Brokers want their clients’ files to move quickly from application to closing. However, sometimes delays occur. We have invited Joey Oramas, Senior Mortgage Underwriter at AD Mortgage, to join Alexandria McLymont for the latest episode of the Mortgage Digest.
With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Joey has lots of insights to share – what factors slow down a file, why submitting extra documents can sometimes hurt rather than help, and how underwriters balance speed with risk mitigation.
Speed vs Risk: How to Succeed at Both
Brokers do not have to choose between mitigating risks and maintaining speed for borrowers – understanding the workflow and guidelines ensures efficiency on both fronts.
‘Look at the documentation and at the borrower profile. Does the initial application meet with the applicant? Does it qualify based on the documentation information versus what was given to you over the phone?’
Carefully reviewing the application and ensuring it meets the underwriting requirements will help brokers avoid inconsistencies, preventing unnecessary conditions and delays.
‘We are partners, and we need each other to mitigate the risk. If you see any inconsistencies in the application, address them before we get our hands on the file. Otherwise, unfortunately, I have to condition the file.’
AD Mortgage provides flexible underwriting for out-of-the-ordinary borrowers. Submit a scenario and our experts will contact you with a tailored solution within 30 minutes.
Common Mistakes That Slow Down a File
Joey names three key elements that lead to delays:
- Submitting documentation to the wrong bucket
- Not checking whether documentation fulfills the requirements
- Assuming that incomplete, insufficient documentation will be enough
Brokers should not only understand these factors but also explain them to their clients.
‘At the end of the day, the customer is the one that really needs to understand the process.’
It is critical that the borrower meets the underwriting requirements at the time of application. If not, the file may still move forward with extensions or other available options – however, the borrower will not be able to close the loan until all applicable guidelines have been met.
Do Different Borrowers Require Different Underwriting?
A first-time homebuyer and an experienced investor follow different loan scenarios. How does this impact underwriting?
‘I don’t see a difference in underwriting – I see a difference in the guidelines. I look at whether the guidelines meet this borrower’s perspective versus the other.’
While real estate investors are usually cool-minded, first-time homebuyers tend to be more emotional. These differences influence how underwriters interact with borrowers, even if the guidelines they follow do not change.
‘I handle first-time homebuyers a bit more sensitively because this is their first home. I remember when I bought my first home, and it is great to see people fulfilling their dreams.’
AD Mortgage offers a full range of loan programs, helping partners match any scenario with the right solution.
How to Keep Loans Moving During High Volume
At times of peak submissions, underwriters work intensively to review files. What can brokers do to ensure their loans are still moving forward quickly?
‘Allow the underwriter to do their job. On our side, we are trying to mitigate the risk and check whether the file is saleable. If our partners could just take a few steps back and understand the scope of the work, it would make a lot of things easier.’
Also, there is no reason to bombard the underwriter with additional documentation. Brokers should submit only those documents that are requested.
‘Take your time, do not rush the submission. Make sure that your documents are put into the appropriate buckets and that you are not buckling them all together into one shot. ‘
‘Don’t second guess yourself about whether you need to give additional documentation. Avoid that until the underwriter asks you to provide more. This streamlines the process and makes it quicker.’
AD Mortgage Tools that Make Underwriting More Efficient
AD Mortgage develops innovative solutions, supporting operations and delivering high-quality results quickly. We have created the first integrated Non-QM AUS in mortgage history that instantly approves eligibility and generates a custom set of conditions for Non-QM loans.
‘Automation generates quicker approvals and mitigates risks. Also, it makes it easier for partners to understand the file flow.’
AD Mortgage provides the AIM Partner Portal, a one-stop platform that helps partners with their daily operations.
What Should Brokers Keep an Eye on in 2026
The industry is constantly changing, and brokers need to keep up with this rapid development. The key is in networking and communication:
‘My advice is to be heavily involved in broker organizations, many of which are free or have a small fee. Participate, learn about the laws and the changes in the financial industry. Voice your opinions and be active in the community.’
Another great idea is to participate in mortgage events held throughout the year all across the country. Follow AD Mortgage on LinkedIn, where we share information about upcoming tradeshows, mortgage insights, and news.
