Underwriting Delay Checklist

Most loan delays are not caused by underwriting being “slow.”

They’re caused by preventable issues that surface mid-process.

A clean file at the beginning almost always closes on time.

This checklist highlights the most common delay triggers — and how to avoid them.

Underwriting must source large deposits.

If a borrower deposits:

• Cash
• Transferred funds
• Gift money
• Sale of personal property

Documentation will be required.

How To Prevent Delays:

• Avoid cash deposits
• Keep funds seasoned when possible
• Document gift funds properly before escrow

All pages are required — even blank ones.

Missing pages automatically trigger a condition.

Best practice:
Send full PDF statements, not screenshots.

Switching jobs can:

• Reset employment verification
• Require new documentation
• Change qualifying income

Always discuss job changes before making them.

Financing:

• Furniture
• Appliances
• A vehicle
• New credit cards

Even small payment increases can affect approval.

Wait until after closing.

Self-employed income is based on:

• Tax returns
• Net income after deductions
• Averaging over multiple years

Assumptions without reviewing tax returns often lead to delays.

Not all condos qualify for:

• Conventional financing
• FHA loans
• VA loans

Always verify condo approval before writing the offer.

Common appraisal issues include:

• Peeling paint
• Roof condition concerns
• Safety hazards
• Handrails missing
• Water damage

Identifying concerns early prevents last-minute repair negotiations.

Each loan program has limits on seller contributions.

If structured incorrectly:

• Contracts must be amended
• Numbers re-disclosed
• Timelines shift

Structure concessions correctly upfront.

Missed payments or new credit activity can:

• Lower scores
• Affect approval
• Trigger re-approval conditions

Keep credit stable until after closing.

Gift funds require:

• Signed gift letter
• Documentation of donor ability
• Transfer documentation

Handling this early prevents underwriting suspense.

Underwriting may require:

• Full federal returns
• All schedules
• Business returns (if applicable)

Partial returns delay approval.

Insurance must be:

• Bound
• Paid (if required)
• Aligned with closing timeline

Ordering insurance early avoids closing table delays.

Before going under contract, confirm:

• Income fully reviewed
• Funds verified
• No large unexplained deposits
• Seller concessions structured correctly
• Condo eligibility confirmed
• Borrower aware not to open new credit

Clean files close faster.

Delays create:

• Stress for buyers
• Friction between agents
• Contract amendment risk
• Unnecessary anxiety

Most issues are preventable with better upfront review.

If you'd like to review a file before submitting an offer, I’m happy to take a look and confirm everything is structured correctly.

⭐ Read our Google reviews

Tyler Krug
Mortgage Broker | 210 Mortgage
San Antonio, Texas

📞 210-204-8249
🌐 www.210mortgage.com

Pre-Approval Checklist

Offer Package Checklist

VA Loan Checklist

FHA Loans San Antonio

Mortgage Broker San Antonio