Yeah, lenders are definitely getting pickier lately. I've seen clients with solid incomes and decent credit still get grilled over minor expenses. Makes me wonder if this is just a temporary tightening or the new normal. Curious if anyone's had better luck with smaller local banks or credit unions lately...maybe they're a bit more flexible than the big guys?
"Curious if anyone's had better luck with smaller local banks or credit unions lately...maybe they're a bit more flexible than the big guys?"
Definitely agree with this. From my experience, smaller local banks and credit unions tend to look at your overall financial picture rather than just ticking boxes. When I refinanced recently, the big banks were nitpicking every little expense, but my local credit union was way more understanding about minor stuff like occasional dining out or streaming subscriptions. Might be worth checking them out if you're hitting walls elsewhere.
"smaller local banks and credit unions tend to look at your overall financial picture rather than just ticking boxes."
Yeah, that's been my experience too. When we refinanced last year, our local credit union actually took the time to understand some irregular freelance income—big banks just saw it as a red flag. Definitely felt less stressful going local.
I get the appeal of local banks and credit unions, but honestly, sometimes the smaller guys can be a bit too cautious for my taste. Had one local credit union practically interrogate me over a few Airbnb bookings—felt like I was explaining Netflix to my grandma. Ironically, a bigger bank ended up being more chill about it. Guess it depends on who you get behind the desk that day...
