Here's a list of the documents most commonly needed in order to apply for a mortgage loan. You may need additional documents depending upon the type of loan you're applying for, so be sure to check with the lender.

• Legible sales contract signed by Buyers and Sellers.
• Social Security number of all applicants.
• Complete address for the past 2 years (including complete name and address of landlords for past 24 months).
• Name, address, and all income earned from all employers for past 24 months.
• Copies of previous two years W-2 forms.
• Copy of most recent year-to-date pay stub.
• Name, address, account number, monthly payment and current balance for: installment loans, revolving charge accounts, student loans, mortgage loans, and auto loans.
• Name, address, account number, and balance of all deposit accounts, including: checking accounts, savings accounts, stocks, bonds, etc.
• Three months most recent statements for deposit accounts, stocks, bonds, etc.
• If you choose to include income from Child Support/Alimony bring copies of court records of cancelled checks showing receipt of payment.

If you are self-employed or paid by commission:
Previous two years Federal Income Tax Returns with all schedules and a year-to-date profit and loss statement.

If you own other properties:
Address of properties and current market value. Any debt owed on properties; Lender's name, address, account number, monthly payment, and current balance. Copy of previous two years Federal Income Tax Returns with all schedules. If rented; copy of lease.

If you have filed bankruptcy in the last seven years:
Copy of petition and discharge, handwritten explanation of reason for bankruptcy, evidence of excellent credit since the bankruptcy. Rather than hold up your loan application appointment, you may follow up on any missing items at a later time.