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Frequently asked questions
General1
Getting started on buying a new home can be an easy process. Having funds and paperwork in order is always a good first step before looking at homes. Finding the perfect home means finding something that works well with your budget in addition to feeling like a place to call your own. I can guide you step-by-step. With my help, we'll get you there!
Items to Gather When Planning to Purchase a Home - if applicable
The process of “Buying a Home” begins the moment that you decide that you want to prepare to buy a home. Some of you may find that it will take anywhere from two weeks to two years to actually be ready to purchase. I have compiled a checklist that should help you to prepare. Use the following tips to help you to remain focused what you need to do or begin to do so that you will experience a smooth process.
*though some items are not necessary for pre-approval, they may be required for down payment assistance programs
Identity
¨Valid government issued photo identification
¨Social security cards for all household members
¨Birth certificates for all household members
¨ Proof of citizenship/resident alien. Copy of front and back of Alien Registration Cards (Green Card), if any
applicant is not a citizen, voter’s registration, or passport.
Income
¨Two months of pay stubs for all household members over the age of 18
¨Copy of current 2 years personal income tax return with W2s and/or 1099’s for all household members
employed over the age of 18
¨Copy of current 2 years corporate tax return with all schedules for all household members as applicable
¨Social security award letter
¨Pension award letter
¨Year-to-date profit and loss statement if self-employed
¨Self-employed Requirements: An audited or un-audited financialstatement of businessincome along with a signed statement from the self-employed giving anticipated net income for the next 12 months. If you are unable to providethis, one (1) of the following may be accepted: a) Signed and dated copiesof prior three (3) years’ tax returns along with a statement or affidavit of anticipated net income for the next 12 months; or b) Signed and dated statements of net income for the next 12 months from a bookkeeper or accountant.
¨Child Support: Reported for all children who are not living with both of their natural parents. For example, applicants who have children in the household and who are not residing with both natural parents will show that he/she is collecting the amount of court ordered support reported in the divorce/separation/child support agreement by providing a copy of the court order. If the applicant does not have a court order or if the applicant is not currently receiving the court order support, the applicant will show proof that he/she has recently opened a child support case (indicating case number) with the past 90 days at the Child Support Enforcement Office, State of Florida Department of Revenue (Telephone number 800.622.5437).
¨Proof of other income received by any household member, such as: Alimony, Unemployment benefits, Pension Benefits, or any other income you receive regularly
Assets
¨Six months of bank statements for all open bank accounts (all pages, including blank pages)
¨A copy of last month’s statement for Retirement funds, IRA, State or other funds
¨Homeowner’s insurance policy on all properties owned
¨Mortgage coupon or statement on all properties owned
Extras
¨Proof or marriage, divorce, alimony, child support (If divorced, a copy of your Divorce Decree)
¨Most recent tax bill on all properties that you own
¨Current credit files for all three credit bureaus
Disclosure: The provided checklist is solely meant to assist in guiding you as you prepare for the documentation gathering process and to set your expectations on what will be required for the pre-approval process. If you are seeking county, city or other grant funding, it is possible that more documentation will be required. Once you begin the journey of qualifying to purchase, do not apply for anything new or create any new debts.
*A HUD certified Home Buyer Class Certificate will be required if you are seeking city or county purchase assistance funds.
Contact Me for More Resources and/or Referrals
Pre-Approval (Lenders)
Credit Repair
Purchase Assistance Programs
HomeBuyer Workshops
That depends on your goals. If you are looking to purchase a home, the first thing to consider is what needs to be fixed. I recommend having a mortgage lender review the credit and make recommendations based on what is required for an approval.
When looking to improve credit in general, remember building a better credit score doesn't happen overnight. It takes time, effort and accountability. With my help we can take a look at what sort of monetary habits you have and work on developing better habits in order to build a better score. This can help with being approved for credit cards, starting a new business, and even getting towards purchasing your new home!
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