features a state-of-the-art car lift, perfect for showcasing your prized collection or tackling those weekend projects with ease. This one of a kind home is perfectly situated in a gated golf community near Kierland and Scottsdale shopping.