• W-2's for the past two years (or complete tax returns if self-employed)
• 12 months mortgage or rental payments receipts or canceled checks
• Most recent pay stubs covering the last 30 days
• Bank statements for the past three months
• Names, addresses and account numbers of creditors (bank cards, car loans, etc.)
• Landlord's name, address, and the amount of rent paid (if applicable)
• Proof of receipt from Social Security, retirement income, pensions, VA compensation, or other monthly income
• A check for the appraisal and credit report

In addition, the following will probably be required early in the loan process if they apply:

• The last two years signed partnership and/or corporate tax returns, including K-1's or S-1's
• A year-to-date Profit & loss for all self-employee, partnerships, and corporations
• A copy of all lease agreements not listed on Schedule C of tax returns
• If you are divorced, a certified copy of the Settlement Agreement and Final Divorce Decree. If you receive child support, alimony or separate maintenance, 12 months canceled checks or verification from the court of payment or a copy of the last 12 months bank statements showing that the payments have been received
• Bankruptcy discharge papers with explanations (if applicable). One year must have passed (this may be longer for some lenders) since the bankruptcy was discharged...
• A copy of the Purchase Contract signed by the Seller, Buyer and all agents

You can receive "pre-approval" from many lenders without knowing which property you want to buy. Final loan approval is subject only to the property you choose appraising for the amount of the purchase price or higher. In fact, it is a very good idea to be "pre-approved" when you go to look for a property. Then, when you find the house you want, you are in a much stronger negotiating position (especially in a multiple offer situation), if you can tell the Seller that you have already been approved for the loan subject only to the appraisal.