Why Brandon Gilkey Recommends Every New Homebuyer Understands The Mortgage Underwriting Process

Buying a home is a big decision and one of the most significant investments you will ever make. As a new homebuyer, navigating through the complex process of securing a mortgage can be quite challenging. You must understand the mortgage underwriting process to make a sound financial decision. 

In this article, Brandon Gilkey will explain why it’s important to familiarize yourself with the underwriting process to have an efficient, hassle-free home-buying experience.

What is Mortgage Underwriting?

The mortgage underwriting process is a comprehensive analysis of your creditworthiness, where lenders assess whether you’re financially capable of repaying a mortgage. Lenders typically check various aspects, such as your income, assets, debts, and credit score, to determine how much you can borrow and how much interest you will pay.

Why Is It Important to Understand the Mortgage Underwriting Process?

One of the main reasons you should understand the underwriting process is that it can help you prepare for the entire homebuying journey. 

By knowing how lenders assess your eligibility for a mortgage, you can anticipate their requirements, gather your financial documents, and improve your credit score, if necessary, to increase your chances of getting approved. There are other reasons every new homebuyer should understand the mortgage underwriting process.

a. Helps You Identify Potential Problems

Going through the underwriting process can help you identify any potential problems with your financial and credit history that could hinder your ability to get approved for a mortgage. You’ll be able to address these issues and improve your chances of getting approved.

b. Gives You Realistic Expectations

Understanding the underwriting process gives you a better sense of what you can expect during the home-buying process. You’ll know what documentation you need to provide and better understand how long it will take to get approved for a mortgage.

c. Increases Your Chances of Getting Approved

Understanding how underwriting works will ultimately increase your chances of getting approved for a mortgage. You’ll know what lenders are looking for, and you’ll be able to improve your credit and financial history to make yourself a more attractive candidate.

d. Helps You Get the Best Rates Possible

The underwriting process also significantly determines the interest rate you’ll receive on your mortgage. If you understand the underwriting process and are considered a low-risk borrower, you may be able to secure a lower interest rate, which can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your mortgage.

e. Leads to Better Financial Management

Going through the underwriting process can help you develop better financial management skills. You’ll be more aware of the impact of your credit and financial history on your mortgage approval chances. This knowledge will help you make better financial decisions in the future and improve your financial wellness.

What Does the Underwriting Process Involve?

The underwriting process involves reviewing your financial information, such as your credit report, bank statements, tax returns, employment history, and debt-to-income ratios (DTI), to determine your ability to manage debt. 

In most cases, underwriters verify the information in your mortgage application and may request additional documents such as pay stubs, rental agreements, and divorce decrees. Therefore, having all your financial documents accessible and organized is essential to simplify the underwriting process.

Benefits of Understanding the Underwriting Process

Understanding the mortgage underwriting process has many benefits. It can help you make sound financial decisions and choose the right mortgage that suits your needs. Moreover, it can save time, as lenders are more likely to approve your application if they have all the necessary information from the start.

Furthermore, by understanding how lenders assess your eligibility, you can proactively work to improve any areas that may be weak. Therefore, Brandon Gilkey recommends every new homebuyer should understand the mortgage underwriting process before applying for a loan. Doing so will ensure a smoother and more successful homebuying experience.

How Does Underwriting Impact Your Mortgage Approval?

Underwriting is a critical step in the mortgage process and can significantly impact your approval. When your loan is being underwritten, your lender will consider your financial history, income, employment, and other factors. 

Depending on your creditworthiness, debt-to-income ratio, and other eligibility criteria, you may be approved for the mortgage, denied outright, or offered an alternative financing option.

How Long Does the Underwriting Process Take?

The length of the underwriting process depends on several factors, including the lender’s workload, the complexity of your financial situation, and the type of loan you’re applying for. Typically, it can take two weeks to a month, sometimes even longer. 

Communicating with your lender regularly and providing any documents or information they request to expedite the processing time is essential.

Final Thought

Securing a mortgage is an important financial decision and can significantly impact your financial well-being. By understanding the mortgage underwriting process, you can simplify the homebuying journey and be better prepared to make the right financial decision. Consider contacting a licensed mortgage professional to learn more about the underwriting process and how you can best prepare for it. 

Brandon Gilkey is the CEO of Investor Deals Today, one of the industry leaders of Single Family Residential Portfolio transactions in the United States. In addition, he is the Managing Partner of four Real Estate Holding companies with properties in 12 different states.