The approval process Want to make the entire process of getting a home equity line of credit easier? Use Countrywide. Whether you apply online, by phone, or in person, we approve our loans right in your local office. Right in your neighborhood. There's no long chain of approval (see diagram below). How a traditional lender (such as a bank or mortgage broker) processes a loan.

		Loan Officer in office takes an application and collects required information and documents. Mails or faxes documents to corporate headquarters.
Processor, in one part of building, reviews your information and requests any additional documents, orders credit reports, and requests appraisal. Once documentation is complete, everything is transferred to an underwriter.
		Underwriter, a person who typically never has direct contact with you, makes decision to approve or disapprove loan.
If approved, Closer assembles the paperwork and mails or faxes documents to the local office.
		Escrow or title company closes the loan.

How Countrywide processes a loan.

		Whether you apply online, by phone or in person, everything happens locally. Your local Home Loan Manager approves your loan personally.
A more direct loan process helps you achieve your loan goals faster.

To speed up the approval process, see our Home Equity Line of Credit Application Checklist for details on the information you should have ready to provide your lender.