Shelly Ortegabroker
Apr 28, 2026 at 2:15 PM
Vetting Lenders: How do you handle 'phantom' fees or unexpected closing costs?
Hey everyone, Shelly Ortega here from Ortega Funding. I'm still relatively new to the game, just over two years in, and learning something new with every deal. I wanted to ask about something that's popped up a couple of times recently and really grinds my gears: unexpected fees or closing costs that weren't on the initial term sheet.
I just had a bridge loan for a multifamily acquisition (12 units, $2.5M purchase) where the lender added a 'document prep fee' of $3,500 and a 'compliance review fee' of $2,000 at the last minute. These weren't disclosed upfront, even after asking for a full fee schedule. It wasn't a deal-breaker, but it definitely ate into my client's budget and made me look a bit unprepared.
Another time, on a DSCR rental loan for a single-family investor, a lender had a 'servicing setup fee' of 50 BPs that only appeared on the final closing statement. It wasn't a huge amount, but it’s the principle. I try to be super transparent with my clients, and these surprises make it tough.
How do you all vet for these kinds of hidden or 'phantom' fees? Do you have specific questions you ask, or do you demand a detailed fee breakdown from the get-go? Any strategies for pushing back or negotiating these when they appear? I want to make sure I'm giving my clients the most accurate picture possible.