Category: News

When most people apply for a mortgage, they assume approval is all about income, credit score, and down payment. While those are important, underwriters look at far more than just the basics. In fact, some of the biggest approval delays — or denials — come from details borrowers never realize matter. Here are five things underwriters pay close attention to that often surprise buyers. 1. Consistency of Income — Not Just the Amount It’s not only how much you earn, but how stable your income appears over time. Sudden changes in pay structure, recent job switches, bonuses, overtime, or commission income can all trigger extra scrutiny. Even higher income doesn’t always help if it lacks consistency. Underwriters want to see a clear, predictable pattern that suggests your income will continue…

Applying for a mortgage can feel overwhelming, but the process is more structured—and often faster—than many buyers expect. Once your application is submitted and documents are provided, the loan begins moving through a clear sequence of steps designed to keep everything on track toward closing. In the first one to two weeks, your lender reviews your application, income, assets, and credit, and collects required documentation. During this time, employment and assets are verified, disclosures are issued, and the appraisal is ordered. Quick document uploads and prompt responses here can significantly reduce delays. By weeks two to three, the appraisal is completed and underwriting takes a full look at your loan file. The underwriter may request a few final items or clarifications, which is very common. Responding quickly during this stage…

Interest rate headlines have been front and center lately, and for mortgage borrowers the tone is cautiously encouraging. Recent data shows mortgage rates holding roughly steady in the high‑5% to low‑6% range for many well-qualified borrowers, a noticeable improvement from the peaks of the last couple of years. While no one can guarantee the exact timing or size of future moves, the overall direction has shifted away from constant increases and toward a more balanced, buyer‑friendly environment. Central bank policymakers are now openly debating when and how quickly to ease policy, rather than whether further hikes are necessary. That shift alone has helped calm longer-term bond yields, which are a key driver of fixed mortgage rates. As investors increasingly price in the possibility of modest rate cuts over the coming…

Thanksgiving has a special way of bringing families together, and with that comes meaningful conversations about the future. While everyone gathers around the table, it’s natural to talk about plans, goals, and dreams for the coming year. For many families, homeownership is one of the biggest and most exciting milestones to plan for — and the holiday season creates the perfect space to start that discussion in a relaxed, supportive setting. As you enjoy time with loved ones, sharing your vision for buying a home can help everyone get on the same page. Whether it’s deciding what area you want to live in, discussing budget expectations, or thinking about the features that matter most, Thanksgiving offers the chance to explore these ideas without pressure. You might even find that family…