The Mortgage Files

Nationally syndicated mortgage news and advice from Senior Loan Officer Scott Sheldon.

Should You Pay Off Credit Cards Before Buying a Home?

By Scott Sheldon / March 5, 2026

One of the most common objections home buyers provide is this: “I want to wait to get qualified because I need to pay off my credit cards first.” On the surface, that sounds financially responsible. Reduce debt. Strengthen finances. Then purchase a home. But there is a critical distinction that often gets overlooked: Is paying…