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

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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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

4380 W Ruby Drive Eloy, AZ 85131

$569,500

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,198 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779440

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Highly upgraded PAVONA w/Flex Room built in 2022. SOLAR is PAID & will save you $. Gorgeous 2 bedroom, 2 bath, Den + 2.5 car garage. Kitchen features 41'' cabinets, Granite counters, Gas range, Pot filler, Butlers pantry, farm sink, Spacious walk-in pantry, Subway backsplash, under cabinet lights, the microwave that broils & air frys. Master has 2ft ext., walk-in curbless shower & granite vanities. Upgrades include Shutters, 8 foot doors throughout, Luxury flooring, whole house water system, laundry cabinets, surround sound, Advanced tech, rain gutters, wet bar in the Great room & Flex room. Step out back to the extended covered patio w/fans & can lights. The fully fenced & professionally landscaped back yard has a raised garden & gas stub. This home has over $175K in upgrades!

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20442 E Rosa Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$569,500

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,959 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754354

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A definition gem on a spacious corner lot, perfectly nestled quite-nearly in the very center of the Queen Creek Marketplace itself! It's a deceptive-charmer that just keeps giving more and more as you tour it. Four bedrooms within a functional layout including a flex-space ideal for a home office, second living space/game room- or even could easily serve as a fifth/guest bedroom if ever desired! The finishes are totally up to 2024 standards with a modern-boho feel throughout stemming from the wood-look tile flooring to the generous and gorgeous kitchen. Best surprise might just be the backyard, it astounds in use of space- and all this is positioned ever-so-cosily next to a pathway to the shopping and dining just steps away! Don't miss this one.

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36600 N Cave Creek Road Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$569,500

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,558 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765704

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in the heart of Cave Creek! This beautifully designed residential condo features 2 spacious primary bedrooms, each with en-suite bath. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an open-concept living space that flows from the kitchen to the living room, perfect for entertaining or relaxing with family. Large sliding doors out to the balcony offer breathtaking views of the iconic Saguaro, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning desert landscape. The kitchen comes equipped with stainless steel appliances, ample cabinetry, and an inviting breakfast bar. Enjoy your meals with a view on your private patio, where you can soak in the tranquility of your surroundings. Residents of this community can take advantage of the fantastic amenities, including a sparkling, heated community pool available year round; with hiking trails literally right outside your door! Whether you are relaxing by the water or exploring the nearby hiking trails and local shops, you'll find plenty of ways to enjoy the serene desert lifestyle. This condo offers the perfect blend of comfort, style, and location. Dont miss your chance to own a piece of paradise in Cave Creek!

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1318 W Via Del Palo -- San Tan Valley, AZ 85140

New

$569,098

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,024 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787433

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6787433 April Completion! Located in the Ovation at Meridian community, the Powell floor plan is a beautifully designed single-story home from the Inspiration Series, offering 2,024 sq. ft. of living space with 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, and a 2-car garage. The foyer welcomes you with a flex room on one side and a second suite with its own private bathroom on the other, conveniently positioned near a half bath. The open-concept gathering room and kitchen create a seamless flow, leading to the owner's suite tucked away in the corner for privacy. The spacious covered outdoor living area is perfect for creating your own backyard oasis. Structural options include: extended covered patio, 12ft sliding glass door, garage service door, whole house quartz, utility sink at laundry room.

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2130 E Voltaire Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85022

Open House

$569,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,751 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772433

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

The Agave - A rare combination of Space, Style, Quality, and Value where Design Matters. Be inspired by the warm tones and natural textures of the desert where the Sagebrush and Adobe interior color schemes boldly echo the beauty of The Agave. Modern, Flat-Panel Kitchen Cabinetry in Matte color-ways, Solid-surface, Spa-Inspired Flat-Panel vanity cabinets in natural-wood tone finishes in Bathrooms. Standard LVT flooring installed in the entire home, Quartz Countertops and Tile shower surrounds. Standard Accent painted interior doors and jambs for a bold, effortless design touch. Ceiling fans included as well as EV prewire. The Wren showcases a generous backyard and second floor deck to bring the outside in.

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2117 E Voltaire Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85032

Open House

$569,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,590 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772466

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

The Agave - A rare combination of Space, Style, Quality, and Value where Design Matters. Be inspired by the warm tones and natural textures of the desert where the Sagebrush and Adobe interior color schemes boldly echo the beauty of The Agave. Modern, Flat-Panel Kitchen Cabinetry in Matte color-ways, Solid-surface, Spa-Inspired Flat-Panel vanity cabinets in natural-wood tone finishes in Bathrooms. Standard LVT flooring installed in the entire home, Quartz Countertops, and Tile shower surrounds. Standard Accent painted interior doors and jambs for a bold, effortless design touch. Ceiling fans included as well as EV prewire. This premium end location Quail Plan showcases an enclosed front patio, oversized 2 car garage, bonus loft space and second floor deck.

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22807 E Stacey Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$569,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,956 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758518

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This open concept layout offers 3 bedrooms, private study, 2 baths, ample storage with a spacious utility room and two car garage. Enjoy sought after selections hand-picked by our expert designers; 12-foot slider leading you to the extended covered patio, signature ''super shower'' with upgraded tile to the ceiling in owners retreat, gourmet kitchen, stainless steel appliances with built in gas range, two tone shaker cabinets complimented by quartz countertops, and stunning kitchen backsplash. This beautiful home is situated on a desirable South Back home site. 2X6 CONSTRUCTION; NEW HOME WARRANTY.

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11110 N 165th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85388

$569,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,180 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771392

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

One of the best properties in Surprise with an opportunity to assume a low interest rate! With a huge chef's kitchen and open floor plan, this home is perfect for entertaining. This home will make you feel like you are on vacation all year. This home has no neighbors behind or to the east, making this home feel like it is the only home in the neighborhood. The backyard is a desert paradise with a luxury pool, an above ground spa and a built-in gas fire-pit. This home is move-in ready and offered turn-key.

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2640 E Northridge Street Mesa, AZ 85213

$569,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,913 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779810

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Imagine drinking your morning beverage next to the tranquil fountain and under the large carob tree. This home, without an HOA, is owned and cared for by the original owners. Some of the many features include a 205 square foot enclosed patio, large lot, double gates for boat or RV, built in storage room, built in Barbecue, Built in table on the patio 220 stub for Jacuzzi and much more. Save water with irrigation in both the front and back yards. The interior has an open floor plan and mostly hard surface flooring. There is a wood burning fireplace in the family room. The water heater was replaced in 2023 and the AC was replaced in 2022 and has a transferrable service plan. This home is located very close to 202 freeway for convenience.

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8791 W Kathleen Road Peoria, AZ 85382

$569,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,297 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782048

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning 4-Bedroom Home with Pool in Arrowhead Shores Located in the desirable Arrowhead Shores neighborhood, this beautiful 4-bed, 2-bath home offers a private, new PebbleTec pool with updated pool equipment and a new roof. The spacious 3-car garage and open-concept living provide both comfort and convenience. The chef's kitchen features stainless steel appliances and granite countertops, while the master suite boasts a walk-in closet and spa-like en-suite bathroom. With no HOA fees, you'll have more freedom. Walk to top-rated schools and enjoy nearby shopping and dining. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Schedule your showing today and make this dream home yours!

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3332 E Windsor Drive Gilbert, AZ 85296

$569,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,054 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784340

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this charming single-level 3-bedroom, 2-bath, 2058sf home in the highly sought-after Higley Park community. This home features a spacious formal living room, a cozy family room with a stone-front gas fireplace, and a split floorplan for added privacy. The kitchen boasts ample cabinets, a large island seating 3+, a gas stove, and a built-in oven. Enjoy the heated pebble sheen private pool in the quaint backyard with view fencing and no rear neighbors. The owner's suite is oversized with an ensuite offering a separate tub and shower. Recent updates include fresh interior and exterior paint, removable pool fence, and a flat tile roof. Located near top dining, schools, freeways, and entertainment, this home is in an amazing location!

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2185 W Mcdowell Boulevard Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$569,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,249 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6775782

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Discover this beautifully updated 3-bdrm/2-bath home with breathtaking mountain & city views, situated next to preserved land for ultimate privacy. The home features a brand-new roof and modern appliances in a well-equipped kitchen, perfect for comfortable living & entertaining. Step outside to enjoy a spacious 52-ft covered patio, ideal for relaxing or hosting guests.For equestrian enthusiasts, the property includes 4 large covered stalls, each with its own turnout, a dedicated tack room, & covered hay storage. Additionally, a separate workshop, well house, tool shed, and ample covered storage space provide all the convenience and utility you need.This property combines luxury with practicality, offering a peaceful retreat while maintaining proximity to essential amenities.

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