Ignite FB Tracking PixelUnderstanding the mortgage underwriting process - Jim Baptista and Cara Golson
Lamacchia Realty, Inc
Jim Baptista and Cara Golson, Lamacchia Realty, IncPhone: (508) 558-9123
Email: [email protected]

Understanding the mortgage underwriting process

by Jim Baptista and Cara Golson 10/15/2024

What is mortgage underwriting featured image

For most homebuyers, securing financing through a mortgage loan is the best option to purchase a property. Getting an overall idea of the mortgage underwriting process can help you when working with a mortgage lender and can help you prepare for each step of the journey. 

What is mortgage underwriting?

After you send in a mortgage loan application, it goes through the underwriting process. Your lender reviews key pieces of information to determine if you’re financially able to pay them back for the loan. 

A mortgage underwriter reviews your credit score, credit history, employment information and assesses the mortgage loan amount to see if it’s worth the investment for the lending company. 

Tell me the steps of the mortgage underwriting process

There are 5 main steps to the mortgage underwriting process. Theses include: 

  • Getting your loan application preapproved. 
  • Verification of your assets and income. 
  • Appraisal for qualification. 
  • Verification of no titles on the property and title insurance. 
  • Final decision to approve or deny the mortgage application. 

How strict is mortgage underwriting?

Overall, an average of 7 to 14 percent of mortgage applications are denied yearly. Most lenders abide by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines during the lending process. Government backed loans such as an FHA or VA loan adhere to regulations of the Federal Housing Administration.

Sometimes, lenders will implement their own regulations on top of the standard ones in response to economic factors or other conditions, which is called an overlay. 

Getting approved or a loan gives homebuyers more freedom when making a property purchase. By reviewing the underwriting process, you can prepare needed documentation and get a better idea of the timeline for approval.



About the Author
Author

Jim Baptista and Cara Golson

The BAP Team wants to thank you for visiting our Site. I have over 40 years experience with Real Estate. As a young man my first purchase was a 3 unit building which set the tone for many experiences including the Foreclosure Process, Buying at Auctions & Bank Owned REO's. We represent Buyers and Sellers as well as seasoned investors in building wealth with multi-family homes. Teamed with my daughter Cara as a Closing Coordinator, Our Mission is to provide you with the service you need in order to make the process of Buying and Selling educational and rewarding. It is our goal to treat your real estate as if it were ours. You can be assured your 'Best Interest' will always be our top priority.