Spring is upon us, which means real estate markets around Atlanta are going to move from a slow winter simmer to a spry spring of sales! That means it is time to get ready to find your dream home. Start by finding out where your finances stand. When you contact our offices to apply for a loan, there are a number of documents you should have ready for your appointment so we can help you find out how much flexibility and buying power you have.

This list of items can take some preparation, so get a jump-start on tracking down the following:

• Copies of W-2’s for the last two years
• Copies of paycheck stubs for the last 30 days (most current)
• Copies of checking and saving account statements for last 3 months (all pages)
• Copies of quarterly or semi-annual statements for checking, savings, IRA’s, CD’s, money market fund, stock, 401k, profit sharing, etc.
• Income Tax Forms
• Copy of sales contract when ratified
• Employment history for the last two years (be ready to address any gaps of employment)
• Residency history over the last two years
• Rental property copies of leases plus mortgage information
• Canceled earnest money check when it clears or corresponding bank statement, if applicable
• Commissioned or bonus income – if 25 percent or more of base, must have 2 year tax returns
• Refinance Copy of Note, Deed of Trust, Settlement Statement, Survey, and Insurance information
• Any assets used for down payment, closing cost, and cash reserves must be documented by a paper trail
• Copy of drivers license for applicant and co-applicant

Some loan packages require more, but with these items you will be in good shape to explore your options and set your basics for house hunting around Atlanta.