Honestly, I get where you’re coming from, but I see it a bit differently. Here’s the thing:
- Lenders are way more concerned about “gift” money because it could be someone trying to help you qualify for a loan you can’t actually afford. That’s why they want the paper trail and letters for even small amounts.
- eBay sales? They’re usually considered self-employment or hobby income, and unless you’re depositing huge sums or using it as qualifying income, most underwriters don’t care. It’s inconsistent, so they just ignore it unless it’s a red flag.
- The system isn’t logical, but it’s designed to prevent fraud and make sure buyers aren’t getting help that puts them in over their heads.
I’ve had deals nearly fall apart over a $200 Venmo from a family member, but then thousands in side hustle cash just sailed through. Frustrating, but honestly, it keeps people from biting off more than they can chew... at least in theory. The hoops are annoying, but I’d rather deal with paperwork than end up underwater on a property.
Honestly, I get the logic behind all the hoops, but sometimes it feels like the system is just picking and choosing what to care about. Like you said:
I’ve had deals nearly fall apart over a $200 Venmo from a family member, but then thousands in side hustle cash just sailed through.
That’s exactly my gripe. I’ve seen buyers with totally legit savings get grilled over a birthday check from grandma, while someone else’s random PayPal deposits don’t even get a second glance. It’s not always about protecting people—sometimes it’s just bureaucracy doing its thing. I’d love to see more consistency, honestly.
It’s wild how random it can feel. When we bought our place in Dallas, the lender flagged a $150 transfer from my sister—literally labeled “for groceries”—and wanted a letter of explanation. Meanwhile, my freelance payments (which are way less predictable) barely got a glance. I get that they’re trying to prevent fraud, but sometimes it just feels like they’re looking for red flags in all the wrong places. Ever notice how it depends on which underwriter you get, too? Some are super strict, others barely blink.
Had the same thing happen when I bought in Plano—my bank flagged a $200 Venmo from my mom (literally for my birthday dinner), but didn’t care about my random side hustle deposits. It’s like they’re allergic to anything labeled “gift” or “family.” Underwriters are a total mystery sometimes... I swear it depends on whether they’ve had their coffee yet.
It’s like they’re allergic to anything labeled “gift” or “family.” Underwriters are a total mystery sometimes... I swear it depends on whether they’ve had their coffee yet.
That coffee comment cracked me up—honestly, you might be onto something. I once had a client whose dad wired him $5k for “moving expenses,” and the underwriter wanted a signed letter, bank statements, and practically a DNA sample. Meanwhile, his freelance checks from three different apps just slid right through. There’s some logic in there somewhere... maybe. Or maybe it’s just the caffeine levels, like you said.
