Mortgage do’s
and don’ts

Learn the key actions to take — and avoid — when applying for a mortgage, so you can protect your approval and move forward with confidence.

What to know

Best practices when applying for a mortgage

Simple guidelines to help you stay on track, avoid common mistakes, and keep your mortgage process running smoothly.

Do’s

Be readily available to your mortgage lender

Make sure that you're able to respond immediately if action is needed. Don't miss phone calls, or go on vacation during the lending process.

Return documents in a timely matter

Keep the process moving efficiently by responding to all document requests as soon as possible. Having all your financial information gathered in advance is a smart practice.

Maintain good credit

Always make your credit payments on time. If your credit is pulled, any negative changes could cause you to lose your approval and your chances of buying a new home.

Find out more

Report gifts

If relatives have given you gift money for your down payment, we'll provide you with a gift letter for them to sign. It must be returned along with a recent copy of their account statement.

Don’t

Apply for new credit

Changes to your credit can delay or change the terms of your financing. At worst, it could prevent closing altogether. Consult with your loan officer if you must open a card or loan.

Change your job

Making a career change could place you on a probationary period with your new employer. Even status changes like being switched from a salaried to commission position could greatly affect your loan's approval.

Make undocumented deposits

Be sure to make copies of all checks and deposits slips during the lending process. Avoid depositing cash, and keep deposits separate and small. Consult with your loan officer if you have any questions!

Start any home improvement projects

If you were looking to make improvements on your current house, complete all projects before contacting your lender. Unexpected delays in construction could make it difficult to sell your home.

Be afraid to ask questions

I'm here to listen to your story, craft you the best lending solution, and walk you through the process all the way through closing. Call your loan officer anytime -- Even before you start looking for your new home.

Credit score

How do I
improve my credit?

Improving your credit starts with understanding your financial profile and making informed, consistent decisions over time.

Build your credit

Review your credit report

To improve your credit, it helps to know what's working in your favor or against you. A credit report will point you in the right direction.

Get a handle on bills

Credit score are typically calculated by 5 Distinct Factors

Payment History (35%)
Credit Usage (30%)
Age of Credit Accounts (15%)
Credit Mix (10%)
New Credit Inquires (10%)

Credit utilization

Keep your credit utilization under 30% of your total available credit. Credit repair is best at 10% or less, so if applicable keep paying off outstanding debt.

Don't open new lines of credit but instead ask your credit agency to increase your limit. This can help push your debt to income ratio down, getting you under the 30% or 10% thresholds.

Limit your requests for new credit

There are two types of inquires on your credit history, often referred to as "soft" or "hard" inquiries. Soft inquiries do NOT affect your credit score. Hard inquiries however can affect your credit score. Hard inquiries typically happen with applications for new credit cards, a mortgage, an auto loan, or other types of new credit

Mortgage do’s
and don’ts

Best practices when applying for a mortgage