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. Â To start your home search, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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725 E Washington Avenue Gilbert, AZ 85234
Open House
$650,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
1,969
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6777247
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled on a spacious lot surrounded by mature trees, this stunning 1,969-square-foot, 4-bedroom, 2-bath home offers privacy and tranquility. Step inside to discover brand new luxury vinyl flooring in the main living areas and new carpet in the bedrooms, creating a modern, inviting atmosphere. The main living room features a cozy electric fireplace, perfect for relaxing evenings. Both bathrooms have been tastefully updated, with the primary bathroom showcasing a separate jetted tub, a walk-in shower with multiple shower heads, dual vanities, and a spacious walk-in closet. The primary bedroom also offers a separate exit to the backyard and a new sliding door that leads directly to the sparkling diving pool—ideal for cooling off during Arizona summers. The gourmet kitchen is a true showpiece, featuring elegant granite countertops, a natural stone backsplash, high-end cabinetry, a sleek hood, and built-in oven and microwave. Designed for both functionality and luxury, it also includes a large pantry, providing ample storage for all your culinary essentials. Whether you're preparing everyday meals or entertaining guests, this kitchen is equipped to meet the highest standards of modern living. This home also includes a usable RV gate with a slab already poured, perfect for storing your trailer, fishing boat, or other toys. Located close to downtown Gilbert, you'll enjoy the convenience of popular restaurants like Postino, Joyride Taco House, and Liberty Market. With easy access to the US 60 freeway, commuting and travel are a breeze. This home blends style, convenience, and a serene setting. It's a must-see!
1731 W Dublin Court Chandler, AZ 85224
Open House
$650,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
2,041
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6765026
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled on a private corner cul-de-sac lot, this highly sought-after greenbelt home offers tranquility with a view fence and easy access gate. Step inside to discover an open, bright layout featuring 3 bedrooms plus a den/office space, perfect for today's flexible living. The recently remodeled kitchen (2018) dazzles with custom cabinets, quartz countertops, a chic backsplash, and all LG stainless steel appliances. The spacious family room boasts vaulted ceilings, porcelain tile flooring throughout, and a cozy fireplace, while plantation shutters add a touch of elegance. The primary suite is a true retreat with his & hers walk-in closets and serene backyard views. Enjoy Arizona living with two tiled backyard patios, ceiling fans, and a lagoon-style play pool, complete with a shallow lounging deck, in-water seating, and an automatic cleaning system. Bonus features include attic storage with flooring, an outdoor solar shower, a whole-house surge protector, and an upgraded hot water heater (2017). Recent upgrades include a full roof underlayment replacement (2018), fresh exterior paint, and updated interior paint (2022). A divider wall installed between the neighboring house ensures extra privacy, while mature landscaping and custom hardscaping make this home a year-round retreat.
7306 E Wilshire Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85257
Open House
$650,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,506
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778842
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Classic 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom brick home, ideally located just off Scottsdale Road and tucked into the center of the highly sought after Scottsdale Estates subdivision. This beauty showcases a spacious living room, formal dining area, updated bathrooms, dual pane windows throughout and a gorgeous backyard with a sparkling diving pool and Trex deck. The backyard also includes a large storage shed, lots of grass for play and a spacious covered patio. The roof and hvac unit were replaced in 2021, complete replacement of sewer lines in 2024, new carpet and fresh interior paint throughout in 2024 and new electrical panel in 2004! Situated close to excelling public and private schools, parks, Old Town Scottsdale, and the 101 freeway, it's in a prime location for convenience and entertainment. This is an extremely rare opportunity that you do not want to miss!
3611 N Tuscany -- Mesa, AZ 85207
Open House
New
$650,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,150
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6779631
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautiful 3-bedroom (plus loft), 2.5-bath residence in Rolling Hills at Las Sendas and EVERYTHING LAS SENDAS HAS TO OFFER! Welcoming living room with soaring vaulted ceilings, half-moon clerestory windows, plantation shutters, and a harmonious blend of soft carpet and tile flooring. Gather in the family room, offering sliding doors that lead to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. The gourmet kitchen comes with granite counters, custom wood cabinetry with crown moulding, a stone tile backsplash, recessed lighting, SS appliances, a handy pantry, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar. The main bedroom includes plush carpeting, balcony access, an ensuite with double sinks, and a walk-in closet. **1 newer ac in 23' and other 21' ..tankless water heater in 19 and water softener 23'. Enjoy a breath of fresh air on the charming balcony showcasing stunning mountain views. The backyard showcases a covered patio, pristine artificial turf, and a play area for outdoor fun. Make it yours!
10345 E Kinetic Drive Mesa, AZ 85212
Open House
$650,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,425
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772205
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning Eastmark home, where modern elegance meets thoughtful design! The exterior, freshly painted in July 2024, creates the perfect contrast with its light color and dark trim. Inside, you'll be greeted by a coffered ceiling entrance, beautiful wood plank tile flooring, white wood shutters, and 10-foot ceilings throughout. The gourmet kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring double wall ovens, an electric cooktop, two-toned cabinets, granite countertops, and a tiled backsplash. With pots and pans drawers, a single basin sink, and even a pot filler, this kitchen offers both style and functionality. Extra cabinets provide ample storage, and the open-concept layout flows seamlessly into the dining and living areas. The primary suite is massive and offers coffered ceilings, built-in side table lights, dual sinks on executive height vanities with granite countertops, a separate tub and shower with tile details, and a spacious walk-in closet that conveniently connects to the oversized laundry room, complete with built-in cabinets.The additional bedrooms are perfectly sized, and one of the bathrooms boasts a tiled shower and an executive height vanity. The backyard is a serene oasis, featuring a paved covered patio, artificial turf, an extra paver pad, and lush landscapingideal for relaxation and entertainment. This community offers a resort-like experience with a luxurious pool, splash pads, numerous parks, the charming Steadfast Farm, and the state-of-the-art clubhouse, The Mark, which hosts year-round events and family-friendly games. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to make this home yours!
9821 E Glencove Street Mesa, AZ 85207
Open House
$650,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,249
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6738100
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled in gated community, this home has 9+ceilings. Maple 42''cabinets, in 2023 painted inside throughout, added new stove, dishwasher, microwave & Italian stone tile (wide wood plank look). Pavers in back yard extends from covered patio & sidewalk to RV gate. Mesquite trees shade back yard. The owners added an electrical box/outlet to add hot tub in future. Split 4-bedroom floorplan with family & formal living area. Kitchen has granite countertops open into family room. The 2-bathrooms are upgraded & insulated doors in 3car garage. Community Park with playground, volley & basketball courts, walking trails & green belts add space between homes. Enjoy east Mesa close to: The salt river, Usery Park, Hiking, Kayaking, Fishing, 202 north, shops & restaurants. 7 miles from the 60.
6802 E Beverly Lane Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Open House
$650,000
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,428
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742060
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Imagine living just minutes from Scottsdale Quarter, where you can enjoy some of the valley's best restaurants, world-renowned golf courses, and premier shopping. Welcome to your dream home—a perfect blend of classic charm and modern comforts, all with the freedom of no HOA restrictions. Nestled on a desirable corner lot, the property welcomes you with easy-care turf, a mature shade tree, a two-car garage, and a charming front porch. Step inside to a bright, open floor plan where natural light pours in through vaulted ceilings. A serene color palette, recessed lighting, modern fixtures, and wood-plank tile flooring create an elegant ambiance, while a stylish wooden panel wall fireplace adds warmth and sophistication. The gourmet kitchen offers ample functionality and style, featuring quartz and butcher block countertops, a chic tile backsplash, BRAND NEW white cabinetry, and a central island with a breakfast bar. The primary suite is a sanctuary, complete with a walk-in closet, a spa-inspired ensuite with dual sinks, a BRAND NEW vanity with abundant storage, a walk-in glass shower, and direct backyard access. Outdoor features include a heated pool for year-round enjoyment, and recent updates provide peace of mind with a water heater and windows replaced in 2020, and a roof, HVAC, and pool equipment all less than 10 years old. Enjoy low-maintenance living in a home that truly shines. Schedule your showing today this Scottsdale gem won't last!
316xx N 171st Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387
New
$649,999
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,708
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780196
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOW!! Coming soon is a 1708 sf 3 BR 2 BA with 2 car garage and a RV garage on 1 acre property. No HOA, Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from. Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary homes entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those fall and spring sunsets on your porch swing. When entering the home, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings that showcase the open concept living area to the kitchen and dining room. Spacious covered rear patio, great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Cozy laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting wood plank style tile flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes.
316xx N 171st Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387
$649,999
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,708
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6778344
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOW!! Don't miss this opportunity!! Being contructed soon is a 1700sqft, 3 Bed, 2 bath home with 2 car garage and an RV garage on 1 acre. No HOA! Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from! Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary home's entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those beautiful Arizona sunsets on your porch swing. Upon entry, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings which showcases open concept living to the kitchen and dining room. A spacious covered rear patio is great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Practical laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting tile wood plank flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes!
316xx N 171st Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387
New
$649,999
3
Beds
2
Baths
1,708
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6780213
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOW!! Coming soon is a 1708 sf 3 BR 2 BA with 2 car garage and a RV garage on 1 acre property. No HOA, Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from. Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary homes entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those fall and spring sunsets on your porch swing. When entering the home, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings that showcase the open concept living area to the kitchen and dining room. Spacious covered rear patio, great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Cozy laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting wood plank style tile flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes.
6285 E Broadway Avenue Apache Junction, AZ 85119
$649,999
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,186
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772527
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Want to spend your nights looking at the sunset & city lights and your days gazing at the Superstition Mountains? Well then this is your place! Updated 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath single-level home, sitting on 1.1 acres at the base of the Superstition Mountains. And if you're looking for your own workshop and garage space for your toys --you won't be disappointed! An oversized, 6-car detached garage awaits with mini-split, ducted Torit Industrial Dust Collecting System, Extra LED lighting, 7 X 240 outlets, 2 X 50 amp & RV plugs. TONS of storage! Then, step inside to relax and be delighted by the lovely interior showcasing a great room with soaring vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, attractive wood-look flooring, & cozy two-way fireplace. The family room has double French doors that lead to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Cook delicious meals in the kitchen, equipped with granite counters, knotty alder cabinetry, SS appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar for casual dining. You'll also find a versatile bonus room, perfect for an office or study. Huge covered patio in the back makes for great viewing. Make this yours today!
2440 W Kachina Trail Phoenix, AZ 85041
$649,999
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,587
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6773613
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your exquisite dream home, located in a desirable gated community at the base of South Mountain, with quick access to every corner of the Valley! This home has it all, boasting a large, open floorplan with lots of natural lighting, a spacious main level primary suite, a recently remodeled chef's kitchen, complete with high-end stainless appliances, and a sparkling pool, perfect for beating the summer heat. Formal living greets you at the entry, followed by office/den. Continue to your eat-in kitchen, where you'll find a 6-burner KitchenAid gas drop-in cooktop, an extended island with brand new quartz counters, and 42'' staggered cabinets for ample storage. Upstairs you'll find the massive loft, secondary bedrooms, and guest bath. Enjoy views of the city lights from the deck! Your oasis backyard includes built-in grill, mature fruit trees, low-maintenance turf, putting green, and your sparkling Pebble-tec playpool with a relaxing water feature and a solar-powered heater. North-facing backyard protects yard from harsh sun. Surrounded by single story homes, for privacy. Upgrades include: Two new Bosch variable speed HVAC units; Custom bar in living room; all new wood-look tile downstairs, and new, plush upgraded carpet throughout the rest of the home; 5 Anderson windows installed in 2024 and include lifetime warranty; new variable speed pool pump with WiFi connectivity; WiFi smart thermostats; water softener; RO in kitchen; wired surround sound and speakers throughout; Epoxy coating on garage floor; Toto washlets in two bathrooms. Original owners have shown true pride of ownership, making this home their dream come true, and now it's ready to be YOURS! Quiet, friendly neighborhood near local A-rated Laveen schools and all the new nearby shopping and dining.