Mortgage Loan Partner II

About the role

If you're an experienced Loan Processor or Underwriter with strong VA lending knowledge and enjoy taking ownership of the mortgage process, this may be the opportunity for you. As a dedicated partner to a Loan Originator, you'll play a key role in reviewing and structuring loan applications, preparing accurate preapprovals, and managing the loan pipeline through closing. Success in this role requires strong communication, attention to detail, sound loan knowledge, and a commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for borrowers and business partners.

Responsibilities

• Function as the primary contact and liaison between clients and the Branch Manager/Loan Originator.
• Serve as the primary operational partner to a dedicated Loan Originator, helping manage the business from application through closing.
• Leverage strong knowledge of VA lending guidelines to structure and support VA loan transactions.
• Review, structure, and submit complete loan applications, analyzing income, assets, credit, and cash flow to prepare high-quality preapprovals.
• Request and obtain referrals from all WMC clients, current and potential, along with sales partners as part of the sales team.
• Partner closely with the Loan Originator and Loan Processor to proactively manage the loan pipeline from application through closing, ensuring milestones and deadlines are met.
• Submit complete loan applications for each customer file by completing all items on the checklist before submission.
• Prepare accurate preapprovals, quote rates, and lock loans in accordance with company guidelines.
• Track all requested documents in Encompass and review documentation received within 24 hours of receipt for discrepancies, omitted data, verified income calculation, asset verification, and Encompass updates based on verified information.
• Respond to customer inquiries and other related parties on a transaction as needed in a timely fashion.
• Run Automated Underwriting (DU/LP), review findings, identify required documentation, and ensure loan data accurately reflects underwriting results.
• Order Title Commitments, Appraisal, and Flood Insurance on the file.
• Ensure deadline dates on the loan contracts and rate lock expiration dates are met.
• Partner with Loan Originators in resolving problems on files/documents.
• Ensure files are complete and set up in accordance with WMC policy and procedures.
• Manage the full pipeline for a dedicated Loan Originator, ensuring an exceptional borrower experience from application through closing.
• Review approved mortgage loans to determine conditions that must be met prior to closing, including documentation for private mortgage insurance, title, hazard insurance, flood determination, and other underwriting conditions.
• Ensure all items are cleared and proper documentation is in each file prior to completing the closed package.
• Verify accuracy and consistency of information in the file to ensure “closing” documents are prepared according to investor/product guidelines and work closely with the Loan Processor to assure the file is ready for closing.
• Maintain knowledge of current state mortgage lending laws.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding customer account and other information.

Requirements

• A high school diploma or general education degree (GED) is required.
• A minimum of four years of experience in a Loan Partner, Loan Processing, or Mortgage Underwriting role is preferred.
• Previous experience with VA home loans is required.
• Experience reviewing and structuring loan files, preparing preapprovals, and managing loans from application through closing is strongly preferred.
• Proficient knowledge in Microsoft Office is required.
• Prior experience with Encompass LOS system or other mortgage processing software is required; DU, LP, and other automated engine submissions experience is preferred.
• A federal registration through Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) is required. However, individuals in this position are not eligible to receive loan officer commission.
• Must be able to work under pressure.
• Must possess excellent organizational skills.