How a mortgage underwriter will review your income on your taxes when applying for a home loan
What Do I Need for a Mortgage?
A mortgage is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make in your lifetime. Knowing what you need to secure a mortgage will allow you to make the best decision for your current and future financial situation.
In this article, you’ll learn what you need to qualify for a mortgage, how to improve your chances of getting approved, and what other options you may have if you’re not able to qualify for a mortgage.
So, what do you need for a mortgage? Here’s a quick overview:
1. A steady source of income: This could be from employment, self-employment, investments, or a pension.
2. A good credit score: Aim for a score of at least 620.
3. Adequate savings: You’ll need a down payment of at least 3-5%, plus enough money to cover closing costs.
4. Reasonable debt-to-income ratio: Your monthly debt payments should be no more than 36% of your pre-tax income.
5. Proof of identity and residence: You’ll need to provide documents such as a driver’s license and recent utility bill.
Now that you know what you need for a mortgage, let’s take a closer look at each requirement.
A Steady Source of Income
The most important requirement for a mortgage is a steady source of income. Lenders want to know that you have the financial means to pay back the loan.
If you’re employed, you’ll need to provide recent pay stubs, W-2s, and tax returns. If you’re self-employed, you’ll need to provide the last two years of tax returns and 1099s.
Investment and pension income can also be used to qualify for a mortgage, but you’ll need to provide proof of the income with bank statements.
A Good Credit Score
Your credit score is one of the most important factors in determining whether you’ll be approved for a mortgage. The higher your score, the better your chances of approval.
Most lenders prefer a score of at least 620, but some may require higher scores. Generally, the higher the score, the lower the interest rate.
If your credit score isn’t up to par, there are a few things you can do to improve it. Start by checking your credit report for errors and disputing any inaccuracies. Make sure you’re paying your bills on time and paying down any outstanding debt.
Adequate Savings
You’ll need to have enough money saved up for a down payment and closing costs. Generally, you’ll need a down payment of at least 3-5% of the purchase price.
In addition, you’ll need to pay closing costs, which typically range from 2-5% of the purchase price. These costs include things like loan application fees, appraisal fees, title insurance, and other miscellaneous fees.
Reasonable Debt-to-Income Ratio
Your debt-to-income ratio is a measure of how much of your monthly income goes towards debt payments. Lenders prefer a ratio of 36% or lower.
You can lower your debt-to-income ratio by paying down existing debt or by increasing your income.
Proof of Identity and Residence
You’ll need to provide proof of your identity and residence in order to qualify for a mortgage. This includes things like a driver’s license, recent utility bill, and lease agreement.
Other Options
If you’re unable to qualify for a traditional mortgage, there are other options available. For example, you could get a loan through the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) or a VA loan if you’re a veteran.
You could also consider unconventional mortgages such as owner financing or rent-to-own agreements.
Key Points
• To qualify for a mortgage, you’ll need a steady source of income, a good credit score, adequate savings, a reasonable debt-to-income ratio, and proof of identity and residence.
• You can improve your credit score by checking your credit report for errors and disputing any inaccuracies, paying your bills on time, and paying down any existing debt.
• You’ll need a down payment of at least 3-5% of the purchase price, plus enough money to cover closing costs, which typically range from 2-5% of the purchase price.
• If you’re unable to qualify for a traditional mortgage, there are other options available such as FHA loans, VA loans, owner financing, and rent-to-own agreements.
People Also Ask
Q. What is the minimum credit score for a mortgage?
A. Most lenders prefer a credit score of at least 620, but some may require higher scores.
Q. What is a reasonable debt-to-income ratio for a mortgage?
A. Lenders prefer a debt-to-income ratio of 36% or lower.
Q. What is the minimum down payment for a mortgage?
A. The minimum down payment for a mortgage is typically 3-5% of the purchase price.
What do I need for a mortgage? – Review
Always consult with your CPA or Tax preparer/advisor on how to properly file your state and federal tax returns.
Income answers you need to know when purchasing or refinancing a home. What the mortgage underwriter will review on your federal taxes returns when qualifying for a home loan.
Watch the deductions on your taxes, if you are looking to refinance or buy a house you need to know what the underwriter will review on your 1040s to use as qualifying income to determined your debt to income ratios.
Let’s discuss your goals on home financing before you file your 2014 taxes. You you complete and file could hurt your ability to move forward with a home refinance or home purchase.
Always consult with your a CPA or Tax prepare/advisor on how to properly file your state and federal tax returns.
Call me to review those taxes
Nathan Rufty
Licensed Mortgage Professional
NMLS #292056
nathan@nathanrufty.com
www.nathanrufty.com
909-503-5600 – cell
909-230-4395 – work
909-557-2303 – fax
Mountain West Financial
9227 Haven Avenue #110
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730