08/07/2026
Over the years, I've often talked about the importance of getting a thorough mortgage preapproval before writing an offer.
There's a big difference between a true preapproval—where your credit is pulled, income and assets are reviewed, and due diligence is completed—and a simple prequalification based largely on conversation. One is vetted. The other is simply an opinion.
Ironically, I recently found myself on the receiving end of that same lesson.
When I joined my most recent employer, I was given the green light on several important items. Months later, I learned those assurances had never been fully vetted with the people responsible for making the final decisions.
The result? That chapter ended much sooner than expected.
I'm disappointed by the outcome, but I don't regret the experience. Every chapter—good or bad—teaches something valuable. This one reinforced a lesson I've shared with clients for years: assumptions are no substitute for due diligence.
For now, I'll likely take a short sabbatical after what has been a year of significant change. Whether that means returning to the mortgage industry, exploring a new direction, or simply taking time to reset, I'm looking forward to what comes next. If the right opportunity presents itself, I'm always open to a conversation.
To every future homebuyer: make sure your Loan Officer or Mortgage Broker does the work upfront. Verify the details. Ask the difficult questions. A properly vetted decision today can save a tremendous amount of stress tomorrow.
The cost of assumptions can be a painful lesson. Due diligence matters—in mortgages and in life.
Adding this throwback from Guatemala. This was me hopping on the first of three buses to get to the beach. In my backpack: a few changes of clothes, a laptop, portable Wi-Fi, and a tremendous amount of positive energy.
Different journey. Same mindset. Looking forward to whatever comes next.
