Mortgage qualifications vary by lender and loan type. But all homebuyers can improve their odds of securing loan approval by avoiding actions and decisions that may call their financial management into question. We have developed the following list to help you maintain or improve your credit worthiness.
Overextended borrowing capacity: Calculating affordability requires homebuyers to be realistic about their borrowing capacity. Stretching borrowing limits can quickly create financial stress. As a general rule of thumb, plan to purchase a property that’s worth no more than three times your total gross annual income, and if estimating a monthly mortgage payment, remember to factor taxes and insurance.
Because debt-to-income ratios demonstrate a homebuyer’s ability to handle monthly payments and repay debt, avoid taking on new debt while your application is under review and put off major purchases until after loan closing.
Poor financial profile: When applying for a home loan, homebuyers should expect to share their full financial profile, including their debt and credit history.
Failing to report debt challenges the accuracy of the financial documentation homebuyers submit in their loan application and may cast doubt on the applicant’s character. Always disclose debt up front and respond quickly if asked to provide additional financial information.
Similarly, lenders use credit scores to assess risk and make objective predictions about future financial behavior, but homebuyers don’t necessarily need a traditional credit profile to prove their loan eligibility. Depending on the lender and loan program, you may be able to boost your credibility as a borrower by reporting other on-time payments such as rent or utility bills.
Change in employment: Employment history establishes whether a homebuyer has a predictable source of income to support their mortgage payments. If a new career opportunity is on the horizon, be prepared to verify any change in employment income to avoid loan processing delays.
For those who farm or are self-employed, verifying income may require additional steps. In order for a second job to count towards overall income, the job must have been held for at least two years.
In general, lenders will want to review your past two years’ personal and business tax returns, your most recent paystub and an updated balance sheet.
Lack of funds for down payment: Homebuyers who dismiss their down payment run the risk of not having cash available when they’re ready to buy. Setting aside down payment funds early in the home loan application process will bring peace of mind to both you and your lender.
Underestimating the costs of buying and furnishing a home can also leave homebuyers feeling strapped for cash. In the months prior to house hunting, it’s good practice to cut unnecessary spending and save three to six months of living expenses as an emergency cash reserve.
Missing debt payments: Finally, missing a payment during the loan application process may interfere with mortgage approval. By keeping careful records and paying debts early you can rest assured your accounts are properly credited and your mortgage application is current.
Homebuyers who have a history of missing debt payments are also likely to raise credit concerns. While recovering from negative credit takes time, it’s important to monitor your spending and immediately begin resolving any patterns of financial mismanagement.
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Top Five Mortgage Mistakes
- Overextending borrowing capacity
- Unfavorable financial profile
- Change in employment
- Lack of funds for down payment
- Missing debt payments
