What NOT to Do Between Buying a Home and Closing Day

What NOT to Do Between Buying a Home and Closing Day

Monday Feb 02nd, 2026

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What NOT to Do Between Buying a Home and Closing Day

You’ve found the one, your offer is accepted, and closing day is on the horizon 🎉

It’s tempting to think the hard part is over—but this window between purchase and closing is actually one of the most fragile parts of the process. Deals can (and do) fall apart when buyers make small but costly mistakes.

Here’s a clear, buyer-friendly guide on what not to do after your offer is accepted and before you officially get the keys.

🚫 1. Don’t Make Big Purchases

This is the #1 deal killer.

Avoid buying:

  • Furniture

  • Appliances

  • Vehicles

  • Boats, RVs, or big toys

Even if it’s “no interest” or “buy now, pay later,” new debt can change your debt-to-income ratio and cause your lender to pull approval.

Rule of thumb: If it needs financing, wait until after closing.

🚫 2. Don’t Open New Credit Accounts

That store credit card for home décor? Hard pass.

Opening or even applying for new credit can:

  • Lower your credit score

  • Trigger another credit check

  • Delay or derail final mortgage approval

Yes—lenders often re-check credit just before closing.

🚫 3. Don’t Change Jobs (or Income Structure)

Switching jobs, going self-employed, changing pay structures, or reducing hours—even for a raise—can raise red flags.

Always talk to your lender before making employment changes.

🚫 4. Don’t Move Money Around Without Asking

Large deposits, withdrawals, or transfers between accounts can cause problems.

Lenders must verify where your money comes from. Moving funds without documentation can lead to:

  • Delays

  • Requests for paper trails

  • Conditions added last minute

Before moving money: Ask your lender what’s safe.

🚫 5. Don’t Miss Any Payments

Not on anything.

This includes:

  • Credit cards

  • Car loans

  • Student loans

  • Cell phone bills

Even one missed or late payment can impact your approval right before closing.

🚫 6. Don’t Skip the Home Inspection Follow-Up

The inspection isn’t the finish line—it’s the starting point.

Don’t:

  • Ignore important findings

  • Assume everything is minor

  • Forget to negotiate repairs or credits if needed

This is where a good agent helps you prioritize what truly matters.

🚫 7. Don’t Assume the Appraisal Will “Just Work Out”

If the appraisal comes in low, you may need to:

  • Renegotiate

  • Bring additional funds

  • Revisit financing

Stay flexible and responsive—this is a key milestone.

🚫 8. Don’t Book Movers or Give Notice Too Early

Closings can shift.

Until all conditions are removed and financing is firm:

  • Avoid non-refundable moving deposits

  • Hold off on giving notice at your rental

Cautious now = stress-free later.

🚫 9. Don’t Stop Communicating

Silence causes delays.

Respond quickly to:

  • Your lender

  • Your lawyer

  • Your real estate agent

Many closings hinge on timing.

✅ What Should You Do?

✔ Keep your finances steady ✔ Ask before making changes ✔ Stay organized ✔ Lean on your real estate professional

The goal is simple: keep everything boring until closing day.

Final Thought

Buying a home isn’t official until the keys are in your hand. The decisions you make between offer acceptance and closing matter just as much as the offer itself.

If you ever feel unsure, ask first—that one question could save your deal.

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