Just 10 Days Left: Last-Minute Shopping Without Hurting Your Homebuying Goals
Finish your Christmas shopping without hurting your homebuying power.
In Central Ohio, the countdown is on—holiday lights are glowing at Easton, Bridge Park is buzzing, and shopping bags are filling fast. With just 10 days left until Christmas, here’s a friendly reminder for our future homebuyers:
It’s not too late to protect your credit before you buy a home in 2026.
Late-season spending is where many buyers accidentally hurt their buying power. Those last-minute gifts, impulse deals, and “extra 20% off with a store card today!” offers can add up to real financial setbacks later—especially in competitive markets like Dublin, Clintonville, Powell, Hilliard, and Worthington.
Here’s how to finish your shopping strong, without hurting your future mortgage rate:
Smart Holiday Credit Checklist
✔️ Avoid opening new store credit cards
That 15% off today isn’t worth paying thousands more in mortgage interest later.
✔️ Keep your balances under 30% of your total limit
Maxed-out cards—even temporarily—can drop your score before you apply for a loan.
✔️ If you’re close to 30%, pay down balances early
Your score is based on the balance that reports to the credit bureau, not the balance on your due date.
✔️ Use debit or cash for the rest of your shopping
You’ll protect your score and your January stress level.
Why It Matters in Central Ohio
In our fast-moving market, a strong credit score isn’t just about interest rates. Sellers and their agents often prefer offers backed by top-tier pre-approvals—and that starts with strong credit.
A small financial decision today can give you more buying power when your dream home hits the market in 2026 or 2027.
The Best Gift You Can Give Your Future Self
As you wrap up the season, remember:
✨ Protecting your credit today is the gift that keeps paying you back. ✨
If homeownership is on your horizon, we’re here to help you build a smart, confident plan—holiday shopping and all. Let’s connect!
Kenney & Co. Group at KW Consultants Realty
Local Roots. Smart Moves. Lasting Wealth.
📍 Based in Central Ohio | Helping Buyers, Sellers, and Investors
Teresa 📞 614-975-8370 📧 teresakenney@kw.com
Sheila 📞 614-565-7044 📧 sheilagibbons@kw.com
Liz 📞 614-517-2268 📧 lizkoehler@kw.com
🌐 kwkenneyandco.com 🌐 teresakenneyrealty.com