10 Things You Can Do to Make Your Refi Loan Officer Love You (and Get Closed Ridiculously Fast)

1) Send documents like you’re trying to win a race

When we ask for something, it’s usually because underwriting needs it to keep your file moving.

Speed loves clean paperwork.

2) Pay stubs and W-2s: give us the “whole set”

Common slowdown: we get page 1 of 2, or one year instead of two.

• Most recent pay stubs (as requested)
• W-2s (usually two years)
• If you’re self-employed, expect a different list

If you’re unsure what applies to you, just tell us your situation—we’ll guide you.

3) Bank statements: all pages, even the blank ones

Yes, even the page that says “This page intentionally left blank.” It’s still a page.

• Send the entire statement PDF
• Avoid screenshots if possible
• Don’t crop out account info or page numbers

Underwriting likes statements that look exactly like statements.

4) Don’t open new credit (seriously)

This is the fastest way to turn a smooth refi into a “why is this taking so long?” situation.

Avoid during the process:

• Financing furniture
• New credit cards
• New car loans/leases
• Big “buy now, pay later” plans

If you have to do something, call your loan officer first. We’ll tell you what’s safe.

5) Keep your money moves boring

Underwriting loves boring.

If you’re moving money around, it can create extra questions like “Where did this come from?” and “Can you document it?”

Try to avoid:

• Large cash deposits
• Random transfers between accounts
• Unexplained Venmo/Zelle inflows

If you need to move funds, just give your loan officer a heads up so we can document it cleanly.

6) Be ready to explain anything that looks weird on paper

Your finances can be totally normal in real life and still look confusing in a loan file.

Examples:

• A one-time bonus
• A temporary job change
• A gap in employment
• A big deposit (gift, reimbursement, sale)

A quick explanation letter can save days of back-and-forth.