@Hans Kautz As I am currently in my first two years self employed I basically am not touchable from a conventional lending standpoint.

I am still active in residential and am the "go to" guy for the residential projects my employer takes on.

Lessons learned: we now buy in places with diversified employment and a growing population.  

I am self employed so I show a lot of expense so in turn my income on my taxes are lower then what I actually make.

If I were the buyer, and you hesitated to provide the due diligence documents, I would walk away.It is no different than a bank requesting W2's, employment verification, tax returns,  etc, during the loan process.

@Justin PineiroHello Justin,I have linked an IRS website that provides good information for self-employed individuals.

Especially if you are self-employed, research all the requirements yourself and make sure you cover all your bases.

I was employed for over 4 years. 

Employment TrendPrice ratio from distressed properties and retail sales Are there buyers in the Area?

For example:Population GrowthMedian home price growthMajor employers/IndustriesThe unemployment rate, history, and trendEconomic outlook (companies moving in/out)If you have specific criteria when choosing a location that is welcome too.