The first step is to order your credit report, to discover if it contains any errors and/or inaccuracies. The bank will also order its own copy of the credit report to initiate your loan. The credit report will be used by the loan officers to determine whether you are a good candidate for a loan, as well as how large a loan you can obtain. Next, it is important to have a clear picture of all your debts—the amounts of the balances, and the monthly payments. You should also have your most recent pay stub, showing your current income, and the last two to three years of your IRS W-2 forms, because as your income will be used to determine your eligibility. You should also have your most recent bank statements and investment account statements, showing your most recent balances. At this point, you should also know how much money you will use in cash toward a down payment on the loan.