Buying a home is an exciting milestone—but getting a mortgage can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure what to expect. At Chambers Bank, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. One of the most important parts of securing a mortgage is gathering the right documentation.
To help you feel more prepared, here’s a simple checklist of the key documents you’ll likely need during the mortgage process:
1. Proof of Identity
Lenders need to verify who you are. Be ready to provide:
- A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport)
- Your Social Security number (for a credit check)
2. Proof of Income
To ensure you can afford the loan, lenders will want to see consistent income. You’ll likely need:
- Pay stubs (last 30 days)
- W-2 forms (last 2 years)
- Tax returns (last 2 years, especially if self-employed)
- Profit and loss statements (if you're self-employed or own a business)
- Documentation of any additional income (bonuses, child support, rental income, etc.)
3. Employment Verification
Expect your lender to contact your employer to verify your position and income. Sometimes, you may be asked to provide:
- A letter from your employer confirming your job and salary
- Business license (if self-employed)
4. Bank Statements and Assets
Lenders want to ensure you have enough saved for the down payment, closing costs, and reserves. Gather:
- Bank statements (last 2–3 months)
- Retirement and investment account statements
- Documentation of any recent large deposits (to verify the source of funds)
5. Credit and Debt Information
Your credit history plays a big role in loan approval. While your lender will pull your credit report, you may also need to provide:
- Documentation for any recent credit inquiries
- Statements for current debts (student loans, auto loans, credit cards)
- Monthly payments and remaining balances
6. Property Information
Once you’ve made an offer on a home, you’ll need to share details about the property:
- Purchase agreement or sales contract
- Information on homeowners insurance
- Details on the property’s title (if available)
7. Other Supporting Documents
Depending on your financial situation, the lender may request:
- Divorce decrees (for alimony/child support)
- Bankruptcy or foreclosure paperwork
- Gift letters (if someone is giving you money for your down payment)
A Few Final Tips:
- Keep your documents organized and in digital format if possible.
- Respond quickly to any requests from your loan officer—speedy responses help keep your loan moving forward.
- Ask questions! We're here to help you understand each step of the process.
Let’s Get You Home.
At Chambers Bank, we believe homeownership should be within reach for everyone in our community. If you’re thinking about buying a home, give us a call. One of our experienced mortgage lenders will be happy to walk you through the process and help you get pre-approved.
Ready to get started? https://chambersbank.mymortgage-online.com/