Yeah, that's frustratingly common. Had a similar issue when I refinanced a couple years back—sent everything in, got the confirmation email, and then two weeks later they claimed they never received my tax returns. Luckily, like you, I had screenshots and email trails to back me up. Honestly, it seems like some lenders have pretty outdated document management systems or maybe just poor internal communication. Either way, keeping detailed records and screenshots is definitely the way to go. Good on you for being proactive about it; saved yourself a lot of headaches down the line. It's annoying we even have to do this extra legwork, but better safe than sorry...
"Honestly, it seems like some lenders have pretty outdated document management systems or maybe just poor internal communication."
True, but I'm not sure it's always about outdated systems or bad communication. I've noticed that some lenders intentionally keep their processes a bit cumbersome to discourage borrowers from shopping around or transferring their mortgages easily. It's frustrating, but from their perspective, making the process more tedious might actually help retain customers who don't want the hassle of switching.
When I refinanced last year, I had a lender who kept requesting the same documents repeatedly. At first, I thought it was incompetence, but after talking to others in the industry, it seemed more strategic than accidental. So while keeping screenshots and email trails is smart (definitely saved me), we should also consider choosing lenders who openly advertise streamlined processes and digital-first approaches. They're out there—might cost slightly more sometimes, but in my experience, it's worth paying a bit extra for less headache and fewer games.
That's an interesting take—I hadn't really considered lenders intentionally making things difficult, but now that you mention it, it makes sense. I've seen clients deal with similar headaches, and honestly, the lenders with smoother digital processes tend to have happier customers overall. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront saves you from pulling your hair out later... and that's worth something, right?
You're spot on about paying a bit extra upfront. I've learned the hard way that chasing the lowest rate isn't always worth the hassle. Had a project last year where we went with a lender purely based on numbers, and the paperwork nightmare alone cost us weeks of delays. Now, I prioritize lenders who streamline things digitally—even if they're not the absolute cheapest. Less stress, fewer headaches, and honestly, it saves money in the long run when you factor in your own sanity...
"the paperwork nightmare alone cost us weeks of delays."
Haha, been there, done that... and still recovering from the trauma. Honestly, sanity should be a line item on mortgage quotes—I'd gladly pay extra to keep mine intact. Digital lenders FTW.
