{"id":28391,"date":"2025-11-21T10:32:00","date_gmt":"2025-11-21T17:32:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/?p=28391"},"modified":"2025-11-21T10:32:03","modified_gmt":"2025-11-21T17:32:03","slug":"credit-smart-shopping-tips-for-black-friday","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/credit-smart-shopping-tips-for-black-friday\/","title":{"rendered":"Credit-smart Shopping Tips for Black Friday"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<iframe style=\"width:100%;height:400px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/grVptj9Hn-w?rel=0\" title=\"Urban Collection at Norterra in Star, ID\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:10px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Are you a savvy shopper who looks forward to snagging deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday? If so, you might be surprised to learn that these shopping days can also provide valuable lessons in managing your finances\u2014especially if you\u2019re considering buying a new home. In fact, adopting a credit-smart approach during this bustling shopping season could save you more money on your future mortgage than any retail discount, doorbuster or early-bird special ever could!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"alignright is-resized\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/2025-Holiday-Shopping-Dos-and-Donts-for-Homebuyers_v1_sm.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-15443\" src=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/agent-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/11\/HolidayShopping.png\" alt=\"Holiday Do's and Don'ts\" width=\"174\" height=\"225\"><\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out our credit-smart tips for Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping below. And remember, even if you\u2019ve been preapproved for a mortgage, nothing is set in stone. Your financial behavior leading up to the closing date can impact your approval status, including the loan amount and interest rate. Keeping this in mind can help you make informed decisions during the holiday shopping rush.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Don\u2019t: Put a Dent in Your Savings<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>No matter how attractive a deal seems, consider postponing major purchases until after you\u2019ve closed on your new home\u2014especially if the cost will add to your overall debt or deplete your savings.<strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Why?<\/em> Keeping money in your savings account as a cash reserve can help you look like less of a risk to lenders. It can also help you maintain your history of paying bills on time, which is a major factor in your credit score. Using credit cards instead of cash has its own hazards; increasing your debt-to-income ratio can nudge the needle downward on your score\u2014exactly what you <em>don\u2019t<\/em> need when purchasing a new home!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do: Go on the Hunt for Small Appliances<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While large purchases are a no-no during your mortgage loan process, smaller, more affordable finds are fair game! Black Friday and Cyber Monday are perfect for picking up essential kitchen gadgets like a blender or a toaster\u2014items that will undoubtedly come in handy in your new home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, it\u2019s wise to keep your spending in check. A few well-chosen small appliances can enhance your cooking experience and add to your new kitchen\u2019s aesthetic without straining your budget. Just remember, it\u2019s all about forethought (try to resist those impulse buys!), balance and ensuring that your purchases align with your financial goals.<strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Don\u2019t: Get Pulled into Big Furniture Deals<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Big furniture discounts often catch the eye of eager shoppers, but be wary. Not only are these purchases a big hit to your bank account or credit card, but they may end up being a poor choice for your future space, especially if you haven\u2019t found your dream home yet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Sofas, in particular, are notorious for looking much smaller in the showroom than in your living room. To avoid buyer\u2019s remorse\u2014and a potential interest rate hike\u2014we recommend saving your money and splurging on furniture after you have the keys and can take the appropriate measurements.<strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do: Go on Model Home Tours<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Black Friday weekend is a great time to scope out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/planning-a-neighborhood-tour\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">communities<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/find-a-new-home-floor-plan\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">floor plans<\/a> in the areas where you may want to live. Plus, you won\u2019t have to get up at the crack of dawn to beat the crowds! Touring homes in person provides you the opportunity to experience a floor plan\u2019s layout for yourself, while also exploring the surrounding community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of our notable neighborhoods across the country have model and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/campaigns\/2222\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">quick move-in homes<\/a>&nbsp;that you can tour. Check our website to see Sales Center hours, and whether you\u2019ll need to make an appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Don\u2019t: Open a New Credit Card<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Retailers frequently promote card-opening incentives\u2014tempting shoppers with extra discounts or reward points. Plus, it may seem like a good solution to put purchases on a new card so you can take advantage of deals even when you don\u2019t have enough cash on hand. However, as any mortgage consultant can tell you, opening new accounts before or during your mortgage application process is not a good idea. Adding accounts can lower your average account age and introduce hard inquiries on your credit report, which in turn could negatively impact your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/why-did-my-credit-score-drop\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">credit score<\/a>. Not something you want during the loan process!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Do: Take Some Time to Relax with Friends and Family<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While it\u2019s easy to get caught up in the excitement of Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping, remember that Thanksgiving weekend is ultimately about being thankful for what you have and the people in your life. Take a step back from the commercial frenzy to spend quality time with loved ones. Engaging in meaningful conversations and enjoying each other\u2019s company can create cherished memories that outshine any sale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you do decide to venture out to shop, make it a festive outing instead of a stressful one. Share laughs, grab a meal and celebrate the season together. These moments are invaluable and serve as a reminder of what truly matters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Thoughts: Balancing Shopping and Homebuying<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>As you navigate the busy shopping landscape during Black Friday and Cyber Monday, keep your goals top of mind. By employing a credit-smart mindset, you can enjoy the thrill of seasonal deals while also safeguarding your financial future. The decisions you make now can profoundly influence your homebuying journey.<strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stay focused on maintaining (or building) your savings, avoiding large purchases and resisting the temptation of opening new credit accounts. Embrace the chance to explore potential neighborhoods and floor plans while avoiding the crowded shopping malls. Finally, prioritize the importance of connection with loved ones during this festive season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By following these guidelines, you\u2019ll not only be prepared for a successful shopping experience, but also position yourself for a smooth transition into homeownership. Enjoy the excitement of the season and remember that careful decisions now can lead to owning your dream home in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>For questions about home loans, please contact our affiliate, <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homeamericanmortgage.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>HomeAmerican Mortgage Corporation<\/em><\/a><em> (<\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/terms-conditions#RAcompanies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>see licensing information below<\/em><\/a><em>) at <a href=\"tel:+866.400.7126\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">866.400.7126<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"cross-sell\">\n  <div class=\"cs-content-new\">\n     <div class=\"u-width-30 cs-image\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/campaigns\/1024\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"post-img u-width-100 cs-guide-cover\" src=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/content\/campaigns\/media-50082.webp\" alt=\"Mortgage quick reference guide.\"><\/a>\n     <\/div>\n     <div class=\"u-width-70 cs-content\">    \n       <h4>Ready to finance the home of your dreams?<\/h4>\n       <p>Our free guide will give you an overview of the loan process, plus tools to keep you organized through closing day.<\/p>\n       <p class=\"m-top-40\"><a class=\"btn-rah\" href=\"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/campaigns\/1024\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Get it now<\/a><\/p>\n     <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Are you a savvy shopper who looks forward to snagging deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday? If so, you might be surprised to learn that these shopping days can also provide valuable lessons in managing your finances\u2014especially if you\u2019re considering buying a new home. In fact, adopting a credit-smart approach during this bustling shopping season could save you more money on your future mortgage than any retail doorbuster, discount or early-bird special ever could. Read on for our our credit-smart tips for Black Friday and Cyber Monday shopping.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":28393,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"ub_ctt_via":"","cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"yes","footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[57,140],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/Image20241030130549.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Matt Howshar","author_link":"https:\/\/www.richmondamerican.com\/blog\/author\/mhow0520\/"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v22.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\r\n<title>Credit-smart Shopping Tips for Black Friday - Richmond American Homes Blog<\/title>\r\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Adopting a credit-smart approach during Black Friday and Cyber Monday could save you money on your future mortgage. 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