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.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

Listing types.

For Sale

For Rent

Land

Multifamily

Commercial

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Distressed

Open House

Location Search Nearby

BedsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

BathsAny1+2+3+4+5+6+

Price MinAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Price MaxAny$500$600$700$800$900$1,000$1,100$1,200$1,300$1,500$1,600$1,700$1,800$1,900$2,000$2,250$2,500$2,750$3,000$3,250$3,500$3,750$4,000$4,500$5,000$5,500$6,000$6,500$7,000$7,500$8,000$8,500$9,000$9,500$10,000

Advanced Options

Property TypeAnyApartmentManufactured HomeSingle Family ResidenceTownhouseTwin Home

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Home SizeAny600 ft2800 ft21,000 ft21,200 ft21,400 ft21,600 ft21,800 ft22,000 ft22,200 ft22,400 ft22,600 ft22,800 ft23,000 ft23,500 ft24,000 ft24,500 ft25,000 ft25,500 ft26,000 ft2

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Neighborhood

Address, MLS# or Keyword

Location Search Nearby

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

School District

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

Location Search Nearby

Lot SizeAny1+ Acres2+ Acres3+ Acres4+ Acres5+ Acres6+ Acres7+ Acres8+ Acres9+ Acres10+ Acres20+ Acres30+ Acres40+ Acres50+ Acres

Price MinAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Price MaxAny$50,000$100,000$150,000$200,000$250,000$300,000$350,000$400,000$450,000$500,000$600,000$700,000$800,000$900,000$1,000,000$1,100,000$1,200,000$1,300,000$1,400,000$1,500,000$1,600,000$1,800,000$1,900,000$2,000,000$2,250,000$2,500,000$2,750,000$3,000,000$3,250,000$3,500,000$3,750,000$4,000,000$4,500,000$5,000,000$6,000,000$8,000,000$10,000,000$15,000,000

Advanced Options

Address, MLS# or Keyword

YearAny2024+2023+2022+2021+2020+2019+2018+2017+2016+2015+2014+2013+2012+2011+2010+2009+2008+2007+2006+2005+2004+2003+2002+2001+2000+1999+1998+1997+1996+1995+1994+1993+1992+1991+1990+1980+1970+1960+1950+1940+1930+

View As: Thumbnails List

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

2237 E Captain Dreyfus Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85022

$699,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,464 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6682338

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Within reach of Shadow Mountain. Quiet Neighborhood! City Lights and Mountain Views from the roof/deck overlooking the resort-style pool toward Piestewa Peak. Stunning!. Three separate, individual suites, each with their own en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet. Lower-cost electric with Solar! Fine Designer Woodwork Detail throughout, plantation shutters, Central Vacuum, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, Fridge and Washer & Dryer included, two separate covered patios, side yard with cool-feel, synthetic grass, ample cool decking around pool. No HOA, close to Phoenix Mountain Preserve Trails. Pavilion of Light. No through traffic. Quiet. Serene. Patio Pool fencing retained. Solar Lease $71/mo.

View Property

10199 N 105th Way Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$699,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,104 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6696856

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into a rare opportunity to own a meticulously maintained patio home in the heart of Scottsdale Ranch's exclusive 55+ community. This ready-to-move-in property features 3 bedrms and 3 bathrms, with a thoughtful floor plan that includes 2 master suites. The 3rd bedrm, versatile enough to be transformed into a den, is complete with its own bathroom and shower. Immediately greeted by the evident care and love infused into every corner of the home. The living room is highlighted by vaulted ceilings, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere, while custom ceilings over nine feet throughout the rest of the home enhance the sense of light and airiness. Recent updates add to the home's appeal, including stylish flooring, contemporary counter finishes, modern baseboards & interior paint. Practical enhancements have also been made, with an HVAC system that is approximately 1.5 years old. Enjoy the convenience of a step-free layout and the added luxury of being just moments away from community tennis courts and a heated pool. This home is not just a residence but a retreat for those seeking comfort and elegance in a vibrant community setting. Experience the blend of relaxation and modern living in this charming Scottsdale Ranch patio home.

View Property

2601 W Lodge Drive Phoenix, AZ 85041

$699,000

5 Beds

4 Baths

2,700 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6697399

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful custom Home nestled right up to the Base of South Mountain. Seller is willing to flex on price! New kitchen and bathrooms recently remodeled. 2 A/C units and water heater 2 yrs old. Perfect mountain views from the yard. Over half acre of land (33,000+) to do whatever you'd like. Chicken stalls already built. Separate two car garage with attached Casita, bedroom and bathroom. Free standing gazebo. Flowing water during rainy days. Really is a must see!

View Property

17025 E La Montana Drive Unit 123 Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$699,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,074 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6700795

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

LUXURY LIVING AT IT'S FINEST! This gorgeous townhouse is located in the prestigious gated community of Arroyo Verde at Bella Lago. It features an upper deck and lower patio with stunning views. The interior has an wide open floorplan with soaring ceilings. This breathtaking home has updated appliances, interior paint, light fixtures, faucets, water heater, sink, cabinet hardware, plus much more! The community cabana features a pool, hot tub, fitness area, kitchen, and bathrooms. Located in the heart of Fountain Hills just steps from Overlook Trailhead, walking distance to the world famous fountain, Avenue of the Fountains, amazing restaurants, great shopping, McDowell Mountain regional park, and only 15 minutes from the airport! Huge price reduction! Motivated seller! Bring all offers!

View Property

15851 N 16th Street Phoenix, AZ 85022

$699,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,483 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6710570

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

ELEVATED LOOKOUT CANYON ESTATES IN THE HEART OF THE MOON VALLEY AREA. 3 FULL BEDROOMS, TWO- AND ONE-HALF BATHS PLUS A FLEXROOM/OFFICE/DEN. ALL NEW ROOF INCLUDING NEW TILES 2022. VAULTED CEILINGS LIGHT AND BRIGHT. MOUNTAIN VIEWS AND HIKING AREAS WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE. THE KITCHEN BOASTS AN OPEN FEEL WITH ISLAND WITH SEATING, STAINLESS APPLIANCES AND BREAKFAST NOOK ALL ADJOINING TO A FAMILY ROOM W/FIREPLACE. BACK PATIO W/BLT IN BBQ, FIREPLACE. A BONUS RV GATE & SLAB WITH OUTDOOR LIVING NO HOA FEES. MOUNTAIN VIEWS AND HIKING AREAS WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE. CLOSE TO FREEWAYS AND FOOD AND SHOPPING AMENITIES

View Property

3935 E Whitton Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85018

$699,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,635 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6715984

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Three bedroom, two bath in Citrus Acres/Arcadia Lite; close to Scottsdale restaurants & shops! Awesome location!! Recently remodeled kitchen & living area. Skylight adds some nice natural light. Spacious bonus room is great for families. House has been well maintained and is ready to sell - come check it out!

View Property

6010 W Arroyo Way Pine, AZ 85544

$699,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,571 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6707766

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home to this stunning 4 bedroom 3 bath retreat nestled on a peaceful cul-de-sac and backing to the National Forest. Enjoy views of the Rim while relaxing on either of the two completely new decks. From the family room views of the Rim provide a picturesque backdrop to your everyday life. Throughout the house windows give way to nothing but views of the trees and forest. With easy access to the Bearfoot Trail, this is the perfect home for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This beautiful home is situated on 1.16 acres to provide ample tranquility and privacy. Gourmet kitchen features custom cabinetry, gas stove & granite countertops. Separate dining space provides plenty of space to gather family & friends. Home is being sold furnished so you can move right in and begin enjoying the tranquility and solitude of mountain living.

View Property

7175 E Aloe Vera Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85266

$699,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,671 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6722114

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Premium cul-de-sac lot offers privacy and views of desert open space. Resort style amenities including: Clubhouse, Dining, Fitness Center, Pool, Tennis Courts, Pickleball and Desert Pavilion (Community Center. Spacious Great Room floor plan with 2 Bedrooms, Den/Office, Gas Fireplace and 2 Bathrooms. Kitchen features stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. Primary suite is complemented by a walk-in closet, dual vanities, granite countertops and separate shower and tub. Secondary bedroom with walk-in closet and granite countertops in 2nd bathroom. Laundry room with cabinets. Interior and exterior of the home was painted in June of 2024. Energy saving home with Solar Panels.

View Property

1958 E Duke Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$699,000

7 Beds

3 Baths

2,153 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6720237

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Just Reduced! Situated in a prime and convenient area of South Tempe, this solid 7 bedroom, 3 bath home has a rich history as an elderly care facility. It features a comprehensive sprinkler system and was previously licensed to accommodate up to 10 residents, with current zoning allowing for 5. The property is thoughtfully designed for accessibility, including ramps and wheelchair-friendly access to all bathrooms and doorways. With two air conditioning units and a favorable north-south exposure, the home offers a great business opportunity. This care facility holds tremendous potential for continued use, a vacation rental or other possibilities. Sold ''as is'' by a motivated seller, this property is open for drive-by viewings.

View Property

8020 N 72nd Place Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$699,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,581 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6722733

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

What a Location! Enjoy Scottsdale pool home or perfect vacation home with front private courtyard nestled between highly desired McCormick Ranch, Gainey Ranch & Paradise Valley near resort hotels, restaurants, golf, shopping & more. 2/2 + large loft. Spacious 2,581sf, soaring ceilings & lots of natural light! 2,295sf on 1st level + 286sf bonus loft (separate AC & skylights). Use loft as optional 3rd bedroom + armoire or office, exercise or craft room. Adjacent to McCormick Ranch entrance & golf courses, hiking/biking trails & lakes. Enjoy unique home with character & prestige for much less than others in area due to $699/mo land lease (.001 X Purchase Price). Several quotes available for personal renovations.

View Property

730 E Mckinley Street Phoenix, AZ 85006

$699,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,411 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6730749

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

LET'S GO !!! ALL THE CHARM AND CHARACTER WITH MANY MODERN UPGRADES . HUGE RENTAL POTENTIAL !!! HIGH CEILINGS, OPEN CONCEPT KITCHEN, SEPARATE MASTER SUITE, 2 ADDITIONAL BEDROOMS WITH SHARED BATHROOM AND A TV ROOM WITH HALF BATH PLUS STACKED WASHER/DRYER. WRAP AROUND BACK PATIO DECK AND FRONT PORCH PLUS CARPORT AND MATURE LANDSCAPE.

View Property

15817 W Bonitos Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$699,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,875 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6723677

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous single level, 4 bedroom, 3 car garage TW Lewis home located in a gated community with an ensuite guest quarters and a heated pool! Great floorplan with a courtyard entry, primary bedroom split from the secondary bedrooms, 4th bedroom has it's own bath. Nice sized back yard w/travertine pavers, large covered patio, spa, firepit, covered & HEATED pool! Kitchen features maple 42'' staggered cabinets, granite, stainless steel appliances including 5 burner gas range. Additional features: HVAC's new 2021 shutters t/o, cabinets in laundry room, Tesla Charger in garage, upgraded light fixtures, 3rd garage set up as a full gym that can convey to the buyer. Primary bedroom large w/ exit to backyard, tiled garden tub, walk in shower & dual sinks. Home was only used as 2nd home approx 8 week

View Property