Understanding the mortgage underwriting process
What to expect from start to finish when lenders evaluate you for a home loan.
Laurie is an editor on Bankrate’s Home Lending team. She previously worked as a copy editor in the higher education space, including at BestColleges and Affordable Colleges Online. Prior to that, she worked in marketing and public relations at Binghamton University while earning her master's degree. She regularly writes a blog, Better By The Beat, to educate and empower the chronic illness community.
As an editor, Laurie’s universal goal is to create content that helps people cultivate and lead their best lives. When she's not editing for Bankrate, she enjoys reading, writing stories, blogging and exploring the beautiful outdoors of New York State.
Recently, my husband and I left behind the apartment life and bought our first house. One of my biggest tips for first-time homebuyers is to shop around and compare offers from at least three mortgage lenders. By doing so, we were able to lock in a lower rate with a local credit union offering a special deal, despite the high-rate environment. It's also helpful to draft a list of questions for each lender so you can easily compare your options and nail down the best fit for you. The homebuying process can seem overwhelming at times, but it's all worth it in the end when you get the keys to your new home!
What to expect from start to finish when lenders evaluate you for a home loan.
If you’re shopping for a mortgage, you better know what it means.
Although lenders can provide the same end product, not all are created equally.
One tends to be more expensive, but it also offers more homebuying options.
It’s a win-win plan — if you can afford it, of course.
It could be a good deal, depending on how you think interest rates are trending.
Here’s how a Bankrate editor bought her first home in a super-hot housing market.
Yes, shopping around can make a difference and save you thousands.
Watermark Home Loans is a mortgage lender good for those looking for specific loan options, such as an interest-only loan, VA loan or reverse mortgage. Learn more about Watermark Home Loans and compare this lender to others.
HomePlus Mortgage is good for borrowers interested in no closing cost-loans or a quick closing. Learn more about HomePlus Mortgage's loans and compare this lender to others.
U.S. Bank is a mortgage lender good for those looking to work with a traditional bank with nationwide lending capabilities. Learn more about U.S. Bank and compare this lender to others.
Reliant Home Funding is a Long Island, New York-based mortgage lender available in more than 20 states, including Colorado, Florida, Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas.
Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation is a mortgage lender good for those looking to work with a major national lender or for a convenient app experience. Learn more about Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation and compare this lender to others.
Rate is a mortgage lender good for those with strong credit who prefer an all-digital experience. Learn more about Rate and compare this lender to others.
SoFi has funded more than $7.5 billion in mortgages since it began offering them in 2014. Learn more about SoFi's mortgages and compare this lender to others.
Anchor Home Mortgage is a mortgage broker good for borrowers in Florida and Georgia interested in non-QM options and quick closings. Learn more about Anchor Home Mortgage and compare this lender to others.