Can You Get a Mortgage Without Two Years of Work History? | reAlpha Mortgage

Let’s be real: Buying a home is already complicated. Now add the pressure of having a non-traditional job history or gaps in your employment, and it can feel impossible.

But here’s the truth: You don’t need two years of uninterrupted employment to qualify for a mortgage. What lenders care about is whether you can consistently repay the loan.

This guide breaks down exactly how you can still get approved, legally and smartly, irrespective of your work history. From recent grads and gig workers to freelancers and returning parents, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s sort through the confusion.

• You can qualify for a mortgage without two full years of employment.
• Alternative documentation, like contracts, bank statements, or co-signers, can help.
• Lenders are looking for income stability, not just job tenure.
• Not limited to VA loans, options exist for all borrowers.

You may think two years of employment is a hard rule, but it’s not. Lenders focus on income stability and the ability to repay. That means:

• Consistent Income: Can you show regular deposits over time?
• Job Continuity in Same Field: Have you been in the same profession (even if you switched employers)?
• Education to Career Transition: Just graduated? If your job matches your degree, you may still qualify.
• Self-Employed or Freelancer? You’ll just need a paper trail, bank statements, 1099s, client contracts, etc.

• Recent college grads entering their career field
• Workers returning after a gap (parental leave, illness, etc.)
• Gig economy or contract-based income with 12–24 months of documentation
• Multiple part-time jobs add up to a consistent income

Pro Tip: A lender like reAlpha Mortgage offers flexible loan programs tailored to unique work situations — from freelancers to first-time buyers. NMLS #1743790

There’s no one-size-fits-all mortgage. Some programs are more forgiving of employment gaps than others. Explore:

• Ideal for self-employed borrowers or freelancers
• No W-2s or tax returns needed, just bank statements (usually 12–24 months)

• Qualify based on your liquid assets instead of income
• Great for retirees or investors

• These don’t conform to conventional underwriting rules
• Flexible with income documentation, credit events, and job history

• Pair with a creditworthy partner to boost your application strength

Don’t worry, we’ll guide you through the documentation.

Find the Perfect Mortgage for Your Dream Home with reAlpha Mortgage.

Compare options, calculate payments, and get expert guidance - all in one place.

Check if you qualify

If you’re not submitting the usual W-2s, here’s what can help your case:

• Bank Statements (12–24 months)
• Proof of Future Employment (signed offer letters)
• Client Contracts or Invoices
• Letter of Explanation for Gaps
• Proof of Educational Background

• Be upfront with your lender
• Choose a loan program that fits your profile
• Keep excellent records (especially if self-employed)
• Use tech-driven platforms to simplify the paperwork

reAlpha connects you with licensed mortgage experts and tools to simplify your homebuying journey — and helps you earn up to 75% commission rebate when you buy smart.

Yes. If your job aligns with your education, many lenders count your schooling as relevant work history.

Not necessarily. Consistent part-time or contract income may qualify you.

You may still qualify, especially if you’ve returned to work in the same field. Provide an explanation letter and recent pay stubs.

Yes, Bank Statement and Non-QM loans are two examples.

Yes. Be My Neighbor (NMLS #1743790) is a licensed lender offering flexible mortgage options for various borrower profiles.

Buying your dream home doesn’t have to drain your savings. With reAlpha, you can unlock up to 75% of your buyer agent’s commission back - real cash that can fund your inspections, closing costs, or move-in upgrades.

Start with 25% just for using a reAlpha agent, add reAlpha Mortgage to reach 50%, and bundle in our title partner to unlock the full 75% rebate.

Buy smarter, save thousands. See what you qualify for at reAlpha Mortgage.

• NMLS ID for reAlpha Mortgage: #1743790
• reAlpha Mortgage is a licensed lender offering flexible mortgage options.
• reAlpha is a homebuying platform that helps you access commission rebates and connects you with licensed real estate and mortgage professionals.
• Rates, APRs, and program availability may vary by state and lender.
• Information is subject to change without notice.

Find the Perfect Mortgage for Your Dream Home with reAlpha Mortgage.

Compare options, calculate payments, and get expert guidance - all in one place.

Check if you qualify