Paid by the Hour & Considering a Home Purchase? When you are paid by the hour vs. a salary, lenders generally average your income over a 1-2-year period, depending on your situation. But what happens if you receive an hourly increase? In that case, we can use your higher hourly wage and average your hours (not your income) over that same 1-2 year period. For some of my clients, this has helped them qualify for more, so let’s discuss your situation!