NEW YORK — All you needed was a pulse. In the not-so-distant past that’s practically all it took to qualify for a mortgage. Now an exhaustive array of paperwork awaits potential borrowers.

Call it the new mortgage reality. Lenders that got burned when the housing market collapsed are taking extra steps to protect themselves and are requiring more financial documents than ever. But that doesn’t mean getting a mortgage has to be too stressful as long as you’re prepared.

1. Start by requesting your free credit report.

You won’t receive a score, but it’s important to review a report from the three credit reporting agencies: Experian, TransUnion and Equifax. Make sure the information on each is correct. If you have any late payments or recent inquiries on your report, prepare to explain the circumstances to a lender in writing. You’ll have to settle any open collections, tax liens or judgments before you close the mortgage.

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