Correspondent Underwriter

Champions Funding LLC is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Correspondent Underwriter to join our team in the growing Non-QM (Non-Qualified Mortgage) market. As a Correspondent Underwriter, you will be responsible for evaluating and underwriting non-QM loan applications to ensure they meet both company and investor guidelines. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of manual underwriting assessment, risk management practices, and the ability to make sound decisions while providing a high level of customer service to our correspondent lenders.

Key Responsibilities:

· Review and assess non-QM loan applications, including income verification, credit history, assets, and other key factors, ensuring all underwriting guidelines and regulatory requirements are met.

· Analyze borrower profiles, determine eligibility, and make underwriting decisions based on the risk of the loan in line with investor and company guidelines.

· Maintain up-to-date knowledge of regulatory changes, company guidelines, and internal policies, ensuring all loans meet underwriting requirements and pass due diligence for securitization.

· Act as a liaison between the company and correspondent lenders, communicating underwriting decisions, addressing questions, and providing guidance on loan submissions and conditions.

· Review all submitted documentation for completeness and accuracy. Work with lenders to request additional documentation or clarifications as necessary.

· Make timely, sound decisions on loan submissions while managing a high volume of files and maintaining strong attention to detail.

· Address complex or unusual loan scenarios, collaborating with management and other departments to find appropriate solutions.

· Provide guidance and support to junior underwriters or correspondent partners, as needed, to ensure consistency in underwriting practices and quality standards.

· Meet productivity, quality, and compliance standards set by management, ensuring a high level of accuracy in all decisions.

 Skills & Competencies:  

· Minimum of 5 years of underwriting experience, with at least 2 years of manual underwriting experience to include non-QM. Experience with both agency and non-agency loans is preferred.

· Ability to assess complex financial information and make sound underwriting decisions. In-depth understanding of collateral reviews, personal and business tax returns with ability to analyze those returns. Proficiency in analyzing personal and business bank statement activity. 

· High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple loan files and maintain accuracy.

· Familiarity with all applicable federal, state, and local laws related to mortgage lending, including compliance with RESPA, TRID, and HMDA.

· Proficiency in underwriting software, loan origination systems (LOS), and Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with Encompass, Calyx, or similar platforms a plus.

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain underwriting decisions to internal teams, management, and external clients. 

· Capacity to navigate complex situations and identify solutions to ensure loan closure.

Preferred Qualifications:

· In-depth understanding of non-QM loan products, guidelines, and risk factors, including but not limited to bank statement loans, DSCR loans, P&L loans, and other non-traditional products. 

· Experience in the Correspondent business line is a plus.