What Every Realtor Should Know About Lending
If you’ve ever wondered what every realtor should know about lending, this episode is for you. After nearly 100 episodes, we’re finally bringing in a real-life lender to answer all your burning mortgage questions. Meet Jamie Taylor from Assurance Financial—Katy’s go-to lender for more than a decade. Jamie breaks down the lending process in a clear, relatable way that every real estate agent needs to hear.
Understanding the Lending Process
We start with a deep dive into underwriting and demystify why it can feel so “extra.” Jamie explains what happens behind the scenes after a buyer submits documents and how her team works to ensure a smooth, quick approval. You’ll learn why clean files matter and how experienced lenders prep clients for fewer surprises.
Loan Types Explained
Jamie walks us through the differences between Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, RD, and portfolio loans. If you’ve been unclear about what separates a mortgage lender from a broker, this is your crash course. Plus, we cover what makes a loan sellable, what portfolio loans are, and when to consider a local bank.
Rate Shopping and Fee Transparency
Rates vary, and not always for the reasons you think. Jamie shares how lenders shop rates, what drives price differences, and why fees matter just as much as interest rates. We also uncover how some lenders use discount points to appear more competitive—and why that could cost your clients in the long run.
Helping Buyers Win in Multiple Offers
Want to make your buyer stand out? Jamie outlines strategies for writing stronger offers, including appraisal waivers, lender credits, and the importance of a solid pre-approval. You’ll hear why working with a local lender can boost your offer’s appeal and why lenders should communicate with listing agents, especially in competitive situations.
Avoiding Buyer Mistakes
From taking on new debt mid-transaction to not providing docs on time, we break down the most common buyer missteps and how to prevent them. Jamie shares her “10 Commandments of Lending” and how realtors can set expectations upfront to keep deals on track.
Tips for Realtors Working With Lenders
We discuss what realtors should ask lenders, how to vet pre-approval letters, and which contract terms can cause loan issues. Whether it’s understanding hard money loans, escrow repair agreements, or what triggers appraisal delays, this episode is packed with information to help you feel confident navigating financing with your clients.
What Every Realtor Should Know About Lending
Jamie’s insights are essential for any agent who wants to better serve their clients and keep deals running smoothly. Knowing how lenders operate—from pre-approval to closing—helps you become a more knowledgeable, trusted advisor.
Bonus: Life as a Lender Mom
Jamie also shares how she juggles being a busy mom of two with a thriving lending business. You’ll hear her practical tips on setting boundaries, managing urgent client needs, and maintaining sanity.
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