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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20323 E Happy Road Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$568,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,080 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6754931

Property Type Manufactured Home

Price Type --

Spacious and bright 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom modular home on just over an acre of land in Queen Creek, AZ with large bedrooms, walk-in closets and large storage closets. Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) installed throughout entire house in 2019. New roof installed September 2021. Acre is perimeter and cross fenced and within riding and walking distance of Santan Mountain Regional Park. 16' x 32' galvanized steel 2-stall shed row for horses and huge paver patio for outdoor enjoyment yet property is minutes away from Equestrian Center, Fry's Grocery, Fat Cats, Caldwell County BBQ and more.

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2438 W Hearn Road Phoenix, AZ 85023

$568,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,344 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739186

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 2344 SQFT home has been completely renovated, featuring all-new cabinetry and quartz countertops throughout the house. The open-concept living area is perfect for entertaining, and the brand-new kitchen shines with its modern design. All bathrooms have been redone with beautiful new tile work and contemporary finishes. The four spacious bedrooms offer ample storage and natural light. Enjoy the low-maintenance landscaped yard. Conveniently located next to the I-17 and close to amenities, schools, and parks.

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16612 N 151st Lane Surprise, AZ 85374

Open House

$568,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,856 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6710976

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this stunning two-story home warm and inviting from the moment you step through the door. Home featuring so many upgrades you won't believe this beauty, from exquisite diagonal tile flooring that runs throughout the entire first floor, leading into a gourmet eat-in kitchen with upgraded Cherry Wood 42-inch cabinets, granite countertops, large kitchen island, great for entertaining. The kitchen overlooks the backyard oasis with a sparkling pool. Second floor master suite with walk-out deck overlooking mountain views. Enormous master bath with garden tub and separate shower, large walk-in closet. All other bedrooms are abundant in size. Enormous game room can be converted into two extra bedrooms The home also features a downstairs office and can be converted into a fifth bedroom. We are just minutes away from schools, shopping, restaurants, Surprise Stadium-Spring Training, outdoor Recreation center, Surprise Aquatic Center, events and Festivals and hotels. You will enjoy this highly upgraded exquisite home, conveniently located few minutes away from the downtown Heritage district where the family fun begins.

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16455 W Avenida Del Sol -- Surprise, AZ 85387

$567,995

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,480 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6682617

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

The Townsend has a gorgeous open floor plan with Guest Suite and 10' ceilings! Large Gourmet Kitchen with Quartz Countertops. Owners Suite has a deluxe Master Bath with Walk-in rain shower. Home is on a large lot in a secluded neighborhood. Home comes with paver driveway/walk way to entry. and is complete with stone front exterior on house! A Must See!!!!

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16399 W Avenida Del Sol -- Surprise, AZ 85387

$567,995

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,506 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6702001

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover the essence of luxury in this home featuring an upgraded gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops, 42-inch cabinets, & expansive walk-in pantry. The spacious design includes 10-foot ceilings, staggered wood-look tile, and multi-slide patio doors that enhance the open, airy feel. The Primary suite bathroom features an upgraded shower with an added secondary rain shower head. Practicality meets style with 8-foot garage doors & paver driveway, offering ample space for storage and vehicles.

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16372 W Avenida Del Sol -- Surprise, AZ 85387

$567,995

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,480 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6718700

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This home features a must have Guest Suite as well as dramatic 10' ceilings throughout and a tray ceiling at entry; a gourmet kitchen with quartz countertops, 42'' cabinets, a spacious open great room with a multi-slide door; a beautiful primary suite with a generous walk-in closet. The walk-in shower features a rain shower head. This home offers stylish pavers at driveway/walkway.

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935 Calle Azul -- Wickenburg, AZ 85390

$567,900

4 Beds

2 Baths

1,884 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6722019

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 4bed 2bath 2 car garage home with a large lot large patio RV gate with amazing views. Must see property in Wickenburg AZ.

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8718 N 180th Drive Waddell, AZ 85355

$567,250

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,548 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6715988

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Don't miss out on this beautiful Pulte home in a Great location! Easy access to the 303, I-10 and Luke Air Force Base. This home has an amazing floorplan with the master suite downstairs and 4 large bedrooms plus a huge loft upstairs. The nice sized lot backs to a greenbelt with mountain views from the backyard. You can take this all in while enjoying some quality time under the expansive covered patio. Some of the many wonderful features you will find inside include, granite countertops, an eat-in kitchen, tasteful neutral flooring and tons of storage space. The laundry room has ample space plus a utility sink. The 3 car garage features shelving and an epoxy floor. Come see it today. This one won't last.....

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10221 S Bickwell Trail Apache Junction, AZ 85120

$567,028

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,386 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739939

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Experience the difference at Laurel at Blossom Rock! This stunning single-story Laredo design is currently under construction and features a spacious open-concept floorplan. The heart of the home includes an inviting kitchen with an island, seamlessly connected to a bright great room that opens to a private, covered outdoor living space. With 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a convenient drop zone right off the 3-car garage, this home offers both comfort and functionality. Plus, $49,000 in premium upgrades are already included, and special financing options are available. The home is expected to be completed by November. Living at Blossom Rock means embracing the outdoors with community parks, miles of scenic trails, beautiful lakes, and signature events. Nearby the Superstition Mountains.

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2422 E Saint Anne Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85042

$567,000

5 Beds

4.5 Baths

2,599 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6743335

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this spacious 5-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom residence blends comfort, and modern living in the sought-after Arbor Subdivision. The spacious open floor plan seamlessly connects the living, dining, and kitchen areas. The gourmet kitchen features stainless steel appliances, ample cabinet space, and a large island. The home boasts five generously sized bedrooms, with the primary suite offering dual sinks, dual walk-in closets, and an en-suite bathroom. Enjoy mountain views from the beautifully landscaped backyard with a large covered patio, turf, and pavers. Additional features include a loft, office, and two-car garage. Arbor Subdivision provides well-maintained common areas, parks, and walking trails. Check it out!

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23852 N 167th Lane Surprise, AZ 85387

$567,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,016 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6781319

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Stunning Family Home with Private Outdoor Oasis This spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and luxury, with an inviting front patio that welcomes you into a well-designed living space. As you step inside, you'll immediately appreciate the open, airy feel of the home with its modern finishes and thoughtful layout. The heart of the home features a beautifully kitchen that flows seamlessly into a cozy living room, making it perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. The master suite is a true retreat, offering privacy and tranquility with its own ensuite bathroom and walk-in closet. Step outside to your own private paradise. The backyard is an entertainer's dream, with a heated pool complete with a tranquil water feature, ideal for relaxing or hosting summer gatherings. Enjoy outdoor cooking and dining with the built-in BBQ area, and when the sun gets too bright, simply extend the retractable awning for shade and comfort. Whether you're lounging by the pool or enjoying a meal with family and friends, this outdoor space is perfect for creating lasting memories. With its ideal layout, stylish features, and amazing outdoor amenities, this home truly offers the best of both worlds indoor and outdoor luxury!

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2398 W Arroyo Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$567,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,535 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6707047

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful single family home featured in popular community ''Morning Sun Farms' located in Queen Creek, AZ. This highly preferred [single level] home incorporates a subtle balance of contemporary finishes with a modern design. The home features 4 bedrooms, +Den/5th bedroom, 2.5 bath(s), 2,534 sq ft open concept floor plan, nicely appointed kitchen w/ granite countertops, large [eat-in] island, dual ovens, gas cooking, raised panel cabinetry, ss appliances, and walk-in pantry. Also, this home features large great room space, 9ft+ ceilings, tile flooring, modern plumbing/lighting fixtures [fans], dual pane [low-e] windows, 2'' wood faux blinds, designated dining space, and a dedicated master retreat featuring a spacious sleeping quarters, separate shower/tub, dual sinks, and large walk-in. closet. Lastly, the home features a 3-car tandem garage w/ new epoxy floors & built-in storage cabinets, and a private [resort style] backyard equipped with covered patio space, sparkling heated pool, built in BBQ [w/ dedicated gas line], mature landscaping, backyard wall raised for increased privacy, and separate RV gate --perfect for entertaining guests & family. Morning Sun Farms offers residents plenty of walking & bike paths, green spaces, and is just minutes away from great shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.

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