05/29/2026
If you’re thinking about buying a home in the next 6-12 months, this might save you a lot of frustration.
One of the biggest mistakes Buyers can actually make often happens before they ever get the keys.
They get pre-approved, start looking at homes, get excited about the future… and then decide it’s the perfect time to buy a new car.
I know…
You’ve been driving the same vehicle forever. The payment looks reasonable. The dealership says you’re approved. Life is good.
The problem?
Your mortgage lender isn’t just looking at whether you can afford the car payment.
They’re looking at your debt-to-income ratio, your monthly obligations, your credit profile and your overall risk as a borrower.
That new car payment can change what you qualify for, impact your mortgage approval or create issues right in the middle of your home purchase.
It’s not because anyone is trying to ruin your fun.
It’s because I’ve seen a car payment change what someone qualifies for faster than almost anything else.
So if you’re planning to buy a home in the next year, here’s your friendly reminder:
Before you finance a vehicle, open a new credit card, co-sign for someone or make any major purchase, call your lender first.
A five-minute conversation today can save you weeks of stress later.
What was the best home-buying advice someone gave you?
Or if you’re planning to buy in the next year, what’s the one thing you’re most confused about right now?
Credit: for the original video.