Mortgages for Self-Employed individuals
Generally, lenders are weary to provide mortgages to those who are self-employed, especially those who are just starting out. When your taxable income has been reduced, lenders see you as more of a risk than someone who draws a steady salary. However, that doesn’t mean that you should shy away from applying for a mortgage if you’re self-employed.
FAQs
Do I Qualify for a Mortgage If I’m Self-Employed?
Yes. In order to qualify for funding when you are self-employed there are many ways you can look attractive to potential lenders 4 most important ones are out lined below.
Figure Out What You Can Afford
Your mortgages are a monthly commitment, no matter what source of your income. You need to ensure you have enough funds to cover your monthly mortgage payments. For those who are self-employed, they collect a variable income hence, you need to plan your mortgage payments around your income. If one month you bring in $1,700 but the next you bring in $2,900, you need to ensure your monthly mortgage payments don’t exceed what you would make in your slowest months.
Pay Your Taxes
When you are a salaried worker, a chunk of your pay goes towards your taxes already. When you are self-employed you are in charge of making those deductions. No matter what industry you work in, you must pay your taxes when you are self-employed. Potential lenders will ask to see income documentation that dates back at least two years. Reason being, they want to see your personal income tax returns to make sure you’re all paid up.
Maintain A Blemish-Free Credit Score
Normally, a credit score of 620 is required to get a conventional mortgage. For those that are self-employed, the higher your credit score, the better. Lenders see you as a risk but if your credit score is around 700 they’ll take that into consideration when you apply for your mortgage. To maintain an excellent credit score, pay off everything on time. This goes for phone bills, car payments, credit card debt, and everything else you owe.
Work With a Broker
When it comes to finding the right lender, it’s better to work with a broker. A mortgage Broker can find the best package to suit your needs, when you’re self-employed. Lenders may not be so keen to provide funding to help you acquire your home. However, with a broker by your side He /She has built relationships with many lenders, although they may not know you, they definitely know and trust your broker.