If you’re serious about buying a home, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is a crucial step. It’s also a tedious one. Lenders seem to want a mountain of documents. Yet the payoff is worth it. Most agents recommend mortgage pre-approval because it strengthens your offer. Sellers like to know the buyer already has financing secured.  

Below is a checklist of all the items you will need for a conventional loan.

1. Identification

(one of these, which you will need to show in person)

• Driver’s license
• Passport
• Other state- or federal-issued ID

2. Income

• Pay stubs for the last 30 days
• Last two federal tax returns
• Last two W-2s
• Proof of any additional income (second jobs, social security, alimony, etc.)

3. Accounts

• Last two statements on all bank accounts – be sure to include all pages, even blank ones
• Statements for all investment and/or retirement accounts

4. Property

• Settlement statement from previous home sale, if applicable

5. Additional Documents

• Contact information for your landlord(s) for the last two years, if applicable
• Divorce decree, separation agreement, and/or property settlement agreement, if applicable
• Gift letter if a family member is helping with down payment (lender will have form)  
• A letter of explanation (LOE) for late payments, collections, judgments, or other derogatory items in your credit history, if applicable  

A conventional loan is just one option. Other loans include VA, USDA, and FHA. CONTACT YOUR REALTOR® to discuss which of these may be the best option for you.

Remember, pre-approval is just one step in the home-buying process. It’s important to work with a qualified real estate agent to help you navigate the entire process.

Contact: Jacquelyn Stonehocker (706) 251-7315 | (470) 655-1976 HEARTLAND REAL ESTATE