It is okay to enter into an agreement to purchase a pool before you close on your home and get the keys. This will not affect the mortgage process. However, you never want to make a loan application for the pool prior to securing the keys to your home. This may well adversely affect the mortgage process. So, to make a purchase prior to close, simply have a contingency for close of escrow and pool loan approval. If you intend to make large purchases after you close on the home, you may want to wait until the pool loan is approved. A pool loan is often more difficult to secure than a home loan, but easier than a car, furniture & appliance or similar loan.