Don’t change jobs, become self-employed or quit your job. It may take two years to recover from a job change to the point where you can qualify for a home loan.
Don’t buy or lease furniture, a car, truck or van (or you may be living in it). Any new debts or financial obligations can significantly reduce your ability to qualify for a home loan.
Don’t increase credit card debt excessively, or apply for new ones, or let your accounts fall behind. An increase in debt will increase your debt to income ratio, DTI, and will reduce the amount that you can qualify for.
Don’t apply for any new credit or credit cards.
Don’t pay off accounts that have a negative Credit Bureau report. Check with a credit repair company before doing this as it may be best to leave things as they are so these accounts do not appear as new information and possibly lower your credit score.
Don’t spend money you have set aside for closing. Duh!
Don’t omit debts or liabilities from your loan application. Be open and honest with your lender. Provide all information that is requested, and respond quickly to any phone calls, mail, or emails from your lender.
Don’t buy or lease furniture or any other major items. No new debts or financial obligations.
Don’t originate any inquiries into your credit. If you test drive a car or check with a furniture company, or other business, to see how much you can purchase with credit, it will reflect on your credit score and can spoil your purchase.
Don’t make large deposits without first checking with your loan officer.
Your lender will want an explanation of any large deposits, especially if that Money will be used for the down payment, and if it is a loan that has to be repaired. If you receive a gift of money from a relative, be prepared to explain this to your lender.
Don’t change bank accounts. Lenders want to see financial stability in their borrowers so don’t change anything until your purchase closes.
Don’t co-sign a loan for anyone. When you co-sign for a loan, it is treated just like you have assumed the debt because you could become responsible for it, at some point.You can buy whatever you want after the close. Your credit will be checked on or near the day of closing so any changes will show up and potentially negatively affect your home purchase.