Mailbox location verification... that's a new one for me. I swear, sometimes it feels like these folks are just spinning a wheel of random requests. I totally get the need for backup docs—I've started keeping a folder labeled "For When They Inevitably Ask For Something Ridiculous."
Your log idea is gold. I might steal that, honestly. If nothing else, it gives you something to laugh about when you're knee-deep in paperwork. Flexibility really does win out over checklists most days, though I still cling to mine like a security blanket.
Mailbox location verification threw me for a loop too. I thought I was prepared, but nope—there’s always something new. I’ve started snapping pics of random things just in case. The log idea is genius, though. Honestly, sometimes it feels like the process is designed to test your patience more than anything else. I still keep my checklist, but it’s more for my sanity than actual usefulness at this point.
Mailbox verification is one of those steps that always seems minor until it isn’t. I’ve had projects delayed because the inspector couldn’t confirm the mailbox was in the right spot—never mind that it matched the site plan exactly. Now I keep a running photo log, too, but even then, sometimes they want a timestamp or some other detail I didn’t think to capture. The checklist helps, but honestly, half the time it feels like I’m just documenting things for my own peace of mind.
On escrow advances, have you found that lenders are getting stricter about documentation lately? I’ve noticed more requests for supporting evidence on even small disbursements. It used to be a bit more straightforward, but now every draw seems to come with a new set of hoops. Curious if others are seeing the same trend or if it’s just my luck this year...
Yeah, I’ve definitely noticed lenders tightening up on escrow advances. Used to be, you’d send over a receipt and maybe a signed invoice and that was it. Now I’m getting requests for before-and-after photos, contracts, even delivery confirmations for stuff as basic as landscaping or mailbox installs. Here’s what’s worked for me lately:
1. Keep digital copies of every doc—don’t just rely on paper.
2. Take progress photos with your phone’s location and time stamps turned on.
3. Scan receipts right away, don’t wait.
4. If you get a vague request, ask for specifics before resubmitting.
It’s more work upfront but it’s saved me from having draws held up over missing details... which used to drive me nuts. Guess the days of “good enough” are gone for now.
Yeah, I’ve run into the same thing—lenders want a paper trail for every nail and blade of grass these days.
Had a lender ask for a signed W-9 from my handyman just to release $500 for a fence repair. Felt like overkill, but I get it—they’re covering themselves. Curious if anyone’s found a way around the constant back-and-forth on “acceptable” proof? Sometimes I feel like I’m submitting a college thesis just to get reimbursed.“Now I’m getting requests for before-and-after photos, contracts, even delivery confirmations for stuff as basic as landscaping or mailbox installs.”
