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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26269 N 45th Place Phoenix, AZ 85050

$700,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,131 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778337

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Set on a large premium lot in Tatum Highlands, this home offers mountain and desert views with high ceilings that greet you at the entry and extend through the spacious living room. Featuring 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths—including a convenient main-floor bedroom and bath—this layout is ideal for flexible living. The upstairs master suite provides a private balcony, dual walk-in closets, and bath with separate tub and shower. The kitchen, complete with an island and breakfast bar, opens to a beautiful backyard oasis with a sparkling pool. Located close to Desert Ridge dining, major freeways, and scenic trails—don't miss the chance to explore this desert retreat!

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9240 N 101st Street Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$700,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,603 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778276

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover spacious, light-filled living spaces that blend comfort and style. This fully detached townhouse boasts a thoughtful layout, ideal for relaxation and entertainment. Welcome to this delightful 2 bed/2bath home with an extra den/office space with built-ins. Tons of natural light pours in the bright living room with vaulted ceilings. Enjoy the refreshed fireplace, or check out the charming patio. A guest room offers a lofted bed for added charm. Granite countertops, neutral colors, and fresh paint! Brand new flooring throughout, shutters, a breakfast nook and low maintenance yard. Community pool and spa, close to shopping and restaurants! Front yard is maintained by HOA! Enjoy modern upgrades, ample storage, and community features that offer a blend of luxury and convenience.

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11896 W Lone Tree Trail Peoria, AZ 85383

$700,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,098 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777585

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your new home in the prestigious, gated community of Vistancia Village! This stunning residence, built in 2016, offers a bright and open floor plan designed to maximize both space and natural light. Soaring ceilings create a grand sense of openness, while a massive slider seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor living, inviting you to a resort-like backyard retreat. Perfect for entertaining and play, the outdoor space features elegant travertine pavers, low-maintenance artificial turf, vibrant citrus trees, an outdoor shower and a built-in sandpit for endless family fun. Enjoy spacious living with a layout perfect for entertaining, relaxation, and making lasting memories. Discover luxury, style, and comfort in a home that truly stands out.

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2911 E Cortez Street Phoenix, AZ 85028

$700,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,912 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778217

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in the heart of North Phoenix's beloved ''Sheaborhood,'' with close proximity to the Phoenix Mountain Preserve and the reimagined Paradise Valley Mall, this beautifully remodeled 3-bed, 2-bath home offers comfort and style. With 1,912 sq ft of living space plus an additional 200 sq ft flex room (not included in the total square footage), this home offers plenty of room for all your needs. As you step inside, you're welcomed by a spacious, open floor plan that invites both daily relaxation and effortless entertaining. Imagine preparing meals in the stunning kitchen, complete with brand-new appliances, and relaxing in the large backyard, where a covered patio offers the perfect spot to unwind or host gatherings. Each room is designed with ample space, bringing in natural light. Additional amenities include a new HVAC unit and an EV hookup in the garage.

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6861 W Dale Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

$700,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,319 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778564

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

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4335 E Clifton Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85295

$700,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,891 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780303

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This home has it all—modern upgrades, energy efficiency, and exceptional style. It looks and feels like a model home! When it was built, the sellers put a lot of thought into the energy features and the aesthetics. ($90K in upgrades with the builder) Step inside to a spacious great room with a 16-foot atrium glass door filling the space with natural light and leading to an incredible backyard oasis. The upgraded gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring luxurious split-color cabinets, quartz countertops, and GE matte black cafe appliances, adding both elegance and functionality. The large island, farm sink, and pantry ensure you have everything you need to entertain in style. Tray ceilings elevate the main living areas, adding architectural interest throughout. The master bath is designed for relaxation, featuring an upgraded shower, dual sinks, and tasteful finishes. Plantation shutters offer timeless charm and privacy, while the DuPure reverse osmosis water filtration system and tankless water heater provide convenience and efficiency. Window throughout are dual-pane Low-E for comfort and savings, complemented by an energy-efficient SEER 16 A/C unit. The outdoor space is a showstopper. The backyard was thoughtfully designed just two years ago with a $100,000 investment in a pool with in-floor cleaners, artificial turf, and pavers. A covered patio offers shade, making this low-maintenance backyard perfect for relaxation and gatherings. This exceptional property is a must-see to fully appreciate all its premium features!

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19312 W Colter Street Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

New

$700,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,830 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781944

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Introducing a METICULOUSLY MAINTAINED Shea Homes masterpiece with the most breathtaking backyard retreat revamped in 2017 with unobstructed MOUNTAIN VIEWS capturing dreamy sunsets year-round! This resort style oasis is equipped with a NEW PEBBLE TEC HEATED POOL and SPA with fountain and overspill, plus new pool equipment all in 2017 and pool heater installed in 2023! Note the double French doors to the covered patio, pergola, inviting built in gas grill and bar with convenient sink, custom professional pavers, palm trees, plants and landscape lighting all added in 2017. This spacious 4-bedroom residence PLUS office with OPPORTUNITY FOR 5TH BEDROOM, features a thoughtful SPLIT STYLE FLOOR PLAN, perfectly crafted for comfort and functionality. Home had NEW EXTERIOR PAINT in 2024 and fresh interior paint in 2021, new AC unit in 2023, new hot water tank in 2018. Reach out for our Upgrades and Features document to see all the improvements and pride of ownership! The 10 ft ceilings, oversized doors, crown moulding paired with an open concept chef's kitchen fully loaded with oversized island, 2.5'' granite countertops, 42'' cabinetry running the full length of the wall, built in stainless steel appliances, REVERSE OSMOSIS water purification system and a walk in pantry. Massive homeowner's suite with his/her vanities AND walk in closets, soaking tub and walk in shower. Enjoy low electric bills with SOLAR PANELS already installed in 2017 and TWO GARAGES! The air-conditioned 3-CAR tandem garage, plus the separate single car garage is a dream for projects as a workshop, for car lovers, or extra storage. Appreciate the longer driveway and additional street parking plus NO NEIGHBORS IN FRONT, allowing privacy and spectacular, unobstructed MOUNTAIN VIEWS. Designed with refined luxury and privacy in mind, this gently lived in home is an absolute rarity and the ultimate retreat! Come see for yourself!

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22319 E Pickett Court Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$700,000

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,720 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6755978

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

*Photos coming soon* Rare, spacious BASEMENT home with 5bedrooms +gameroom! Just needs new homeowners to enjoy. The comfortable courtyard greets you upon entrance. The spacious interior is perfect for large gatherings & making memories. Designer features include travertine flooring with stone detailing, plantation shutters, upgraded cabinetry & beautiful wood flooring. Spacious bedrooms & storage throughout. The basement includes 2 bedrooms, full bath & bonus room with wall mounted TV & custom built-in. Enjoy outdoor living under a large, covered patio overlooking an oversized lot, built-in BBQ & paver seating areas. Ample room for a pool. 3 car garage with storage cabinets. Located within steps to Queen Creek HS. Within minutes of the new Frontier Family Park & Pecan Lake Entertainment.

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5113 N 79th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$700,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,638 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6773719

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Enjoy stunning Camelback Mountain views from the peaceful front courtyard of this ideal Scottsdale townhome, located in the desirable Scottsdale Monterey neighborhood. Just a short walk to Chaparral Park, where lush greenbelts and a serene lake await, this updated, open-concept home offers a perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. Inside, soaring ceilings and an inviting kitchen with stainless steel appliances create a welcoming space. A bonus office off the kitchen also offers mountain views, making it the perfect spot for work or relaxation. The spacious primary bedroom opens directly onto a private exterior patio, and the en-suite bath features dual vanities and a sleek glass shower. Nestled close to Old Town's entertainment district and Fashion Square, this townhome is your your serene retreat in the heart of Scottsdale. Delight in all the area has to offer on your free time or stay in and enjoy the community Pool and spa.

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16065 W Poinsettia Drive Surprise, AZ 85379

$700,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,310 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6777044

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Luxury and function circle this rare find! The 51' Tandem RV garage with attached 3 car garage is climate controlled and fits a class A RV effortlessly. 3 bedroom plus den/4th bedroom. Owned solar (paid for) 30 panels with size of 12,000 watts. The current owner has low or no power bills (with the exception of $100-$150 the months of June-August). Heated pool with pop up cleaners. Sparkling spa stays! NEW HVAC (2) in 2023 This turnkey Estate was built as owners forever home. Meticulously cared for. Professional landscaping has the Arizona lifestyle captured perfectly. North South exposure. Enjoy cool summer nights in your private rear grounds. Commerciql grade raised garden containers ensure a steady supply of all that you need to stay healthy and happy! Welcome home.

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917 E Mckinley Street Phoenix, AZ 85006

New

$700,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,804 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783138

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in Phoenix's vibrant Roosevelt Row Arts District and historic Garfield Neighborhood, this completely renovated 2023 property blends luxury, modern sophistication, and timeless elegance. The main house features 2 spacious bedrooms, 2 opulent bathrooms, soaring ceilings, and custom finishes, creating an atmosphere of grandeur. A 432 sq. ft. guest house offers 1 bedroom, 1 bath, perfect for guests or as a premium rental. The meticulously landscaped grounds include irrigation and lush greenery. Just steps from upscale dining, art galleries, farmers markets, and local events. Zoned R-5 Multi-family, offering development potential. Airbnb earnings available upon request. A true urban oasis with boundless possibilities for investment and lifestyle.

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1717 E Morten Avenue Unit 59 Phoenix, AZ 85020

$700,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,735 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6659431

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Sitting near the base of Phx Mtn. Preserves, this gated community rests alongside a quiet neighborhood and access to parks & outdoor trails. Natural light fills the home thanks to END UNIT location providing unobscured exposure to the south and west. Spacious middle floor offers beautiful kitchen with quartz countertops centered between the living and dining area. Multiple windows line the wall affording sunset views from inside or from large patio. Bedrooms and full baths are on top floor along with laundry. Terrific city lights & mountain views from master suite. Ground floor offers flex space to be used how you see fit! Access 2 car garage with storage racks and private patio w/ bbq & turf. Ground floor and middle floor each have powder room

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