05/04/2026
Thinking about buying a home later this year? The secret to a smooth closing happens months before you ever tour a house. Here is a quick guide on what you should be doing right now to make sure you are mortgage ready in six months.
1. Freeze Your Credit Profile
Stop opening new lines of credit. That new car loan or furniture store card might look tempting, but even a small inquiry can impact your interest rate and debt-to-income ratio. Keep things exactly as they are until you have keys in hand.
2. Document the Paper Trail
Start a digital folder for your pay stubs, tax returns, and bank statements. Lenders love consistency, and having months of documentation organized will save you from "closing day stress" later on.
3. Optimize Your Savings
Beyond just a down payment, you will need to account for closing costs, inspections, and moving fees. Lenders love to see extra "reserves" in your account after the purchase is finalized.
Which of these steps is the most surprising to you? Tell me in the comments! Have questions? Please reach out!
Alyssa Stevens, Realtor®
Douglas Realty of Virginia, LLC
