August 26, 2025
So… you’ve gotten pre-approved! 🎉 That’s huge! It means a lender has looked at your finances and said, “Yep, you’re ready to shop for a house.” But before you start popping champagne and scrolling Zillow at 2 a.m., let’s pump the brakes for just a sec.
Because here’s the deal: pre-approval is not a guarantee. Think of it like getting the golden ticket into Willy Wonka’s factory. You’re in the door, but if you wander off into the chocolate river, things can go downhill fast.
To help you stay on track, here are 6 things you should absolutely not do after getting pre-approved:
1. Don’t Make Big Purchases 🛍️
That shiny new car? The giant sectional sofa for the house you haven’t even bought yet? Hard pass. Big-ticket items can throw off your debt-to-income ratio, which lenders watch closely. Wait until after closing before you swipe that credit card for major buys.
2. Don’t Switch Jobs 👔
Thinking about jumping ship to a new company or starting your dream Etsy shop? As exciting as that sounds, now is not the time. Lenders like stability, and a sudden change in employment could put your loan at risk. Keep your career moves on pause until you’ve got the keys in hand.
3. Don’t Open New Credit Lines 💳
Retailers love to ask, “Would you like to save 15% by opening a card today?” when you’re buying something. During pre-approval, your answer should always be: nope. New credit lines mean credit checks, which can lower your score and raise red flags.
4. Don’t Miss Any Payments 📅
This one’s simple but huge: pay all your bills on time. Even one missed payment can ding your credit and jeopardize your pre-approval. Set reminders, automate payments, and do whatever it takes to stay on top of things.
5. Don’t Deposit Large Sums of Cash 💵
Unless you can clearly document where it came from (like a work bonus or tax return), large unexplained deposits make lenders nervous. They need to see a consistent financial picture. If Aunt Linda gives you a “down payment gift,” talk with your lender about the correct way to handle it.
6. Don’t Ghost Your Lender 👻
Communication is key! If your lender reaches out for documents or updates, respond quickly. Going MIA can slow down or even derail the whole process. Think of your lender as your teammate. You’re in this together!
Final Thoughts
Getting pre-approved is an exciting step, but it’s also a delicate one. By avoiding these six mistakes, you’ll keep your home-buying journey smooth and stress-free.
And remember—at Wahlund & Co. Realty Group, we’ve got your back every step of the way. From guiding you through the do’s and don’ts to helping you find the home that checks all your boxes, we’re here to make sure your dream of homeownership doesn’t just stay a dream.
