Good points about underwriting flexibility, but do you really think smaller lenders always make things smoother? I've run into situations where the smaller guys actually took longer to process paperwork because they lacked the resources or manpower. Maybe it's just my experience, but sometimes having fewer layers means fewer people to handle unexpected hiccups. Have you ever had a smaller lender struggle with timelines when things got complicated?
Also—agree with you on clarity, though. Big banks can bury you in fine print... been there, done that. But I wouldn't assume smaller automatically equals easier. Sometimes having a bigger team behind you can be helpful when your project hits a snag—just something to consider depending on your situation. Did your recent build delay end up costing you extra, or was it mostly just frustrating?
I've definitely seen smaller lenders stumble when things got tricky, but honestly, I've had just as many headaches with big banks. Sure, bigger teams can help—but sometimes more people means more confusion and passing the buck. Had a situation last year where a larger lender kept bouncing me between departments for weeks... total nightmare. Smaller lenders might lack resources, but at least you usually know exactly who's handling your file. Guess it really depends on the specific lender and your luck with timing.
You're spot on about the unpredictability factor. I've had similar experiences—sometimes smaller lenders really step up because they're personally invested in your file, while bigger banks can feel like navigating a maze. Last year, I had a smaller lender who went above and beyond to sort out a tricky financing issue quickly. But you're right, it can swing either way depending on timing and luck... Hang in there, though; sounds like you've got a good handle on what to watch out for.
Yeah, smaller lenders can be great when they're motivated, but I've also had times where their personal involvement turned into micromanaging headaches. Had one guy who called me every day—nice enough fella, but man, I didn't need a daily update on his morning coffee routine before we got to business. On the flip side, big banks can be frustratingly slow, yet sometimes that impersonal maze actually works in your favor—less drama, fewer awkward phone calls.
Honestly though, you're right about timing and luck. I've seen deals fall apart for no good reason and others glide through without a hitch despite red flags everywhere. Loans that don't fit neatly into boxes always seem to come down to whoever's desk they land on that day... guess that's just part of the game.
Had a similar experience when refinancing a few years back. Went with a smaller lender because I figured it'd be quicker and more personal. Well, it was definitely personal—maybe too personal. The loan officer was friendly enough, but he got into the habit of texting me random updates at odd hours. One night, around 10 pm, he messaged me about some minor paperwork detail, then somehow segued into his weekend fishing plans. Nice guy, but I didn't exactly need to know what bait he was using.
On the other hand, when I refinanced again recently, I went with a bigger bank. Sure, it felt like tossing paperwork into a black hole at times, but at least nobody was texting me about their hobbies late at night. It took longer than I'd hoped, but it was straightforward and drama-free.
You're spot on about timing and luck though—sometimes you just cross your fingers and hope your file lands on the right desk at the right time.
