What documents do I need to get pre-approved?
Typically recent pay stubs, the last two years of W-2s or tax returns, recent bank/asset statements, and ID. Self-employed buyers usually provide two years of tax returns. Your lender will give you an exact checklist.
Lenders verify three things: your income, your assets, and your identity. So expect to provide recent pay stubs, your last two years of W-2s (or tax returns), a couple of months of bank or investment statements, and a copy of your ID.
If you're self-employed or have commission income, they'll usually want two years of tax returns and possibly profit-and-loss statements. Every lender has its own checklist, and they may ask for letters explaining things like a large deposit or a past credit event. Have these handy and pre-approval moves fast.
This answer is general education, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Your situation is unique — let's talk through the specifics together.