Yes, you can get a mortgage if you’re self-employed, but it’s challenging in the age of COVID-19. Guidelines are changing monthly as the crisis continues, but the following requirements are generally true:
Work history: According to USnews, you’ll need a two-year employment history. Fluctuations in earnings are acceptable as long as you can show stable or increasing income. A shorter history may be okay if you’ve been employed in the same industry for a period of at least two years.
Down payments: You’ll likely need to put 20 percent down, which minimizes risk to both you and the lender, but you may be able to get away with as little as 10 percent down if you have a FICO score of 720 or above, says NJlenders.
Cash reserves: If the worst happens and your business declines, you must show enough cash on hand to pay your mortgage regularly and on time.
Credit history: You’ll need a high credit score and an income to debt ratio of 43 percent or below, depending on guidelines. Lenders carefully check how you use revolving credit, other outstanding loans and payment histories.
Documentation: Supply your ID, your personal and business tax returns for two years, earnings and bank statements, business name verification plus evidence of business such as a web site, invoices, etc., license if applicable, list of debts and expenses and payment verification for your home’s rent or mortgage.
Loan requirements are fluid, so contact your lender to learn the latest guidelines.
