The more you know about the mortgage process the better. Access a wealth of mortgage information and helpful tips here.

 

Getting prequalified for a home loan is an essential first step in the buying process. Find out exactly how much home you can afford based on your income, debt, and other factors. It can also help you lock in a good interest rate and it puts you in a stronger bargaining position with the seller once you find the home you want. 

 

What Documents Will I Need To Apply for a Mortgage?

Here's a list of the documents most commonly needed in order to apply for a mortgage loan. You may need additional documents depending upon the type of loan you're applying for, so be sure to check with the lender.

·         Application Fee (cost of appraisal and credit report)

·         Agreement of Sales contract signed by Buyers and Sellers., legible

·         Social Security number of all applicants.

·         Residence - Complete address for the past 2 years (including complete name and address of landlords for past 24 months).

·         Income - Name, address, and all income earned from all employers for past 24 months.

·         W-2 Forms previous two years.

·         Pay Stubs - most recent year-to-date.

·         Tax Returns – Needed by some Lenders

·         Credit Cards / Loans / Auto & Student Loans - Name, address, account number, monthly payment and current balance for: installment loans, revolving charge accounts, student loans, mortgage loans, and auto loans.

·         Bank accounts - Name, address, account number, and balance of all deposit accounts, including: checking accounts, savings accounts, stocks, bonds, etc.

·         Stocks/Bonds/Investments - Three months most recent statements for deposit accounts, stocks, bonds, etc.

·         Child Support/Alimony - If you choose to include income from Child Support/ Alimony bring copies of court records of cancelled checks showing receipt of payment, documentation for children / property settlement agreements and divorce decree

If you are applying for a V.A. Loan:

·         DD-214, Certificate of Eligibility, or statement from your Commanding Officer if you are on active duty.

If you are self-employed or paid by commission:

·         Previous two years Federal Income Tax Returns with all schedules and a year-to-date profit and loss statement.

If you own other properties:

·         Address of properties and current market value.

·         Any debt owed on properties; Lender's name, address, account number, monthly payment, and current balance.

·         Copy of previous two years Federal Income Tax Returns with all schedules.

·         If rented; copy of lease.

If you have filed bankruptcy in the last seven years:

·         Copy of petition and discharge, handwritten explanation of reason for bankruptcy, evidence of excellent credit since the bankruptcy.