Military buyers need to be prepared to move fast when they find the right house. Suggest that buyers bring the following:

• Lender's preapproval letter
• W-2 forms (member and spouse) for the past two years
• At least the two most recent months of Leave and Earnings Statements and spouse's pay stubs
• Copies of statements for at least the two most recent months of savings and checking accounts and any other accounts that may be used for earnest money and down payments
• Checkbook
• General or real estate specific power of attorney for an absent spouse
• Digital camera, video camera, or smartphone