Stay current on payments
Keep paying your mortgage, rent, auto loans and other obligations on time. If you expect a payment problem, tell your loan team promptly.
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From application to closing
Mortgage Do’s & Don’ts
Keep your home financing on track with clear records, timely communication and a quick conversation before major financial changes.
Ask Jennifer a question ↗Small changes can affect the loan.
Your mortgage is based on the information reviewed during the application and underwriting process. A new debt, a change in pay or an unexplained transfer may mean more documentation or a new review. These habits can help you prepare; your loan team’s instructions for your particular program come first.
Keep things moving
Do
Keep a clear paper trail
Save complete statements and records showing the source of deposits, gift funds and earnest money. Ask which records your program requires.
Keep documents up to date
Respond promptly to requests for current pay stubs, bank statements and other records. Keep originals and complete copies, including all statement pages.
Document the sale of your current home
If sale proceeds are part of your financing plan, provide the sales contract, final settlement or Closing Disclosure, and evidence of the proceeds as requested.
Report changes promptly
Tell Jennifer about job changes, raises, leave, changes to pay structure, or changes in marital status that may affect the application or title.
Review your closing documents
Read your loan and closing documents, compare costs with earlier estimates and ask about anything you do not understand.
Check before you change
Don’t
Don’t add new debt without checking first
Discuss new credit cards, car loans, co-signing, furniture financing and buy-now-pay-later plans before taking them on. New obligations can change qualification.
Don’t close or restructure credit accounts casually
Closing a card or moving balances can affect available credit and your score. Ask before making changes intended to improve your loan profile.
Don’t assume paying a collection has a predictable score result
Discuss collections, charge-offs and large debt payoffs with the loan team before changing your plan. Effects depend on the credit model and underwriting requirements; continue meeting your obligations.
Don’t move large sums without a plan
Before opening or closing accounts, changing investments or transferring closing funds, ask what documentation will be needed. Keep a record of each transfer.
Don’t make undocumented deposits
Discuss cash, gifts, sale proceeds and other unusual deposits before relying on them for closing. Unverified funds may not be acceptable under your program.
Don’t assume a preapproval is final approval
Income, credit, assets and the property may be reviewed again before funding. Notify the team when anything material changes.
Something changed? Tell us early.
Life does not stop while you apply for a mortgage. If your job, income, family situation or funds change, contact Jennifer promptly so the team can explain the next steps. A change does not automatically mean your loan cannot proceed.
Use your approved secure document channel for financial records. Please do not email Social Security numbers, account numbers or loan documents.
A final check before closing
Confirm the funds and documents your closing team needs, review the final loan figures and ask about any changes. When you receive a Closing Disclosure, compare it with your Loan Estimate and raise questions before signing.
Adapted from the supplied A&D Mortgage Do’s & Don’ts guide dated September 30, 2026, with general educational context. Credit effects and document requirements vary. This checklist does not guarantee loan approval or replace instructions specific to your application.
Further reading: CFPB: Understanding credit scores · CFPB: Preparing for closing