4 Things You Absolutely Should Not Do After You Apply for a Mortgage

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

7710 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 137 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$750,000

2 Beds

3 Baths

1,184 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763981

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

ABSOLUTELY STUNNING, fully renovated townhome in exclusive Gainey Ranch w/ dual mster bdrms & attached garage! Tastefully designed w/ neutral colors & open concept. Gorgeous Kitchen boasts beautiful quartz counters, soft-close hinges, custom cabinetry, SS appliances (range w/ air fryer) + peninsula w/ bar seating. ALL NEW flooring, trim, doors, handles, lighting/fans, stair railings, tiled showers, bathtub, faucets, toilets, + Smart-Home features including Google Hub, Nest Thermostat, Ring Doorbell & Garage Access from your phone! 1st floor mstr bdrm has spa-like shower, frameless glass doors, full body sprayer + custom built walk-in closet! Private Patio even has a water feature for tranquility! Even the Garage walls & floors have been redone...A MUST SEE HOME!!! Agent related to seller.

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38500 N School House Road Unit 45 Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$750,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,292 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6750894

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Premium private lot that sides to the common area. Newer 2021 built single level 4 bed 2.5 bath home w/ an office & a 2 car garage in the heart of Cave Creek! Open floorplan w/ the primary bedroom split from the secondary bedrooms. Wood-like tile throughout. Kitchen is open to the family room w/ dark expresso cabinets, huge island w/ quartz counters, a dramatic waterfall edge, w/ seating & pendant lighting above. A pantry, upgraded SS appliances, gas range, a hood & a breakfast nook seating area. Primary bedroom has a barn door that closes off the primary bathroom & includes dual sinks & separate tub & shower. Tankless water heater. Backyard w/ custom pavers & sprinklers. Amenities include community pool, spa, firepit, & pickleball court. 5 min walking distance to the Town of Cave Creek

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2607 E Daniel Drive Gilbert, AZ 85298

$750,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,541 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760193

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the prestigious lake neighborhood of Adora Trails, this luxurious home offers the perfect blend of elegance & modern convenience. The grand foyer welcomes you into a spacious, open-concept floor plan featuring a dedicated den & a gourmet kitchen w/ quartz countertops, double oven/range & a large island. The expansive living room opens to the backyard through sleek sliding doors, revealing a stunning outdoor oasis. Enjoy the sparkling swimming pool, complete w/ a fountain wall, perfect for relaxing or entertaining guests. The meticulously landscaped backyard offers serene views of the San Tan Mountains w/ the home's 3-car tandem garage providing ample parking & storage. The master suite provides direct access to the backyard, complete w/ two walk-in closets & a spa-like en-suite bathroom. Adora Trails offers an unparalleled lifestyle w/ 12 miles of scenic walking trails, a catch-&-release fishing lake, multiple playgrounds & lush greenbelts. The community's large center features a kitchen, outdoor basketball court, lounge areas, fitness center & a refreshing pool for year-round enjoyment. This home embodies luxury living in one of Gilbert's most sought-after communitiesan exceptional retreat both inside & out.

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24 E Concorda Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$750,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,552 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762636

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Here is an opportunity to be in the dreamy neighborhood of Alameda Estates. Close to everything! Blocks to downtown Tempe, the waterfront, excelling schools and ASU. This home is a blend of modern convenience, and low maintenance desert charm.This thoughtfully designed split floor plan provides privacy and space for everyone with multiple living areas, a beautiful backyard with a gazebo and fire pit, excellent for gatherings. Media lovers will appreciate the stereo speakers, creating an audio experience in the living room, bath, and workout room. Electric vehicle owners will love the convenience of the Neema 1450 outlet, making at-home car charging a breeze. Durable Gerard Stone-Coated Steel roof, a top-tier choice for durability and energy efficiency, and MyQ smart garage door technology

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11215 N 37th Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85029

Open House

$750,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,931 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777444

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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8230 E Via De La Escuela -- Scottsdale, AZ 85258

Open House

$750,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,856 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773058

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to a beautifully maintained 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled in the sought-after McCormick Ranch community. This spacious single-story residence offers a perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience, ideal for both relaxing and entertaining. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a bright and airy open-concept living and dining area with large windows that fill the space with natural light. The kitchen features well-preserved cabinetry,and a cozy breakfast nook that opens to back patio. The master suite is a true retreat, offering ample closet space, an en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower and a sliding door to the back patio. The additional bedroom is generously sized, currently set up as a functional home office and has a separate entry to a patio retreat. Step outside to enjoy the expansive quiet backyard with a covered patio, perfect for outdoor dining and relaxing.The backyard offers great potential for personal touches, with mature landscaping and room for gardening. Located in a quiet, well-established neighborhood, this home sits steps away from the community pool/spa, just minutes from local dining (can walk to 20 restaurants), shopping, parks, and top-rated schools. McCormick Ranch is known for its walking/biking/jogging paths, green spaces, and proximity to Scottsdale's vibrant lifestyle - offering a perfect balance between suburban tranquility and urban amenities.

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16713 W Loma Verde Trail Surprise, AZ 85387

Open House

$750,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,894 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770214

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the heart of Surprise, this charming Borgata model home awaits you. Picture-perfect views stretch across the 15th Green and Fairway of Cimarron Golf Court. With 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a cozy den, this home offers both comfort and versatility. The primary bedroom is a serene haven, complete with a generous walk-in closet. The kitchen is a chef's dream, boasting stainless steel appliances and a gas cooktop. The inside laundry room features a convenient sink, making chores a breeze. Step onto the patio and immerse yourself in the desert beauty. Here, you'll find a heated pool, a soothing spa, and a delightful water feature. Whether you're hosting guests or need a quiet retreat, there's room for everyone!

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13308 N 93rd Place Scottsdale, AZ 85260

Open House

$750,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,542 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6734341

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Freshly remodeled and updated Beautiful Home in Desert Shadows 2 Neighborhood. This home can be the right one for a large variety of buyers. We have New Flooring, Remodeled Kitchen with Quartz Counters and Tile Backsplash. Both Bathrooms redone and the entire inside freshly painted. Added storage in raised ceiling closets Nice Open Floor Plan with vaulted ceilings that is great for Entertaining and opens out to oversized patio and backyard with Citrus Trees and Mature Landscaping. This home needs to be seen and experienced in person. Location is fantastic and close to Freeway and some of the finest shopping Scottsdale has to offer.

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826 E Meadow Lane Phoenix, AZ 85022

Open House

New

$750,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,425 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784082

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Turn-key, move in ready with an open concept and entertainer's backyard paradise on nearly a quarter acre lot with NO HOA in one of Phoenix's most desired areas - Moon Valley! With countless upgrades, this home boasts pride of ownership. This home has new windows, a new water heater, fresh exterior paint and so much more. Upon entering the home, you'll enter double doors and be welcomed by updated tile flooring throughout all the main areas. Your charming formal dining features a wine rack, china cabinet and storage -- perfect for hosting the upcoming holidays. Your expansive great room has high ceilings, an open concept and a beautifully tiled fireplace. The updated kitchen features an island, several updated appliances and a sink that looks out onto your stunning backyard. In the west wing of the home, you will find 4 generously sized bedrooms with brand new carpet, high ceilings and 2 updated bathrooms. The primary suite welcomes you with double doors and plenty of natural light flooding through the slider that serves as your own separate exit to the backyard. The primary en-suite bathroom has plenty of storage, a generously sized walk-in closet, double sinks and an oversized shower that is flooded with natural light and a private toilet room. Upon entering your backyard, you'll find a large covered patio with a mister system, upgraded pavers, high-quality pet-friendly turf, beautiful landscape lighting and pavers that lead to your covered outdoor living space and kitchen. The outdoor living space features a stone fireplace, large fan, mister system, fridge, grill, extra storage and gorgeous stonework. With new windows, new gutters, a newer irrigation system and so much more, this home is move-in ready both mechanically and aesthetically. This home offers a wonderful and convenient lifestyle both inside the home and in the surrounding neighborhood. This sought after area is just minutes from dozens of restaurants, grocery stores, shopping, Moon Valley country club, golf courses and hiking trails. You'll surely love your new life on Meadow Lane.

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28631 N 46th Way Cave Creek, AZ 85331

Open House

$750,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,650 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772659

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Refreshed Tatum Ranch home offers thoughtful updates, plantation shutters, lux vinyl flooring & a neutral color palette. Popular Chaparral floor plan provides generous living & dining areas along with expansive family room which is open to the newly remodeled chef's kitchen. Natural light, comfortable gathering places & vertical space make this home engaging from start to finish. First floor primary suite with elegant bath and large walk-in closet is the perfect retreat. Powder room & laundry center round out the first level. Upstairs, oversized Bedroom 4 with huge closet offers flexibility as a bonus room or office. Two additional guest rooms and bath complete this layout. Outside, relax on the expanded paver patio with no neighbors behind! Enjoy the Tatum Ranch lifestyle. Welcome Home!

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39618 N Belfair Way Anthem, AZ 85086

Open House

$750,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,274 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752683

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

From the moment you step through the entry, you'll be greeted by an expansive open layout & impressive soaring ceilings. This home exudes meticulous care & style, with flawless diagonal tile flooring, paint, plantation shutters, lighting, & fans setting a refined tone throughout. The kitchen is a highlight, with ample workspace, a huge walk-in pantry, & SS appliances, including a sleek induction stove. It opens seamlessly into the family room, making it perfect for both everyday living & entertaining. Private downstairs bedroom & bathroom offer flexibility as a home office or guest suite. All bathrooms have been refreshed & the laundry room is equipped with quartz counters, a sink, & additional cabinetry. Epoxy flooring in garage. RO and soft water system. Outside, the backyard is a true retreat, complete with a charming ramada, paver accents, ambient lighting, and low-maintenance artificial turf. The pool, updated with PebbleTec, and the travertine-surrounded spa make it the perfect spot for relaxation and fun. And, location-wise, you're in luck! This home is conveniently close to Diamond Canyon School, Liberty Bell Park, and Anthem's fantastic dog park, plus more!

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6529 W Via Montoya Drive Glendale, AZ 85310

Open House

$750,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,717 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731699

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Rare remodeled SINGLE-STORY 5 BEDROOM in premier Arrowhead community, with Mountain views from your front door! Fully remodeled kitchen with quartz countertops on double islands, white shaker cabinets, tile backsplash, built-in cooktop, and stainless appliances. Open floor plan with 3 full bathrooms, a large master suite, and an additional converted fifth bedroom. Travertine & porcelain tile throughout; no carpet! New interior paint 2022. Extremely private outdoor space with refinished PebbleTec pool (2022) & 3-hole putting green! Low-maintenance landscape. Desirable community within walking distance to Sprouts, Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers, & other shopping + dining. Proximity to hiking trails, two 18-hole golf courses, & Arrowhead Country Club. Close access to 101 freeway.

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