AI underwriting to human underwriting and this is what happened

Didier Malagies • September 24, 2025


 Speed & Efficiency


AI Underwriting:


Processes applications in seconds to minutes.


1.Can instantly pull data from multiple sources (credit reports, bank statements, income verification, property valuations, etc.).


Ideal for high-volume, standardized cases.


Human Underwriter:


Takes hours to days, depending on complexity.


Manually reviews documents, contacts third parties, and applies professional judgment.


Slower, especially for complex or edge cases.


2. Data Handling


AI:


Uses algorithms and machine learning to analyze massive datasets.


Can detect patterns humans might miss (e.g., spending behavior, alternative data like utility payments, even digital footprints in some markets).


Human:


Relies on traditional documentation (pay stubs, tax returns, appraisals).


Limited by human bandwidth—can’t process as much raw data at once.


3. Consistency & Bias


AI:


Decisions are consistent with its rules and training data.


However, if the data it’s trained on is biased, the system can replicate or even amplify those biases.


Human:


Brings subjective judgment. Can weigh special circumstances that don’t fit a neat rule.


Risk of inconsistency—two underwriters might interpret the same file differently.


May have unconscious bias, but also flexibility to override rigid criteria.


4. Risk Assessment


AI:


Excels at quantifiable risks (credit scores, loan-to-value ratios, historical claim data).


Weak at unstructured or nuanced factors (e.g., a borrower with an unusual income stream, or a claim with unclear circumstances).


Human:


Strong at contextual judgment—understanding unique borrower situations, exceptions, or “gray areas.”


Can pick up on red flags that an algorithm might miss (e.g., forged documents, conflicting information).


5. Regulation & Accountability


AI:


Regulators are still catching up. Requires transparency in decision-making (explainable AI).


Hard to appeal an AI decision if it can’t explain its reasoning clearly.


Human:


Provides a clear chain of accountability—borrower can request explanations or escalate.


Easier for compliance teams to audit decision-making.


6. Cost & Scalability


AI:


Scales cheaply—one system can process thousands of applications simultaneously.


Lower ongoing labor costs once implemented.


Human:


Labor-intensive, costs grow with volume.


Better suited for complex, high-value, or unusual cases rather than mass processing.


✅ Bottom line:


AI underwriting is best for speed, scale, and straightforward cases.


Human underwriters are best for nuanced judgment, exceptions, and handling edge cases.


Most modern institutions use a hybrid model: AI handles the bulk of simple files, while humans step in for complex or flagged cases.


tune in and learn https://www.ddamortgage.com/blog


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