Mortgage underwriting is the process lenders use to evaluate the risk of providing a loan to a borrower. Underwriters review various factors, including the borrower’s credit history, income, and debt-to-income ratio, to determine if they qualify for a mortgage. This assessment helps ensure that the borrower can repay the loan. Once the initial application is submitted, the underwriter examines the property’s value through an appraisal and checks for any potential issues. If everything meets the lender's guidelines, the underwriter will approve the loan, allowing the borrower to proceed with the home purchase.