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

10729 E Acoma Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Open House

$2,400,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

3,770 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782032

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning is the word to describe this special view property in popular McDowell Mountain Ranch. Enter through a custom iron door into a spacious entertaining area accented with large picture windows. Every aspect has been updated with unique features not found in similar layouts. Enjoy 4 spacious bedrooms, each with access to a private bath plus a Movie/Bonus Room. Just a short list of other updates include custom cabinetry, under-lit floating cabinets & lighted mirrors, built-in closets, tiled feature walls , automated screens, updated roof & replaced A/C System (including ductless A/C unit in garage). Solar too for added savings. The backyard is an entertainers dream. Relax in the pool w/water feature, cook by the built-in BBQ or take in desert & city light views around the firepit.

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6801 E Davis Road Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$2,399,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,654 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777788

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover a car lover's paradise in this custom-built North Scottsdale home, situated on 2.5 expansive acres. Designed with the avid car collector in mind, this residence offers 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 full baths, 2 half baths, and numerous high-end upgrades. A standout feature is the separate, oversized 3-bay garage/shop, fully air-conditioned and equipped to accommodate multiple vehicles, making it ideal for the most dedicated collectors. Beyond the garage, the outdoor space is equally impressive, featuring a custom pool and spa, along with a covered outdoor kitchen and ramada area—perfect for entertaining with top-of-the-line amenities. This large, versatile property offers ample room for further customization to suit your unique lifestyle. Truly a must-see!

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4369 E Scorpio Place Chandler, AZ 85249

$2,399,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,305 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6765739

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to unparalleled luxury home in Vasaro, one of East Valley's most coveted gated communities. This exceptional custom estate boasts meticulous care, extensive upgrades, and is completely move-in ready. From the moment you step inside, you'll be captivated by an ambiance of elegance, comfort, and sophistication. The expansive great room flows seamlessly into the gourmet chef's kitchen, featuring custom cabinetry, a large walk-in pantry, dual sink areas, and top-of-the-line built-in stainless-steel appliances, including a 48'' refrigerator, commercial-style range, double oven/convection, and microwave. The formal dining room, separate office/den, and large bonus room provide ample space for all your needs. With 5 spacious bedrooms, each with en-suite bathroom access, this home offers

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14432 S 18th Street Phoenix, AZ 85048

$2,399,000

5 Beds

5.5 Baths

6,600 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745823

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful estate is located on a 1.14-acre mountaintop lot with incredible city lights views in the highly sought-after Tapestry Canyon. Home designed Bob Long of Design Profiles. This custom private residence includes over 6,100 square feet in the main house with an additional 500 square feet for the guest house. The property offers breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and city lights. The residence includes four bedrooms, one of which is currently being used as an executive office, and 4.5 bathrooms and a guest house with bedroom, full bath, great room, and kitchenette. The property boasts numerous patios and balconies and a five-car garage! As you enter the residence, you'll see a custom glass/iron front door and a fountain that leads to an elegant foyer with a

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305 S Starview Drive Payson, AZ 85541

$2,399,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

4,733 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6709852

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to luxury living at its finest! This stunning Rim Golf Club home, built in 2018, offers an exceptional lifestyle with 4733 sq ft of livable space. The property features 5 spacious bedrooms, a dedicated office, and an art studio ''ideal for families and creative professionals alike''. Indulge in top-tier amenities designed for both relaxation and entertainment. Perfect your game from the comfort of your home with a golf simulator, or unwind with a game of pool. The outdoor jacuzzi provides a serene escape with unparalleled views of the Rim Golf Club's breathtaking landscape. The home is as functional as it is beautiful, boasting a 3-car garage, solar panels with battery storage, and an EV charging station, ensuring energy efficiency and convenience. Rim Golf Club, this property offers the best views in Payson, AZ. Don't miss the chance to own this exceptional home in an exclusive community. Live in elegance and style with nature's beauty at your doorstep. Contact us today for a private tour! Full golf membership, all TV's, hot tub, pool table, golf simulator all convey.

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21234 W Caravaggio Lane Wittmann, AZ 85361

$2,398,998

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,979 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750507

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

An oasis in the desert, your new home offers easy living and entertaining space. Horses, toys and friends will all have a place here. NO HOA The main house has 4 bedrooms with a great room concept, overlooking a resort style pool, w/kitchen and bar. The fully climate controlled 4800 sq ft detached garage is a haven for automotive enthusiasts, accommodating a motorhome, trailer, and boat with ease. Beyond its practicality, this space also has a 1600 sq ft guest house an ideal retreat for visitors, and a versatile areas suitable for a teen room or office as well as a home gym. For equestrian enthusiasts, this property unfolds a haven of possibilities. An arena and 40' round pen, along with 2 stalls with ample room for additional facilities.

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12210 N 67th Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$2,398,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,015 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780360

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

2022 FULL UPDATE! AWESOME CACTUS CORRIDOR ( SCOTTSDALE-CACTUS AA++LOCATION-1 ACREA+Lots outside storage for toys! 4 BED 3 BATH-3015 SQ FEET-4 CAR GARAGE CUSTOM POOL, SPORT COURT NO HOA! A $2.5Million dollar HOUSE ( FOR RENT UNFURNISHED AT $7500 MONTH ( NO HOA! ON QUIET STREET ONLY 5 MINUTES TO KIERLAND-QUARTER-100+ RESTURANTS AND 5 MINUTES TO FREEWAY full 2023 update ( new wood plank flooring ( no carpet) new counter-doors-hardware- VAULTED CEILINGS-POOL- SPORT COURT-ROOM FOR RV-BOAT-TRAILERS- HAVE $4M NEXT DOOR AND $4.5M ACCROSS STREET- ALONG WITH POOL SETUP HAS SPORT COURT LOTS STORAGE FOR RV OR BOAT POSSIBLE LEASE PURCHASE $2.5 MILLION CAN DO LONG TERM LEASE 1-5 YRS NEWER ANDERSON WINDOWS THROUGHT HOUSE!! THE COMPS WITHIN 5 BLKS ARE $4.2M TO $8M. THIS IS LIKE PV BUT SAVE!

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37200 N Cave Creek Road Unit 1111 Scottsdale, AZ 85262

Open House

$2,397,900

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

2,631 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6438273

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Brand new construction! Spectacular lower level unit. 2,631 sq. ft., 4 beds, 4.5 baths, 2 car garage with golf cart/storage area. The 4th bedroom has a separate entrance from the home and can be used as a guest casita, giving your guests their own privacy! This unit has an expansive covered patio and another off the Primary bedroom. The covered patio off the great room has an outdoor fireplace with stunning mountain and golf course views. Retracting doors optimize your outdoor enjoyment with plenty of room for indoor/outdoor entertaining. Great room features gas fireplace and an enlarged picture window to capture the babbling brook of the Seven golf course. Steps away from the clubhouse. Ready Now! DM approval and Membership required. Avoid the wait list!

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13735 E Brookhart Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$2,395,950

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,609 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6756479

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Indulge in the epitome of opulence w/ this exceptional 5 bed 4.5 bath + bonus/media room where every detail is meticulously curated. Step inside to 14ft ceilings & custom lighting throughout. Gourmet kitchen equipped w/ Subzero & Wolfe appliances & extended island. Breathtaking views of mtns every angle. Seamless indoor-outdoor transition w/ 20ft pocket door leading to resort-style backyard feat. putting green & hot tub cascading into oversized, nearly Olympic pool. Entertain by fire pit & keep refreshments handy w/ outdoor refrigerators. 4 car garage w/ epoxy floor & gated storage complements the functionality of this dream home. Beyond luxurious interiors, embrace proximity to nature w/ easy access to trails & nearby forest for outdoor adventures. True haven of extraordinary comfort!

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3060 S 3010 -- Colorado City, AZ 86021

$2,395,400

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,666 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6669780

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't miss out on this 479 acre high-desert grassland ranch. Property features 3 BR main house (needs fix up) w/2-car garage & storage, beautiful new Tiny House, huge metal barn & equipment shed. The barn has 3 separate bays, (two 10x14 & one 14x14) roll-up doors, horse stalls, lg. loft for extra storage & electricity. Beautiful Tiny House features spacious living RM/kit. combo w/range-oven, dishwasher, B/I micro, dining area, utility room & 3/4 bathroom downstairs; upstairs features a spacious bedroom, 1/2 bath & spectacular views. 2 wells - one at pump house w/solar & wind mill; the other east of knoll w/solar (fills two 1k gallon tanks on knoll). All this on 479 acres makes this a can't-miss purchase. This sale includes 2 contiguous parcels: 405-53-012 & 405-55-004. Farm equipment... ...available in a separate bill of sale.

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5000 E Camelback Ridge Road Unit 204 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$2,395,000

1 Bed

2 Baths

1,698 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784595

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to a one-of-a-kind opportunity to own a brand-new luxury condominium nestled within the exclusive Phoenician Resort. This stunning residence combines timeless elegance, high-end finishes, and breathtaking views of Camelback Mountain and city lights. This spacious 1-bedroom + den, 2 full bath home is thoughtfully designed for modern living. An open great room concept features 10' ceilings and expansive walls of glass, flooding the space with natural light and creating a seamless connection to the outdoors. A cozy gas fireplace adds warmth and sophistication to the living area, making it the perfect place to relax or entertain. The Provenza wide-planked oak floors throughout provide a warm and luxurious feel, while the gourmet kitchen—crafted by Bulthaup—is a chef's dream. Complete with sleek glass backsplashes and top-of-the-line Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances, this space is as functional as it is beautiful. The luxury extends to the bathrooms and laundry, which are outfitted with high-end finishes for a sophisticated touch. Step onto the expansive private patio, where a built-in BBQ creates an ideal space for outdoor dining or simply enjoying the serene views. This residence truly blurs the line between indoor and outdoor living. As part of the Phoenician lifestyle, you'll enjoy access to the exclusive Mountain Club, featuring a party room, fitness and movement center, resort-style pool, and a rooftop deck with panoramic views. Additional conveniences include two parking spaces in the secure garage, complete with an E-charging station.

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8255 E Vista De Valle -- Scottsdale, AZ 85255

$2,395,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

3,743 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742702

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to a captivating retreat in Pinnacle Peak Country Club, perfectly positioned with breathtaking views of sunset, mountains and the double fairways, overlooking the 7th and 4th holes. This beautifully crafted home offers 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a den, all set against a stunning backdrop of saguaro cacti, granite boulders, and ironwood trees. Enter through the elegant leaded glass double doors to be greeted by soaring wood beam ceilings that exude both charm and sophistication. The updated kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring a Wolf induction cooktop, SubZero refrigerator and freezer, Asko dishwasher, wine refrigerator, and a spacious pantry. Waterworks fixtures, including polished and hammered sinks, showcase the meticulous attention to detail throughout this custom home, more Multiple fireplaces add warmth and ambiance to the inviting spaces.This exquisite Pinnacle Peak Country Club home harmonizes quality and timeless design, offering ultimate comfort and charm. The open floor plan, with disappearing patio doors in the great room, seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living spaces. Enjoy breathtaking sunset, mountain, and city light views over the private golf course. This unique blend of indoor and outdoor living creates an unparalleled experience, making every evening unforgettable.

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