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

14874 W Luna Circle Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$579,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,285 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785958

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom + Den home on an oversized corner lot in the desirable Village at Litchfield Park. The bright, open floor plan features a spacious great room that flows into the kitchen and dining area, perfect for entertaining. The kitchen boasts gorgeous upgraded cabinets, granite countertops, stylish backsplash, a large island with a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances and a gas cooktop with double ovens. The primary suite is separate from the other bedrooms, offering privacy and luxury with a bathroom that includes a soaking tub, dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The lush backyard features an extended covered paver patio and mature landscaping—an ideal spot for gatherings and enjoying stunning Arizona sunsets.

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1282 S Norbert Lane Lakeside, AZ 85929

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,501 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6746098

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your charming chalet-style retreat nestled in the serene woodlands of Woodland Park! This picturesque home offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comforts, with a prime location boasting access to a private community lake and the stunning natural beauty of the nearby national forest. Step inside this cozy abode and be greeted by the warm ambiance of wood accents and vaulted ceilings, characteristic of the classic chalet design. The main level welcomes you with two inviting bedrooms and a well-appointed bathroom, providing comfortable accommodations for guests or family members.

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14613 N 44th Place Phoenix, AZ 85032

New

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,612 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6787803

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW! 10+++ METICULOUS 3 bd / 2 bath w/flex room & NO HOA~PORCELAIN tile throughout & NO carpet~VAULTED ceilings throughout except bathrooms & hallways~This home boosts LOTS of natural light & SOLAR-TUBE-SKYLIGHTS~CHAMPION Low E - Dual-paned Anderson windows throughout w/BAY windows in breakfast room & primary bedroom~Open kitchen w/MAPLE cabinets, STAINLESS appliances & GRANITE counter-tops~Living room is open & large w/views of backyard~Primary bedroom w/BAY window, wall-to-wall, lighted closet & spacious bathroom w/door to backyard~SPECTACULAR, LARGE backyard, EXTENDED-COVERED patio w/reflective-coating, NO-STRESS/LOW-MAINTENANCE, ARTIFICIAL TURF, mature CITRUS-TREES & TUFF-SHED~ Some UPGRADES include: 25-year roof, R-22 insulation, garage door insulated, copper plumbing, TRANE heat-pump, water-softener, whole-house-filtration system~Great location and near: Kierland Commons, Scottsdale Quarter & Paradise Valley Mall Redevelopment ALL w/upscale shopping & dining - Also near: Stonecreek Golf Club, Sweetwater Park, Scottsdale Christian Academy & Horizon High School~TV's convey~NO disappointments here! This home is a 10+++ & priced-to-sell!

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15749 W Roanoke Avenue Goodyear, AZ 85395

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,907 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783608

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Dream Home with Everything You Want! Step into this home with an open & airy Great Room floor plan: perfect for everyday living & entertaining. The kitchen is a cook's dream: upgraded cabinets, roll-out shelves, granite tile countertops, a decorative backsplash, & under-cabinet lighting. It also comes with stainless steel appliances, a roomy closet pantry, & updated microwave, dishwasher, & disposal. You'll love the easy-care tile floors throughout; no carpet anywhere! The dining room & primary bedroom feature bay windows that let in tons of natural light. This home is full of thoughtful upgrades: *New A/C (2021) *New hot water heater (2019) *New reverse osmosis system (2023) *New Refrigerators (2023) *New water softener (2024) *Owned solar & ceiling fans keep your electric bills low The private backyard is like your own peaceful retreat. Relax in the partially enclosed Arizona room, take a dip in the sparkling pool with a water feature, or practice on your putting green. The low-maintenance landscaping, new PVC watering system (2022), and refreshed Kool decking mean less work and more time to enjoy. The extended 2-car garage with an epoxy floor and built-in cabinets offers plenty of storage. Need an extra bedroom? The den has double doors and can easily be converted into a third bedroom. This move-in-ready home has it allcomfort, style, and convenience. A list of the extensive upgrades is available. Don't wait; come see it today!

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20597 W Walton Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$579,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,785 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767346

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 4/3 Craftsman home in Verrado. Great location with tree lined streets and close to park. Relax on beautiful patio in this welcoming community.

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1425 W Kenrick Drive Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$579,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,190 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6651710

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to a move-in ready home that offers the perfect canvas for your personal touch. Situated in a prime location with stunning views, this property boasts a spacious backyard, setting the stage for a comfortable and personalized living experience. As you explore the home, you'll discover a cozy and inviting layout, featuring multiple rooms that are primed for your creative ideas. Each room is a comfortable space, eagerly awaiting your unique flair. Whether you're interested in adding modern touches, highlighting the home's charming details, or a combination of both, the possibilities are limitless. The private and fully fenced backyard is an ideal setting for a variety of activities. It's a gardener's dream, or a tranquil retreat for those who appreciate peaceful relaxation.

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3200 W Black Oak Loop Show Low, AZ 85901

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,550 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6669326

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

This Torreon golf villa offers a comfortable and convenient living space with its 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. It is designed for a lock and leave lifestyle, providing you with peace of mind when you're away. The property features a detached 1-car garage, offering secure parking and additional storage space. Surrounded by a lush canopy of trees, this villa provides a serene and private atmosphere. The covered deck and patio area are perfect for relaxing or entertaining, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. The open floorplan creates a spacious and airy feel, while the split layout ensures privacy between the bedrooms. Large spacious kitchen makes meal prep a breeze while guest can accompany around the breakfast bar. Whether you're a golf enthusiast or simply..

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18508 N Avalon Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,021 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6691782

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This well cared for 2 bedroom,2 bathroom plus den 2,021 square foot property offers many sought after features including a 2.5 car garage. Situated on Granite Falls North Course offering expansive views & beautiful sunsets.18 in tile floors on the diagonal except bedrooms.Kitchen corian counter tops,backsplash,new sink, stainless built in appliances & stone finish at breakfast bar.Extended breakfast nook bay windows with shutters & plenty of room for entertaining.Settle into the great room and take advantage of the gas fireplace finished with stone.Privacy doors at den.Primary suite has door to patio,bay windows,two sinks,separate tub & walk in closet in bathroom.Raised panel doors.Inside laundry with sink,W/D included.Side garage door & built in cabinets.Expaned patio & built in BBQ.

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303 W Columbine Road Christopher Creek, AZ 85541

$579,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,274 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6692998

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Your serene woodland retreat awaits! This charming cabin is located in the Prestigious Christopher Creek Park tucked perfectly behind a gate for added privacy. This cabin offers a brand new fence along the 1/3 acre lot it sits on, lush plants, flowers & fruit trees including barlett pear, honey crisp apple & peach all on irrigation! Cozy up to a fire while gazing through your expansive bay window in your living room. This 4bed/2 bath/2 car garage features a newly built loft, remodeled upstairs including plumbing/electric. Full size kitchen, walk in pantry, dining area & enclosed sun room. 5 decks to take in nature's beauty! Brand new roof w/ 10 year warranty, Brand new light exterior light fixtures. (2024) Exterior Paint done in (2023) Do not miss this amazing opportunity! Call Today!

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3033 E Millbrae Lane Gilbert, AZ 85234

$579,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,146 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6726711

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOVE-IN-READY!!! LOTS of CHARM & CHARACTER EVERYWHERE!!! This home is a MUST SEE!!! Full Bedroom & Bathroom DOWNSTAIRS!!! Upon entry, you're wowed by VAULTED CEILINGS, along with two separate living areas, a STUNNING KITCHEN overlooking the main living space, making this the PERFECT HUB OF THE HOME!!! Spend some time outback in your Sparkling POOL, or relax in tub HOT TUB, cook out in your BUILT-IN-BBQ, or even enjoy your very own PUTTING GREEN!!! This backyard is an Entertainer's Dream!!! Workbench area in garage, along with LOTS OF STORAGE!!! This home has it all!!! Home is steps away from a FANTASTIC park with playground area and Basketball courts!! Don't miss out on this one!!!

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2319 E Earll Drive Phoenix, AZ 85016

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,416 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747987

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this freshly updated 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom gem close to all of the action of Arcadia and Central Phoenix! Boasting a modern, neutral aesthetic with designer touches throughout, it offers comfort and style at every turn. Enjoy outdoor living with covered patios in the front and back, a charming porch swing, and a generously sized backyard complete with a pool and firepit—perfect for entertaining. Additional features include a storage room off the 1-car carport. Conveniently located near freeways, restaurants, and shopping, Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of homeownership with no HOA restrictions.

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8821 S 47th Place Phoenix, AZ 85044

$579,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,195 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6745563

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

A rare opportunity for totally updated residence w/ views in mountainside resort, gated community! Amazing 4 bed, 3 bath residence in Pointe South Mtn/ AZ Grande in Ahwatukee haven! Two master bedrooms/ two large bedrooms perfect for large family or multi generational living. Upstairs bedrooms have balconies. Downstairs master with outdoor access. Updates from 2024 include modern interior color palette (2023 colors of the year), ext paint, two luxurious tiled rain showers, SS appliances, granite counters in kitchen/ downstairs baths, new light fixtures, new plumbing fixtures, all new flooring (wood plank tile and carpet), feature wall, roof updated, new landscape design featuring artificial grass and nightscape. The joy of your own piece of resort living, totally updated!

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