Underwriter

Job Description: Real Estate Investment Underwriter

Position Title: Real Estate Investment Underwriter

Reports To: CEO

Location: Remote

Type: Full-Time

Job Summary

The Real Estate Investment Underwriter will be responsible for evaluating, underwriting, and analyzing investment opportunities in residential properties that are in distressed or poor condition. The role involves assessing the financial viability of purchasing, renovating, and selling or renting properties for profit. This position is critical in supporting the company's strategy to acquire, rehabilitate, and profit from properties in need of renovation or repair.

Key Responsibilities

1. Property Acquisition & Risk Assessment

Conduct thorough evaluations of distressed residential properties, including analyzing physical conditions, neighborhood dynamics, and market potential.

Assess risks associated with purchasing, renovating, and selling properties, including structural issues, environmental concerns, and market fluctuations.

Perform detailed financial analysis, including renovation costs, potential after-repair value (ARV), and profit margins.

2. Financial Modeling & Investment Analysis

Build and maintain financial models to estimate the costs of renovation, carrying costs, and potential returns on investment (ROI).

Analyze acquisition costs, loan structures, cash flow projections, and exit strategies (sale or rental).

Evaluate multiple investment scenarios (e.g., fix-and-flip, buy-and-hold) and provide recommendations based on the companys profitability goals.

3. Property Due Diligence

Conduct property inspections and coordinate with contractors or third-party professionals to assess repair needs and renovation costs.

Review property documents, including title reports, zoning regulations, permits, and any legal constraints.

Collaborate with the acquisition team to ensure all relevant information about a property is collected and accurately represented.

4. Underwriting Decisions

Make informed underwriting decisions on whether to approve or reject investment opportunities based on the companys risk tolerance and profit objectives.

Ensure that underwriting decisions align with company guidelines, market conditions, and financial targets.

Document all underwriting decisions, including risk assessments and financial assumptions.

5. Market Research & Trend Analysis

Stay informed about local real estate market trends, neighborhood development, property values, and competitive conditions.

Use market data to forecast trends in property values, demand for renovated homes, and potential resale or rental prices.

Provide insights on which areas or types of properties represent the best investment opportunities.

6. Collaboration with Renovation & Sales Teams

Work closely with project managers, contractors, and renovation teams to monitor progress on renovations and ensure budgets and timelines are met.

Communicate regularly with sales and marketing teams to align property sale or rental strategies with market conditions and underwriting assumptions.

Provide post-renovation evaluations to assess whether the property meets the projected financial targets.

7. Compliance & Legal Oversight

Ensure that all underwriting practices and property acquisitions comply with local, state, and federal laws.

Oversee proper due diligence on any legal matters, including zoning, environmental regulations, and property liens.

Maintain thorough documentation and records for audit purposes.

8. Reporting & Performance Tracking

Prepare and present regular reports on the performance of the investment portfolio, including profit margins, ROI, and market performance.

Track the progress and financial outcomes of property investments from acquisition through renovation and final sale or rental.

Provide data-driven recommendations to senior management on adjusting underwriting criteria or investment strategies based on portfolio performance.

Key Skills & Qualifications

Educational Background: Bachelors degree in finance, real estate, economics, business, or related fields.

Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in real estate underwriting, real estate investment, or property valuation, particularly with distressed properties.

Financial Analysis Skills: Expertise in financial modeling, cash flow analysis, and property valuation, with a focus on renovation costs and resale potential.

Market Knowledge: In-depth understanding of real estate markets, property valuation, and investment trends, particularly in distressed or underdeveloped areas.

Problem-Solving Skills: Strong ability to assess complex property risks and develop profitable investment strategies.

Attention to Detail: Meticulous in reviewing property details, financial data, and legal documents to make informed decisions.

Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills for reporting investment opportunities and collaborating with contractors, project managers, and other stakeholders.

Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with property valuation tools, financial modeling software, and real estate databases (e.g., MLS, CoStar, Zillow).

Negotiation Skills: Capable of negotiating acquisition terms, renovation costs, and contractor agreements to ensure the best financial outcomes.

Regulatory Knowledge: Understanding of local real estate laws, building codes, and environmental regulations that may impact property investments.

Working Conditions

Primarily remote work availability to work during EST hours

Fast-paced and dynamic work environment, requiring the ability to evaluate multiple properties and manage several projects simultaneously.

May involve working with distressed properties in various stages of repair or neglect.