09/10/2026
HOME BUYING CHECKLIST: FINANCES & DOCUMENTS
Ready to buy a home? Before you start falling in love with the perfect kitchen or imagining where the Christmas tree will go, let’s make sure the financial side is ready too!
Here are two important pieces of your home-buying checklist:
1. GET YOUR FINANCES IN ORDER
Before applying for a mortgage, it’s important to understand your budget and know what monthly payment feels comfortable for you.
✔️ Review your income and expenses
✔️ Check your credit
✔️ Determine how much you have available for a down payment and closing costs
✔️ Avoid making large financial changes without talking to your lender first
✔️ Get pre-approved so you know what price range you can shop in
2. GATHER YOUR DOCUMENTS
Having your paperwork ready can help make the mortgage process smoother and keep things moving!
You may need items such as:
✔️ Recent pay stubs
✔️ W-2s and/or tax returns
✔️ Bank or asset statements
✔️ Identification
✔️ Information about current debts and monthly obligations
✔️ Documentation for additional income or assets, when applicable
Every buyer’s situation is different, which is why having a lender you can talk to throughout the process matters.
Not sure where to start? That’s what I’m here for! Let’s talk about your goals, your options, and what it will take to get you ready for the keys.
📞 Tanessa Permann | First Colony Mortgage
208.221.9121
NMLS #229060
📲 Call me when you’re ready, and let’s get your home-buying checklist started