Yeah, lenders can definitely get carried away sometimes. I mean, verifying stability makes sense—especially with tighter mortgage rules—but 15 years back? That's borderline archaeological! Usually, when I've seen requests like this pop up, it's because something in the application triggered a red flag or inconsistency. Maybe a gap in employment history or an old credit hiccup resurfacing.
I'd suggest politely pushing back and asking if there's another way to satisfy their requirement. Often, lenders have some flexibility—they just don't advertise it upfront. I've had clients successfully use alternative documentation or even letters of explanation to clear things up without digging through dusty boxes in the attic. Worth a shot before you start excavating your past life...
Had something similar happen when refinancing a few years ago. They wanted pay stubs from a job I had in 2007...seriously? I politely pushed back, explained the docs were long gone, and offered a detailed letter instead. Surprisingly, they accepted it without much fuss. Definitely worth trying before you start digging through ancient paperwork. Sometimes lenders just start with the most extreme request first, hoping you'll comply easily.
"Sometimes lenders just start with the most extreme request first, hoping you'll comply easily."
Yeah, I've seen this tactic a few times myself. It's almost like they're testing the waters to see how much you'll tolerate. Had a client recently who was asked for bank statements going back ten years...I mean, who even keeps those anymore? We pushed back gently, and they settled for a recent tax return instead. Makes me wonder, though—has anyone noticed lenders easing up once you challenge their initial demands, or is it usually a hassle?
Haha, reminds me of when I was applying for my mortgage last year. They asked for proof of employment going back seven years, including a summer job I had scooping ice cream in college. Like seriously, you want a reference from the manager at Dairy Freeze who probably doesn't even work there anymore? I gently pointed out how absurd that was, and they quickly backed off. Seems like they're just throwing stuff out there hoping it'll stick...
Yeah, lenders can get pretty meticulous these days. I've seen clients asked for similar obscure employment details, and honestly, it's usually just a compliance thing—they're ticking boxes to cover themselves. But you're right, sometimes it borders on absurdity. Best approach is exactly what you did: politely question the necessity. Often they'll reconsider once they realize how impractical their request is...though I wouldn't count on it every time.
