What to Avoid After Applying for a Mortgage

Don't Rock the Boat: What Not to Do After Your Lender Reviews Your Finances

You’ve found a home you love, your offer is accepted, and your lender has reviewed your finances—congrats! You’re well on your way to closing. But now is not the time to celebrate with a shopping spree or open a new credit card. In fact, once your mortgage application is underway, financial consistency is key.

Here’s why: lenders don’t just check your finances once and call it a day. They continue to monitor your financial profile right up until closing. That means any sudden moves—no matter how innocent they may seem—can throw a wrench into your approval.

Here are a few things to avoid:

🚫 Don’t change bank accounts.

Switching banks may seem harmless, but it can make it harder for your lender to verify your assets. Stick with your current accounts until the home is officially yours.

🚫 Don’t apply for new credit.

That store credit card to get a discount on a new sofa? Big no-no. Any credit inquiry or new account can affect your credit score and debt-to-income ratio, which could delay—or even derail—your closing.

🚫 Don’t buy furniture or appliances (yet!).

It’s tempting to start picking out that perfect fridge or dreamy sectional for your new place. But making large purchases on credit (or draining your savings) can impact your loan approval. Hold off until the keys are in your hand.

✅ DO talk to your lender before making any financial moves.

Whether you’re thinking about paying off a loan, moving money between accounts, or making a big purchase, check in with your lender first. A quick conversation can save you from a last-minute surprise at the closing table.

Bottom line? Stay the course.
Home buying is exciting, and it’s natural to want to prepare for the next chapter. But when it comes to your finances, slow and steady wins the race. Keep things consistent, communicate with your lender, and you’ll be unpacking boxes before you know it.

💬 Ready to take the next step in your home journey?

Whether you’re just starting out or halfway to closing, I’m here to help you navigate it all—smoothly and confidently.
📲 Reach out anytime for guidance, referrals to trusted lenders, or a personalized game plan to get you home.