3 Simple Tips for Boosting Your FICO Credit Score Before Applying for a Mortgage

3 Simple Tips for Boosting Your FICO Credit Score Before Applying for a MortgageThere 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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4281 S Iowa Street Chandler, AZ 85248

$2,799,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
6,135 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6752127
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Discover unparalleled luxury in this distinguished completely remodeled estate nestled in the heart of Aegean Cove in Fulton Ranch. This stunning basement home offers a rare blend of luxury, convenience, and comfort. Boasting 5 bedrooms, two office spaces, 5.5 bathrooms and a large bonus room in the basement. This meticulously renovated residence spans 6135 square feet of living space, ensuring ample room for both relaxation and entertainment. As you enter through the custom designed iron front door discover a seamless fusion of modern elegance and timeless charm. The open-concept layout enhances the flow between the spacious living areas, which are adorned with wood flooring and custom cabinetry throughout. Expand your living and entertaining space with a large glass pocket door that gives access to the spacious covered patio, as well as flood the interior with additional natural light . No expense spared in this remodel this gem. The gourmet kitchen was updated with top-of-the-line GE appliances, enormous island with 2 dishwashers, ice maker and 6 burner range with griddle. Showcase your wine collection with an impressive wine wall visible from the kitchen and the great room. Entertain in the large living room with a full service bar which boasts a kegerator, beverage cooler, ice machine and custom cabinetry with LED lighted shelves. Enjoy the completely revamped resort style back yard. The Stunning pool and spa with swim up bar, rock water slide and grotto will ensure your guests and family are well taken care of from the large ramada next to the pool which is outfitted with a sink, beverage coolers and TV for viewing from the sunken seating area. Cool off under the misting system or get warm curled up next to the firepits.

2335 E Plum Street Gilbert, AZ 85298

$2,799,000 - 5Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Circle G At Silver Creek, Gilbert
New
$2,799,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,994 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6786931
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Exquisite Custom Home in the Prestigious Circle G Ranch at Silver Creek. Welcome to a truly magnificent residence where sophistication meets comfort at every turn. Nestled in the coveted Circle G Ranch community, this stunning custom-built home offers 5 luxurious bedrooms and 4.5 beautifully appointed bathrooms. Every detail has been carefully curated to create an atmosphere of timeless elegance, combined with modern amenities designed for effortless living and entertaining. As you enter, you're greeted by a grand formal living room and an expansive office or workout space, setting the tone for the level of refinement throughout the home. The open-concept kitchen, family room, and dining area are the heart of the home, ideal for both intimate gatherings and large-scale entertaining. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring an oversized island with a sleek quartz breakfast counter. Top-of-the-line Monogram appliances, including a built-in refrigerator and double Bosch dishwashers elevate the space. A separate wet bar with glass-fronted cabinetry, a wine rack, and a wine fridge and U-line built in ice-maker, ensures you're always ready to entertain in style. Luxurious finishes abound, with custom-tiled showers, quartz countertops, and rich wood flooring in the master suite. The expansive master closet is outfitted with mirrored doors and a storage island complete with seating. Each bedroom is designed with walk-in closets and private baths. For movie enthusiasts, you will enjoy a state-of-the-art theater room, complete with a surround sound system, projector, and screen, perfect for enjoying a night in with family and friends. Step outside to experience your own private oasis. The PebbleTec pool and spa are complemented by stunning rock waterfalls, one featuring a waterslide, waterfall, and grotto, and the other with a space for a hidden TV that rises from behind the waterfall, adding a touch of magic. An attached sunken bar area with a ramada makes this space ideal for entertaining, while the large outdoor fireplace, built-in BBQ, and custom sports field offer the perfect setting for al fresco dining and relaxation. For those who enjoy active outdoor living, the property also boasts a full basketball court, an in-ground trampoline. For added convenience and flexibility, the property includes an RV gate and a private casita with bathroom and walk-in closet, perfect for guests. This home is fully equipped with smart technology, including a whole house Control4 System, surround sound throughout, and powered security shades on the back of the home for ultimate privacy and comfort. The meticulously landscaped front yard features a roundabout with artificial turf and landscaping, creating an inviting first impression. Conveniently located near Gilbert Park and just minutes from premium shopping, this residence offers the ideal combination of serene privacy and urban accessibility. This is more than a home, it's a lifestyle.

6539 S Oakwood Way Gilbert, AZ 85298

$2,799,000
6 Beds
4 Baths
6,500 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6769600
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to 6,500 square feet of pure custom luxury w/in the highly coveted gated community of Estados at Seville Golf & Country Club in Gilbert, Arizona. This custom-built estate offers the ultimate in country club living, complete with a fully finished basement, oversized rooms, his-and-her office spaces, an enormous walk-in closet, pantry, and a home theater. The backyard is a true resort oasis, set on a three-quarter-acre lush green lot. It boasts a diving pool, sport court, children's playground, sunken trampoline, built-in BBQ, outdoor living room, and an expansive covered patio with multiple walls of glass that effortlessly blend indoor and outdoor living spaces. Once you settle into this stunning estate, with its custom finishes throughout, you may never want to leave... But the amenities of Seville Country Club will beckon! Just a short golf cart or bike ride away, you'll find an 18-hole golf course, a health & fitness center, two restaurants, four pools, two-story waterslides, tennis and pickleball courts, reception halls, a hair salon, a preschool, a K-8 school, on-site childcare, bocce ball courts, concerts, and so much more. The Seville lifestyle offers far more than a typical neighborhood. Once you experience it, you'll understand why it's one of the most sought-after communities in the greater Phoenix area. Located in Gilbert, Arizonarenowned for being one of the safest communities in the U.S.this massive, elegant estate awaits to welcome you home to a new level of luxury living.

10638 E Yearling Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,799,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,379 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6714988
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Welcome to your dream retreat in guard-gated Windy Walk Estates at Troon Village, where luxury meets panoramic beauty. This custom home offers an unparalleled backyard sanctuary with breathtaking up-close views of Pinnacle Peak, ensuring every moment spent outdoors is a masterpiece. The expansive private yard features a majestic Ironwood tree as its centerpiece, surrounded by artificial turf and mature vegetation, providing the perfect backdrop for relaxation and entertainment alike. Step into serenity as you lounge under the covered patio adorned with stacked stone accents, a cozy fireplace, and a built-in barbecue. Descend into tranquility as the tiered yard leads you to a sparkling pool and spa, complete with a mesmerizing rock waterfall and travertine hardscape surround, offering a blissful oasis against the backdrop of the desert landscape. Inside, you will find a remodeled interior completed in 2017 boasting on-trend finishes including high-end quality stonework throughout from a Chicago-based Eastern European craftsman. The French country-inspired kitchen exudes charm with custom white cabinetry, delicate mosaic backsplash, stone counters, Subzero refrigerators, complemented by stainless steel appliances including a Wolf gas cooktop and two wall ovens. Enjoy intimate meals in the attached breakfast nook with corner view windows, or entertain guests in the formal dining room with up-close views of Troon Mountain. Experience seamless living with accordion-style doors in the great room, opening up the space to the outdoors and flooding the home with natural light. A dramatic staircase, stone-clad centerpiece fireplace, and adjacent den create a welcoming ambiance, while clerestory windows and a private alcove offer versatility for office space or additional storage. Retreat to the upstairs primary suite, boasting a private balcony deck with city, golf (8th tee box of Troon Country Clubs private course), and mountain views, along with dual vanities, walk-in closets, and a spacious walk-in shower in the ensuite bathroom. With four additional bedrooms, including two ensuites, a third bedroom adjacent to a bath, and the fourth with a private den/living space and adjacent bath, perfect for in-law quarters. The laundry room has beautifully stained cabinetry, two washers, two dryers, and a prep sink. The owners entry off the two-car garage (with storage closet) has a touchdown station with cabinets and countertop, refrigerator, trash drawers, and an ice maker. Complete with all-new exterior paint and all-new windows throughout, custom window treatments on electric openers, an elegant entry courtyard, and a paver drive for visiting guests, this residence sets a new standard for refined living in the heart of Troon Village. Most furnishings and accessories are available for purchase via a separate bill of sale, allowing you to effortlessly transition into your desert paradise.

24911 N 124th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,799,000 - 3Br/4Ba -  for Sale in Sereno Canyon Phase 1a, Scottsdale
Open House
$2,799,000
3 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,361 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6718608
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
**Breathtaking Views!** This home offers stunning, unobstructed desert and mountain views—your chance to own the **only Sereno Canyon Estate home priced under $2.8M** AND priced $84K LESS than base price on a similar model new build, even before any upgrades. Located in Toll Brothers' premier, amenity-rich community, Sereno Canyon exemplifies luxury living with impeccable design and maintenance. Key Features Include: - **Guest Suite** with private entrance and living area for ultimate privacy - **Bonus Room** adaptable as a 4th bedroom, gym, or flex space - **Den** ideal for a home office or cozy retreat - **20' Pocket Door** seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces Don't miss this rare opportunity in North Scottsdale's top luxury community.

9424 E Hidden Spur Trail Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,795,900 - 6Br/5Ba -  for Sale in Dc Ranch Parcel 1.11, Scottsdale
Open House
$2,795,900
6 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,562 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6747522
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Located in Desert Haciendas of DC Ranch, this 6 bedroom, 4.5 bath residence offers a harmonious blend of elegance and comfort. You enter the foyer from he inviting courtyard which leads to the expansive living areas adorned with high-end finishes and meticulous craftsmanship. The gourmet kitchen boasts custom cabinetry,granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and a butlers pantry. The primary suite with a spa-like bath is on the main level as well as two other bedrooms as well as a wine room under the stair well. The 2nd level includes a spacious game/bonus room opening to deck overlooking the courtyard and three spacious bedrooms. One bedroom makes an ideal guest suite equipped with a morning station with fridge and coffee bar. The resort style back yard is an entertainment....... paradise with beautiful pool with water features, BBQ, dining area and cozy sitting area around the outdoor fireplace. The DC Ranch amenities include clubhouse, public pool, walking trails, tennis, fitness Plenty of restaurants and shopping minutes away. DC Ranch Country Club social and golf memberships are not included but available at additional cost.

29121 N 105th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,795,000
4 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,486 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6686109
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Step into your future sanctuary! Nestled within Candlewood Estates Troon North in Scottsdale, this modern retreat, slated for construction commencing in May 2024, which promises comfort and elegance. Boasting 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, and a den/office space, it's designed to cater to your every need. Embrace the feeling of spaciousness with soaring 14-foot ceilings that grace all primary areas, enhancing the sense of openness throughout. Each bedroom offers a private haven, complete with its own luxurious ensuite adorned with bespoke tile finishes for a touch of refinement. Each bedroom also has a private patio. Indulge in the seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living as floor-to-ceiling pocket sliders seamlessly connect the living area to a generously sized covered patio with a two-way fireplace, perfect for cozy evenings under the stars. Enjoy another additional outdoor patios provide even more spaces to unwind and entertain. Outside, discover meticulously crafted desert landscaping in the front yard, while the backyard presents a canvas for you to design your dream oasis. Luxury knows no bounds with upscale amenities including custom cabinets, waterfall kitchen countertops, Dacor appliances, wine fridge, a Vector fireplace in the master bedroom, and exquisite wood flooring. There are 11 skylights throughout home and on patios. With the opportunity to personalize finishes, this home invites you to create a bespoke masterpiece, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.

4102 E Palo Verde Drive Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,795,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
3,326 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6778613
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Experience the pinnacle of contemporary elegance and luxury in this exceptional home. Step inside to an open-concept layout bathed in natural light, highlighting exquisite stone finishes and wide plank wood flooring that flows throughout. The gourmet kitchen, ideal for entertaining, is adorned with sleek stone countertops, top-tier Viking appliances, a stunning lighting installation, and a seamless glass wine display with capacity for 180 bottles. Designed for the ultimate indoor/outdoor lifestyle, the spacious living area opens effortlessly to resort-style grounds through expansive pocket doors. Outside, an artistically designed pool and spa with a serene water feature creates a true oasis with several inviting outdoor patios offer breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain, each equipped with ceiling-mounted heaters or cozy fire features for year-round enjoyment. Retreat to the tranquil primary suite, filled with natural light and featuring a spa-like bathroom with a large seamless glass shower, modern soaking tub, and dual sinks. Three additional en-suite bedrooms provide ample space and privacy for family or guests. Ideally situated near premier attractions like Steak 44, Biltmore Fashion Park, Lifetime Fitness, and Scottsdale Fashion Square, this residence perfectly balances luxury and convenience. Embrace a lifestyle where every detail has been thoughtfully curated for refined, contemporary living.

8509 E Malcomb Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$2,795,000
5 Beds
4.5 Baths
4,474 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6777209
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Thomas James Homes presents this beautiful NEW BUILD pre-construction residence! Take advantage of the opportunity to select some interior finishes during early stages of construction! Sitting on a cul-de-sac surrounded by new construction in a highly desirable Scottsdale neighborhood, this beautiful 5 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom modern home is the definition of exceptional design. On the first story an inviting courtyard brings the outdoors inside while working in the office. The game room, and 2 covered patios lend themselves to entertaining and making family memories, & a full ensuite bedroom will make guests feel pampered. On the second story, a covered terrace, a loft and flex space along with 4 other bedrooms are sure to check all the boxes. Don't miss out to own NEW next door to OLD TOWN

150 Crystal Sky Drive Sedona, AZ 86351

$2,795,000
4 Beds
6 Baths
4,992 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6687412
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Majestic, panoramic Red Rock Views that will take your breath away the minute you step inside this luxury custom home on prestigious Crystal Sky in the Sedona Golf Resort. With soaring 12-foot ceilings, exquisite travertine flooring, and a stunning stacked stone fireplace, this residence epitomizes the epitome of sophistication. Its open and spacious floor plan, adorned with plenty of windows, floods the interiors with natural light. All main living on one level including primary suite with romantic fireplace for ambience as well two ensuites bedrooms and office/bedroom. Situated on the lot to capture the most spectacular panoramic red rock views and backing to National Forest for privacy, this home was perfectly built to capture all that Sedona has to offer. Indulge in evenings spent sipping wine on the front deck, basking in the splendor of magnificent sunsets. The backyard oasis captivates with a stunning koi pond/swimming pool, complemented by a brand new built-in BBQ center and a kiva fireplace. Surrounding this oasis is a supreme gardener's paradise, featuring two raised vegetable beds, an array of fruit trees, and multitude of planted flowers. Discover numerous special retreats within, including a library, a controlled wine cooler, and an entertainment area downstairs, accompanied by ample storage space. A separate private yoga/art studio with a walkout rooftop deck. The property includes a spacious 3-car garage, enhanced with upgraded lighting featuring full-spectrum LED lighting strips. This home has been meticulously maintained with an extensive list of upgrades listed separately. Don't miss the opportunity to make it yours.

4634 E Calle Del Norte -- Phoenix, AZ 85018

$2,795,000
4 Beds
3.5 Baths
4,087 SqFt
Status Active Under Contract
MLS # 6763616
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO OWN OVER 1/2 ACRE IN ARCADIA FOR UNDER $3M!!! Over 4,000 SF, this 4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath Home sits on a Very Desirable Street with Backyard Views of Camelback Mountain. Come and tour this beautiful home in the heart of Arcadia, one of Phoenix Valley's most sought-after neighborhoods. As you enter, you're welcomed by an expansive great room with soaring ceilings, elegant wood beams, and a charming brick fireplace. The home boasts wood floors throughout. The kitchen is equipped with Viking appliances, an oversized island, & granite counters. The primary bedroom offers a luxurious retreat with a full bath, separate shower, soaking tub, 2 walk-in closets, & a cozy sitting area. French doors lead out to the large backyard, complete with mature landscaping & sparkling pool.

8701 E Remuda Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,795,000
5 Beds
5.5 Baths
4,278 SqFt
Status Active
MLS # 6758247
Property Type Single Family Residence
Price Type --
Stunning remodeled Scottsdale home with breathtaking mountain views! This exquisite single-level home located on an acre corner lot offers a split floor plan with 5 ensuite bedrooms, designer upgrades, & incredible outdoor spaces that capture the essence of Arizona living. The kitchen has been beautifully remodeled with quartz countertops & custom cabinetry. The spacious primary suite offers direct access to a private patio with heated spa & outdoor shower. Enjoy stunning desert mountain views from your expansive backyard featuring a heated pool, covered sitting area, a fire pit, & a large turf area with putting green. Close proximity to top-rated schools, fine dining, shopping, & world-class golf courses.

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