10 Things You Should Never Say to a Mortgage Broker
Mortgages can be stressful, but sometimes the things people say in the middle of the process are even scarier than the loan itself.
Here’s my list of the top 10 phrases that will make any mortgage broker want to grab a stress ball immediately:
❌ 1. “Anything untruthful.”
If it’s not true, don’t say it. Lenders verify everything: income, assets, debts, employment. Save us both the headache and just keep it honest.
❌ 2. “What’s the most I can borrow?”
That’s like asking, “How close can I get to the edge of a cliff without falling?” Approval amount does not equal comfort zone.
❌ 3. “I forgot to pay that bill again…”
We all make mistakes, but late payments hit your credit hard. Let’s build a repair plan before applying so you’re not starting at a disadvantage.
❌ 4. “Check out my new credit cards!”
Nothing like throwing a new variable into the mix right before underwriting. Please—no new credit until after closing day.
❌ 5. “Which credit card isn’t maxed out?”
If you’re in this spot, we need a strategy session. Lenders want to see you in control of your finances, not drowning in plastic.
❌ 6. “Changing jobs annually is my specialty.”
That might look adventurous on LinkedIn, but it makes underwriters nervous. Consistent employment = happy loan approvals.
❌ 7. “I deposited some cash but didn’t keep a record.”
Unverified cash deposits are red flags. Every dollar has to be sourced. If Aunt Linda gifted you money, that’s fine—we just need to document it the right way.
❌ 8. “I’ll buy that car/furniture now and pay it off later.”
Big purchases before closing = 🚩. That new payment could throw off your approval. Wait until after you get the keys to go wild at the furniture store.
❌ 9. “I don’t need to read the disclosures—I trust you.”
I appreciate the trust, but always read your disclosures. This is your loan, your money, your life. I’ll walk you through it if you want.
❌ 10. “The underwriter won’t notice that, right?”
They notice. Trust me—they always notice. Be upfront from the beginning, and we’ll find solutions together.
The Bottom Line
If you can avoid saying these 10 things, you’re already halfway to a smoother, less stressful loan process. Be honest, be consistent, and keep the big financial moves on pause until after closing.
At Parish Lending, I’m here to help you through the process without judgment—just guidance.