Before I resigned, I did think it over but could not continue to keep working a job that I was not happy at and it had absolutely no ties to what I want to do in the future.

However, the underwriter is frequently the long pole in the loan process and they let things slip past the lock period if it behooves them to do so.Given that the bank and underwriter hold the stronger position in this type of transaction do you think it is okay for a borrower to continue to shop for new money through another lender and lock jump if they get a better deal?

They are not as strong as they used to be, but they are getting stronger.

especially since she is not tied the current mortgage?

Speaking with someone to go over the minute details to make sure we are all on the same page before we are tied together in a financial deal gives me more confidence going in and also give me a chance to find out a little more than generic website information because as a first timer, I don't know what I don't know. 

For me, I wasn't looking for the suit and tie real estate agent but more so, an agent that understood my mission and isn't afraid to pull up some carpet to expose that good wood.  

But your insight is helping me to grow stronger too so thank you for that.Sorry to hear about your first two losses (the theft case sounds like a nightmare).

I had close to 19,000 of my own money tied up in the land, clearing and grading, and closing cost on the construction loan and permanent financing.

Note that you'll have to be really tied into the conversations, but just think you're saving 5-6% realtor fees by simply doing this yourself.  

When you find one, tie it up in contract with a 45 or 60 day close of escrow.