The 5 Essential Documents You Need Before Applying for a Mortgage in 2025
Originally published 2014. Updated November 2025.
5 Essential Documents You Need Before Applying for a Mortgage in 2025When you’re preparing to buy a home, one of the most important steps in the process is getting pre-qualified for a mortgage. Lenders need a clear and accurate picture of your financial history, and having the right documents ready can speed up approval, prevent delays, and help you qualify for the best possible loan programs.
Whether you're purchasing in Savannah, Richmond Hill, or Guyton, gathering these documents early will make your homebuying journey smoother from start to finish.
1. Two Most Recent Pay Stubs
Lenders use your most current pay stubs to verify your income and employment status. Make sure the pay stubs reflect your normal earnings — if your most recent pay period is unusually low or high, wait until your income returns to its typical level before applying.
2. Bank Statements (Last 2 Months)
Provide complete bank statements for all checking, savings, or investment accounts. Lenders review these statements to confirm your available funds, down payment source, spending habits, and whether you have any overdraft history.
3. W-2 Forms (Last 2 Years)
W-2s help lenders verify long-term employment and stable income. If more than one person will be on the loan, both applicants need to provide their W-2s.
4. Federal Tax Returns (Last 2 Years)
Full returns — not excerpts — are required. Tax returns are especially important if you’re self-employed, earn commissions, receive bonuses, or have multiple income sources.
5. Government-Issued Photo ID
Make sure your driver’s license or passport is current and reflects your correct address. Outdated ID can delay the pre-qualification and underwriting process.
Why These Documents Matter
Lenders rely on these items to evaluate your financial stability, repayment history, and ability to manage a home loan. Missing or outdated documents can slow down the process, so gathering everything in advance puts you in a stronger position — especially in competitive markets like Savannah and Coastal Georgia.
Next Steps Toward Your New Home
Once your documents are ready, you can move forward confidently with your lender and begin choosing the floor plan and community that best fits your lifestyle.
Explore our new home communities, browse our floor plans, or connect with us through our contact page. We're here to help you at every step.
