First-Time Buyer
Document Checklist

The 7 Documents to Gather Before You Call a Lender

Pull these together and your mortgage goes from "scrambling and stressed" to "calm and quick." Most are already in a drawer or your email inbox.

1. Government-issued photo IDDriver's license or passport for every person who'll be on the loan.

2. Pay stubs from the last 30 daysBiweekly pay = usually two stubs; weekly = about four. Keep them as they come in.

3. W-2s or 1099s from the last two yearsLenders want a two-year income picture, not just a snapshot.

4. Federal tax returns from the last two yearsEspecially important if you're self-employed, on commission, or have rental/side income.

5. Bank & asset statements from the last two monthsChecking, savings, retirement, investments — anything funding your down payment and closing costs.

6. Documentation of any other incomeSocial Security, pension, child support, bonuses, a second job — if it's steady and provable, it can help you qualify.

7. List of monthly debts (and a heads-up on gift funds)Car payments, student loans, credit cards. If family is helping with the down payment, say so early — gift funds are allowed, with a simple paper trail.

Situation-specific extras (I'll tell you which apply)

Veterans: DD-214 + Certificate of Eligibility · Divorced/support: decree or support order · Self-employed: year-to-date P&L, sometimes business returns · Non-citizens: residency/work status documentation

Prepared buyers have the best experience. Let's make that you. — Brian

Brian Marchand · (518) 396-7392
bmarchand@nafinc.com

Brian Marchand, NMLS #481563 · The Marchand Team, Powered by New American Funding · New American Funding, LLC, NMLS #6606 · Equal Housing Lender. For educational purposes; not a commitment to lend or an offer of credit. Required documentation varies by loan program and individual circumstances.