Want the House? Don’t Sabotage the Loan

You found the perfect home. You’re in escrow. Excitement is high and Pinterest boards are full of dream furniture, new appliances, and maybe even that shiny SUV you’ve had your eye on.

But hold on—this is the moment where one wrong move could cost you your dream home.

When you're buying a house, lenders keep a close eye on your financial profile until the deal is done. That means your credit, employment, and spending habits matter just as much after your offer is accepted as they did before.

Here are a few easy-to-avoid mistakes that could derail your loan approval:

1. Buying Furniture Before the Home Closes
It’s tempting to start shopping for that perfect sectional or bedroom set. But large purchases—especially on credit—can change your debt-to-income ratio and raise red flags. Quick rule of thumb: Don’t buy the couch before you buy the house.

2. Financing a New Car
That new car smell can wait. Taking on an auto loan adds debt, potentially drops your credit score, and may make lenders second-guess your ability to afford the mortgage you were just approved for.

3. Opening New Credit Cards
Maybe you're thinking about grabbing a card to rack up points for new home purchases. Don’t. Even applying for a card results in a credit inquiry, and new lines of credit make lenders nervous about your financial stability.

4. Switching Jobs Mid-Escrow
A new job might seem like a great opportunity, but during escrow, it introduces risk. Lenders may delay—or deny—your loan because income consistency is critical for underwriting. If you’re considering a job change, talk to your lender first.

Final Pro Tip:

Celebrate big after you’ve got the keys. Until then, keep things simple, steady, and boring with your finances. Your future self—standing in the doorway of your new home—will thank you.