After meeting with a loan officer you'll know what amount your qualified to buy up to. This is one of the first steps you should take in looking for a home. You should also shop around, see what programs and rates a few different lenders offer. Careful though, don't just pick the one with the lowest rate, look carefully at all the charges you'll incur when taking out a loan.

The following is what you'll need to bring with you to complete a loan application:

• Original W-2 (2 years) and current month's paystubs.
• Last 12 month's mortgage or rental history (cancelled checks).
• Employment addresses (2 year history).
• Contract of sale and legal description Last three months of bank statements.
• Loans: Lender name, address, account number and balance.
• Real Estate owned: Addresses, value and loan information
• Self-Employed: Two year's tax returns and YTD P&L
• Tax returns if bonus, commission or overtime income
• Social security numbers
• Checkbook or Visa/MC for required fees
• FHA: Driver's license or other photo ID
• VA: Certificate of eligibility