What NOT to Do After Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a major milestone on your path to homeownership—congratulations! It means you’re well on your way to buying a home. But while mortgage pre-approval is an exciting step, it’s not the finish line just yet.

At Bridgepoint Funding, my team and I are here to help guide you all the way to closing. Along the way, there are a few key things to avoid that could unintentionally put your home loan approval at risk. The good news? With a little awareness and communication, these pitfalls are easy to sidestep.

Remember, your mortgage pre-approval is based on a snapshot of your financial situation at a specific point in time. If things change before your loan closes, your mortgage approval could be at risk. Here’s what NOT to do after getting pre-approved for a mortgage.

1. Don’t Change Jobs or Employment Status

Job changes aren’t always a deal-breaker, but they can raise questions. Promotions within the same company are typically not an issue—in fact, they can be a positive! However, switching employers, industries, or moving to self-employment can trigger a re-evaluation of your income and employment stability.

Tip: Before making any employment changes, check in with your lender to understand how it might affect your mortgage loan.

2. Don’t Open New Credit Accounts

Avoid applying for new credit cards, personal loans, or financing offers (like furniture or appliances). New credit inquiries and accounts can lower your credit score and increase your debt-to-income ratio (DTI).

Plus, opening a new account means we’ll need to document the new debt, its payment terms, and how it affects your overall financial profile—which can cause delays in your home loan process.

Why it matters: Even small changes to your credit profile can alter your mortgage loan eligibility.

3. Don’t Make Large Purchases

Big-ticket items like cars, electronics, or home furnishings can increase your debt and reduce your cash reserves—both of which lenders review before final mortgage approval.

Even if you’ve set aside funds specifically for these purchases, it’s worth noting that the more assets and cash reserves you have in your accounts, the stronger your financial profile looks to lenders.

Bottom line: Wait until after your home loan closes to make significant purchases.

4. Don’t Miss Payments or Let Accounts Go Past Due

Maintaining a strong credit history is crucial. A single late payment can drop your credit score and raise red flags for mortgage underwriters.

Pro tip: Set up automatic payments or reminders to stay on track with your credit obligations.

5. Don’t Co-Sign for Anyone Else’s Loan

Co-signing makes you legally responsible for someone else’s debt. That liability counts against your DTI, even if the other person is making the payments.

Result: This could reduce how much home you qualify for or derail your mortgage approval altogether.

6. Don’t Deposit Large, Unverified Sums of Money

Lenders need to verify the source of all funds in your accounts. Large deposits that don’t have clear documentation can cause delays or even result in a loan denial.

Best practice: Talk to your lender before moving large sums of money or accepting monetary gifts during the mortgage process.

7. Don’t Forget About Your DTI

Even if your credit score stays the same, increasing your debt obligations can push your DTI beyond acceptable limits for your mortgage loan program.

If you need a refresher, check out our blog on Understanding Debt-to-Income Ratios and Why They Matter.

8. Don’t Assume Pre-Approval Means Guaranteed Approval

Mortgage pre-approval is a strong indicator, but it’s not final. Your lender will re-verify your financial details before issuing a final loan commitment.

Also, keep in mind that pre-approvals are typically only valid for about 90 days. If your home search takes longer, you may need to refresh your pre-approval. Learn more about this in our blog: How Long Does a Mortgage Pre-Approval Last and When Should You Refresh It?.

Key takeaway: Keep your financial profile as steady as possible until you close on your home.

9. Don’t Leave the Country During the Mortgage Process

While you’re in the homebuying process, it’s best to avoid international travel if possible. Different countries have varying embassy and notary rules that can complicate or delay your mortgage closing process. You may also need to sign important documents in person, and being out of the country can make that difficult.

Tip: If travel is unavoidable, let your mortgage broker know as early as possible so we can help you plan around it.

10. Stay in Communication with Your Mortgage Broker

Consistent communication with your mortgage broker is essential throughout the homebuying process. If your situation changes—or if you have questions about whether something might impact your loan—always reach out and ask.

Falling out of touch can lead to surprises during mortgage underwriting or closing. Our goal is to help guide you every step of the way, but we can only provide the best advice if we stay informed about your circumstances.

Learn More About the Mortgage Process

Want more tips on keeping your mortgage pre-approval valid? Don’t miss our Complete Guide to Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage in 2025.

Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re looking to get pre-approved, refresh your existing pre-approval, or have questions about the mortgage process, my team and I are here to help.

Contact Bridgepoint Funding today and let’s make your homeownership goals a reality.

Since 2006, Bridgepoint Funding has proudly provided white glove service and expert guidance to families across California, Texas, Washington, and beyond. We’d be honored to help you next.