Buying a Condo & travelling

My husband and I "travelled" out to San Diego, and have fallen in love with the area. So, we've decided to stay and have found a GREAT deal on a condo (surprisingly out here!!).

My lender is taking 'issue' with the fact that I'm a traveller and only have a "temporary" job. They'd like me to secure a permanent position at the hospital before approving the loan.

I have great credit, and have been a nurse for 9 year, 5 of them in ICU. I don't think finding a permanent job is going to be an issue, especially here in California.

So, has anyone else tried to purchase a house while on assignment? I can't be the only one.

I tried to get a "promise" letter from the hospital, stating that there would be a job available once my contract is completed (the current one is until May 1st) as they are constantly asking when I'm going to go "core", but they are unwilling to do this unless I actually apply and complete the process. I don't want to do that yet. It's like being forced into a corner, and I lose all bargaining leverage for vacation/sign-on bonuses/etc if I take a position NOW under these circumstances.

I told the lender that I DO have a professional, well-established job and if they have a problem with that, I'll look elsewhere.

I'm waiting to hear back from them.

Am I way off base?? Anyone have similar problems, experiences??

Thanks,
Stefanie