1. Tax returns: For this, you'll need to fill out the 4506-T form as well as your tax forms for the last 2 years.

2. Pay stubs, W-2s, or alternative proof of income: These documents relate to your payslips or paycheck stubs. In case you are self-employed, you should provide two recent tax return forms in addition to profit or loss statements.

3. Bank statements and other documents: In addition to your bank statement, you can provide proof of your possessions or investment assets, for example, life insurance.

4. Credit history: A record of how you have managed your credit in the past, evidencing any occurrence of bankruptcy or foreclosure.

5. Gift letters: It's important to distinguish between a ""gift"" and a loan. If someone close to you wants to help with your down payment as a gift, you should provide this “gift letter” explicitly stating its nature and that it is not a loan.

6. Photo ID: The photo should be recent and in passport style.

7. Renting history: This allows you to guarantee that you can pay your rent bills on time.

It usually takes 10 days from the first contact until the refinance is approved, assuming that all required documentation is submitted and no unforeseen issues take place.

The Home Owners Association (HOA) fees are monthly payments made by neighbors living in joint or condominium associations (block of flats or condos) to help maintain the shared areas of residence.

A down payment is the sum of money, often in cash, used as an initial payment for expensive goods, such as a car or a house. Depending on the loan you choose, it can range from 0%, as in the case of VA Loans (Veterans only), or 3%.

The principal is the sum of money you originally agreed to pay back for your loan or refinance.

The loan term refers to the period of time it takes to pay off the loan based on the amount and regularity agreed upon initially by both parties.