Yes, you can get a mortgage when you’re self-employed. The key is how your income gets counted. Some lenders use your tax returns, others can use your bank statements. Avalon compares both across our 130+ lending partners, so we can find the program that works best for your business.
Why is it different when you’re self-employed?
With a regular paycheck, a lender simply checks your pay stubs. When you own a business, lenders usually look at what your tax returns show after business expenses and write-offs. Write-offs save you money at tax time, but they can make your income look lower on paper.
That’s where having more lenders and more programs really helps. It’s one of the biggest reasons to work with a mortgage broker instead of a bank.
Your options
Traditional loans using tax returns
Conventional, FHA and VA loans are often available to self-employed borrowers. Lenders usually want to see about two years of self-employment history and your recent tax returns.
Bank statement loans
If your tax returns don’t show what you really earn, a bank statement loan may be a better fit. Instead of tax returns, the lender looks at deposits on your personal or business bank statements, usually over the last 12 or 24 months.
Investor loans
Buying a rental? A DSCR loan can qualify you based on the property’s rent instead of your personal income. See all our options on the loan programs page.
What should I have ready?
- Your last two years of tax returns, personal and business
- Recent bank statements
- Any business license or CPA letter you already have
Don’t have everything handy? That’s fine. Start the conversation and we’ll tell you exactly what we need.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a mortgage with one year of self-employment?
Sometimes. Some programs allow it, especially if you were in the same line of work before. Ask us and we’ll check your options.
Do bank statement loans cost more?
They can be priced differently than traditional loans. That’s why we compare lenders for you and show you your best options side by side.
Should I talk to Avalon before I file my taxes?
If you’re planning to buy soon, yes, along with your tax professional. A quick conversation can help you understand how your return may affect what you qualify for.
We’ll make this the easy part.
- 130+ lending partners, so you get more options
- Competitive pricing and our Match or Beat Program
- Over 40 years of combined experience
- Direct access to your loan officer by chat, text or cell
Avalon Mortgage Group is based in Alpharetta, Georgia, serving Milton, Roswell, Johns Creek, Cumming, metro Atlanta and beyond.
Loan programs, pricing and eligibility are subject to underwriting and can change. Match or Beat applies to comparable written mortgage offers. Not a commitment to lend.