Key takeaways
- Underwriting is a detailed review of the buyer’s finances and the property.
- Income verification, documentation consistency, and property or title issues are the most common causes of underwriting delays.
- Preparation, clear communication, and quick responses are the best ways to protect your client and close on time.
Underwriting is often the most stressful phase of the homebuying process. Even well-qualified buyers can face delays or surprises if something changes or doesn’t align with the paperwork. Protecting your client during underwriting means anticipating where transactions typically stall and taking proactive steps to prevent delays that could jeopardize closing.
Here’s what to watch for during underwriting, and how proactive guidance can help your clients reach closing on time.
What is underwriting in real estate?
Underwriting in real estate is the process a lender uses to determine whether a buyer qualifies for a mortgage and whether the property meets lending requirements. During underwriting, the lender conducts a detailed review of both the buyer’s financial profile and the home itself before issuing final loan approval.
An underwriter typically reviews:
- Income and employment history
- Assets and cash reserves
- Credit profile and existing debt
- The property’s value and condition
- Title history and insurance coverage
This stage happens after a buyer is under contract and before closing. While pre-approval sets expectations early, underwriting is when all information is fully verified using updated documentation and finalized property figures.
Anticipate income and DTI challenges
Income verification during underwriting goes far beyond confirming a buyer’s salary. Underwriters calculate a buyer’s debt-to-income (DTI) ratio, which includes the full monthly housing payment, principal, interest, taxes, insurance, and any HOA dues.
Even if a buyer was pre-approved, final insurance quotes, updated property tax figures, or revised loan terms can push their DTI over allowable limits.
Account for variable income
Buyers who earn commission, overtime, bonuses, or income from multiple jobs face more complex income verification. Lenders typically average variable income over a two-year period, which can reduce the impact of recent high-earning months.
Encourage clients to qualify using conservative income assumptions, and make sure they understand how their lender calculates fluctuating earnings.
Prepare for self-employed income review
Self-employed buyers are reviewed more thoroughly during underwriting. Underwriters may request profit and loss statements, business bank statements, tax returns, and verification letters to confirm income stability and tax compliance.
Setting expectations early about documentation requirements can prevent last-minute surprises.
Prevention strategy:
Help clients understand exactly how their income will be calculated before they apply. Review documentation requirements with their lender early, and gather supporting documents upfront to reduce follow-up requests.
Eliminate documentation inconsistencies early
Underwriters are trained to identify documentation inconsistencies that could signal errors or potential fraud. Even small discrepancies can trigger additional verification requests and slow down approval.
Common issues include inconsistent signatures, mismatched dates, spelling differences, and unexplained deposits.
Follow mortgage down payment gift rules
When buyers use gift funds for a down payment, lenders require clear documentation showing where the money came from and that it does not need to be repaid. Gift funds must typically be sourced, documented, and transferred according to lender guidelines. Missing or incomplete gift documentation is a common cause of underwriting delays.
Prevention strategy:
Confirm gift funds early and submit all required gift documentation together with the buyer’s bank statements.
Surface property and title risks upfront
Underwriting doesn’t just evaluate the buyer; it also reviews the property and its title history. Liens, boundary disputes, or ownership questions can delay closing even when financing is otherwise approved.
Other common red flags include unpermitted additions, easements that affect use, encroachments, HOA issues, or outdated title transfers.
In some states, older homes may present additional challenges, including easement concerns and property line discrepancies that often surface during the title search.
Prevent underwriting delays with a clear action plan
The most effective way to protect your client during underwriting is to prepare and be transparent.
- Submit complete documentation upfront
- Respond promptly to underwriter requests
- Avoid financial changes during the mortgage process
- Work with experienced local professionals
Build buffer time into the transaction timeline. Proactively reviewing these steps with your client before underwriting begins can significantly reduce the risk of last-minute delays.
Three tips for the best underwriting experience
A smooth underwriting process usually comes down to a few simple habits. Setting these expectations early helps buyers avoid common mistakes that can delay approval.
Tip #1: Avoid new credit and large purchases
Once underwriting begins, buyers should avoid opening new credit cards, taking out loans, or making large purchases. Even planned expenses, like furniture, appliances, or a new car, can change a buyer’s credit profile or reduce available assets.
Any financial change can trigger additional review or delay approval. After closing, buyers can move forward with purchases more confidently.
Tip #2: Respond quickly to lender requests
It’s common for lenders to request additional documents during underwriting, such as updated bank statements or clarification on income or deposits. Underwriters can’t move forward until these items are reviewed.
Quick responses help keep the process on schedule and reduce the risk of last-minute delays.
Tip #3: Be upfront and honest about finances
Underwriters verify income, credit history, and assets thoroughly. If something unusual appears, like a missed payment, a large deposit, or an employment gap, it’s best to address it early.
Letters of explanation can provide helpful context and often prevent unnecessary follow-up questions. For example, a late payment tied to a medical expense or timing issue may be viewed more favorably when explained upfront.
Frequently asked questions about underwriting
How long does underwriting usually take?
Underwriting typically takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on the buyer’s financial complexity and how quickly documents are provided.
Can a loan be denied during underwriting?
Yes. A loan can be denied if income, credit, assets, or property issues don’t meet lender guidelines.
Should buyers make financial changes during underwriting?
No. Buyers should avoid opening new credit accounts, changing jobs, or making large purchases that could affect their credit score, such as purchasing a car.
Protecting your client during underwriting
Underwriting can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to derail a transaction. When agents set clear expectations and guide clients proactively, most issues can be addressed before they become serious delays.
Protecting your client during underwriting comes down to preparation, consistency, and communication. By anticipating common challenges and responding quickly, you help move the transaction forward with fewer surprises and more confidence.
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