I am still learning the basics about loan options.I have very good credit (650-700) and no recurring debt payments, but I am self-employed.

Are there major employers hiring?

For example, skip tracing and background checks (not employment or tenant, as they disallow that.) 

But it goes deeper, larger debt loads on non liquid assets requires analysis of cash, use of cash, inventory turn over or how fast we turn over deals or tenants, how quickly we collect revenues, tax liabilities, seasonal changes in those areas of business and real estate that are subject to seasonality (vacation rentals, apartments near colleges or seasonal employment, think motels or restaurants or gas stations and C-stores).  

Even though I have been able to spend a little more time here recently, I have done so very quietly and parked my car elsewhere, I still can not get my work life organized as I fear freely coming and going, and not being at home makes it so discombobulating.( I am self employed and schedule inspection appointments and write reports for work) Narc. cop says be patient, but I will be bankrupt if something doesn't give sooner than later and even if I win (big if), or sell it will be months and I could have to pay all his expenses.

Sometimes (usually) this means they don't have employment so there might be other problems down the road.

What's the employment (or unemployment) picture like?

I don't see that as being any different than requesting bank statements and/or paycheck stubs, to verify employment/income.Caveat, I don't know the landlord-tenant laws that would apply. 

Too lengthy to list here, but the categories are: General Requirements, Residence/Rental History, Income/Employment History, Financial/Credit History, and Legal/Criminal History.In Washington State we're required to show applicants our rental criteria before we can accept an application fee.

Employer Reference - Call and check5.