Mortgage Basics

Application Checklist

When applying for a mortgage, the documents you’ll need can vary depending on your situation. Your loan officer may request additional information along the way, so providing requested documents as soon as possible can help keep the application process moving smoothly.

Your Property

  • Copy of signed sales contract including all riders
  • Verification of the deposit you placed on the home
  • Names, addresses and telephone numbers of all real estate agents, builders, insurance agents and attorneys involved
  • Copy of Listing Sheet and legal description if available (if the property is a condominium please provide condominium declaration, bylaws and most recent budget)

Your Income

  • Copies of your most recent 30 days of pay stubs, including year-to-date earnings
  • Copies of your W-2 forms for the past two years
  • Names and addresses of all employers for the past two years
  • Letter explaining any gaps in employment in the past two years
  • Work visa or green card (copy of front and back)

If self-employed or receive commission or bonus, interest/dividends, or rental income:

  • Provide full tax returns for the past two years plus a year-to-date Profit and Loss statement (please provide complete tax return including attached schedules and statements. If you have filed an extension, please supply a copy of the extension.)
  • K-1s for all partnerships and S-Corporations for the past two years (please double-check your return. Most K-1s are not attached to the 1040.)
  • Completed and signed Federal Partnership (1065) and/or Corporate Income Tax Returns (1120) including all schedules, statements and addenda for the past two years. (Required only if your ownership position is 25% or greater.)

If you will use alimony or child support to qualify:

  • Provide a copy of the divorce decree or court order stating the amount, along with proof of payments received during the past year.

If you receive Social Security, disability, or VA benefits:

  • Provide a copy of the award letter from the applicable agency or organization.

Source of Funds and Down Payment

  • Sale of your existing home: Provide a copy of the signed sales contract for your current residence and a statement or listing agreement if the property is unsold. At closing, you must also provide a settlement/closing statement.
  • Savings, checking or money market funds: Provide copies of bank statements for the past three months.
  • Stocks and bonds: Provide copies of your brokerage statements or certificates.
  • Gifts: If using gift funds toward your cash to close, provide a Gift Affidavit and proof of receipt of the funds.
  • Based on the information provided on your application and/or credit report, additional documentation may be required.

Debt or Obligations

  • Prepare a list of names, addresses, account numbers, balances, and monthly payments for all current debts, along with copies of the past three monthly statements.
  • Include names, addresses, account numbers, balances, and monthly payments for mortgage holders and/or landlords for the past two years.
  • If you pay alimony or child support, provide a copy of the marital settlement or court order stating the terms of the obligation.
  • Check to cover Application Fee(s)