Most lenders need three to six weeks for the whole loan approval process. Much of this time is waiting for people and companies to respond to lender requests for information the lender will need to make a decision whether or not to grant you a mortgage loan. This processing time is reducing radically with more technology being used in the application process. You should know the standard approval time in your market.

All open credit accounts. Include account numbers, mailing addresses, monthly payments and current balances. Include all charge card and installment loans.
Past Credit References: If you have less than three open accounts, list past credit references. Include account number, address and amount borrowed.
Other obligations: List job related expenses such as insurance, union dues and dependent care, if applicable.
If any applicant is obligated to pay alimony or child support.
List premiums for auto, insurance, medical and cash value of life insurance policy and/or maintenance agreement, insurance and cash value of the policy.

If any applicant presently owns a home or has in the last 2 years, please provide:
a. Name and address of lender, loan number, type of loan.
b. If the loan was sold by assumption, the name of assumption.
All retirement fund information, savings bonds with serial numbers, stocks and similar assets.
If you are applying for a VA loan, a copy of your military separation form DD-214 will be needed. If you have already obtained your VA Certificate of Eligibility, bring it with you.
If you or co-applicant are self-employed, copies of your profit and loss statements for the past 2 years will be needed along with a current balance sheet and Income Tax Returns for the past 2 years. NOTE: If this is to be a VA loan, these documents MUST be prepared by a public accountant or certified public account.