Before you apply
A practical checklist before you apply anywhere.
What to review, gather, and avoid before a mortgage application becomes a real file.
4 min read · Last reviewed · 2026-05-03
A mortgage conversation goes better when the basic facts are already organized. You do not need to have every document perfect before speaking with Juan Diego Currea, but you should know what will matter.
Use this checklist as preparation, not as a loan recommendation or approval estimate.
What to have ready
- A rough timeline for buying, refinancing, or repairing your credit profile.
- Estimated purchase price, loan amount, or current mortgage balance.
- Income type: W-2, self-employed, 1099, mixed income, retirement, or other.
- Basic credit range and any known credit concerns.
- Savings available for down payment, closing costs, or reserves.
Documents that usually help
- Recent pay stubs or income records.
- W-2s or tax returns, depending on how you earn income.
- Bank statements and account balances.
- Photo ID.
- Current mortgage statement if you are refinancing.
What to avoid before a file is reviewed
- Opening new credit cards or financing a car.
- Moving large sums of money without keeping a clear paper trail.
- Changing jobs without talking through how income will be documented.
- Making major purchases that change cash reserves or monthly debts.
- Assuming an online estimate reflects how an underwriter will read the file.
Questions to bring to Juan Diego
- What should I solve before applying?
- What documents matter most for my situation?
- What should I avoid doing while preparing?
- What would make my file easier to review?
Want to apply this to your situation?
Bring the questions. Juan Diego Currea can help you understand what matters before you apply anywhere.