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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4304 Stage Stop Way Wickenburg, AZ 85390
$637,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,969
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742345
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Discover the epitome of modern elegance in this nearly new Cypress model in Wickenburg Ranch. Meticulously updated with luxurious features, this home boasts fresh flooring in bedrooms and closets, a sleek gourmet kitchen with a large island, and a stunning sliding glass wall that opens to an expansive outdoor patio and backyard retreat. Enjoy outdoor living at its finest with a BBQ island and cozy firepit, all while backing to a serene wash for added privacy. With PAID SOLAR and a 3 CAR GARAGE, this home combines roominess and sustainability seamlessly.
14655 N Kings Way Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$636,500
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,267
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6715199
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Very desirable property which has been well maintained and loved. Extremely peaceful and private area which backs up to a wash. Beautiful desertscape with a pool. Easy access to commerce in delightful Fountain Hills and nearby Scottsdale. This property could be purchased furnished with well kept Thomasville and Stonecreek furniture etc. under separate negotiable agreement. Available as a perfect primary or second residence.
6411 S River Drive Unit 10 Tempe, AZ 85283
$636,477
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,589
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6759930
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
Remodeled 2 bed 3 bath townhome in the Cottonwoods Community of 68 homes. This home has an open floor plan, lots of light, high ceilings, & lots of space for entertaining. Both bedrooms have en-suites & walk-in closets. New LVP flooring in traffic areas, new carpet in bedrooms and loft & new baseboards. Interior hardwood doors, new canned lighting, new interior & exterior paint. The kitchen has lots of counter space, hardwood cabinet doors & stainless appliances. There is a fireplace, bed 2 has a walkout patio, loft has an exterior Juliet balcony, & lots of storage. The backyard is large and updated, including new exterior wall paint & gate. Close to freeway, shopping & short drive to airport.
16978 W Canterbury Drive Surprise, AZ 85388
$636,461
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,870
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6728478
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
MLS #6728478 February 2025 Completion! Discover The Shire, a single-story floor plan in Paradisi Venture II. This home offers 2,870 sq. ft. with 3 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a 3-car split garage, and a study. Each bedroom has its own en suite bathroom, providing separate spaces for kids and guests. The open layout of the gathering room, kitchen, and dining room forms the heart of the home, perfect for hosting gatherings or family game nights. Create lasting memories, whether it's a cookout with friends or quality time with family. The owner's suite includes a spacious walk-in closet, split vanities, and a generous shower. Structural options include: interior door at laundry, gas line for future outdoor kitchen, garage service door, and chef's kitchen.
20941 E Via Del Sol Street Queen Creek, AZ 85142
$636,237
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,537
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6736382
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
WOW - PRICE REDUCED $7,500. IN ADDITION, SELLER CONSESSION AVAILABLE TOWARDS CLOSING COSTS OR RATE BUYDOWN with Rates as Low as 3.875% on this Quick Move-In Home When Financing Thru Builders Preferred Lender(s). Beautiful Cul-de-sac Home Located close to Queen Creek Market Place Shopping, Dining & Entertainment with Community Parks, Tot Lots, BBQ's, Basketball Courts, Soccer Field and Just Steps to the 8-Mile Walking Trail. All Appliances Including Stainless Refrigerator, Stainless Gas Cooktop, Dbl Wall Ovens, Microwave, Dishwasher, White Washer/Dryer. Too Many Beautiful Upgrades to List Here. Primary & Two Secondary Bedrooms Upstairs. One Secondary Bedroom and Full Bath Downstairs. Don't Wait, Come See This Home Today
2121 W Sonoran Desert Drive Unit 45 Phoenix, AZ 85085
$635,995
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,854
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6728641
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
This beautifully crafted villa offers 1,854 square feet, 2 primary suites, and 2.5 baths. Tall windows in the great room allow for an abundance of natural light. Designer-appointed features throughout. Contemporary neutral paint colors throughout makes this home ready for you to add your personal touches. Explore everything this exceptional villa has to offer
9310 S 40th Drive Laveen, AZ 85339
$635,490
4
Beds
3
Baths
2,835
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6747469
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
PHOTOS ARE OF MODEL HOME! Find all the room you need in this thoughtful home design. To one side of the foyer is a game room with a secondary bedroom on either side plus a secondary bathroom. The owner's suite is spacious and features two walk-in closets and a spa-inspired bathroom with access the laundry room. There is also an additional secondary bedroom and bathroom down the hall from the owner's suite. The heart of the home is an open living area that brings the kitchen, dining room and Great Room together effortlessly, plus it extends to the covered patio. Our beautiful Aurora plan boasts luxury Chef Platinum features such as quartz counter tops , Sonoma Maple Linen (White) cabinets, and 8 x 36 tile flooring. A copy of the public report is available on the ADRE's website
23176 W Skinner Road Wittmann, AZ 85361
$635,000
4
Beds
2
Baths
2,242
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6731535
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Highly upgraded 4 bedroom 2 bath 3 car garage on an Acre lot! NO HOA! This Beautiful home comes with Quartz counter tops, large center island, tile backsplash, built-in microwave, stainless steel hood, 8' doors and 4'' baseboards, designer tile and upgraded lighting. Split floor plan, 2 walk-in closets in Master.. Located in a very nice area just minutes from Surprise and Wickenburg.
16528 W Isleta Court Surprise, AZ 85387
$635,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,300
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6677181
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this 2300 sq/ft furnished, Mission model home located in Sun City Grand (The Grand) a 45+ Active Adult Resort Style Community. Open site-lines are evident upon entering into the great room w/gas fireplace and picture windows. A Large Updated Kitchen with 2 Breakfast /Entertaining Bars with An Expanded Island & Granite Counter tops, S/S Appliances, Roll-out shelves, Large Pantry & plenty of Cupboard storage. Large Dining Space with Bay Window Overlooking the Pool. A Nice sized Office/Den with Built-in Double Desks w/large window situated between the Primary Suite & the Private Guest Suite. Master bath has a large shower, Double Sinks & Large Walk-in closet. The Party begins upon entering the Outdoor Covered Patio w/ Pebbletec pool & Baja Deck, Gas Grill, & Patio Seating that create an Entertainer's Delight! Home also boasts a Large Laundry room w/ storage; Powder Bath; a Second Dining area; Ceiling Fans throughout; Central Vacuum; Soft Water. The Leased Solar Panels (non-escalating transferable lease), HVAC (2 units) replaced in 2017, Hot Water Tank replaced in 2020, installation of Patio Misters in 2020, and the 2-Car Garage plus Golf Cart Garage!! Low cost nonescalating solar is $106.30 per month. The Grand is home to 4 championship Golf Courses, 2 Rec Centers, 5 pools, spas, 2 Large Exercise Rooms, Indoor Walking Track, Auditorium, the New Maple & Rye Restaurant, Banking, CVS Pharmacy, along with activities, trips, clubs and much more. Home is Vacant and Easy to Show. Don't Miss This on Your Tour!
28524 N 102nd Way Scottsdale, AZ 85262
$635,000
2
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,711
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6702531
Property Type
Townhouse
Price Type
--
This 2br/2.5ba unit is located in the resort community of Troon North. The open floor plan includes a great room w/ high ceilings, updated kitchen and a cozy gas fireplace. Add'l features include brand new roof, appliances, hot water heater, and HVAC. Convenient direct entry 2-car garage. Upstairs you will find two primary suites with walk-in closets, dual sinks and private showers. Both rooms feature balconies for enjoying views of the desert landscape and Pinnacle Peak. Low property taxes and HOA dues make this easy desert living! Conveniently located near the Troon Clubhouse and Sonoran Mountain Preserve trail system.
17603 N Lindgren Avenue Sun City, AZ 85373
$635,000
2
Beds
2
Baths
1,999
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6712021
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Beautifully Remodeled including the windows. Open Floor Plan, Golf Course Property With Pool. Kitchen Includes Newer Upgraded Custom, Hickory Cabinets, Stainless Steel Appliances and Newer Wood Tile Flooring. Walk-in Closets In Both Bedrooms. Fully Remodeled Guest Bathroom. Air Cooled Laundry Room/pantry Off Garage With Extra Storage, Bonus Den/office off Main Bedroom. and there are 2 walk-in closets in this room. The main bedroom has a door to the outside. The Pool is Solar Heated with an additional heating feature. The Pool has a pebble-tec type coating.. There is a lovely Waterfall Feature. The backyard landscape has Astro Turf. The front courtyard is fully fenced for a cozy retreat. Come see this lovely cheerful house, just waiting For You to Call it Home! Owner/Agent
302 W Oak Avenue Unit 1 Flagstaff, AZ 86001
$635,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
1,213
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6730466
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
TO BE BUILT...Welcome to modern living in the heart of Flagstaff - a collection of contemporary detached homes that redefine luxury and convenience. Nestled against the backdrop of the stunning mountains, step into a world where architectural brilliance meets nature's beauty. The community boasts a sleek and contemporary design that seamlessly integrates with the natural surroundings. Plentiful glass allows ample natural light to flood the interiors, creating a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living. Clean lines, high ceilings, and thoughtfully designed spaces provide an open and airy atmosphere making each home a sanctuary of modern sophistication. Wake up to the awe-inspiring sight of the mountains right outside your window (Select Lots Only). Whether you're sipping your morning coffee on the patio or enjoying a quiet evening indoors, the breathtaking scenery is a constant companion, creating a sense of tranquility and connection with nature. Embrace the convenience of city living without sacrificing the serenity of a mountain retreat. The community is ideally located within a short distance to downtown Flagstaff with easy access to the Urban Trail System (FUTS), allowing residents easy access to vibrant shops, eclectic restaurants, cultural attractions, and lively entertainment. Enjoy the best of both worlds - the bustling energy of city life and the peaceful seclusion of your private mountain haven. Step inside and experience a harmonious blend of form and function. The interiors are adorned with high-end finishes, contemporary fixtures, and premium materials. The open-concept layouts create a seamless flow between living, dining, and kitchen areas, perfect for both entertaining guests and cozy family nights. Invest in more than just a home - invest in a lifestyle. These bungalows offer not just a residence but a secure investment in the future. The combination of prime location, modern design, and proximity to downtown Flagstaff, Flagstaff Medical Center, Flagstaff Elks Lodge, Jay Lively Ice Arena, Buffalo Park, Basha's Grocery Store, and many schools ensures a high standard of living and potential for long-term value appreciation. There are a total of 13 available lots, any of the three attached plans will work on any of the available lots.