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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535 S Barnwood Trail Munds Park, AZ 86017

$629,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,824 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764043

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Your private, dream home on large lot in the cool pines of Munds Park awaits your arrival! Rather year-round or seasonal, this spacious 3bed, 2 bath home has a/c, wood burning fireplace, 10x16 shed, carport, metal roof, upgraded flooring, bathrooms, ceiling fans, lighting, etc. Kitchen has plenty of cabinet and counter space, as well as an island. Enjoy relaxing on the large custom deck that was newly added on, with NO neighbor to the north! The yard is fenced in and perfect for your pets. No HOA. Come and be a part of this special, desirable Munds Park community! You will be walking distance to the well-known Pinewood Country Club, close to the national forest, lake, hiking/ biking trails, tennis and pickleball courts, park, restaurants, convenient store, and more. Munds Park is only 17 miles South of Flagstaff and a 2-hour drive from Phoenix to escape the heat. Come see your new home in our neck of the woods!

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19736 W Turney Avenue Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$629,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,982 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752703

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Home for the Holidays at 19736 W Turney! Step into the holiday spirit at this beautiful Verrado home, where every corner is ready to host cozy gatherings, joyful celebrations, and memories that last a lifetime. This isn't just a house—it's a place to be home for the holidays and beyond Picture the dining room filled with festive décor, a sparkling tree, loved ones gathered around the table. The spacious primary suite, a peaceful escape from the holiday buzz, the open living areas invite everyone to relax and enjoy the season together. With space to host, celebrate, and unwind, this home is ready to be your backdrop for unforgettable holiday memories. Located in the heart of Verrado, this home brings you close to scenic trails, holiday events, and an amazing community.

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10921 W Harrison Street Avondale, AZ 85323

$629,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,137 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6725891

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful,Spacious Home in immaculate condition w/ FIVE bedrooms, 3 bath, & a loft, offers comfort, style & convenience. Modern kitchen boasts granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, generous cabinet space & a pantry. Luxurious Master suite offers picturesque mountain views, an en-suite bathroom featuring dual sinks & a huge walk-in closet. Step out to a private backyard w/ a covered patio & low-maintenance turf yard perfect for entertaining. Offers 1st floor bedroom & bath & conveniently located near I-10, Loop 101, shopping, & golf courses. Community has amenities such as a basketball court, sand volleyball court, playgrounds & barbecue areas. Home has first floor guest bedroom and 4 more upstairs with high pile carpet, 2nd floor laundry room & lots of storage throughout.

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3058 N 167th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

$629,000

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,957 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6758111

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful Alora Model home has mountain views and is located in the gated PebbleCreek resort community! The home has many upgrades including landscaping, window coverings and more! This gorgeous ranch style home features 2 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and a den! As you walk into this home you will notice the 11ft ceilings in the great room, the 42'' upper cabinets, quartz counter tops and stainless appliances. This home also includes tile flooring, a gas fireplace in the backyard, Full landscaped backyard and golf cart garage. The bathroom has quartz countertops and a huge walk in closet. PebbleCreek offers three 18-hole golf courses, 2 clubhouses with fitness centers, multiple restaurants and bocce, tennis and 36 pickle ball courts.

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17218 N Melissa Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

$629,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,313 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6740344

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful home in Kingswood Park Surprise! Excellent curb appeal, an inviting porch, a low-maintenance landscape, and a 2-car garage is everything you've been looking for. The stunning backyard is a true Oasis with its blue pool & spa. Brand NEW pool equipment was installed in 2023. The delightful interior boasts vaulted ceilings, plantation shutters, freshly painted walls (2024), new door hardware (2024), and herringbone pattern tile flooring. The spacious living areas are perfect for entertaining. The fabulous kitchen showcases updated white cabinetry (2024), sleek granite counters, stylish tile backsplash, SS appliances, an island w/a breakfast bar, and a large walk-in pantry. The family room features a new, built-in entertainment center with an 86'' LG TV! Double doors open to a generous-sized owner's suite with backyard access, an ensuite with dual sinks, beautiful remodeled shower & a walk-in closet. What's not to like? Act now!

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1350 E Gail Court Gilbert, AZ 85296

Open House

$629,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,237 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775994

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Move-in ready with countless upgrades including new AC, windows and can lighting! This modern single-family home boasts an open floor plan perfect for gatherings. The chef's kitchen showcases quartz countertops, shaker cabinets, and new appliances that brings both charm and modern appeal. Upstairs, a split floor plan separates the spacious secondary rooms from the primary suite. All bathrooms are upgraded with quartz countertops and chic laminate flooring. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, complete with a gazebo strung with lights, turf, and river rock. Every detail has been updated within two years! This home is ready to meet all your needs. Don't miss this opportunity to experience a truly exceptional property — it's a must-see!

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24686 N 175th Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

Open House

$629,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,187 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759841

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover your dream home—better than new and meticulously upgraded with $125,000 in enhancements! Enjoy the luxury of a move-in-ready space, sparing you the time and stress of renovations. The open-concept design offers seamless flow, ideal for entertaining or family gatherings. The modern gourmet kitchen, featuring a gas cooktop and large island, is perfect for culinary adventures. Step outside to your backyard oasis, complete with a sparkling pool, cozy firepit area, and stylish pergola—all elegantly finished with travertine tile. With every detail already addressed, you can focus on making memories instead of managing projects. This turnkey property allows you to start living your dream lifestyle immediately.

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1700 E Lakeside Drive Unit 65 Gilbert, AZ 85234

Open House

$629,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,777 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761143

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Beautifully situated in Breckenridge Bay sits this meticulously appointed single-level townhouse! Upon entry, enjoy ample natural lighting, generous-sized open living and dining areas, vaulted ceilings & warm color tones throughout. The gorgeous dark wood floors contrast perfectly with bright silver-gray-colored walls. The vibrant Kitchen boasts granite tops and stainless steel appliances all accented with natural white cabinetry. Both bedrooms have newer LVT flooring and the main bath has been impressively remodeled to 5-Star Resort standards! Ideally located just steps away from the clubhouse, full amenities, and the lakes.... living in Val Vista Lakes is resort Lifestyle Living at its best!

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15221 N Clubgate Drive Unit 1023 Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$628,500

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,401 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6768194

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Open and bright floor plan with spacious great room with wood look flooring and freshly painted. Perfect for entertaining home with eat in kitchen overlooking the great room and easy access to the patio area surrounded by lovely landscaping. The Master Suite is spacious with a walk in closet. Oversized 2 car garage. The community pool, spa and exercise facility exudes a resort feeling to relax and enjoy. Walking distance to the Westin Resort and golf course, the high end shops and restaurants of Kierland Commons and Scottsdale Quarter. Living the life of Kierland, urban lifestyle and conveniences with a resort atmosphere.

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31510 N 24th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85085

$628,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,026 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6570906

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Modern Appeal. Multiple Upgrades. High ceilings and Great Lighting make this home feel expansive. Gourmet Kitchen with gas range and hood. Oversized Quartz Waterfall countertop. GE Profile Appliances. Electric blinds, large farmhouse sink, water softener. 2-Large Screen Wall Mounted TV's included. Nest thermostats. Low maintenance backyard with Gas lined Fire Table, Gas Grill, Artificial turf and Tiled patio. Lights and Irrigation on timers. Energy efficient rated home. Community Pool and BBQ. There is also a dog park conveniently located close to this home. Excellent Location, close to shopping and restaurants! Great Investment Opportunity!

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10728 E Monterey Avenue Mesa, AZ 85209

New

$628,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,277 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767540

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Mulberry, a master-planned community that EVERYONE falls in love with. It's almost like an enchanted land - magically reminiscent of the early 1900s when homes created quaint neighborhoods w/ front porches.The home offers pride of ownership on a premium private lot. Open floor plan with a great room concept. Chef's kitchen offers upgraded cabinets, island, granite countertops, SS appliances, custom pendant lighting. Informal dining all open to the great room w/ large slider overlooking the beautiful backyard. Private owners suite walk in closet. Master bath offers: soaking tub & huge walk in shower. All secondary BR's are good size with 2 full baths. Shutters throughout home. Backyard offers putting green, covered patio and lush landscaping. Newer exterior paint. Three car garage with over head storage. Mulberry amenities include sport courts, playgrounds, two pools, fitness, multipurpose room, a huge event lawn, and a Lifestyle program. Adjacent to the community, Desert Ridge Junior and High Schools, as well as two elementary schools, are all part of the top-rated Gilbert School District. The 202 San tan and US 60 Superstition Freeways are each within approximately 1.8 miles of Mulberry. Mesa's tech corridor, expected to provide thousands of job opportunities, lies just one mile south. Within a mile find major shopping, dining, and entertainment. Come see this perfect home.

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1240 E Kramer Circle Mesa, AZ 85203

$628,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,318 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766889

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This spacious floor plan features a living room and dining room, along with a separate family room. The fabulous open kitchen includes an island and pantry, perfect for all your cooking needs. The large master bedroom boasts an expansive master bath with a separate shower, and there's also a dedicated laundry room. The extended cabinets in the kitchen provide ample storage space for your cookware and countertop appliances. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, complete with a Pebble Tec pool/spa, a water feature, a covered patio, and numerous upgrades. Experience resort-style living in this beautiful gated community!

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