07/21/2026
“You’re under contract.” Those three words should feel exciting. 🎉
And they are.
But this is also the stage where buyers need to be extra careful. An accepted offer does not mean your loan is finalized.
Your lender may still verify your credit, income, employment, assets, bank activity, and debts before closing. A single financial decision can create delays, additional underwriting conditions, or even impact your loan approval.
Here are 5 things to avoid once you’re under contract:
1️⃣ Don’t finance furniture, appliances, or a vehicle.
Even if your first payment isn’t due for months, the new debt can affect your debt-to-income ratio.
2️⃣ Don’t open new credit cards or apply for new credit.
That store discount isn’t worth a new inquiry, potential credit score changes, or additional lender review.
3️⃣ Don’t change jobs without talking to your lender first.
A new position, different pay structure, or employment gap may require additional documentation and could delay your closing.
4️⃣ Don’t make large deposits without documentation.
Gift funds, transfers, or cash deposits often need a clear paper trail. If the source of funds can’t be verified, it can become an issue.
5️⃣ Don’t co-sign for someone else’s loan.
Even if you’re not making the payments, that debt may still count against you when your lender reviews your qualifications.
The goal is simple:
✔️ Keep your finances as stable as possible until closing day.
✅ No new debt.
✅ No surprise deposits.
✅ No major employment changes.
✅ No last-minute financial decisions.
If you’re unsure whether something could affect your loan, call your lender before making the move. A quick conversation today can help prevent delays tomorrow.
💬 Save this post for later and share it with someone who’s buying a home.
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