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

2937 N 16th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85015

$625,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,500 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777847

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW!!! Welcome to this stunning move-in-ready home in the North Encanto Historic District, completely transformed from top to bottom. It features a newer roof, AC, brand new sub & main electrical panel, LVP flooring, updated electrical, plumbing, and modernized kitchen and baths. While upgraded, it retains charming historic features like a large brick fireplace and a vintage outdoor grill. The reconfigured floor plan includes a primary suite with an ensuite bath. Outside, the front yard has lush grass, and the backyard offers low-maintenance turf. The oversized two-car garage with built-in cabinets provides ample storage. Located on a quiet street, this home blends historic charm with modern living.

View Property

6415 E Montezuma Canyon Road Hereford, AZ 85615

$625,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,549 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6738357

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Spectacular Custom Built, 2,549 sq ft, Three Bedroom/Two Bath Home, with Private 75' Solar heated Salt Water Lap Pool, owned Solar Panels, Hardwood and Tile Flooring throughout, Vaulted Ceilings, and Electric Car Charging Station. Located just down the Road from The Coronado National Monument, with 360 degree Mountain Views, Mature Landscaping and Private Well.

View Property

5055 S Clancy -- Mesa, AZ 85212

$625,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,142 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6766078

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home with a 3-car garage located in the highly sought-after Keighley Place subdivision of Mesa. Move-in ready and filled with upgrades, this home welcomes you with an oversized living room and formal dining space. The remodeled kitchen boasts granite countertops, refinished cabinets, a stainless steel sink and appliances, new fixtures, and a custom pantry door. The open-concept family room features a charming wood accent wall and offers easy access to the resort-style backyard, complete with a travertine patio, heated pool, lush landscaping, a built-in gas firepit, and a BBQ island, perfect for outdoor entertaining. The primary suite is a retreat of its own, featuring hardwood floors, an oversized walk-in shower, granite countertops, vessel bowl sinks, and updated fixtures. Additional highlights include updated flooring throughout, fresh exterior paint, garage cabinets with a workbench and storage, an RV gate, and low-cost fixed solar. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity....request a private tour today!

View Property

6502 N Central Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85012

$625,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,880 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6757231

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

This beautiful mid-century penthouse, designed by renowned architect Starkovich, seamlessly blends historic charm with modern living. Situated along the iconic, tree-lined Central Ave in one of Phoenix's most sought-after neighborhoods, this original 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home boasts breathtaking north-facing views of Piestewa Peak and stunning sunsets, framed by an impressive wall of windows. Just steps away, the scenic Murphy Bridal Trail offers a perfect escape for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Bathed in natural light, the bright and airy interior creates an inviting atmosphere. The spacious great room is perfect for hosting gatherings or simply enjoying a peaceful morning coffee as the sunrise fills the space with warmth and light. HOA replaced roofs 2023, A/C & Heat piping 2024 they will also be redoing the wrap around patio. HOA includes utilities: cooling, heating, water, trash, sewer, cox cable and cox internet Owner only pays for electricity (minus heating and cooling) Complex was also just approved as Historical landmark which decreases homeowners' property tax as long as they are owner occupied

View Property

1445 S Norwalk Circle Mesa, AZ 85206

$625,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,219 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6761359

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning 2-bedroom plus den home is the perfect blend of elegance and functionality. Step inside to discover a formal living and dining room, ideal for hosting gatherings or enjoying family dinners. With spacious bedrooms, an open floor plan, and abundant natural light, this home offers both comfort and style. The versatile den can easily serve as a home office, playroom, or guest space. Located in a desirable Mesa neighborhood, close to schools, parks, and shopping. No HOA! RV parking with hookups. Low maintenance for the lock and leave lock and leave lifestyle. Perfect for retirees or winter visitors! Stay tuned for more details—this beautiful home won't last long! *3rd bedroom is small and currently used as office - sellers can convert if desired.

View Property

3255 E Milky Way Gilbert, AZ 85295

$625,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,711 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6767872

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this beautifully upgraded, move-in-ready home in the heart of Gilbert. A formal model, this home boasts too many incredible features to list. Step inside and notice the gorgeous wood-look tile flooring that flows throughout the main level. The spacious living room, formal dining, and open concept kitchen to family room offer plenty of space for relaxation and entertaining. The spacious kitchen features ample cabinets and countertop space, walk-in pantry for extra storage, giant island for culinary dreams, custom backsplash and new appliances. The separate office downstairs with built-ins provides a quiet, private workspace or study. Follow the attractive banister upstairs to find a cozy loft, an excellent play area or additional lounge space. The plush, high-end carpet... adds warmth and comfort underfoot, complementing the home's neutral color palette. The large primary suite is a calming retreat with massive walk-in closet, updated bathroom features, and separate tub and shower. You'll also find the second-floor laundry, additional bedrooms and updated hall bathroom. Plantation shutters are featured throughout the home, offering both style and functionality. The backyard boasts low maintenance greenery, refreshing coctail pool and extended concrete patio for enjoying Arizona sunsets. This immaculately kept home in the coveted Lyons Gate community is conveniently located near top-rated schools and easy freeway access, making commuting a breeze. It's just minutes from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport and a variety of dining, shopping and entertainment options. Don't miss out on this amazing home!

View Property

34105 N 24th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85085

$625,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,275 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6764979

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning North Phoenix gem, nestled within the exclusive gated community of Amber Hills. This spacious 5-bed 3-bathhome boasts 3,275 sq. ft. of living space, offering an open floor plan perfect for entertaining and comfortable living. The kitchen features beautiful granite countertops, newly painted cabinets,a large center island, and plenty of cabinetry—ideal for the home chef. The generous primary suite is a private retreat, complete with a spacious ensuite featuring a soaking tub, double vanities, and a walkout patio with serene views. Step outside into your private backyard oasis, complete with a PebbleTec pool, a covered patio for outdoor dining, and a paved seating area perfect for soaking in the breathtaking mountain views. This home is priced to sell quickly!

View Property

16214 E Bainbridge Avenue Fountain Hills, AZ 85268

$625,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,485 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6773629

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your beautifully updated and meticulously maintained home with a sparkling pool and sweeping mountain views in scenic Fountain Hills. Your remodeled kitchen has handsome stainless appliances and quartz counter tops, and it opens to the spacious great room with mountain views, a vaulted tongue and groove ceiling, fireplace, sound system, large flat-screen TV and dining area. Step outside to the amazing backyard with a covered patio, panoramic mountain views, synthetic lawn, artistic pavers and resurfaced pool (2023). Relax in your primary suite with an updated bath, walk-in closet and a door to the covered patio. Two guest bedrooms, updated guest bathroom, laundry room and 2-car garage with a storage room complete this lovely home. No HOA! Lucky you to live in Fountain Hills - a beautiful town known as an international dark sky community, with gorgeous mountain views, a world-famous fountain, a large public art collection, numerous special events, world-class golf and a mountain preserve with hiking trails. Many outdoor activities are within a 30-minute drive - hiking, cycling, boating, fishing, camping, horseback riding, plus popular areas of Scottsdale with wonderful dining, shopping, entertainment, hospitals and renowned school, BASIS Scottsdale. Sound system components, DVD player and TV in great room/family room are included in the sale. All windows and sliders were replaced in 2013. New 14.00 SEER Trane A/C in 2016. For more information on all the updates for this wonderful home see the attached list.

View Property

1982 W Periwinkle Way Chandler, AZ 85248

$625,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,839 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6771908

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover unparalleled lakefront living in the highly sought-after Montefino Village! This stunning lot offers breathtaking views of serene lakes, charming bridges, a tranquil waterfall, and a private park complete with walking paths. Completely Upgraded Throughout: No detail has been overlooked in this exquisite residence. Enjoy cooking with GE Profile appliances, quartz countertops, under-counter dimmable lighting, and soft-close kitchen drawers. Relax in the inviting living room featuring a gas fireplace and stunning slate flooring. Double pane windows with stylish shutters, ceiling fans throughout, and nearly new HVAC. Covered Patio with stunning views, misters and bistro lights. Schedule your showing today and seize the opportunity to enjoy your home, inside and out.

View Property

15424 N 63rd Street Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$625,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,763 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6774575

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

INVESTORS DREAM! Just needs a little TLC and updating! Perfect Scottsdale Location with No HOA! This charming single story home features 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms on a spacious private lot. The primary bedroom has a spacious ensuite bathroom with double sinks and tons of closet space. The interior living space boasts vaulted ceilings, creating an open airy atmosphere. Large living room with a cozy wood-burning brick fireplace, this home provides ample space for indoor and outdoor living & entertainment. Enjoy your private shaded backyard with a covered patio - perfect for the beautiful Arizona evenings. NEW AC Unit (only 2 years), NEW Water Heater (only 1 year) & Newer Roof (only 5-10 years). Conveniently located just minutes away from Kierland and the Scottsdale Quarter with world-class retail shopping, fine dining & endless entertainment. Quick and easy access to the Loop 101 & SR-51 freeways. Perfect for any buyers looking to earn some sweat equity as well as fix-n-flip investors and long-term or short-term rental investors alike!

View Property

2509 E Darrel Road Phoenix, AZ 85042

$625,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,835 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765409

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath, 3-car garage home located in the coveted gated community of Fairways at the Legacy. Nestled right on the golf course, this home offers course views and wonderful views of South Mountain with no rear neighbors! The spacious floor plan includes an inviting living area, sky-high ceilings, an open kitchen, and a large entertainment bonus room perfect for hosting family and friends. The master bedroom is conveniently located downstairs, offering privacy and ease of access, while the backyard features direct views of the mountains and golf course, perfect for enjoying Arizona's spectacular sunsets!

View Property

3371 E Elgin Street Gilbert, AZ 85295

$625,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,278 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773803

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautifully remodeled home in an incredible Gilbert neighborhood rich with walking paths, parks and near shopping, dining, schools and the 202 freeway. Featuring elegant new plantation shutters and updated flooring and lighting throughout. The stunning kitchen is equipped with quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry and plenty of cabinets for storage. Enjoy the extended driveway with an over height RV gate, and benefit from the 2-year old AC units. The property is designed for entertaining, boasting a seven-speaker sound system, a charming pergola, pavers, gorgeous pool and an outdoor gas kitchen. This layout is ideal, with a sizable upstairs loft and an added bedroom/bathroom on the main floor, great for multi-generational living!The master closet features custom custom cabinetry adding a touch of luxury. Master bathroom features a updated frameless shower door. Relax by the fire-pit and fireplace, both included with the home. Enjoy the privacy of a view fence backing to a wash, and don't miss the 2.5 car garage complete with an exit door and windows for added light. 7 minutes to San Tan Mall, shopping and entertainment.

View Property