Self-Employed? Here’s What You’ll Need to Get a Mortgage Approval

There’s a lot of flexibility and personal freedom associated with self-employment that can be a great benefit to your lifestyle and your pocketbook. However, because of the somewhat unpredictable nature of self-employment, it can make acquiring a mortgage a little more difficult. If you’ve recently become self-employed or have been in the game for a while, here are some things you may want to consider before submitting your mortgage application.

Putting More Money Down

20% is often considered the magic number when it comes to the down payment because this will allow you to avoid homeowner’s insurance. However, if you’re self-employed, you may want to consider putting even more money down as this will more strongly signify to lenders that you’re prepared for home ownership and in control of your finances. While your down payment will provide you with equity instantly, a higher payment will also lower your monthly cost and make your finances even more secure from month to month.

Minimizing Your Debt

The amount of debt a potential homeowner has can adversely affect any mortgage application, but in the event you’re self-employed, a high debt load means even more money is being paid out of a salary that is not necessarily predictable. By paying off the debts you can before applying for your mortgage, you’ll be able to invest that much more of your hard-earned money into your monthly payment without breaking the bank and cutting monthly expenditures.

A History Of Self-Employment

Being self-employed means you’ll have more to prove to your lender, but if you have a spotty self-employment history and long periods without bringing in any income, this will make it even harder. Instead of jumping into the mortgage market soon after becoming self-employed, try and have at least two years of successful self-employment behind you. By being able to prove this, the lender will see that you’re a solid financial bet and an experienced professional who will be able to find work when it’s required.

The nature of being self-employed and the fluctuations in income that can come along with it can make a mortgage lender nervous. However, by having a solid history of self-employment behind you and minimizing your debt load, you’ll be able to prove to the lender that you’re serious about home ownership.

If you have further questions, I’m self-employed and have some tips and tricks to share.  Give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

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5593 E Edward Lane Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,200,000

3 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,620 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6755781

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Camelback View. Enjoy resort living w/ full amenities at adjacent Mountain Shadows resort combined with distinct architectural designs. Enjoy views from 800+ sq. ft. outdoor deck. This Villa has 20 ft. high entry foyer with private elevator/stairs to living level. Luxurious designer features include, Wolf combo dual fuel range oven and microwave, Sub Zero refrigerator, Asko dishwasher, Zephyr hood,10 ft. high ceilings, 9 ft. bi-fold doors to deck, 9 ft. bi-fold from primary suite to deck, indoor/outdoor fireplaces, Crestron smart home, Lutron lighting, motorized shades, surround sound, 24 hr guarded entry, & more! Includes membership in Citizen's Club at Mountain Shadows - fitness center, classes, signing privileges, golf, discounts on all retail services, including food, rooms, golf.

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10010 E Blue Sky Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,200,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

5,476 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6651789

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

La Scala Siena Model designed by Bob Bacon and built by Bob Byrd * Updated Chef's kitchen with adjoining TV room * Open floor plan with dual Master Suites, den/office/game room and separate guest casita with 2 bedroom suites plus a breakfast area with kitchenette * Soaring ceilings, Wood and Travertine flooring, slab granite & stone countertops, alder wood doors & cabinets, and designer appliances * Outdoor living area includes a covered sitting area with gas fireplace, built-in heaters and resort-style landscaping * Private corner lot with elevated mountain views and sunsets * Walking distance to the clubhouse and amenities *

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6615 E Shea Boulevard Scottsdale, AZ 85254

$3,200,000

5 Beds

6 Baths

5,908 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6731750

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This custom-built home epitomizes expansive luxury and is designed to accommodate the grandest lifestyles. Upon entry, you are greeted by a spacious great room and kitchen, featuring large sound-deadening windows that ensure a peaceful ambiance. The home boasts a fireplace, built-in bookcases, and extensive travertine finishes. Rich knotty maple woodwork complements the white island with Rainforest Brown marble, a farmhouse sink, and dark chocolate brown solid travertine countertops. Professional-grade appliances, designer lighting, and eight-blade fans enhance the overall aesthetic. Each bedroom is an en-suite, offering the utmost in privacy and convenience. The home includes a versatile kosher kitchen or mother-in-law suite. A 50-foot RV garage is ideal for a custom coach or car collection. The property features a comprehensive solar system with full battery backup, including a Tesla charging station. This system powers the entire house, eliminating electric bills and providing annual refunds from APS. The detached office/casita includes a full bath, and the extensive outdoor kitchen on the expansive covered patio is perfect for entertaining. The fully landscaped grounds feature pavers and turf throughout, with ample parking available. Additionally, an 804 square foot guest house, included in the total square footage, ensures your guests are comfortably accommodated. This home is designed to fulfill every desire and entertain lavishly.

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6801 E Caballo Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,200,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

4,441 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755146

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Camelback Country Club Estates - Golf Course Lot - 41,818 SF - South Rear Yard - On the 14th Hole - First time on market.

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3845 E Whitton Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85018

Open House

$3,200,000

5 Beds

5 Baths

4,171 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775510

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this breathtaking brand-new modern farmhouse in Arcadia. This exquisite residence seamlessly blends warmth and comfort with modern elements, creating a perfect backdrop for luxurious living. As you step inside, you'll find five spacious bedrooms, three with beautifully appointed en-suite bathrooms, ensuring comfort and privacy for family and guests alike. The dedicated office space offers a quiet retreat for remote work or creative pursuits, while the inviting teen room serves as a versatile haven for relaxation and study. Outside, discover your own private oasis with a sparkling pool, ideal for entertaining or enjoying tranquil afternoons in the sun. Guests will appreciate the charm and comfort of the flex-use guest house, providing a welcoming escape from the main residence. For fitness enthusiasts, the dedicated Peloton room off the primary suite makes it easy to stay active at any time. Completing this remarkable property is a three-car garage, offering ample space for vehicles and storage while perfectly balancing practicality and luxury. Located in the sought after Arcadia neighborhood, you'll enjoy mountain views, the latest dining concepts, and a vibrant community atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to make this extraordinary home your own. Schedule a tour today and immerse yourself in the perfect blend of style, comfort, and modern living!

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8130 E Vista Bonita Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255

Open House

$3,200,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,800 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6516110

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

RENOVATION COMPLETED 11.8.24 This stunning contemporary modern luxurious home RENOVATION IS COMPLETED. Walking in your greeted with a sprawling open floor plan featuring exquisite luxury finishes throughout. This home showcases a spacious lot (almost an acre) with breathtaking mountains views overlooking the golf course. Brand new Pickel Ball court is perfect for entertaining. This home is located in the gated PINNACLE PEAK ESTATES. *Seller agent has ownership in property

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2494 E Cloud Drive Chandler, AZ 85249

$3,199,000

4 Beds

4.5 Baths

6,000 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781429

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous Custom Home on Almost an Acre Lot in Circle G at Riggs that is LOADED with High End Finishes & Architectural Detail. Plus a Backyard you'll Never want to Leave! It's Truly Paradise w/76,000 Gallon Pool, Baja Shelf, Waterfall, Slide, Grotto, Diving Area, Swim Up Table, Foggers, Misters, Covered Outdoor Grilling/Bar Area, Pizza Oven, Covered Seating w/Fireplace, Batting Cage & Grass Area. Inside Features Tray & Coffered Ceilings, Lots of Arched Detail throughout, Beautiful Polished Travertine Flooring, New SubZero/Wolf Appliances, 10' Double Iron Entry Door, Gorgeous Stone Range Hood, Fireplace & Bar, Dedicated Wine Storage Room Clad in Travertine w/Arched Detailed Iron Door, Travertine Clad Arched Mirror Detail in Bathrooms. Control 4 App for Home Automation... Operate A/C, Music, Pool & More from your Phone. The Gourmet Kitchen features NEW 48 Cooktop, Double Ovens, COVE Dishwasher as well as a Large Pantry. Four Bedrooms with En-suites and Walk in Closets, Bonus Room, Office with Wood & Travertine Inlay Flooring, Custom Cabinets & Bookcases. 4 Car Garage with Tons of Built in Storage & New Epoxy Flooring. This Home is One You Can't Miss. New Paint Inside and Out, New Carpet, 4 Wood Shutters, Lots of Stone Detail Throughout, Batting Cage, Extensive Paver Detail Outside & SO Much More! Close to Schools, Shopping, Dining, Golf, etc.

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4849 N Camelback Ridge Road Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$3,195,000

2 Beds

3 Baths

2,294 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6563509

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

Tucked at the base of revered Camelback Mountain, Ascent is a new, private residential enclave adjacent to The Phoenician Resort - one of Arizona's premier luxury resort destination. This community incorporates the Sonoran Desert landscape directly into its design, at the most enviable location in Scottsdale. Ascent offer views overlooking the Valley & Camelback Mountain. Home designs feature contemporary architecture integrating warm, natural materials, expansive windows, and large outdoor patios. Thoughtfully designed by Nelsen Architects and Vallone Interior Design. Luxury finishes include exquisite Bulthaup Kitchens, Provenza wood floors, Sub Zero Wolf appliances & 10' ceilings.

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7117 E Rancho Vista Drive Unit 5003 Scottsdale, AZ 85251

$3,195,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,228 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6741140

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

This incredible luxury renovation is expected to be completed by 12/20/2024. ***THE RAREST OF FEATURES IN ALL OF ARIZONA - ELEVATED & UNOBSTRUCTED CAMELBACK MOUNTAIN VIEWS*** Welcome to this legendary property at Optima Camelview Village, the award-winning luxury oasis. Featuring 3 Bedrooms + Study, 2 Baths and 2,228sqft. As an optimal residence, all beds, den and living areas showcase spectacular Camelback Mountain picture perfect views. Totaling 1,146 SF, both terraces are outlined in mature privacy hedges & boast panoramic westerly mountain and city views with the most incredible sunsets you can imagine. The 3 bedrooms all feature rare builder-installed sliding glass doors onto the 2nd terrace. Property comes with the two best parking spaces in the building & a storage unit All found within the luxurious Optima Camelview Village, with it's unbeatable location & state of the art architecture/amenities. Amenities include: Two Outdoor Zen Pools, Spas & Bbqs One on each side of the community (heated year round). 24,000 sq. ft. Fitness Center (Recently Remodeled). Mens & Womens Locker Rooms w/ Steam Rooms, Showers and Private Lockers. Indoor Lap Pool & 2 Spas (Heated year round), On-site concierge, Putting green, Hybrid Basketball / Pickle-ball Court, Racquet ball court, On-site restaurant (metropolis), conference room, 24/7 Security, Reservable party room and multi-purpose fitness/yoga room.

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6097 N Paradise View Drive Paradise Valley, AZ 85253

$3,195,000

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

4,605 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6742365

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Paradise! Nestled in the heart of Paradise Valley, this hillside home seamlessly blends serene luxury living and sweeping Camelback Mountain views with functionality. Built by the award-winning Cullum Homes, this residence sets the standard for quality construction, offering the latest in design and prime location. Features of note include stunning views of Camelback Mountain from every room, walls of glass, a spacious, open floor plan, an open and bright kitchen, and en-suite bedrooms. The large primary suite features an expansive closet and a versatile flex space, ideal for a workout room, study, or nursery. The outdoor entertainment spaces are perfect for hosting gatherings or simply to enjoy the tranquility of nature. With multiple covered patio areas, a stunning pool with a custom waterfall, spa, and a tranquil grassy space, this home truly has something for everyone. Offering the perfect size in the ideal location at an exceptional price. It is sure to impress even the most discerning buyers.

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9197 E Bajada Road Scottsdale, AZ 85262

$3,175,000

4 Beds

5 Baths

4,244 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6749901

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Membership available- Updated by Dick Lloyd Custom Homes, this single level jewel box desert retreat is located on a private cul de sac in Desert Mountains Village of Gambel Quail- featuring incredible sunset and surrounding mountain views, and some golf and night light views. Traditional Sante Fe-style exterior architecture melds with a contemporary interior including pristine travertine flooring, marble bathrooms, art spotlights, custom cabinets in kitchen and much more. The heart of the home is the large and open great room floor plan blending together lounging, dining, and gourmet kitchen with Miele appliances for all your entertaining spaces. The indoors spills out through large sliding glass doors to the outdoor living and dining room with 85 outdoor TV with heaters and kiva fireplace for cooler desert nights. Backyard also features large plunge pool, spa, pool bath, turf area, three-hole putting green and lush mature desert vegetation for a tranquil outdoor experience for all. The bedrooms offer privacy and space for all with master suite on one end of the home and three additional guest suites and office located on other wing. Entire home is wired for AV capabilities in all bedrooms and full home automation AV, lighting, cameras, garage doors. Home is equipped with solar and Tesla battery storage as well as large three car climate-controlled garage with plenty of storage. Home has been meticulously cared for with updates and warranties in place for roof, fridge, and HVAC. Truly a lock and leave home that can be accessed from any smartphone or iPad to open up or shut down. Please inquire for full list of updates. The location within Desert Mountain is ideal with close proximity to the front gate for easy access into town, as well as access to all other world-class amenities, including 7 golf courses, 7 clubhouses, and 20 miles of private hiking trails, promising an unparalleled lifestyle of luxury, leisure, and serenity. Embrace the Desert Mountain experience and make this extraordinary property your own.

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1401 E Coral Cove Drive Gilbert, AZ 85234

$3,150,000

4 Beds

5 Baths

5,500 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777180

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning Waterfront Executive beauty on 2 lots built originally by Gary Geitz w/$800k recent remodel! 380' of waterfront views, negative edge pool & spa + extensive travertine decking. Iincredible entertainer's kitchen, open shelving & huge quartz island that is flanked by 2 spacious living areas & onyx wet bar surrounded by windows overlooking the lake! Pet Room & 3 car garage + 2 car garage/shop w/2 double doors, 1 is open to lake. Elevator to 2nd floor bedroom, main floor primary suite w/fipl, Main floor guest suite! W/D in every bedroom! 2nd lot has 2 pickleball courts + cabana w/bath & storeroom- could build another home on 2nd lot! New roof 2024, New a/c's 2019. Incredible Val Vista Lakes clubhouse & amenities plus award-winning Gilbert schools & upscale dining & shopping close by

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