What do I need to bring to my mortgage broker appointment?
We understand how exciting, and sometimes, overwhelming it can be once you decide you want to buy a home – especially if it’s your first time.
First and foremost, we recommend working with both a real estate agent and a mortgage broker that you can trust. Both do very different, yet very essential jobs, when it comes to finding and financing your dream home.
Before you start shopping, it is best to book an appointment with a qualified mortgage broker to determine your budget for purchasing a home. There is no point in looking at gorgeous houses that are nowhere near your price range.
“Why would I work with a mortgage broker when I can just go to my bank?” you might ask.
Working with a mortgage broker benefits you, as the homebuyer, in so many ways!
For instance, it’s free; the lender compensates us. We also have years of experience and tons of knowledge to offer you as we plan for your purchase as well as other long-term financial goals.
Also, unlike the bank, we have access to a variety of lenders, rates, and flexible options that make getting the mortgage you actually want a whole lot easier.
A good mortgage broker will work with you at your first appointment to cover the following:
- Answer any burning questions you may have about the financing process or just home buying in general.
- Determine your budget for purchasing your home – this is unique for everyone, as we all have different financial circumstances that will come into play when applying for a mortgage.
- Get you a pre-approval so that you can go shopping with your agent with the peace of mind that you know exactly what your budget is.
Typically, most professional real estate agents will send you to get a mortgage pre-approval before they shop for homes with you anyway.
Either way, if you have mortgage on your mind – it’s time to book an appointment with a mortgage broker!
While this first meeting is kind of a meet and greet, you’ll want to get down to business right away. To do so, there are a few documents that you’ll want to have at the ready so that your mortgage broker can take a holistic look at your unique financial circumstances, offer personalized service, and truly connect you with the best-fitting mortgage from a variety of lenders.
Here is a comprehensive list of the documents and information that you should bring to your mortgage appointment:
- Job Letter – This must be on a company letterhead, and should state your position, start date, guaranteed wage, and be signed by a direct manager or human resources. This letter must be dated within 30 days of your home purchase.
- Current Paystubs – Please bring 2 consecutive paystubs that are dated within the last 30 days.
- Notice of Assessments – Please bring your tax assessments from the past 2 years.
- T4’s – If you have been at your job for less than 1 year or have worked part-time, please provide us with T4’s from the past 2 years.
- 90-day Bank Statements – Please bring a 90-day bank statement from the bank or investment account that is holding your down payment. This statement must show both your name and your account number.
- Identification – Please bring a copy of your photo ID, either your Driver’s License, Passport, or another form of government issued photo ID.
- Details of Liabilities – If you carry a credit card balance, have vehicle financing, or other consumer loans, please bring your statements from the last 3 months.
- Void Cheque – Please bring a void cheque for the account that you want the mortgage payment to come out of. A stamped, pre-authorized direct debit form from your bank is also acceptable.
- Realtor® Contact Information
- Lawyer Contact Information
Are you self-employed?
In addition to the documents above, please bring the following:
- Complete T-1 General – We require this for the past 2 years, and if you are a sole proprietor, please include a Statement of Business Activities as well.
- Company Financials – If you are a professional corporation (PC), incorporated (INC), or limited (LTD), please provide us with company financials from the past 2 years.
Do you own an existing property, second home or rental property?
In addition to the documents above, please bring the following:
- Current Mortgage or Home Equity Line of Credit Statement
- Property Tax Assessment – Please bring your most recent copy.
- Lease Agreement – You only need to provide this if you currently have a tenant.
We know exactly what it feels like to be scrambling at the last minute to find essential paperwork. Let our list take the stress out of the process, and get organized before you meet with your mortgage broker.
Have questions or concerns about the required documents? Don’t hesitate to contact us today!