The first step is to have your credit report pulled.

• A loan officer can pull a tri-merge credit report. This includes a report from the top three credit reporting companies, re: Transunion, Equifax, and Experian. These reports will give a complete credit history which is then used to qualify you for a mortgage loan.

• If you are employed you will need to have a pay stub.

• If you are on a fixed income, you will need a letter stating the amount of your annual income.

• If you are self-employed there are several methods that can be used to help pre-qualify you for a mortgage.
   
1. Reduced Documentation: Determining the amount of you liquid assets. These can include checking, savings, mutual funds, stocks, bonds, 401K or other Retirement funds.
    
2. Credit Scores: If you have a credit score over 700 you could qualify for a "Fast & Easy" program.
    
3. Stated Income: You provide verbal information regarding your monthly/annual income. The lender qualifies your stated income based on national averages for your business/profession.
    
4. Tax Returns: You provide 2 years of tax returns.