Application Checklist

Documents You Need to Apply for a Home Loan

Applying for a mortgage doesn’t have to be complicated. Preparing the required documents ahead of time can help speed up the approval process and avoid delays.

Below is a simple checklist of the information and documents typically required when applying for a mortgage. Every borrower’s situation is different, so your loan officer may request additional documents if needed. Providing them quickly helps move your loan forward faster.

Property Information

If you are purchasing a home, please prepare the following:

• Signed purchase agreement or sales contract

• Proof of earnest money deposit

• Contact information for your real estate agent, builder, attorney, and insurance agent

• Property listing sheet and legal description

• For condominiums:

  • Condo declaration

  • HOA bylaws

  • Most recent HOA budget

Income Documentation

To verify your income, lenders typically require:

• Pay stubs covering the most recent 30 days

• W-2 forms from the past two years

• Employer name, address, and contact information for the last two years

• Letter explaining employment gaps (if any)

• Copy of work visa or green card (if applicable)

Self-Employed or Additional Income

If you are self-employed or receive additional income, provide:

• Full tax returns from the past two years

• Year-to-date profit and loss statement

• K-1 forms for partnerships or S-Corporations

• Corporate or partnership tax returns if you own 25% or more of a business

Additional income sources may include:

• Rental income

• Bonuses or commissions

• Interest or dividend income

Alimony, Child Support, or Benefit Income

If these are used to qualify for your mortgage:

• Divorce decree or court order

• Proof of payments received

• Benefit award letters for Social Security, disability, or VA income

Assets, Down Payment & Source of Funds

Lenders must verify where your funds are coming from.

Please provide:

• Bank statements from the last 3 months

• Documentation for stocks, bonds, or investment accounts

• Gift letter and proof of funds if receiving a gift for down payment

• Contract for the sale of your current home if applicable

Debt & Financial Obligations

Prepare details of all current debts, including:

• Creditor name and address

• Account numbers

• Outstanding balances

• Monthly payments

Also include:

• Mortgage or landlord history for the last two years

• Court orders for alimony or child support payments

• Statements for existing loans or credit accounts