Being your own boss comes with freedom, but when it’s time to buy a home, that freedom can feel like a roadblock. If you’re a freelancer in Texas trying to get pre-approved for a mortgage, you might have already run into a frustrating truth: traditional lenders want to see W-2s, steady paychecks, and spotless tax returns.

But here’s the good news:you can still get pre-approved, even without tax returns. You just need a lender who understands how to work with self-employed borrowers.

At New Horizons Lending, we specialize in helping freelancers and self-employed Texans turn their income into buying power. Here's how it works:

Why Traditional Pre-Approvals Fall Short for Freelancers

Most pre-approvals are built for salaried borrowers. If you're showing low net income on your tax returns (thanks, deductions), or you’ve only been freelancing for a year or two, the system might mark you as "high risk"—even if your actual cash flow is strong.

Alternative Ways to Show Income (No Tax Returns Required)

Luckily, there areflexible mortgage programs designed for self-employed buyers. These use alternative documentation to verify income, such as:

●     Bank Statement Loans

Show 12–24 months of personal or business bank statements to prove consistent deposits and spending habits.

●     1099-Only Loans

Great for contractors or gig workers who receive regular 1099s instead of pay stubs.

●     Profit & Loss-Only Loans

Submit a Year-to-Date P&L statement, often with a CPA letter, instead of full tax returns.

●     Asset-Based Loans

If you have significant savings or investment accounts, you may qualify based on your assets rather than income.

What You Need to Get Pre-Approved in Texas as a Freelancer

You don’t need to guess, here’s what we typically look for:

●     12–24 months of bank statements (business or personal)

●     Proof of self-employment (website, invoices, or license)

●     Consistent income or deposits that match your living expenses

●     A decent credit score (usually 620+ for non-traditional programs)

●     A down payment (as low as 10% in many cases)

And no, you don’t have to be in business for 2 full years with all programs. Some allow 12 months of self-employment if your previous role was in the same industry.

Real Talk: What to Expect from the Process

At New Horizons Lending, we walk you through each step so you're not left wondering what's next. Expect:

1.    A quick discovery call – We learn about your income streams and business setup.

2.    Custom loan program match – We’ll find the best option based on your actual income picture, not just your tax filings.

3.    Fast-track pre-approval – So you can shop with confidence, knowing your financing is solid.

Why Freelancers in Texas Choose Us

At New Horizons Lending, we do more than check boxes. We look at the full picture: your hustle, your cash flow, and your long-term goals. Whether you're a photographer in San Antonio, a tech consultant in Austin, or a contractor in the Hill Country, we understand how non-traditional income works and how to translate it into mortgage approval.

We Listen First

We don’t lead with paperwork, we lead with a conversation. Our team takes the time to understand how your business runs so we can find a loan program that fits your real income story, not just what’s on your tax forms.

We Know the Landscape

Texas real estate moves fast, and so do we. Our deep understanding of the state’s markets and the unique challenges freelancers face here enables us to stay ahead. Whether you're buying in San Antonio, settling in the suburbs, or going rural, we can help.

Flexible Documentation Options

We work with lenders who offer creative, self-employed-friendly programs. That means no unnecessary hoops to jump through, just a clear path forward using bank statements, 1099s, or even P&L statements.

Faster, Smoother Pre-Approvals

We’ve helped countless freelancers get pre-approved in days, not weeks. Our streamlined process and hands-on support team mean fewer delays and less back-and-forth.

Real Guidance, No Jargon

We break down every step in plain English. You’ll never be left wondering what’s next or what a document means. We’re here to make the mortgage process feel simple, even if your income is complex.

Ready to Own It?

If you’ve been turned down by a traditional lender or just want to skip the headache of explaining your taxes, you have options. And we’re here to help you explore them.

Let’s talk about your goals.

Schedule a free discovery call today and get pre-approved on your terms.