Buyer guide
The document checklist
Gather these up front and your approval moves fast. Share this list with buyers at the very first meeting so nothing stalls the loan later.
Income
Shows you can afford the payment.
- Most recent 30 days of pay stubs
- W-2s for the last 2 years
- Federal tax returns for the last 2 years
- Self-employed: business returns, a year-to-date P&L, and 1099s
- Proof of other income (bonus, commission, Social Security, pension, child support)
Assets
Shows you have the funds to close.
- 2 months of bank statements — all pages, even blank ones
- Retirement and investment account statements
- Gift funds: a signed gift letter + the donor's bank statement
- Proof of your earnest money deposit
Identity
Verifies who you are.
- Government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- Social Security number (or ITIN, if applicable)
- Permanent residents / visa holders: green card, work visa, or EAD
Property (once you're under contract)
Finalizes the loan on your home.
- Fully executed purchase contract
- Homeowners insurance quote or policy
- HOA contact and dues info, if the home has an HOA
Situational
Only if these apply to you.
- Letter of explanation for any recent credit inquiries or large deposits
- Bankruptcy discharge papers
- Complete divorce decree / child-support order
- Landlord contact for rental history (first-time buyers)
Pro tip: Snap clear photos or scan everything into one folder. Every page matters — underwriters need all pages of statements, even the blank last page.
Ready to start?
Get your buyer pre-approved
With these documents in hand, a full pre-approval is usually same-day.