The Most Common Reasons Loans Get Delayed (And How Jerry Prevents Them)
When it comes to buying a home, the mortgage process can feel like a maze, and sometimes even small hiccups can delay your loan and cause major headaches when it comes to your homebuying journey. Many buyers don’t realize just how common delays are, but the good news is that most of them are preventable with the right lender and process.
In this post, we’ll be taking a transparent look at the most frequent reasons loans get delayed and showing how Pittsburgh mortgage wealth advisor Jerry Pounds works proactively to prevent these issues before they ever become a problem.
Reason #1: Missing or Incomplete Documentation
What causes it: Late or incomplete documents, like pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, letters of explanation, or employment verification.
Why it matters: Underwriters can’t move forward without a complete picture of your finances. Missing documents create bottlenecks that delay approval.
How Jerry prevents it:
Sends every buyer a clear, itemized checklist from day one.
Follows up proactively, rather than waiting until the last minute.
Provides templates for letters of explanation so nothing is vague or missing.
Reason #2: Large or Unverified Bank Deposits
What causes it: Sudden cash deposits, gifts that aren’t documented, or transfers between accounts without proper records.
Why it matters: Underwriting requires a clear paper trail to avoid risk concerns. Unverified funds can halt the approval process.
How Jerry prevents it:
Explains the importance of “seasoned funds” early.
Reviews bank statements as soon as possible.
Guides buyers step-by-step on how to document gifts or transfers.
Reason #3: Credit Changes During the Loan Process
What causes it: Opening new credit cards, financing cars or furniture, or letting balances spike unexpectedly.
Why it matters: Even small credit score drops can disrupt approvals or rate locks, slowing down your closing.
How Jerry prevents it:
Gives every buyer a “Do Not Do This” list to avoid credit pitfalls.
Monitors credit throughout the process.
Offers alternatives for buyers tempted by big purchases.
Reason #4: Employment or Income Changes
What causes it: Switching jobs, moving from W-2 to 1099, or a sudden drop in overtime or bonus income.
Why it matters: Lenders need stable and predictable income to approve your loan. Any sudden changes can trigger delays.
How Jerry prevents it:
Discusses timing and implications with buyers before any changes.
Helps document employment transitions properly.
Communicates directly with employers if verification is needed.
Reason #5: Appraisal Issues
What causes it: Low appraisals or property condition concerns.
Why it matters: The appraisal impacts how much the lender will approve, which can directly affect your loan.
How Jerry prevents it:
Works closely with Realtors to prepare comparable sales.
Orders the appraisal as early as possible in the process.
Helps create rebuttal packages when justified to protect the buyer.
Reason #6: Title or Insurance Delays
What causes it: Undiscovered liens, slow-moving title companies, or last-minute insurance changes.
Why it matters: A loan cannot close without clear title and verified insurance coverage.
How Jerry prevents it:
Partners with trusted title companies.
Orders title work early.
Ensures buyers secure insurance well before closing.
Reason #7: Last-Minute Changes to Loan Terms
What causes it: Buyers switching loan types or adjusting purchase prices late in the process.
Why it matters: Changes require new disclosures and underwriting review, which can delay closing.
How Jerry prevents it:
Reviews loan options upfront with buyers.
Advises on long-term strategy so surprises don’t happen at the closing table.
Jerry’s “No Surprises” Process
Jerry’s approach to mortgage approval is built around preventing delays before they happen:
Early discovery calls to understand the buyer’s situation.
Detailed pre-approval to identify and resolve potential issues.
Underwriter-ready files prepared from day one.
Proactive weekly updates to all parties to keep the process smooth and transparent.
Closing on a home doesn’t have to be chaotic. Most delays are avoidable with the right preparation, guidance, and team. With Jerry Pounds on your side, you’ll know exactly what to expect and how to prevent common pitfalls.
Ready to make your mortgage process smooth and predictable? Schedule a consultation with Jerry today and get started on the path to a stress-free home closing.
