Buy with confidence · Palm Beach & Broward

Before You Get a Mortgage

Seven financial moves to discuss with your lender—from preapproval through closing.

Protect your path to closing.

When you are preparing to buy a South Florida home, everyday financial decisions can affect your mortgage application. Use this checklist to guide conversations with your licensed mortgage professional.

Pause before opening new credit

A new credit card, store account, personal loan, or auto loan can affect your credit and monthly debt obligations. Ask your mortgage lender before applying for additional credit during the approval process.

Delay major purchases

Financing furniture, appliances, or a car before closing may change your qualification. Large cash purchases can also reduce the funds you need for closing or reserves. Check with your lender before committing.

Keep a clear record of money transfers

Moving funds is not automatically a problem, but your lender may need a complete paper trail. Keep statements from both accounts and ask what records are required before transferring your down payment or closing funds.

Discuss employment or income changes first

A new job, reduced hours, a different pay structure, or a move to self-employment can require a fresh income review. A job change does not automatically disqualify you—even a higher salary may require new documentation. Tell your lender promptly.

Ask before closing existing credit accounts

Closing an account can change your available credit and credit utilization. Avoid making changes solely to improve your mortgage application without first asking your lender how they could affect your credit profile. Keep payments current.

Person reviewing a budget and counting money

Check before co-signing for someone else

Co-signing makes you responsible for another loan and can affect the debts considered in your application, even if someone else plans to make the payments. Ask your lender before accepting that obligation.

Document large or unusual deposits

Be ready to explain and document gifts, asset sales, cash deposits, or other unusual funds. Gift funds may require a gift letter and other records. Requirements vary by loan program; ask your lender what sources and documents are acceptable.

Professional explaining paperwork to a couple before signing — A lender conversation can clarify how financial changes may affect your loan. · Photo: Pexels. Illustrative stock photo; not a represented property or client.

Questions to ask your lender

What conditions remain before final approval?
Which financial changes should I report immediately?
What records do you need for transfers, deposits, or gifts?
What is my estimated total monthly housing cost and cash to close?
Is my interest rate locked, and when does the lock expire?

Compare written Loan Estimates for similar loan options. Review fees, rate terms, and cash to close alongside the monthly payment.

Calculator and organized financial paperwork on a desk — Keep your paperwork organized and discuss changes with your lender as you prepare to close. · Photo: Pexels. Illustrative stock photo; not a represented property or client.

Your next chapter starts with a plan.

I can help you plan your South Florida home search and coordinate purchase milestones with your lender.

Start your buyer consultation ↗Explore the mortgage calculator ↗

General buyer education. Loan requirements vary; your licensed lender determines eligibility and loan terms. Vânia Aquino provides real estate guidance, not mortgage underwriting or individualized financial advice.

Further reading: CFPB: mortgage credit checks · CFPB: documentation and lender requests · CFPB: comparing loan offers