If you are self employed you may think that it will be more difficult for you to purchase real estate. That is not true. I have bought properties in several states over the past thirty years and have never had a problem because I am self employed. These properties have been both new construction and resale homes, and commercial as well as residential.
A larger down payment may be a good idea when you are trying to get a loan. The more "skin" you have in the game, the more favorable the lender will be in determining your rate and terms for a loan. Talk to your lender before you make an offer on a property. Having your financing in place before you make an offer will increase your negotiation power with the seller.
Make sure that your tax records and bank statements are in order before you make an offer. Also, check with the credit bureaus to make sure that the information they have is correct in your file. You don't want paperwork troubles to hold up the purchase of property.
