"Seems like some lenders are just ticking boxes or maybe trying to justify their compliance team's existence."
Haha, yeah, it can definitely feel that way sometimes. Thing is, lenders interpret affordability guidelines differently—some zoom in on every little expense, others take a broader view. I've seen clients sail through with one lender after another gave them grief over minor stuff. Best bet is usually to find a lender whose criteria aligns better with your spending habits... saves a lot of headaches.
Totally relate to this. When we refinanced last year, we had one lender grill us on why our grocery spending went up one month—like seriously, it was Christmas, of course we spent more! Ended up switching lenders and the second one barely blinked at our statements. It really does seem like luck of the draw sometimes, but finding someone whose criteria matches your situation makes life way easier. Hang in there...it's annoying but you'll get through it.
- Had a lender once question my Netflix subscription...like, buddy, if you think that's what's gonna tank my mortgage, we've got bigger problems.
- Honestly though, finding a chill lender is half the battle these days. Glad you found someone sane!
Had the opposite experience myself. My lender barely glanced at my subscriptions or spending habits, and honestly, it made me a bit uneasy. I mean, sure, Netflix isn't gonna break the bank, but if they're not even checking the small stuff...what else are they overlooking? Sometimes a little scrutiny isn't all bad—keeps everyone honest.
Had a similar experience—my lender barely glanced at my monthly expenses. Felt weirdly casual. I actually asked them if they needed more details, but they shrugged it off. Makes you wonder how thorough they really are with bigger stuff...
