Applying for a loan means filling out forms! Make the process easier by gathering documents to bring with you to the first application appointment. Here is a partial list of the documents to gather.

- Income tax information for last two years

- Pay stubs (one month's worth)

- Bank statements (three months' worth) for checking, savings and other accounts

- Investment statements for stocks, bonds and other investments

- Tax returns (two years' worth)

- Mortgage papers for any other property owned

- Copies of loan papers for other loans (e.g., car loans)

- Paperwork showing any other major debts

- Telephone numbers and addresses of your workplace, so the lender can verify your income