Blog Posts February 2, 2026

You’re Under Contract & Financing a Home — You Can Do This! But, let’s talk about what you SHOULDN’T do…

Getting under contract on a home is exciting… and a little nerve-wracking. You’ve likely already pictured your furniture in the living room, picked out paint colors, and started planning what comes next.

But here’s the part many buyers don’t realize:
The time between going under contract and closing is just as important as getting your offer accepted.

This is when your lender is carefully reviewing your financial picture to make sure everything still aligns for your loan approval. Even small changes can cause delays — or worse, jeopardize the deal altogether.

So let’s talk about what not to do, and what to do, so we get you smoothly to the closing table. 🏡

Things You Should NOT Do While Under Contract

🚫 Don’t quit your job or change jobs
Your lender approved your loan based on your current employment and income. Changing jobs — even for more money — can trigger additional verification or delays.

🚫 Don’t buy or trade in a vehicle
A new car payment can significantly change your debt-to-income ratio, which lenders watch closely. Even “great deals” can wait.

🚫 Don’t make large purchases
Furniture, appliances, or big-ticket items can affect your credit and cash reserves. Yes, even if it’s on sale.

🚫 Don’t open new credit cards or loans
Every credit inquiry matters during this time. Opening new accounts can lower your score or raise red flags.

🚫 Don’t close old credit accounts unless instructed
Closing accounts can impact your credit history length and utilization — both things lenders consider.

🚫 Don’t miss any payments
Late payments during escrow are one of the fastest ways to create serious issues with loan approval.

🚫 Don’t co-sign on a loan for anyone
Even if it’s “just helping someone out,” it counts as debt in your name.

What You SHOULD Do Instead

✅ Ask questions — early and often
If you’re unsure whether something is okay, ask your agent or lender before making a move. There truly are no silly questions here.

✅ Continue paying your bills on time
Consistency is key. Keep everything exactly as it has been.

✅ Use your credit normally
Routine spending is fine — just avoid anything new or out of the ordinary.

A Quick Word on Temptation 😅

I know how tempting it is to buy the couch, order appliances, or start furnishing your future home early. You’re excited — and that’s completely normal.

But trust me on this one:
Let’s push that excitement just a little longer.

Once you sign your name at closing and get those keys, we can turn that house into your home — without stress, delays, or last-minute surprises.

My job is to help protect your deal from start to finish, and that means guiding you through every phase — not just finding the house.

If you’re under contract and have questions about what’s okay (or not okay), I’m always here. Let’s get you to the closing table with confidence. ✨