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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11268 E Poinsettia Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85259

$659,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,566 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6737850

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

AMAZING OPPORTUNITY! to own a fully remodeled home in a fantastic Scottsdale location! spacious living/dining room w/built-in shelves, vaulted ceilings, fireplace in the living area, & sliding doors to the back patio.Chef's kitchen offers white cabinets w/crown molding, stainless steel appliances, large granite counters, a pantry, upgraded, designer light fixtures, & large center island.Split primary suite has a walk-in closet & an upscale bathroom w/dual vanities & Large soaking tub. All tile floors throughout! Delightful backyard has a relaxing covered patio & Pergola. Newer roof! This one won't last!

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931 E Whiteley Street Apache Junction, AZ 85119

$659,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,455 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6742679

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

21/2 ACRES OF NATURAL DESERT LAND WITH BEAUTIFUL HOUSE AND BRAND NEW 1800 SQ FT WORK SHOP WITH 5 TON A/C WITH ROOM FOR YOUR RV AND BOAT OR ANTIQUE CARS. OR ALL THE TOYS. HOUSE GOT A NEW A/C IN 2024 ALSO. CHERRY WOOD CABINETS, 6 PANEL SOLID WOOD DOORS ALL 36'' TO ACCOMODATE A WHEEL CHAIR IF NEEDED.. GRANITE COUNTER TOPS AND STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES MAKE FOR BEAUTIFUL KITCHEN. SPLIT FLOOR PLAN. VERY ENERGY EFFICIANT HOME WITH BLOCKS WITH FOAM INSULATION, DUAL PANE WINDOWS. VERY NEAT AND CLEAN MOVE IN READY HOME.

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9415 W Wild Turkey Lane -- Strawberry, AZ 85544

$659,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

1,916 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741864

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Escape the heat & hustle of urban life at your mountain retreat tucked in the side of the Mogollon Rim among towering Pines on a lush 0.85-acre lot. This nearly 2,000 sq ft split-level home features a floor plan that makes sense for all. Main level has kitchen & dining room, comfortable living room, primary suite w/ensuite bath, fun loft area, & large guest bedroom. Lower level has another bedroom, bathroom, large family room set up as a game room, and access to the back yard & garage entrance. Take in stunning views of Strawberry Mountain from the expansive wrap-around deck & large picture windows throughout. The 2.5 car garage is equipped w/built-in workshop space. The fenced backyard allows a smaller border within the large property. No HOA. Enjoy easy access to... ... Fossil Creek trailhead & Hardscrabble road system for unlimited recreational activity, the charm of Strawberry & Pine, and approx. 45 minutes from Blue Ridge Reservoir for water enjoyment. All furnishings are available outside of escrow.

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7710 E Gainey Ranch Road Unit 133 Scottsdale, AZ 85258

$659,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

978 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747694

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to your gorgeous retreat in the heart of Gainey Ranch! This beautifully updated 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom townhouse boasts an oversized patio perfect for entertaining or relaxation. Located on the first level with a garage, this home is situated in the serene community of The Courts at Gainey Ranch. Just steps away from the newly renovated Estate Club at Gainey Ranch, enjoy the lifestyle of tennis, pickleball, a workout facility, two heated pools and spas, and an events center. This is an ideal turnkey retreat in the heart of Scottsdale, with easy access to shopping, golf, entertainment, and more.

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4002 N San Gabriel Circle Mesa, AZ 85215

$659,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,564 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761137

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Motivated Seller, relocating out of state! This stunning home, located on the prestigious Pete Dye-designed golf course at Red Mountain Ranch, offers breathtaking views of the golf course, Red Mountain, and sparkling city lights. Inside, you'll find renovations completed over the past five years. The gourmet kitchen has gorgeous granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and stylish new cabinetry, perfect for any chef. The inviting living area features a beautifully upgraded fireplace with elegant brickwork and a mantel, creating a cozy atmosphere for family gatherings. The primary bath has been transformed into a luxurious, spa-like oasis with a walk-in shower, marble countertops, and sleek new cabinetry. Additional improvements include newer dual-pane low-E windows and doors, pro viding year-round energy efficiency and comfort. Step outside to the sun-drenched pool area, complete with newer installed cool decking, ideal for lounging and entertaining. The exterior of the home has been painted within the last 5 yrs as well as the roof underlayment was replaced for long-lasting protection. Additional updates include a newer water heater, reverse osmosis system, pool pump, cleaner, and an efficient sprinkler system for easy yard care. This home offers more than just a place to live it's a lifestyle, perfect for golf enthusiasts in a tranquil setting. Don't miss the opportunity to make this dream home your own!

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2123 E La Costa Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$659,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,667 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6733137

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful 4-bedroom gem nestled in the highly desired community of Cooper Commons is move-in ready with inviting vinyl wood plank flooring, vaulted ceilings, and fantastic lighting throughout. The modern two-tone tuxedo kitchen is equipped with upgraded appliances and offers the desirable triangle layout that seamlessly connects the kitchen, living, and dining areas—perfect for entertaining. Step outside to your own private oasis, complete with a spacious covered patio, a gas fire pit, and an amazing saltwater pool and jacuzzi grotto that cascades into the pool below. And yes, the pool is heated for year-round enjoyment! Enjoy ample storage with a roomy 3-car garage lined with storage cabinets and a deep closet located under the stairs. Plus, downstairs you'll find a versatile space that's perfect for an office or game room. Upstairs, the main bedroom is a true retreat with a fully upgraded ensuite featuring a walk-in shower with dual shower heads. Three additional bedrooms upstairs provide ample space for residents or guests, with large walk-in closets in both the primary and 4th bedroom. Location is everything, and this home doesn't disappoint. Great schools nearby and just around the corner, the spacious La Paloma Community Park offers a large grassy area, a children's playground, and courts for basketball and pickleball. Welcome Home!

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2301 E Nisbet Road Phoenix, AZ 85022

Open House

$659,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,958 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778393

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully remodeled home showcases modern finishes and thoughtful upgrades inside and out. The kitchen shines with striking navy cabinets, sleek quartz countertops, and a unique peninsula with waterfall edges—perfect for meal prep and entertaining. The spacious open layout flows seamlessly into the living area, complete with stylish wood accents and a statement fireplace. Each bathroom has been transformed with custom tile work, elegant vanities, and contemporary lighting, creating spa-like retreats. Outside, the fully redesigned backyard is an oasis featuring a refreshing pool, fire pit area, and lush landscaping. Additional highlights include a large covered patio with ceiling fans, ideal for outdoor lounging. With a generous lot size, this property combines style and function!

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10918 E Texas Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$658,950

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,961 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6762831

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6762831 January Completion! The Wedgewood offers plenty of square footage and is stylish inside and out. Wedgewood's expansive open-concept common area holds a gathering room, kitchen with island and step-in pantry, and a casual dining. A study room is perfect for working from home. At the front of the home is a bedroom and full bathroom - perfect for your overnight guests. Upstairs, the owner's suite features dual sinks, shower and a huge walk-in closet. Three secondary bedrooms with walk-in closets share a full bath, and a spacious loft rounds out this beautiful home. Structural options include: study in lieu of dining, soft water loop, garden tub with separate shower in primary, paver front porch, and garage service door.

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18229 E Spring Valley Court Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$658,013

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,678 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6592823

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This incredible home is located at Trilogy Verde River, a premier 55+ and All Ages Golf Resort Community. This beautiful new home features over $145K in upgrades as well as a $10K homesite premium. With an estimated completion date in August 2023, you won't have to wait long to move right into this brand new home offering 2 bedrooms + den and 2 baths in 1,678 SqFt. The popular Valletta floor plan sits on a premium lot and offers a spacious great room layout with split bedrooms. The gourmet kitchen features gorgeous cabinetry with LED undercabinet lighting, Quartz countertops, and an island with a breakfast bar. A 12-foot multi-panel sliding glass door leads out from the great room to the covered patio and backyard with built-in BBQ, pergola, and water/fire features. Other features include upgraded flooring, quartz countertops throughout, laundry room cabinets, and a 2 car garage. Front and backyard landscaping included. The amenities at Verde River are World Class with Tom Lehman inspired eighteen-hole Golf course, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and bocce ball, heated lap pool and Resort style swimming pool, hot tub, Afterburn fitness center, Helen's demonstration Kitchen for cooking classes and a 7.5 acre dog park. The community center has casual poolside dining at Eddy's Diner and gourmet dining at award-winning Needle Rock Kitchen and Tap, Alvea Spa with full-service Salon and Spa amenities, Art Loft and events center. Trilogy at Verde River is adjacent to the Tonto National Forest and is situated in the middle of miles and miles of hiking and biking trails.

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7422 W Whitehorn Trail Peoria, AZ 85383

Open House

$658,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,084 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6774992

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This is it and ready for the holidays! Experience the charm of Aloravita, nestled within the scenic mountains of Peoria. This community boasts breathtaking views and is conveniently located minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking trails and more! Our popular 'Tamarron' floorplan features 4 full bedrooms with a study, 3 bathrooms, 2 Car-Garage and a private yard with views! Designer selected finish includes Birch Burlap Cabinetry, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Wood Like Tile Throughout, and Plush Carpet in all the bedrooms. This beautiful home will have it all including 8' doors, Gourmet Gas Kitchen, Smudge Proof Stainless Steel Appliances, Blinds, Pre-Plumb for Soft Water, and Smart Home Technology. Photos of similar spec home to show layout, options may vary-finishing final touches**

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9617 E Camino Del Santo -- Scottsdale, AZ 85260

$658,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,687 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754442

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This wonderful home provides an opportunity to enjoy the Scottsdale lifestyle at an affordable price in this highly-sought-after community. This completely remodeled home boasts vaulted ceilings, stainless steel appliances, wood shutters, a fireplace, granite counters and updated bathrooms. As you enter, you'll be delighted with the spacious great room/formal dining area, soaring ceiling and lots of natural light. A master suite with custom bathroom, walk in shower with custom tile bench and double vanity. The second bedroom downstairs has its own half bath and there is second master suite upstairs with full bathroom including custom shower/tub combo. Outside, the private yard boasts a side completely shaded by sunshades with beautiful artificial grass and a large storage room.

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2121 W Sonoran Desert Drive Unit 43 Phoenix, AZ 85085

$657,995

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,038 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6728548

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This beautiful home was perfectly crafted to fit your lifestyle. The open-concept kitchen flows effortlessly into the great room and dining room, making this floor plan ideal for entertaining. Additional features in this home include quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances and upgraded flooring. Contemporary neutral paint colors throughout makes this home ready for you to add your personal touches.

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