Everyone loves a good sale, but make sure you don’t go crazy with holiday shopping — because it could jeopardize your ability to close on a home purchase. After having received a preapproval on a home loan, you must be cautious with your finances. Going overboard with holiday shopping could kill the loan approval.

Don’t apply for new credit or accumulate new debt. It’s tempting to apply for a new store credit card offering added discounts on top of sale prices, but just filling out an application could be risky for your  credit profile. Opening a line of credit requires a credit inquiry, which could not only stall your mortgage loan application but also impact your debt-to-income ratio. It could make a lender believe you’re a greater risk than they originally appeared. Home buyers need to avoid any major purchases, such as furniture or a car, before the home buying process is complete.

Don’t transfer large amounts of money.   As a home buyer, you need to keep your money in one place as you await closing. Shuffling money between accounts can send red flags to lenders and make them concerned about undocumented funds or money troubles they may not have spotted beforehand.

Watch the gift money. If families are offering cash as holiday presents, you  need to be aware that this may put your mortgage applications at risk. Lenders will be scrutinizing your accounts looking for unusual deposits that are 50 percent or more of their monthly income. Lenders are also looking for any unusual withdrawals. Be prepared to explain any large deposits or withdrawals.