7 Things NOT to Do During the Mortgage Process

You’ve found a home you love. You’re pre-approved. Things are moving forward. But just because you’re “under contract” doesn’t mean it’s smooth sailing from here.

As a mortgage broker who’s helped hundreds of buyers through closing, let me tell you — there are a few key things you should absolutely avoid doing during the mortgage process if you want to make it to the finish line without delays, stress, or surprises.

Here are the 7 biggest mortgage mistakes to avoid once your loan is in motion:

1. Don’t Finance a New Car

Yes, that new SUV is calling your name. But financing a vehicle — even if you can afford the monthly payment — can seriously mess with your debt-to-income ratio and hurt your mortgage approval.

Wait until after closing. Your future self will thank you.

2. Don’t Open or Max Out Credit Cards

You might get an offer for 10% off if you open a store card during furniture shopping. Resist. New credit inquiries or big purchases on your cards can impact your credit score and throw off your approval status.

That “instant savings” can cost you a home.

3. Don’t Change Jobs Without Talking to Me First

Even if it’s a better job with better pay, any career change during the mortgage process needs to be handled with care. Your income needs to be verified in a specific way — and a switch could trigger underwriting delays or require new paperwork.

Thinking of making a change? Let’s talk about the timing.

4. Don’t Make Large Bank Deposits Without Documentation

If a family member is helping with your down payment — great! But any large deposit that hits your account during underwriting needs to be fully documented.

So before grandma wires you $10,000, make sure we’ve set it up correctly. Otherwise, it can delay or jeopardize your approval.

5. Don’t Skip Payments (Even by Accident)

This includes credit cards, student loans, car loans, and even utilities. A missed payment — even one — can lower your credit score quickly and change your loan eligibility.

Put everything on auto-pay during escrow if you need to.

6. Don’t Assume "No News" Means Everything's Fine

Sometimes underwriters are reviewing your file in the background. But if you haven’t heard from me or your lender in a few days, don’t be afraid to check in.

There’s no such thing as a dumb question when you’re making the biggest purchase of your life.

7. Don’t Stop Saving or Drain Your Bank Account

You’ll need cash for closing costs, moving expenses, and maybe even a few unexpected surprises (hello, $800 washer/dryer set you didn’t budget for).

Keep padding your savings during escrow. You’ll be glad you did.

What Should You Do?

• Stay responsive and keep your paperwork organized

• Communicate any life changes right away

• Reach out to your broker (me!) with questions before making any financial moves

• Breathe — you’re almost there

Let’s Keep It Smooth All the Way to Closing

At Prestige Home Loans, I pride myself on giving first-time buyers the knowledge and support they need to navigate this process confidently.

📧 brett_ebbighausen@prestigehloans.com

📞 (508) 801-3982

📍 Serving all of MA & NH

Have a question about something you're thinking of doing during escrow? Shoot me a message. I’ve probably seen it — and I’ll help you avoid turning a small move into a big setback.

Was this blog post on mortgage mistakes to avoid helpful? Check out this one next: First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide.