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Just Started a Job? Here’s How You Can Still Buy a Home in Las Vegas

Written by Kimberly Smith - Your trusted Las Vegas Real Estate Queen



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Starting a new job is exciting — fresh opportunities,

new income, and maybe even a better lifestyle.

But if you’re dreaming of buying a home in Las Vegas, you might be asking yourself:

“Do I have to wait years in my job before I can qualify for a mortgage?”

The short answer: Not necessarily. FHA and conventional guidelines show that with the right preparation, you may be eligible much sooner than you think.


What Lenders Really Look At

Lenders aren’t only focused on how long you’ve been at your current job. They want to know if your income is stable and predictable.

Here’s what that often looks like:

  • W‑2 EmployeesMost programs like to see a 2‑year work history. But you don’t need to have been at the same job for 2 years — consistency in the same field often counts as continuous employment. FHA even allows income from a brand‑new job after just 30 days of pay stubs, as long as you didn’t have a long employment gap.

  • Job Switches in the Same IndustryMoving from one company to another in your field is usually fine — especially if your pay or benefits improved. Be aware: if you’ve had 3 or more job changes in the past 12 months, FHA requires extra documentation to show stability.

  • Recent Promotions or RaisesIf your new income is documented with pay stubs or an offer letter, lenders can count it. Promotions within the same company or field are usually a plus.

  • Self‑Employed BuyersMost lenders require two years of tax returns. In limited cases, if you’ve been self‑employed for at least five years (and can show strong financial stability), one year may be enough. Some non‑traditional programs accept 12 months of consistent bank statements, but these often come with higher rates or stricter credit requirements.


Real-Life Scenarios That Work

  • Maria, a TeacherShe moved from teaching in California to teaching in Las Vegas. Because it was the same profession, FHA guidelines recognized her employment as continuous — she qualified after just one month of pay stubs.

  • James, a Sales ProfessionalJames started a new sales job with a base salary plus commission. Since his salary was guaranteed and commissions were documented for 12 months, his lender approved him without requiring years at the new job.

  • Lena, a FreelancerLena had been freelancing full‑time for five years. With one strong year of tax returns and steady deposits on her bank statements, she qualified under a program designed for experienced self‑employed buyers.


Quick Checklist Before You Apply

Here’s what you can start gathering today:

✔️ 1–2 months of recent pay stubs (FHA requires at least 30 days)

✔️ Last 2 years of W‑2s or tax returns (if available)

✔️ Employment offer letter or promotion letter (if new role)

✔️ 12 months of bank statements if self‑employed (for alternative programs)

✔️ Documentation for bonuses, commissions, or overtime (ideally 12 months history)


Remember: The more complete your paperwork, the easier it is for lenders to say yes.


FAQs I Hear from Buyers

  1. Can I use a signing bonus to qualify? Sometimes — if it’s documented and paid directly. Most lenders want to see that it’s not a one‑time payment.


  2. What if I switched from hourly to salary? Yes — documented, stable salary income usually works in your favor.


  3. Can my spouse’s stable job help balance my new role? Absolutely. When both applicants are on the loan, lenders combine household income, which can strengthen your approval odds.


  4. What if I had a long job gap? If you were unemployed for more than 6 months, FHA requires you to be on your current job for at least 6 months and show a 2‑year work history before that.


Real Estate Queen Tip 👑

I’ve helped Las Vegas buyers qualify after just 30 days on a new job — and I’ve also guided self‑employed clients through the two‑year paperwork hurdle. The key is choosing the right program and lender for your situation.

Every buyer’s story is different — and that’s why I review each case individually, matching you with lenders who see more than just numbers on paper.


Ready to See If You Qualify?

Your career move doesn’t have to delay your dream of owning a home. In a fast‑moving market like Las Vegas, preparation can make all the difference.


👑 Kimberly Smith is a top Las Vegas Realtor known for her sharp market insight, strategic approach, and commitment to helping clients move smart—whether buying, selling, or just exploring what’s next. She’s not just a local expert—she’s The Real Estate Queen of Las Vegas.

📞 Connect with Kimberly:📍 Serving Greater Las Vegas | 🏡 Luxury + Residential

📲 (702) 291-7098

📱 Follow on Instagram: @realestatequeenoflasvegas


 
 
 

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