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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1145 N 293rd Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85396

$629,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,067 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758593

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the ultimate in custom home, unencumbered by HOA fees or regulations. This stunning new build ranch-style residence boasts 2,067 square feet of living space on a serene 1.2-acre lot. The sophisticated open-concept living area features stylish paneled walls, vaulted ceilings, and an abundance of natural light and recessed illumination. A sleek white kitchen, complemented by a spacious island, provides an ideal setting for culinary pursuits. The serene master suite offers a tranquil retreat, complete with a spacious en-suite bathroom and ample closet space. Three additional bedrooms provide versatility for family, guests, or a home office. The expansive, backyard, boasts block fencing valued at over $60,000, and dual RV gates, perfect for accommodating large vehicles or horses.

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6735 N 10th Street Phoenix, AZ 85014

$629,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,703 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763810

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Vintage meets contemporary in this delightful home in the heart of north central Phoenix. Remodeled in 2019 to add new A/C, electrical panel, and all new kitchen, complete with stainless steel appliances and soft close modern cabinetry. Tons of additional upgrades added over the last 3 years, including new epoxy sewer lining, lighting/fans, roman shades, paint, baseboards, contemporary black door hardware, storage shed, block fence, side gate & front door. Abundant natural light throughout the home through efficient dual-pane windows. Huge great room with vaulted ceilings and built in fireplace. Dreamy primary suite has 2 closets including a spacious luxury walk-in. Mature fruit trees grace the private, quiet back yard, with the perfect patio for entertaining. Top rated schools.

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535 S Barnwood Trail Munds Park, AZ 86017

$629,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,824 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764043

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Your private, dream home on large lot in the cool pines of Munds Park awaits your arrival! Rather year-round or seasonal, this spacious 3bed, 2 bath home has a/c, wood burning fireplace, 10x16 shed, carport, metal roof, upgraded flooring, bathrooms, ceiling fans, lighting, etc. Kitchen has plenty of cabinet and counter space, as well as an island. Enjoy relaxing on the large custom deck that was newly added on, with NO neighbor to the north! The yard is fenced in and perfect for your pets. No HOA. Come and be a part of this special, desirable Munds Park community! You will be walking distance to the well-known Pinewood Country Club, close to the national forest, lake, hiking/ biking trails, tennis and pickleball courts, park, restaurants, convenient store, and more. Munds Park is only 17 miles South of Flagstaff and a 2-hour drive from Phoenix to escape the heat. Come see your new home in our neck of the woods!

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2078 E Donner Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$629,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,005 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779043

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Corner Lot Home in the Heart of Tempe with Private Pool! No HOA! Welcome to this stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, perfectly situated on a spacious corner lot in the heart of Tempe. With its beautiful open floor plan and a large private pool, this home is an entertainer's dream. Inside, you'll find a modern kitchen with an inviting living area, and an enclosed laundry room for added convenience. Brand NEW AC and Brand New roof (2024). Enjoy the added benefit of no HOA! Located just minutes from ASU, major freeways, and an array of restaurants and shopping, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. BOOK a tour today.

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4318 E Smokehouse Trail Cave Creek, AZ 85331

$629,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,412 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6721909

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller may consider buyer concessions if made in an offer. Welcome to this charming property that combines modern amenities with elegant charm. Recently updated with fresh interior paint and new flooring in parts, the neutral color scheme creates a calming atmosphere for all who enter. The kitchen is a cook's delight, featuring an inviting island and stainless steel appliances. Relax or entertain on the covered patio or enjoy privacy in the fenced backyard. This sought-after addition provides ample space for daily routines. From indoor comfort to outdoor luxuries, this property blends modern comfort with classic charm. If you seek a meticulously maintained home with exceptional attention to detail, don't miss the chance to make this beautifully updated property yours. It's the perfect plac

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795 E Reindeer Drive Munds Park, AZ 86017

$629,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,305 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764913

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Imagine your electric bill being 1.09. Yes, it's true. This home includes a 65,000-dollar Tesla solar electric power system! It powers the like new, 220-volt hot tub and the rest of the entire home! Beautiful year-round home on a quiet street in a desirable area of Munds Park, lots of mature trees, 2 car garage and a separate, new 1 car garage, wood/pellet burning stove, tongue and groove wood throughout, stainless appliances, new refrigerator, new trex front deck, covered deck in back with fenced yard, large shed and new landscape gravel, newer roof (2020) new exterior paint front (2024) updated laminate flooring, updated bathrooms, kitchen, doors, lighting, fixtures, walk-in pantry, newer electrical panel, circuits and furnace, new mini-split in loft, newly painted deck (9-2024) Vaulted ceilings, This home can park 7 cars total, no HOA! Come and be a part of our wonderful Munds Park community! You will be walking distance to the well-known Pinewood Country Club and very close to the national forest, lake, hiking/ biking trails, tennis and pickleball courts, park, restaurants, convenient store, and more. Munds Park is only 17 miles South of Flagstaff and a 2-hour drive from Phoenix to escape the heat. Come see your new home in our neck of the woods!

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1834 N Mitchell Street Phoenix, AZ 85006

$629,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,218 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775620

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This historic bungalow is truly as good as it gets, and on one of the best streets in Coronado Historic District. The original 1937 bungalow has been carefully preserved, but just about all the major systems have been recently upgraded to modern (over $120K). The house is cozy, but flows bigger with the original two bedrooms and bath on the front side of the house, and the split addition of the master suite on the rear. The front room features updated floors (2024), fireplace and gorgeous light. Modern kitchen features custom cabinets, exposed brick wall and all new appliances. Completely remodeled master suite. OWNED SOLAR!!! Multiple hospitals close by as well as close to freeways, Downtown Phx and much more.

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1700 E Lakeside Drive Unit 65 Gilbert, AZ 85234

$629,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,777 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761143

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Beautifully situated in Breckenridge Bay sits this meticulously appointed single-level townhouse! Upon entry, enjoy ample natural lighting, generous-sized open living and dining areas, vaulted ceilings & warm color tones throughout. The gorgeous dark wood floors contrast perfectly with bright silver-gray-colored walls. The vibrant Kitchen boasts granite tops and stainless steel appliances all accented with natural white cabinetry. Both bedrooms have newer LVT flooring and the main bath has been impressively remodeled to 5-Star Resort standards! Ideally located just steps away from the clubhouse, full amenities, and the lakes.... living in Val Vista Lakes is resort Lifestyle Living at its best!

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2066 S Martingale Road Gilbert, AZ 85295

$628,900

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,708 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779585

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This two-story home has OWNED SOLAR and a spacious design, offering 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a cozy den, and an airy loft area. Inside, you'll find an large kitchen designed for both cooking and entertaining, complete with ample counter space, gas stove, and an oversized pantry ideal for all your storage needs. The large primary bedroom serves as a peaceful retreat and connects to an en-suite bathroom with dual sinks and a walk-in closet. The additional bedrooms are well-sized, perfect for family or guests. The den offers a flexible space perfect for a home office, library, or playroom and the upstairs loft provides a bonus area for lounging, a second family room, or a study zone. Exterior was painted in 2022. Backyard has new pavers and easy to maintain turf.

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31510 N 24th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85085

$628,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,026 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6570906

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Modern Appeal. Multiple Upgrades. High ceilings and Great Lighting make this home feel expansive. Gourmet Kitchen with gas range and hood. Oversized Quartz Waterfall countertop. GE Profile Appliances. Electric blinds, large farmhouse sink, water softener. 2-Large Screen Wall Mounted TV's included. Nest thermostats. Low maintenance backyard with Gas lined Fire Table, Gas Grill, Artificial turf and Tiled patio. Lights and Irrigation on timers. Energy efficient rated home. Community Pool and BBQ. There is also a dog park conveniently located close to this home. Excellent Location, close to shopping and restaurants! Great Investment Opportunity!

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6895 N 79th Place Scottsdale, AZ 85250

$628,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,052 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781366

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Welcome to CAMELVIEW GREENS, an exclusive townhome community ideally located in the heart of Scottsdale. This meticulously maintained, TURNKEY residence features a well-appointed 2-bedroom, 2-bath split floor plan. REMODELED in 2020. Upgrades include premium quartz countertops, elegant wood-look vinyl flooring, multi-functional kitchen shutters, glide-out drawers, custom shelves, updated hardware, SS appliances with Bosch smart dishwasher and wine fridge. NEST and Ring. Soaring ceilings, and recessed lighting throughout with upgraded, modern ceiling fans. The low-maintenance backyard is by design with pavers, turf, rock, and drip system for ease of care. The community offers a gated entrance, beautifully landscaped grounds, and thoughtfully designed common areas, as well as a heated pool and spa. Situated just minutes from Old Town Scottsdale, Fashion Square, Camelback Mountain, Spring Training fields, Talking Stick Resort, walking and biking trails, golf courses, fine dining, and a host of other amenities, this residence presents an exceptional opportunity for upscale living. Don't miss the chance to own this MOVE-IN-READY home in one of Scottsdale's most sought-after communities.

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13300 W Red Hawk Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$628,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,926 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6782879

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Light and bright with neutral color pallet throughout, this model-like home filled with upgrades and ready for immediate move-in is the trophy property of Trilogy. When it's all about the details, there's no overlooking the clean lines, contemporary finishes and sophisticated style present. Vertical plank porcelain tiles are carried throughout leading past the guest quarters, home office, and into the great room and gourmet kitchen. Here, you'll find a gas cooktop, built-in stainless steel appliance package, wine chiller, granite countertops paired with white cabinetry providing plenty of storage. A pantry and optional 'SMART SPACE' are just around the corner. Included with the high-end washer and dryer, sink, upper and lower cabinetry there's a workstation here too. Crafting, hobbies, 2nd office are all possible. A natural flow to the open floor plan spotlights the 90 degree angle WALL OF GLASS connecting two rooms where the gas fireplace of the exterior becomes the focal point. This award-winning Shea Home faces south allowing the warmth of the sun to gently illuminate the yard in a gentle even distribution year round. The two-car garage has been extended 4 feet and can accommodate larger vehicles or more room for storage. Take a look at the areal shots of the neighborhood. There are trails and walking paths just outside your door. The vibrant community of Trilogy at Vistancia is alive with community events, golf, tennis, pickle-ball, crafting, fitness classes, gourmet eateries... there's endless options to partake in. Whether you're looking for your forever home or respite from the cold, this picture-perfect property provides style, convenience and practicality.

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