Totally get what you mean. I’ve had mixed results with certified mail, though—one time the tracking said “delivered” but the servicer claimed it went ...

You nailed it—those “standard” fees can feel like a moving target, and it’s totally valid to want each one explained. I’ve noticed that the more quest...

I get what you mean about feeling like prequalifying could tie your hands, but honestly, it’s not as binding as some folks think. Prequalification is ...

I keep wondering—how do you actually figure out which fees are negotiable and which ones aren’t? I’ve seen “processing” and “document prep” charges th...

I get what you mean, but I’m not sure it’s always about saying no—sometimes I think they just don’t know how to handle non-traditional income. When I ...

Totally agree about the spreadsheet—keeps the chaos under control. I’d add that some lenders will also want to see consistent credit history over a co...

I’ve definitely seen lenders dig in their heels on prepayment penalties, especially with the bigger banks. But I did have a friend who managed to get ...

Yeah, that “balloon payment sneaks up on you” scenario is way too real. I always wonder—how many folks actually run the numbers for a worst-case marke...

Interesting how that played out for you. Did you notice if buyers commented specifically on the kitchen during showings, or was it more subtle? Someti...