Cash-outs can definitely drag things out, but honestly, I've seen plenty of straightforward rate-and-term refis get stuck in underwriting limbo too. Sometimes it's less about the type of refinance and more about the lender's internal processes or even the specific underwriter you land with. Your brother might've lucked out with a smooth lender or an underwriter who wasn't buried in files at the time... timing and luck can be bigger factors than people realize.
Had a similar experience last year—straightforward refi, solid credit, everything lined up, yet it still dragged on for weeks. Turns out my underwriter went on vacation mid-process... sometimes it's just random stuff like that. Hang in there, it'll eventually get sorted.
Had something similar happen a couple years back—perfect paperwork, no issues on my end, but the lender kept asking me for random extra docs. Ever notice how it's always "just one more thing"? Turns out they were short-staffed and juggling too many files. Did they give you any hint what's causing the delay, or are you totally in the dark? Hang tight, it'll come through eventually... just one of those frustrating hoops we jump through sometimes.
"Ever notice how it's always 'just one more thing'?"
Yep, exactly this. Went through something similar recently as a first-time buyer—felt like every week they needed another random doc or clarification. Turns out underwriting was backed up because rates dropped and everyone jumped on refinancing at once. My loan officer finally admitted they were swamped and understaffed. Hang in there, though... once it finally clears, the relief is worth all the hassle.
Yeah, refinancing can seriously test your patience. When I did mine last year, I swear they asked for the same document three separate times—felt like Groundhog Day. Turns out they were double-checking everything because of tighter lending rules. Honestly, better safe than sorry, though...you don't want surprises later. Hang tight, it'll get there eventually, and you'll sleep a lot easier once it's done.
