What You’ll Need to Get Pre-Approved
Being prepared with the right documents upfront can make a big difference in how quickly and smoothly your pre-approval comes together. Having these items ready helps us verify your information efficiently, avoid unnecessary delays, and get you a clear answer sooner. The more complete your documentation is from the start, the faster you can move forward—and the sooner you’ll be ready to shop with confidence.
- Your two most recent years of W-2s (for all loan applicants)
- Your two most recent years of federal tax returns — all pages and schedules, including K-1s if applicable
(Business tax returns are required if you own 25% or more of a company) - Your most recent pay stubs covering the last 30 days
- Your most recent two months of statements for all checking, savings, investment, and retirement accounts (all pages)
- The name and phone number of your insurance agent to obtain a homeowners insurance quote
- A valid driver’s license or government-issued ID
Simple Steps to Follow
frequently asked questions
The right time to buy a home depends on your financial readiness, lifestyle goals, and long-term plans — not just market conditions. Many buyers are ready when they have a stable income, manageable debt, and a clear understanding of what they can afford. Working with a loan advisor can help you evaluate your options, understand the homebuying process, and determine whether now or later makes the most sense for your situation.
Affordability is based on your income, debts, credit score, and loan type. Getting pre-approved is the fastest way to see your exact home price range.
Most loans require a score between 580–620, but some programs allow lower with compensating factors.
Common loan types include Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and Jumbo. The best one depends on your credit, goals, and down payment.
A pre-qualification is an early estimate. It is a quick, informal starting point.
A pre-approval is a stronger, more in-depth first step. It verifies your income, credit, and finances, making your offer more competitive.
You don’t always need 20%. Many buyers put 3–5% down, and VA/USDA loans can require 0% down.
