Necessary Steps

Now that you’re homebound……

If you are one of thousands of people looking to purchase a home this year, you can begin the process right from your couch. With most of us affected in some way to the pandemic of Covid_19, let me share what measures you can take now, to prepare yourself for the homebuying process.

Pre-approval - yes you will be required to obtain a pre-approval for a mortgage, prior to looking at homes. You can certainly continue surfing the internet, but once you see that house you love and want to view in person, you will need to have a pre-approval before your Real Estate Agent can schedule a showing appointment.

First, you should gather the following:

  • Photo ID & Social Security Card

  • Two month’s of current pay stubs (*please speak with your lender regarding specific Covid related requirements)

  • Copies of Bank statements: Checking and Savings - for last three/four months

  • Past two years of W-2 forms

  • Copies of statements for any funds you may have: (ie 401K, IRA, Money Market accounts etc.)

  • Employment History - most Lenders will require last two employers, addresses, contact information, title held, are you salaried or hourly

  • Proof of all bonus income, commissions, etc. in addition to salaries

  • History of residence for last two/three years (ie renting - landlord contact info)

  • Proof of funds/assets for down payment, closing costs, and reserves

  • Personal history - divorce, bankruptcy, child support, collections, etc.

  • If you are self employed, there are certain criteria requirements (ie tax returns, profit & loss statements, for at least 2 years. If you recently became self employed, your Lender can guide you with requirements)

  • If you will be receiving a gift (ie mom and dad are giving you $ toward the purchase of your home) you will need a paper trail. This is known as a Gift Letter. This requires the following: Relationship to you, amount given, that no re-payment is expected, and signed by all parties.

Once you have gathered this information, you will be ready to meet with a Lender. As your Real Estate Agent, I can guide you with the Lender selection process, if you don’t already have one selected.

So, if you are ready to make a move, be sure to connect with your Agent to get started!

Roxanne Beretta - Licensed Realtor® - Rhode Island and Massachusetts

RE/MAX Central - 37 Sandy Bottom Rd Coventry RI 02816

(401) 378-3000

Working with you, for you, every step of the way

Working with you, for you, every step of the way

Roxanne Beretta