🏡 Getting a Mortgage When You’re Self-Employed: What You Need to Know

Being self-employed comes with incredible freedom — you set your schedule, build your own brand, and control your income. But when it comes to getting a mortgage, that flexibility can sometimes make the process feel a little more complicated. The good news? With the right preparation and guidance, self-employed borrowers can absolutely qualify for competitive mortgage rates and programs.
At Bluegrey Mortgage, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs, freelancers, and business owners navigate the mortgage process with confidence.
💼 What Counts as “Self-Employed”?
If you own your own business, work as an independent contractor, freelance, or receive 1099 income — you’re considered self-employed in the mortgage world. Typically, lenders want to see at least two years of stable income from self-employment to verify that your earnings are consistent and reliable.
📄 Documentation You’ll Need
While traditional W-2 employees provide pay stubs, self-employed borrowers verify income through documentation such as:
- Personal and business tax returns (usually the last two years)
- Year-to-date profit and loss (P&L) statement
- Business bank statements
- CPA letter (sometimes required)
Having these organized and ready helps the process move faster and smoother.
đź’ˇ Loan Options for Self-Employed Borrowers
There are several loan programs designed to help self-employed borrowers qualify:
- Bank Statement Loans: Instead of tax returns, these use 12–24 months of bank deposits to verify income — great for those who write off many expenses.
- Conventional Loans: With solid documentation and a strong credit profile, you can qualify just like a W-2 borrower.
- Jumbo Loans: For higher-priced homes, there are flexible jumbo options tailored for self-employed buyers.
At Bluegrey Mortgage, we work with a wide range of lenders to match you with the best fit for your situation.
đź’° Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Keep business and personal finances separate.
- Avoid large new business expenses before applying.
- Maintain a strong credit profile.
- Work with a mortgage professional who understands self-employed borrowers (that’s us!).
🏠The Bottom Line
Self-employment doesn’t have to stand in the way of homeownership — it just takes the right approach. Whether you’re a small business owner, consultant, or gig worker, Bluegrey Mortgage is here to simplify the process and help you make your next move with confidence.
Ready to explore your options?
👉 Contact us today to learn more about flexible mortgage programs designed for self-employed borrowers.
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