Lenders want your business and will be happy to discuss what sort of loan and loan amount you may be eligible for.  Your lender can usually provide the following for free but will later need documentation to proccess your loan.

Always ask for

1-Good faith estimate-  the lender's estimate of what it will cost for you (the buyer) to close the transaction.  There will be lender fees, an appraisal fee, title insurance, etc, and they collect up-front money to start an impound account for taxes and insurance.
 
2- Estimate of monthly payment with taxes and insurance-  to be sure you are comfortable with what your payment will be.
 
Your lender can usually provide the above for free until later when you are ready to lock in your loan.
 
What you will need to apply for a loan~

Personal Information

1- Addresses last two years

2- Employer information for last two years

3-Copies of W-2-s for last two years

4-Copy of most recent pay stubs for full month

5- Driver's License

6- Social Security number

MISC~  Any and  all as may apply:

Any copies of information regarding divorce decrees, alimony, child support, or VA eligibility certificate.

Assets

1- Checking/saving statements for last 3 months

2- Money market/annuity/IRA accounts statements for last 3 statements

3- Real estate asset information such as  deeds/ leases/ sales contracts

Liabilities

1- Credit cards

2- Personal loans

3- Vehicle loans (car, RV, boat)

4- Mortgage loans

Useful websites to learn more about financial matters and real estate

   

 Learn about Mortgages: 

     *The Mortgage Professor - Information regarding loans