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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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

657 S Buenagua Road Payson, AZ 85541

$635,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,335 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6752167

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Enjoy cabin life in the desirable Kohls Ranch community with this furnished cabin with a large loft and fireplace! Separate entrance on the first level opens to a studio cabin apartment with one bedroom and bathroom that can be used as guest quarters and/or extra rental income possibilities. The 2nd level main cabin provides a full bedroom, walk-in closet, 1.5 bathrooms, laundry room and a LOFT with additional beds currently used as a 3rd bedroom. Double lot has fruit trees (cherry, peach, and apple), a child treehouse, deck, shed, and a private ''quad road'' to drive to the deck and main cabin level from main road. Come see this cherished cabin and envision the memories you can make for yourself.

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10405 W Patrick Lane Peoria, AZ 85383

Open House

$635,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,313 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6719383

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

REDUCED! DON'T MISS THIS AMAZING UPDATED HOME! Absolute pride of ownership in the popular Ironwood community in Northwest Peoria. Open kitchen with white upgraded cabinets and quartz counters. Large and spacious bedrooms. Updated bathrooms and showers. Custom crown molding and barn door. Sparkling private pool perfect for entertaining. Spacious lot tucked back in the neighborhood. Epoxy flooring in the garage and plenty of storage. AC duct upgraded to solid to solid material. Top rated Peoria schools and close to Candeo, Great Hearts, and Basis. Don't miss this meticulously maintained home in one of the best established communities in NW Peoria. Additionally to the garage there are 3 driveway spaces.

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2242 W Myrtle Drive Chandler, AZ 85248

$634,999

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,241 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747941

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in the heart of the desirable Ocotillo area, this amazing home on the double fairway offers stunning views of an award-winning golf course & your private heated spa with a waterfall. Featuring 3 bedrooms plus a loft, this home has been freshly painted inside and out using premium paint. The first floor boasts newly installed modern and durable 12mm-thick waterproof vinyl flooring, while the upstairs is outfitted with brand-new carpeting and elegant wooden shutters throughout.The gourmet island kitchen is a chef's dream, featuring classic cabinets, granite countertops, and a stylish tile backsplash. Additionally, the garage is equipped with ample storage cabinets, ceiling shelves overhead, board wall organizers, and a work station, ensuring all your organizational needs are met.

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2930 N 154th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85395

Open House

$634,999

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,614 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6722894

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This gorgeous 3 bed/2.5 bath home located in the lovely adult golf course community of Pebblecreek just underwent substantial updates and renovations for you to enjoy and call home! Beautiful updates include painted kitchen cabinets, new paint throughout interior of home, new vinyl flooring, fresh New cool deck paint, landscape timer. golf cart garage was converted to an A/C controlled gym. Family room has vaulted ceilings, a fireplace, and built in niche. This home has so much space to enjoy with its over 2600sf, Sparkling private Pebble-Tec pool and above-ground hot tub. 2-car garage has built in storage cabinets, There are outside storage cabinets on one side of the home and a shed on the other for additional storage. Leased solar as an added bonus! You don't want to miss this one!

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35568 N Lodestone Drive San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$634,995

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,980 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769242

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Check out this stunning move-in ready home! The inviting entry features elegant features and vaulted ceilings that immediately makes you feel at home. A chef's dream kitchen comes complete with marble countertops, stainless appliances, and gas cooktop. Embrace relaxation in the sun-filled great room that is bursting with natural light and is adjacent to the kitchen and casual dining area. The outdoor patio offers pristine views of the community as well as additional dining space that is perfect for social gatherings. Discover what luxury living truly means and come visit today!

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20223 W Hollyhock Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$634,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,390 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6698304

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome Home to the Estates at Arroyo Seco, our newest Buckeye Community. This Deacon floorplan includes an attached RV garage, plus a tandem two car garage that includes a 220 V 50AMP, pre-plumb for utility sink, soft water loop, garage service door and an RV cleanout. Inside a well-appointed gourmet kitchen with 42'' upper white cabinets, brushed nickel cabinet pulls, quartz countertops, tile backsplash and GE Plus Stainless-steel appliances with a chimney hood and 36'' gas cooktop, includes a walk-in pantry and is flanked by a great room and a dining room with center meet sliding doors leading out to a covered patio. You'll also appreciate the versatile flex-room, two secondary bedrooms with shared access to a full bath with dual vanities, and a primary suite with a private bathroom featuring a deluxe tiled shower with rain shower, dual vanities and ample walk-in closet space. A mudroom and walk-in laundry room round out the interior of the home. This home also includes two-tone paint, 9 x 35 tile flooring throughout and carpet in the bedrooms only. Ceiling fan prewires at all bedrooms, great room, flex room and covered patio; a gas stub at the patio; pre-plumb for a sink at the laundry room; pendant lighting at the kitchen island; exterior coach lights; paver driveway and walkway and front yard landscaping complete the home. This home is situated on an 8760 square foot North facing lot with a double side gate.

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21771 E Roundup Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$634,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,390 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6702179

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Light Sky Ranch and the Pinecrest plan! This home is 2390 square feet of meticulously crafted living space. With three bedrooms, two and a half baths, and a dedicated study, every corner of this home is designed with purpose. The gourmet kitchen stands as the heart of the home, boasting quartz countertops, upgraded shaker cabinets, and a central island that doubles as a culinary hub and gathering place. The owner's suite is a serene haven, featuring dual closets, a lavish soaking tub, and the added convenience of a private door leading to the covered patio. Outside, both a single-car garage & a 2-car garage offer ample storage for vehicles, outdoor gear, and more, ensuring both convenience and practicality. With amenities like a tankless water heater for efficiency and a charming paver driveway, this home harmoniously blends convenience and sophistication.

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6754 W Andrea Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

Open House

$634,990

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,125 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6740369

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Ready now! Experience the charm of Aloravita, nestled within the scenic mountains of Peoria. This community boasts breathtaking views and is conveniently located minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking trails and more! Our popular 'Barstown' floorplan features 3 full bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 Car-Garage and a private yard with views! Designer selected finish includes Burlap Cabinetry, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Wood Like Tile Throughout, and Plush Carpet in all the bedrooms. This beautiful home will have it all including 8' doors, Gourmet Gas Kitchen, Smudge Proof Stainless Steel Appliances, Blinds, Pre-Plumb for Soft Water, and Smart Home Technology. Interior photos of similar spec home, options will vary

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1785 S Nebraska Street Chandler, AZ 85286

$634,990

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,847 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773414

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience luxury living in this stunningly remodeled home, nestled on a generous quarter-acre corner lot. The heart of the home is a chef's dream kitchen, boasting gleaming stainless steel appliances, crisp white cabinetry, an expansive island, and chic granite countertops complemented by a stylish tile backsplash. Relax in the opulence of the fully updated master suite featuring a garden tub, a walk-in shower, and dual sinks. With a versatile bonus room, your options are endless. Transform it into a home office, game room, or formal living space.. Neutral two-tone paint and elegant plantation shutters adorning the windows, create a serene backdrop throughout the home. Parking for up to 6 vehicles in the attached 3-car garage and driveway.

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7432 W Quail Track Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

Open House

$634,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,125 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6755381

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

October completion! Experience the charm of Aloravita, nestled within the scenic mountains of Peoria. This community boasts breathtaking views and is conveniently located minutes away from shopping, dining, hiking trails and more! Our popular 'Barstown' floorplan features 3 full bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, 2 Car-Garage and a private yard with views! Designer selected finish includes White Cabinetry, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Wood Like Tile Throughout, and Plush Carpet in all the bedrooms. This beautiful home will have it all including 9' ceilings, Gourmet Gas Kitchen, Smudge Proof Stainless Steel Appliances, Blinds, Pre-Plumb for Soft Water, and Smart Home Technology. Home is under construction, photos of similar spec to show layout, options may vary**

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5971 W Venus Way Chandler, AZ 85226

$634,900

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,018 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6733382

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful home was just updated! Please see upgrades in documents. Location, location, location offers easy access to all the freeways, shopping & restaurants, in the desirable Chandler area. This home offers a wonderful layout with 4 bedrooms and 21/2 baths, making it ideal for comfort and privacy. Embrace the opportunity to a move-in ready home with a great location, easy maintenance landscape, and a sparkeling diving pool. Don't miss this home!!

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16001 W Huron Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$634,900

2 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,182 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783974

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW!! Golf Course Lot #15th Hole on Trail Ridge GC. This, Open Concept w 10' ceilings, Updated Premier Cottonwood Model has Silas stone Kitchen Counter Tops, Matching Appliances & Center Island. 6 Skylights throughout w newer Tile/Carpet in the Bedrooms. All the Bathrooms have been updated & the Master has a Walk in Tub w a separate Shower. This house also boasts a Office/crafts room that roomy & bright. AC was replaced in 2019 & water heater in 2018. Master Bedroom has Bay window updated feature. Large 2 car garage along w additional golf cart garage which has Additional Storage Cabinets. This home has wide views of fairway, mountains & gorgeous AZ sunsets. All this, and more, plus all the amenities of Sun City West

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