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

11145 E Posada Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,775 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6660177

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful upgrades throughout with oversized lot. Back yard is an entertainers dream with paver walkways and seating area. Patio has roll down screen to enclose the porch. Kitchen cabinets upgraded with nice granite and tasteful colors. Furnished with desireable modern furniture. His & her closets and sinks in master bath. The owner will be taking golf cart, tools, work benches, fire pit out back and storage container out back. buyer to pay $2212.5 capital improvement fee

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5689 S Mir Way Hereford, AZ 85615

$575,000

5 Beds

2 Baths

2,710 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6674101

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Big, Bold, and Beautiful with Gorgeous Mountain Views! Amazing 5 bed, 2 bath, custom home nestled on 2.289 acres in the Executive Acres community of Hereford, AZ. The primary bedroom features a generous walk-in closet and the lovely primary bathroom has a large, jetted tub, separate shower, and private water closet. The remaining 4 bedrooms are larger than average and the guest bath features dual sinks! The kitchen comes complete with updated appliances, two pantry closets and plant shelves between the kitchen and formal living room. Kitchen and baths have stunning tile work. Tile floors throughout, except for the primary closet which has carpet. Washer, dryer, and water softener will remain, (water softener is not currently hooked up for use). This property also has a private well with two (2) water storage tanks located in an oversized storage room within the home. There is a deep, 2+ car garage with 8' garage door, huge RV cover, and an additional carport. RV hook ups including septic connection, lots of space for your projects, and a finished shed give you ample space for all your projects. Home has a private well!

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19234 N 268th Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$575,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,341 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6672585

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Impeccable turnkey oasis! NEW BUILD in May 2023! EXTENDED Refuge model offers 2 master bdrms + 3rd bdrm & den. An open floor plan seamlessly connects the kitchen to the breakfast room w/slider & Great Room featuring a tiled gas fireplace wall & a double slider leading to the extended travertine patio w/pergola, rolling shades on sliders, & gas bib. The extd master suite impresses with a tray ceiling, tiled shower, double sinks, & lg closet. Kitchen has granite counters & sink, tile backsplash, staggered cabinets w/pull-out drawers, SS appliances, gas stove, RO, & a walk-in pantry. Other features include landscaped yard, paver driveway, leaders & gutters w/French drain, water softener, tankless water heater, & laundry w/cabinets. LG. EXTENDED 2-car garage + A SEPARATE GOLF CART GARAGE!

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4335 N Holly Drive Pine, AZ 85544

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,508 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6674878

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this gorgeous 3 bed, 2 bath, 1508 square foot cabin in lovely Pine, Arizona. Situated on a 15K lot, this property features a wraparound porch, mountain views, an enclosed yard, gorgeous wood vaulted ceilings, and plenty of space to spread out and watch all the wildlife this area boasts. Whether you love hiking or fishing or exploring the charming town of Pine just 100 miles north of Phoenix, this home has everything you need for a weekend getaway or a primary residence.

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23500 W Galpin Road Buckeye, AZ 85326

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,240 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6693853

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

** Motivated seller. Ranch style home on nearly an acre lot with beautiful mountain views on a quiet cul-de-sac! Irrigated lot with your own private well! No water shortages here! Home features granite counter tops in both Kitchen & bathrooms. Huge laundry room with plenty of storage, and a large game room/ workout room with brick fireplace. Come check out this property today and see all the space you can have for your animals, toys & more!! No HOA, possibilities are endless!!

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20961 N 96th Drive Peoria, AZ 85382

$575,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,157 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6698227

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this lovely home! Enter through the formal living room and dining room and immediately sense the warmth and charm of this inviting space. Before we proceed, allow us to introduce you to the heart of the house, the great room, where a cozy fireplace and ample natural light await. Passing by the den, with its versatile double doors for added privacy, you'll discover the spaciousness of the great room and the allure of the patio and backyard beyond. You will want to linger in this tranquil outdoor oasis. Venture into the large primary bedroom, a sanctuary of comfort boasting double doors, a walk-in closet, and an bathroom designed for relaxation and convenience. . With its private exit to the back patio, it offers a seamless blend of indoor-outdoor living. Explore further to find two additional bedrooms, each with carpeting and blinds, along with a conveniently situated hall bathroom between them. The kitchen, overlooking the great room, is not only functional but also a gathering place for culinary delights and shared moments. Let's not forget the backyard, featuring a concrete extension with a gazebo and a spa that conveys with the propertya perfect spot for unwinding and entertaining. For those with storage needs and hobbies, the 3-car garage provides ample space, complete with cabinets, a sink, and room for an extra refrigerator or freezer. Plus, it offers convenient access to the north side of the house. This home offers a blend of comfort, functionality, and outdoor allure that's sure to leave a lasting impression. We're delighted to share it with you today!

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2907 S Elm Street Tempe, AZ 85282

$575,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,863 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6738692

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Two Ensuite Bedrooms can be found in this 4BR/3Bath/2CG house, which was completely remodeled within the outside shell of the original structure and a room addition was added. Included in the remodeling was the addition of a master bedroom/bathroom, increasing the kitchen size with pantry, extending the family room, connectivity to the laundry room & a new 2 car garage. Within the original shell and room addition, the following were replaced: wall studs & drywall, water & sewer line, electrical wiring and AC ductwork & vents. The sewer service to & in the alley was replaced as well. This home is well worth a look! Follow the new flooring to a bright, open kitchen with beautiful raised panel cabinets, recessed lighting, breakfast bar & walk-in pantry. The private back yard feels like home!

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26001 S Greencastle Drive Sun Lakes, AZ 85248

$575,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

2,122 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6722629

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This is the house you've been waiting for in the beautiful Cottonwood Palo Verde golf community phase II of Sun Lakes. The location is perfect, right between the walking paths of the multiple lake system and the clubhouse, tennis/pickle ball courts and pro shop. The popular Zuni model is move in ready from top to bottom, the price reflects the extensive comprehensive upgrades to all aspects of the home. New A/C in 2023, New Hot Water Heater 8/24, new roof and skylights 2023 (please see docs page) You enter through a beautiful pergola covered courtyard to enjoy your morning coffee. Vaulted ceilings greet you upon entering the bright open feeling throughout the living area. Two master suites provide privacy for guests and both bathrooms are updated and remodeled. The den is perfect for an office or additional entertaining area. Both the master and the den have access to the professionally landscaped backyard. The totally private and serene backyard oasis is perfect for entertaining under the pergola covered patios. Plant lovers will appreciate the greenery of the backyard along with the climate controlled commercial grade glass enclosed sunroom which also provides ample additional living space indoors while giving the feeling of being outside. This model also comes with an extended garage, and yes, it is Air Conditioned too, providing additional climate controlled storage. Along with the sunroom, the garage and storage area have been fully insulated. Not only has this house been completely remodeled, all systems have been updated from roof, windows, electrical, lighting, bathrooms, flooring, paint, kitchen, appliances, A/C, water heater, etc., and work has been completed by licensed contractors, all you have to do is move in and enjoy all this home and community has to offer. Right inside the new gate leading into the backyard is a pad with electrical to store and charge your golf cart. This home has ample storage throughout, is bright airy and pristine and absolutely move in ready with no detail ignored, a rare find. When talking about details of the home, even the air ducts have been cleaned, sterilized and sealed to provide a healthy comfortable living atmosphere with an air purifier, UV light, and surge protector installed on the AC unit, please see DOCS page. This home is not a flip and has been lovingly updated with quality in mind over a three year period of time.

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7635 W Rock Springs Drive Peoria, AZ 85383

$575,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,079 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6718396

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning single-level home is located in a highly desirable Rock Springs neighborhood, offering the perfect blend of comfort and luxury. The property features outstanding curb appeal with its beautifully landscaped front yard and an inviting entrance. As you step inside, you are greeted by an open room concept with an eat-in kitchen that boasts beautiful lighting, and in the kitchen you have granite countertops, an oversized sink, and a double wall oven with an electric cooktop. The kitchen also includes a spacious walk-in pantry and ample storage, making it a chef's dream. The oversized primary bedroom is a retreat in itself, complete with a large walk-in closet and an en-suite bathroom that offers dual sinks, a separate tub and shower, and private water closet. Two large guest bedrooms come with extra tall closets and ceiling fans, providing comfort and convenience. The living areas are designed for both relaxation and entertainment, featuring tile flooring throughout, with plush carpeting in the bedrooms. The home extends its living space to the outdoors with an extended back patio featuring two ceiling fans, perfect for enjoying the Arizona weather. The backyard is a serene oasis with artificial turf, natural vegetation, and a dog run on the side yard. Additional features include a 2-car garage and a functional laundry room. This property is a true gem, offering a perfect combination of indoor luxury and outdoor tranquility.

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9624 E Thunderbolt Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$575,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

1,934 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6722619

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BETTER THAN NEW Single-Level 5 Bedrooms & 3 Full Baths! Professionally Landscaped Backyard has low maintenance synth Grass & Pavers! Wood-Plank tile throughout entire home. Carpeted Bedrooms. Gorgeous Kitchen has white Cabinets with dark hardware, an upgraded Gas Stove/Range, HUGE Breakfast Bar, Quartz Counters, BIG Pantry! Private Split Bedroom & Bathroom is perfect for an Office or Guests. High-end Lighting fixtures & Ceiling fans! Designer touches everywhere! 9+ foot & vaulted Ceilings. Garage overhead Storage Racks. Tankless water heater. N/S exposure. Water Softener. Cadence HOA amenities - multiple lap & play Pools with water slides, Tennis/Basketball/Volleyball/Bocce Sport Courts, Fitness & Community Centers, Playgrounds, Dog Park. Schools close by. Don't miss this one!

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3792 S Tower Avenue Chandler, AZ 85286

$575,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,042 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6730052

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seller offering $5,000 credit! Well maintained 3 bedroom, 2.5 bathroom home with a pool, irrigated front yard, newly painted interior walls. Great floor plan with 2 living areas on the main floor - open area when you enter the home plus great room concept kitchen and family room at the back of the house. The kitchen has ample storage and counter space and is open to the spacious family room with dramatic two story ceiling. All 3 bedrooms are upstairs. The oversized primary suite faces the back of the home. The attached bath features dual vanities, soaking tub, step in shower, and walk in closet. The secondary bedrooms are nice sized and both have ceiling fans. There is a nice built in desk at the top of the stairs plus upstairs laundry! BRAND NEW AC UNIT! The backyard has a covered patio, a meticulously maintained pool and waterfall feature. Plus mature landscaping and a fire pit! Great location near freeways and amenities!

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22701 E Avenida Del Valle -- Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$575,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,799 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6732380

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Contemporary 5 bed, 3 bath house with 2,800 sqft in Queen Creek's sought-after Meridian community. Built in 2018, with updated styling throughout. Enjoy a gourmet kitchen, spacious master suite, and a low-maintenance yard. The residence also boasts a 3-car garage. Experience Arizona living at its finest with access to the 5,000 sqft community pool and quick access to Queen Creek Marketplace, top-rated schools and scenic parks. This house is also pre-wired for 16 security cameras.

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