Computer-implemented mortgage processing system and method for facilitating a mortgage fulfillment process

Abstract

A system for facilitating a mortgage fulfillment process between a mortgage processor computing device and a borrower computing device is provided. The system comprises a mortgage operations module and a borrower interface module that are configured to allow for the communication and display of an identification of a plurality of required mortgage application documents, the association of a data file with one or more of the plurality of required mortgage application documents, the communication of the associated data file, and displaying an indicia that such data file was communicated. A method for implementing the processes described herein is also provided.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented mortgage processing system for facilitating a mortgage fulfillment process between a mortgage processor computing device and a borrower computing device, wherein the mortgage processor computing device includes a memory, wherein a loan origination document is stored in the memory of the mortgage processor computing device, and wherein the loan origination document includes a plurality of loan origination data fields configured for receiving loan data, the system comprising: a) a server including a memory and a processor, wherein the server is in communication with the mortgage processor computing device and the borrower computing device over a network; b) a first set of computer instructions that when executed by the processor of the server performs the steps of: i) receiving an input request to establish a loan file from the mortgage processor computing device over the network, wherein the input request includes loan data associated with the loan file, wherein the loan data includes an identification of a plurality of required mortgage application documents, ii) generating the loan file and associating the loan data with the generated loan file, iii) allowing for the display of the loan data associated with the loan file on a display of the mortgage processor computing device, and iv) communicating the identification of the plurality of required mortgage application documents to the borrower computing device over the network; and c) a second set of computer instructions configured for being stored in a memory of the borrower computing device and executed by a processor of the borrower computing device to perform the steps of: i) receiving the identification of the plurality of required mortgage application documents from the server over the network associated with the loan file, ii) displaying the identification of the plurality of required mortgage application documents on a display of the borrower computing device, iii) associating a data file stored in the memory of the borrower computing device with one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents, iv) communicating the associated data file to the server over the network, and v) displaying an indicia on the display of the borrower computing device in association with the one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents, wherein the indicia includes a color, character, text, number, or combination thereof indicating that the associated data file was communicated to the server; wherein the first set of computer instructions that when executed by the processor of the server is further configured for performing the steps of: vi) tracking data files associated with the plurality of required mortgage application documents that have been received by the server from the borrower computing device, vii) allowing for the display of an indicia on a display of the mortgage processor computing device representing the required mortgage application documents that have been received or have not been received by the server from the borrower computing device, wherein the indicia includes a numerical value, viii) allowing for the display of one of a first plurality of status indicators on the mortgage processor computing device corresponding to the indicia on the display of the mortgage processor computing device, wherein the first plurality of status indicators include text, different colors, or combinations thereof each corresponding to a number of the required mortgage application documents that still need to be communicated from the borrower computing device to the server, and ix) allowing for the display of one of a second plurality of status indicators on the display of the mortgage processor computing device corresponding to whether each required mortgage application document has not been received by the server, has been received by the server but not yet approved using the mortgage processor computing device, or has been both received by the server and approved using the mortgage processor computing device, wherein the second plurality of status indicators include text, different colors, or combinations thereof each corresponding to a status of the required mortgage application documents within the mortgage application process; wherein the server receives the associated data file and makes the associated data file available to the mortgage processor computing device, wherein, after the server receives the associated data file, the server performs the steps of: determining a type of mortgage application document that the received data file is associated with, identifying one or more data fields related to the mortgage application document, analyzing the associated data file to locate the one or more identified data fields within the data file that are relevant to the mortgage application document and extract loan data from the one or more located data fields within the associated data file using at least one of robotics process automation (RPA) or screen-scraping, and automatically populating at least one of the plurality of loan origination data fields in the loan origination document with the extracted loan data; and wherein the first set of computer instructions when executed by the processor of the server is further configured for performing the steps of: temporarily storing the associated data file that is received by the server from the borrower computing device in a secure location of the memory of the server, receiving input from the mortgage processor computing device associated with a drag and drop operation that allows the associated data file to be stored in the memory of the mortgage processor computing device, communicating the associated data file to the mortgage processor computing device from the memory of the server to the memory of the mortgage processor computing device in response to receiving the input associated with the drag and drop operation, and automatically deleting the associated data file from the secure location in the memory of the server after the drag and drop operation is completed.

2. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the first set of computer instructions is configured to communicate the associated data file to the mortgage processor computing device so that the associated data file is stored in the memory of the mortgage processor computing device.

3. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the first set of computer instructions is further configured for performing at least one of: i) allowing for the display of a first list on the display of the mortgage processor computing device representing the required mortgage application documents that have been received by the server from the borrower computing device; or ii) allowing for the display of a second list on the display of the mortgage processor computing device representing the required mortgage application documents that have not been received by the server from the borrower computing device.

4. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the first set of computer instructions is further configured for performing the step of: allowing for a push notification associated with the loan file to be sent to the borrower computing device over the network, such that the push notification is displayed on the display of the borrower computing device.

5. A system in accordance with claim 4, wherein the push notification includes at least one of: a reminder that one or more of the plurality of required mortgage application documents still need to be communicated to the server, an acknowledgement that one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents have been received by the server, an acknowledgement that a condition of mortgage approval has cleared, a reminder of a loan closing date, a confirmation related to a closing schedule, or an acknowledgement that one or more milestones of the mortgage fulfillment process has been completed.

6. A system in accordance with claim 4, wherein the second set of computer instructions is further configured for performing the steps of: storing in the memory of the server an instance of the push notification being sent to the borrower computing device, and allowing for the display of the instance on the mortgage processor computing device.

7. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the second set of computer instructions is further configured for performing the step of: allowing for real-time text chat communication between the mortgage processor computing device and the borrower computing device over the network.

8. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the second set of computer instructions is further configured for performing the step of: allowing for the display of the associated data file communicated to the mortgage operations module over the network.

9. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the second set of computer instructions is further configured for performing the step of: allowing for the display of the loan data associated with the loan file on the display of the borrower computing device.

10. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the loan data extracted from the associated data file is modified prior to automatically populating the at least one of the plurality of loan origination data fields with the extracted loan data.

11. A system in accordance with claim 10, wherein the associated data file is a pay stub, wherein the extracted loan data from the pay stub is a salary amount per week, wherein the salary amount per week is modified by being multiplied by a total number of weeks in a year to arrive at a total annual salary, and wherein the total annual salary is automatically populated in the at least one of the plurality of loan origination data fields.

12. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein at least one of a loan officer computing device or a realtor computing device is in communication with the server over the network, and wherein the first set of computer instructions is further configured for the steps of: allowing for a push notification to be sent to at least one of the loan officer computing device or the realtor computing device over the network for display on the respective computing device, wherein the push notification is associated with the loan file, and wherein the push notification includes an acknowledgement that one or more milestones of the mortgage fulfillment process has been completed.

13. A system in accordance with claim 12, wherein the first set of computer instructions is further configured for performing the steps of: tracking at least one of a loan closing date or a rate lock expiration date, and wherein the push notification further includes at least one of the loan closing date or the rate lock expiration date.

14. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the first set of computer instructions is further configured for performing the steps of: tracking at least one of a loan closing date or a rate lock expiration date, communicating the at least one of the loan closing date or the rate lock expiration date to the borrower computing device over the network, and allowing the at least one of the loan closing date or the rate lock expiration date to be displayed on the display of the borrower computing device.

15. A method programmed for execution in a computing environment for facilitating a mortgage fulfillment process between a mortgage processor computing device and a borrower computing device, wherein the mortgage processor computing device and a borrower computing device are in communication with a server over a network, the server and the mortgage processor computing device both including a processor and a memory, the processor configured for executing computer instructions for performing the method comprising: a) providing a loan origination document is stored in the memory of the mortgage processor computing device, wherein the loan origination document includes a plurality of loan origination data fields configured for receiving loan data; b) receiving an input request to establish a loan file from the mortgage processor computing device over the network, wherein the input request includes loan data associated with the loan file, and wherein the loan data includes an identification of a plurality of required mortgage application documents; c) generating the loan file and associating the loan data with the generated loan file; d) allowing for the display of the loan data associated with the loan file on a display of the mortgage processor computing device; e) communicating the identification of the plurality of required mortgage application documents to the borrower computing device over the network; f) receiving a data file associated with one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents from the borrower computing device over the network; g) allowing for the display of an indicia on the display of the borrower computing device in association with the one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents, wherein the indicia includes a color, character, text, number, or combination thereof indicating that the associated data file was communicated to the server; h) tracking data files associated with the plurality of required mortgage application documents that have been received by the server from the borrower computing device; i) allowing for the display of an indicia on a display of the mortgage processor computing device representing the required mortgage application documents that have been received or have not been received by the server from the borrower computing device, wherein the indicia includes a numerical value; j) allowing for the display of one of a first plurality of status indicators on the mortgage processor computing device corresponding to the indicia on the display of the mortgage processor computing device, wherein the first plurality of status indicators include text, different colors, or combinations thereof each corresponding to a number of the required mortgage application documents that still need to be communicated from the borrower computing device to the server; k) allowing for the display of one of a second plurality of status indicators on the display of the mortgage processor computing device corresponding to whether each required mortgage application document has not been received by the server, has been received by the server but not yet approved using the mortgage processor computing device, or has been both by the server received and approved using the mortgage processor computing device, wherein the second plurality of status indicators include text, different colors, or combinations thereof each corresponding to a status of the required mortgage application documents within the mortgage application process; l) after the server receives the associated data file: i) determining an type of mortgage application document that the received data file is associated with, ii) identifying one or more data fields related to the mortgage application document, iii) analyzing the associated data file to locate the one or more identified data fields within the data file that are relevant to the mortgage application document and extract loan data from the one or more located data fields within the associated data file using at least one of robotics process automation (RPA) or screen-scraping, and iv) automatically populating at least one of the plurality of loan origination data fields in the loan origination document with the extracted loan data; and m) making the associated data file available to the mortgage processor computing device over the network, wherein the method further includes the steps of: temporarily storing the associated data file that is received by the server from the borrower computing device in a secure location of the memory of the server, receiving input from the mortgage processor computing device associated with a drag and drop operation that allows the associated data file to be stored in the memory of the mortgage processor computing device, communicating the associated data file to the mortgage processor computing device from the memory of the server to the memory of the mortgage processor computing device in response to receiving the input associated with the drag and drop operation, and automatically deleting the associated data file from the secure location in the memory of the server after the drag and drop operation is completed.

16. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon for execution by at least one processor for implementing a method facilitating a mortgage fulfillment process between a mortgage processor computing device and a borrower computing device, wherein the mortgage processor computing device and a borrower computing device are in communication with a server over a network, the server and the mortgage processor computing device both including a processor and a memory, the method comprising: a) providing a loan origination document is stored in the memory of the mortgage processor computing device, wherein the loan origination document includes a plurality of loan origination data fields configured for receiving loan data; b) receiving an input request to establish a loan file from the mortgage processor computing device over the network, wherein the input request includes loan data associated with the loan file, and wherein the loan data includes an identification of a plurality of required mortgage application documents; c) generating the loan file and associating the loan data with the generated loan file; d) allowing for the display of the loan data associated with the loan file on a display of the mortgage processor computing device; e) communicating the identification of the plurality of required mortgage application documents to the borrower computing device over the network; f) receiving a data file associated with one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents from the borrower computing device over the network; g) allowing for the display of an indicia on the display of the borrower computing device in association with the one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents, wherein the indicia includes a color, character, text, number, or combination thereof indicating that the associated data file was communicated to the server; h) tracking data files associated with the plurality of required mortgage application documents that have been received by the server from the borrower computing device; i) allowing for the display of an indicia on a display of the mortgage processor computing device representing the required mortgage application documents that have been received or have not been received by the server from the borrower computing device, wherein the indicia includes a numerical value; j) allowing for the display of one of a first plurality of status indicators on the mortgage processor computing device corresponding to the indicia on the display of the mortgage processor computing device, wherein the first plurality of status indicators include text, different colors, or combinations thereof each corresponding to a number of the required mortgage application documents that still need to be communicated from the borrower computing device to the server; k) allowing for the display of one of a second plurality of status indicators on the display of the mortgage processor computing device corresponding to whether each required mortgage application document has not been received by the server, has been received by the server but not yet approved using the mortgage processor computing device, or has been both received by the server and approved using the mortgage processor computing device, wherein the second plurality of status indicators include text, different colors, or combinations thereof each corresponding to a status of the required mortgage application documents within the mortgage application process; l) after the server receives the associated data file: i) determining an type of mortgage application document that the received data file is associated with, ii) identifying one or more data fields related to the mortgage application document, iii) analyzing the associated data file to locate the one or more identified data fields within the data file that are relevant to the mortgage application document and extract loan data from the one or more located data fields within the associated data file using at least one of robotics process automation (RPA) or screen-scraping, and iv) automatically populating at least one of the plurality of loan origination data fields in the loan origination document with the extracted loan data; and m) making the associated data file available to the mortgage processor computing device over the network, wherein the method further includes the steps of: temporarily storing the associated data file that is received by the server from the borrower computing device in a secure location of the memory of the server, receiving input from the mortgage processor computing device associated with a drag and drop operation that allows the associated data file to be stored in the memory of the mortgage processor computing device, communicating the associated data file to the mortgage processor computing device from the memory of the server to the memory of the mortgage processor computing device in response to receiving the input associated with the drag and drop operation, and automatically deleting the associated data file from the secure location in the memory of the server after the drag and drop operation is completed.

17. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the type of mortgage application document that the received data file is associated with is determined based on at least one of: receiving a tag that is manually or automatically generated and associated with the data file by the borrower computing device before being sent to the server; and automatically analyzing the received data file to identify the type of mortgage application document that corresponds to the data file using image and/or text recognition.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The accompanying drawings form a part of this specification and are to be read in conjunction therewith, wherein like reference numerals are employed to indicate like parts in the various views, and wherein:

(2) FIG. 1 is an illustration of a traditional closing calendar for a mortgage loan;

(3) FIG. 2 is an illustration of traditional communications that are made between a loan processor and a borrower;

(4) FIG. 3 is a schematic drawing showing an exemplary system that may be used to implement any of the methods or processing described herein in accordance with one aspect of the present invention;

(5) FIG. 4 is an algorithmic flow chart showing exemplary operations of a mortgage operations module;

(6) FIGS. 5A-5F are exemplary screen shots of a user interface provided by the mortgage operations module for display on a mortgage processor computing device over a network;

(7) FIG. 6 is an algorithmic flow chart showing exemplary operations of a borrower interface module;

(8) FIGS. 7A-7F are exemplary screen shots of a user interface provided by the borrower interface module;

(9) FIG. 8 is an exemplary loan closing calendar implementing the present invention;

(10) FIG. 9 is an exemplary sequence of push notifications that correspond to the loan closing calendar shown in FIG. 8;

(11) FIGS. 9A-9I are detailed views of portions of FIG. 9;

(12) FIG. 10 is an exemplary schematic drawing showing additional access to a loan officer computing device and/or a realtor computing device;

(13) FIG. 11 is another algorithmic flow chart showing exemplary operations of the mortgage operations module;

(14) FIG. 12 is yet another algorithmic flow chart showing exemplary operations of the mortgage operations module;

(15) FIG. 13 is a further algorithmic flow chart showing exemplary operations of the mortgage operations module;

(16) FIG. 14 is another algorithmic flow chart showing exemplary operations of the mortgage operations module; and

(17) FIG. 15 is a block diagram generally illustrating a computing environment in which the invention may be implemented.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(18) Generally, the system, tools and methods described herein for facilitating a mortgage loan fulfillment may be implemented in hardware, software, and combinations thereof. Referring to the drawings in detail, and specifically to FIG. 3, reference numeral 100 generally designates an exemplary network environment in which a computer-implemented mortgage loan processing system in accordance with one aspect of the invention may be implemented. System 100 utilizes one or more computing devices to facilitate the exchange of information between a borrower computing device and mortgage processor computing device that is required to process a mortgage loan, allow the mortgage processor computing device to follow up on information that has not been received by borrower computing device, and keep the borrower, realtor, and/or origination loan officer updated on the progress of the loan process. While the discussion herein refers specifically to a mortgage loan processing system, it should be understood that the system may be used in conjunction with other types of loan processing systems.

(19) For instance, system 100 may include a server 102, a mortgage processor computing device 104, and a borrower computing device 106 in communication with each other over a network 108. In addition, a realtor computing device 110 and a loan officer computing device 112 may also be in communication with server 102 and computing devices 104, 106 over network 108. Network 108 may be any type of network, such as a wide area network or local area network that allows for wired and/or wireless communication between server 102 and computing devices 104, 106, 110, 112. It should be understood that server 102 and computing devices 104, 106, 110, 112 may be a desktop computer, smartphone, tablet, or any other type of mobile computing device that includes a processor configured for implementing computer-executable instructions and methods as described herein.

(20) In accordance with an aspect of the present invention, server 102 includes a processor and a memory having a mortgage operations module 114 stored therein. Mortgage operations module 114 includes a first set of computer-executable instructions configured for performing, through the use of the processor, a number of algorithmic steps that facilitate the mortgage fulfillment process. In particular, mortgage operations module 114 may be a cloud-based software platform that is accessible by mortgage processor computing device 104 over network 108. Mortgage processor computing device 104 utilizes mortgage operations module 114 to, among other things, allow for the communication of loan documents from borrower computing device 106 to a data store/memory 116 of mortgage processor computing device 104 so that the content of the communicated loan documents can be used in a loan origination module 118. Loan origination module 118 may include a set of computer-executable instructions stored in a memory of mortgage processor computing device 104 and configured for processing the mortgage loan with the objective of receiving approval from a lender (e.g., bank) to loan a specified amount of money to the borrower. It should be understood that server 102 may be controlled by the same or different business entity that controls the mortgage processor computing device 104.

(21) A series of exemplary screen shots are provided in FIGS. 5A-5F illustrating the functionality that may be provided by mortgage operations module 114. The description of mortgage operations module 114 provided below will refer to some of these screen shots. As seen in FIG. 5A, mortgage operations module 114 provides a login interface that provides access to a loan processor if proper authentication is entered. Further, FIGS. 5B and 5C display information related to the loan(s), including loan data 502.

(22) As seen in FIG. 4, mortgage operations module 114 is configured for processing an algorithm that comprises the step of receiving an input request at server 102 to establish a loan file from mortgage processor computing device 104 over network 108 at step 402. The input request may be generated in response to a mortgage application request from an origination loan officer and/or a borrower using loan officer computing device 112 and borrower computing device 106, respectively. The input request includes loan data received from loan officer computing device 112 and/or borrower computing device 106 that is associated with the loan file, wherein the loan data may include at least one of an identification (e.g., a list) of a plurality of required mortgage application documents, a loan number, borrower information, a loan amount, a loan rate, a loan term, a loan close date, a loan rate lock date, or a countdown to the loan close date or loan rate lock date. The plurality of required mortgage application documents related to the credit, income and assets of a borrower, which may include, but is not limited to, a paystub, a letter of explanation, a W-2 form, income tax forms, a credit report, a driver's license, social security card, or a bank statement. It should be understood that the aforementioned loan data may be stored in data store 116 and/or loan origination module 118. At step 404, mortgage operations module 114 is configured further implement the algorithm by generating the loan file, associating the loan data with the generated loan file, and storing the loan file and associated loan data in a data store/memory 120. At step 406, mortgage operations module 114 is configured to further implement the algorithm by allowing for the display of the loan data associated with the loan file on a display of mortgage processor computing device 104 over network 108, including a list of the plurality of required mortgage application documents 503 (FIG. 5C). As seen in FIG. 5B, loan data 502 is displayed for a plurality of different borrowers that are in different stages of the mortgage fulfillment process. Mortgage operations module 114 is further configured to implement the algorithm by communicating the identification of the plurality of required mortgage application documents to borrower computing device 106 over network 108 at step 408. Mortgage operations module 114 may also allow for the deletion or addition 505 of required mortgage application documents 503 from the list displayed on mortgage processor computing device 104. As such, mortgage operations module 114 allows mortgage processor computing device 104 to communicate with borrower computing device 106 over network 108 to identify the required plurality of required mortgage application documents, and keep track of the receipt of such documents to make the mortgage approval process more transparent and efficient.

(23) In a further aspect, as best seen in FIG. 3, the present invention includes a borrower interface module 122 including a second set of computer executable instructions stored in a memory of borrower computing device 106. Borrower interface module 122 includes computer executable instructions configured for performing, through the use of the processor of borrower computing device 106, a number of algorithmic steps that facilitate the mortgage fulfillment process when used in conjunction with mortgage operations module 114. Borrower interface module 122 may be in the form of a mobile software application (i.e., mobile app) or any other type of software program that can be easily downloaded and used by a borrower to interact with mortgage processor computing device 104, provide the information necessary to complete the mortgage fulfillment process, and keep apprised of the status of the mortgage fulfillment process. A series of exemplary screen shots are provided in FIGS. 7A-7E illustrating the functionality that may be provided by borrower interface module 122. The description of borrower interface module 122 provided below will refer to some of these screen shots. As seen in FIG. 7A, borrower interface module 122 provides a login interface that provides access to a borrower if proper authentication is entered. Further, FIG. 7B displays information related to the loan, including loan data 502.

(24) As seen in FIG. 6, borrower interface module 122 may be configured for processing an algorithm that comprises the steps of associating borrower interface module 122 with the loan file at step 602, and receiving the identification of the plurality of required mortgage application documents from server 102 over network 108 at step 604. At step 606, borrower interface module 122 is further configured to implement the algorithm by displaying the identification of the plurality of required mortgage application documents on a display of borrower computing device 106. For example, as seen in FIG. 7C, borrower interface module 122 is operating to display a list 702 of required documents on borrower computing device 106, including, but not limited to, a paystub, a letter of explanation, a W-2 form, a credit report, a driver's license, a bank statement, credit inquiry letter, social security card, and credit disclosure.

(25) At step 608, borrower interface module 122 is configured to further implement the algorithm by associating a data file stored in data store/memory 124 of borrower computing device 106 with one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents. Data file may be any type of document in digital form, including, but not limited to, a pdf document or a digital photograph, for example. As best seen in FIG. 7C, the data file, utilizing an upload function 704, may be uploaded and stored into the memory of borrower computing device 106 from an external source, or borrower interface module 122 may allow for the capture or utilization of a digital image using a digital camera of borrower computing device 106, wherein the digital image represents data file. A view function 710 may also be used to display a data file that has already been communicated to server 102. It should be understood that the process of associating different data files with each of the listed required mortgage application documents may continue in a single session or different sessions until all of the listed required mortgage application documents are accounted for.

(26) At step 610, borrower interface module 122 is further configured to implement the algorithm by communicating the associated data file to mortgage operations module 114 over network 108, wherein mortgage operations module 114 receives the associated data file and communicates 711 the associated data file to mortgage processor computing device 104 (FIG. 7D) so that the associated data file is stored in memory 116 of mortgage processor computing device 104. The content of the associated data file may be stored in memory 120 of server 102, but also may just be communicated to mortgage processor computing device 104. However, the fact that the associated data file was received by the server 102 is stored so that it can be indicated to borrower computing device 106 (FIG. 7E) and mortgage processor device 104 that the corresponding required mortgage application document is no longer required to be provided by borrower computing device 106.

(27) At step 612, as best seen in FIGS. 6 and 7C, borrower interface module 122 is further configured implement the algorithm by displaying an indicia 712 on the display of borrower computing device 106 in association with the one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents 702, wherein indicia 712 represents that the associated data file was communicated to mortgage operations module 114. Indicia 712 may be any type of symbol (e.g., check mark), color (e.g., green), character, text, number, or combination thereof, indicating to a borrower using borrower computing device 106 that the one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents 702 was communicated from borrower computing device 106 to mortgage operations module 114. The associated data file that has been communicated may thereafter be and stored in memory 116 and used in loan origination module 118 to process the subject mortgage application. As such, borrower interface module 122 allows borrower computing device 106 to receive a list of required mortgage application documents from mortgage processor computing device 104 over network 108, efficiently communicate the required documents to server 102 and/or mortgage processor computing device 104, and keep track of the documents that are still required to make the mortgage approval process more transparent and efficient.

(28) In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, as best seen in FIG. 11, mortgage operations module 114, utilizing the processor of server 102, is further configured for tracking the associated data file(s) that have been received from borrower computing device 106 at step 410, and allowing for the display of an indicia on the display of mortgage processor computing device 104 representing the required mortgage application documents that have not been received and/or received by mortgage operations module 114 from the respective associated borrower computing device 106 at step 412. For example, the indicia may take the form of a numerical value, wherein if the numerical value is “2”, then this is an indication that the borrower still needs to communicate “2” of the required mortgage application documents. Further, mortgage operations module 114 may be configured for allowing for the display of one of a plurality of status indicators on the mortgage processor computing device 104 corresponding to the indicia on the display of the mortgage processor computing device. For instance, plurality of status indicators may be text and/or a plurality of different colors (e.g., red, dark green, light green), wherein each of the colors correspond to the number of required mortgage application documents that still need to be communicated form borrower computing device 106. In one example, if no documents have been communicated from borrower computing device 106 then the status indicator may be red; if all of the documents have been communicated from borrower computing device 106 then the status indicator may be dark green; if some of the documents have been communicated from borrower computing device 106, then the status indicator may be light green. It should be understood that this same methodology may be implemented using different symbols.

(29) In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, as best seen in FIGS. 5C and 12, mortgage operations module 114, utilizing the processor of server 102, is further configured for tracking that the associated data file(s) that have been received from borrower computing device 106 that correspond to the plurality of required mortgage application documents 503 at step 414, and allowing for the display of first and second lists 508a, 508b on the display of one of a plurality of status indicators 508a, 508b, 508c on the mortgage processor computing device 104 corresponding to whether the required mortgage application document has not been received (508a) by mortgage operations module 104, has been received by mortgage operations module 104 but has not yet been reviewed and approved (508b), or has been received and approved (508c) by mortgage operations module 104 from borrower computing device 106. For example, the plurality of status indicators may be text and/or a plurality of different colors (e.g., red, dark green, light green), wherein each of the colors correspond to the status of the required mortgage application documents within the mortgage application process. In the instance that a required mortgage application document has been received by mortgage operations module 104 but has not yet been reviewed and approved (508b), mortgage operations module 104 is configured for allowing the received document to be approved, rejected or deleted using the respective function 509. The aspects described above provide a visual indicator to the mortgage processor using mortgage processor computing device 104 that will facilitate follow-up communications with borrower computing device 106 if mortgage application documents are still required to complete the process.

(30) In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, mortgage operations module 114 is configured to facilitate communication between the borrower and mortgage processor computing device 104. For example, as best seen in FIG. 5B, mortgage operations module 114, utilizing the processor of server 102, is further configured for allowing for real-time text chat communication 510 or e-mail communication between mortgage processor computing device 104 and borrower computing device 106 over network 108. As best seen in FIG. 5D, mortgage operations module 114 provides a pop-up window 514 to allow for real-time text chat communication 510, and may also store a record of the last time a chat session was conducted and allow for the display of the chat history when a user interface selection device is hovered above an icon 518 for real-time text chat communication 510. Similar functionality can be provided for e-mail communication as well. As best seen in FIGS. 7B and 7F, borrower interface module 122 is configured to allow for real-time text chat communication 714 that operates in conjunction with real-time text chat communication 510 to provide for a two way line of communication between the borrower and the mortgage processor computing devices 106, 104. As best seen in FIG. 5E, real-time text chat communication 510 may also provide for the communication 516 of data files from borrower computing device 106 to server 102 over network 108.

(31) In another aspect of facilitating communication between the borrower computing device 106 and mortgage processor computing device 104, as seen in FIG. 5F, mortgage operations module 114, utilizing the processor of server 102, is further configured for performing the step of allowing for a push notification 520 associated with the loan file to be sent by server 102 and/or mortgage processor computing device 104 to borrower computing device 106 over network 108 so that push notification 520 can be displayed by borrower interface module 122 on borrower computing device 106. It should be understood that push notification 520 may be communicated manually using mortgage processor computing device 104, or automatically generated on a pre-determined specified date or upon occurrence of a milestone of the mortgage fulfillment process. For example, push notification 520 may include a reminder that one or more of the plurality of required mortgage application documents still need to be communicated to mortgage operations module 114, an acknowledgement that one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents has been received by mortgage operations module 114, an acknowledgement that a condition of mortgage approval has cleared, a reminder of a loan closing date, a confirmation related to a closing schedule, and/or an acknowledgement that one or more milestones of the mortgage fulfillment process has been completed. The one or more milestones of the mortgage fulfillment process may include at least one of application completed, submitted for underwriting, conditional approval, final approved, initial closing disclosure issued, or final closing documents issued. Mortgage operations module 114 also provides for a custom notification 522 to be sent to borrower interface module 122. Mortgage operations module 114 is also configured for storing in memory 120 of server 102 an instance (e.g., day and/or time) of the push notification 520 being sent to borrower computing device 106, and allowing for the display of instance on mortgage processor computing device 104.

(32) The ability to provide push notifications to follow up with a borrower, along with one or more of the other functions described herein, may significantly shorten mortgage fulfillment processing times. FIGS. 8, 9, and 9A-9I, show an exemplary loan closing calendar along with a series of corresponding push notifications, and indicators where digital files were received from the borrower computing device. This illustrates a case where the time to closing the loan was reduced to 29 days compared to the 34 days shown in the closing calendar in FIG. 1.

(33) Mortgage operations module 114 may include further aspects computer-implemented operations to facilitate the mortgage fulfillment process as seen in FIG. 13. After the associated data file has been received by server 102 from borrower computing device 106 at step 418, mortgage operations module 114 may be configured to allow for the associated data file to be temporarily stored in a secure memory location in server 102 at step 420, and provide for a drag and drop operation to allow mortgage processor computing device 104 to move and store the associated data file in memory 116 of mortgage processor computing device 104 at step 422. This will allow the associated data file to be displayed, analyzed and/or otherwise used by mortgage processor computing device 104 in conjunction with loan origination module 118 to process the subject mortgage application, without retaining a copy of the associated data file in the memory of server 102. For example, the copy of the associated data file in the memory of server 102 may be deleted at step 424 after the drag and drop function has been completed. This process may be advantageous given that sensitive personal identifiable information or other sensitive information may be included in the data files provided by borrower computing device 106. It is therefore desirable to minimize the number of copies of such data files retained during the mortgage approval process, while at the same time allowing for the easy transfer of such data files from borrower computing device 106 to mortgage processor computing device 104. Allowing for the temporary storage of the data files in the member of server 102 and facilitating the transfer of such file to mortgage processor computing device 104 using a drag and drop operation addresses these needs.

(34) In another aspect, as best seen in FIG. 14, mortgage operations module 114 may also provide for an automated feature that is configured for automatically populating data into a digital loan origination document that is stored in memory 116 of mortgage processor computing device 104, made available in loan origination module 118, or made available to mortgage operations module 114. The digital loan origination document is a document that needs to be completed during the mortgage fulfillment process, for example, using loan origination module 118. After server 102 receives the associated data file from borrower computing device 106 at step 426, mortgage operations module 114 using processor of server 102 is configured for determining the type of mortgage application document that the received data file is associated with at step 428. The determination can be made based on a receipt of a communication (e.g., a tag) that is manually or automatically generated and associated with the data file by borrower interface module 122 before the data file is sent by borrower computing device 106 to server 102. Alternatively, or in addition, mortgage operations module 114 may be configured for automatically analyzing the received data file to identify the type of mortgage application document that corresponds to the data file, regardless of whether any tagging was provided by borrower interface module 122. After the relevant mortgage application document is determined or otherwise identified, one or more data fields related to the mortgage application document are identified by mortgage operations module 114 at step 430. Mortgage operations module 114, using processor of server 102, is further configured for automatically analyzing the associated data file received from the borrower computing device 106 to locate the identified data fields within the data file relevant to the mortgage application document at step 432. Further, at step 434, mortgage operations module 114 is configured for automatically extracting loan data from the data fields located within the data file. The analyzing and/or extracting of the data file may be performed using at least one of robotics process automation (RPA), screen-scraping, or other tools. The extracted data may be stored in memory 116 and/or memory 120. At step 436, mortgage operations module 114 is further configured for automatically populating at least one of a plurality of loan origination data fields identified in the digital loan origination document with the extracted loan data.

(35) In an example, server 102 may receive a data file from borrower computing device 106 through the use of borrower interface module 122. The data file may be sent to mortgage operations module 114 along with a tag or identifier indicating that the data file represents a W-2 form. This tag or identifier could be, for instance, generated by borrower interface module 122 when the digital file is uploaded using the upload, capture, or utilization functions 704, 706, 708 in association with one of the plurality of required mortgage application documents on list 702. Thus, if borrower interface module 122 tags a data file as a W-2 form prior to sending the data file to the server 102, and server 102 receives the tagged data file, mortgage operations module 114 is configured for determining that the digital file is a W-2 form. In the alternative, borrower interface module 122 may be used to automatically analyze the received data file to determine that it is a W-2 form through image and/or text recognition. Thereafter, one or more data fields related to W-2 forms are provided, determined, or identified by mortgage operations module 114, such as, employee name, employee address, wages earned, etc. Mortgage operations module 114 would then automatically analyze the data file to identify and/or locate the relevant data fields on the data file, and automatically extract loan data from the relevant data fields in the data file. The extracted data may be stored in memory 116 and/or memory 120, and then be used to automatically populate at least one of a plurality of loan origination data fields identified in the digital loan origination document with the extracted loan data.

(36) In addition, at step 438, mortgage operations module 114 is also optionally configured to perform basic calculations using the extracted loan data prior to populating the at least one of the plurality of loan origination data fields in the digital loan origination document to transform the loan data into a form that is required in the digital loan origination document. In an example, if the data file is identified as a bi-weekly pay stub, then mortgage operations module 114 may be configured to perform an automated transformation of data (i.e., calculation), whereby the wage data extracted from the digital file representing the pay stub would be multiplied by 26 to arrive at the annual wages, which is thereafter populated into the digital loan origination document. Extracting information from the data file and auto-populating information into the loan origination document results in the efficient completion of the digital loan origination document using the extracted loan data, and may reduce the number of errors that may have occurred if the information was manually inputted into the loan origination document.

(37) In yet another aspect, as best seen in FIG. 3, at least one of realtor computing device 110 or loan officer computing device 112 is in communication with mortgage operations module 114 over network 108. Realtor computing device 110 or loan officer computing device 112 may be in communication with mortgage operations module 114 through the use of a mobile software application or by logging on to mortgage operations module 114 remotely through the Internet. Mortgage operations module 114, utilizing the processor of server 102, may be further configured for communicating a push notification to at least one of loan officer computing device 112 or realtor computing device 110 over network 108 for displaying on the respective computing device the push notification is associated with the loan file. The push notification may include an acknowledgement that one or more milestones 524 (FIG. 5G) of the mortgage fulfillment process has been completed. Mortgage operations module 114 is further configured for tracking at least one of a loan closing date or a rate lock expiration date, and wherein the push notification may further include at least one of the loan closing date or the rate lock expiration date. Mortgage operations module 114 is also configured for communicating at least one of the loan closing date or the rate lock expiration date to borrower computing device 106 over the network, and allowing the at least one of the loan closing date or the rate lock expiration date to be displayed on the display of borrower computing device 106 using borrower interface module 122.

(38) FIG. 10 is an exemplary illustration showing the ability of mortgage operations module 114 and borrower interface module 122 to exchange communications, data, push notifications, and status updates on the progress of the mortgage fulfillment process, while realtor computing device 110 or loan officer computing device 112 are only permitted to view the progress of the mortgage fulfillment process. This aspect keeps the loan officer and realtor informed of the progress of the loan and may increase satisfaction with the mortgage processor. As can be seen in FIG. 10, mortgage operations module 114 may also be configured to provide realtor computing device 110 one or more of the same functions that are provided to borrower through borrower interface module, as described above.

(39) In another aspect, it should be understood that the methods set forth above may be embodied in computer readable instructions stored on a non-transitory computer readable medium.

(40) Having described embodiment number of aspects of the mortgage loan processing system and associated methods, an exemplary computer environment for implementing the mortgage loan processing system is presented next.

(41) FIG. 15 shows an exemplary computing environment 900 that may be used to implement any of the processing of computer-executable instructions thus far described. Computing environment 900 may be a computer 912 that is representative of server 102, mortgage processor computing device 104, borrower computing device 106, realtor computing device 110, or loan officer computing device 112. For example, computer 912 may include a system bus 924 that couples a video interface 926, network interface 928, one or more serial ports 932, a keyboard/mouse interface 934, and a system memory 936 to a Central Processing Unit (CPU) 938. A monitor or display 940 is connected to bus 924 by video interface 926 and provides the user with a graphical user interface to perform all of the relevant functionality described above. The graphical user interface allows the user to enter commands and information into computer 912 using a keyboard 941 and a user interface selection device 943, such as a mouse, touch screen or other pointing device. Keyboard 941 and user interface selection device are connected to bus 924 through keyboard/mouse interface 934. Display 940 and user interface selection device 943 are used in combination to form the graphical user interface which may allow the user to implement at least a portion of the processes described above with respect to mortgage operations module 114 and/or borrower interface module 122. Other peripheral devices may be connected to computer through serial port 932 or universal serial bus (USB) drives 945 to transfer information to and from computer 912.

(42) The system memory 936 is also connected to bus 924 and may include read only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), an operating system 944, a basic input/output system (BIOS) 946, application programs 948 and program data 950. The computer 912 may further include a hard disk drive 952 for reading from and writing to a hard disk, a magnetic disk drive 954 for reading from and writing to a removable magnetic disk (e.g., floppy disk), and an optical disk drive 956 for reading from and writing to a removable optical disk (e.g., CD ROM or other optical media). The computer 912 may also include USB drives 945 and other types of drives for reading from and writing to flash memory devices (e.g., compact flash, memory stick/PRO and DUO, SD card, multimedia card, smart media xD card), and a scanner 958. A hard disk interface 952a, magnetic disk drive interface 954a, an optical drive interface 956a, a USB drive interface 945a, and a scanner interface 958a operate to connect bus 924 to hard disk drive 952, magnetic disk drive 954, optical disk drive 956, USB drive 945 and a scanner 958, respectively. Each of these drive components and their associated computer-readable media may provide computer 912 with non-volatile storage of computer-readable instruction, program modules, data structures, application programs, an operating system, and other data for the computer 912. In addition, it will be understood that computer 912 may also utilize other types of computer-readable media in addition to those types set forth herein, such as digital video disks, random access memory, read only memory, other types of flash memory cards, magnetic cassettes, and the like.

(43) As mentioned above, mortgage operations module 114 may be implemented in a networked environment using logical connections to establish communication between server 102, mortgage processor computing device 104, borrower computing device 106, realtor computing device 110 and/or loan officer computing device 112, as previously described. Network interface 928 provides a communication path 960 between bus 924 and network 108, which allows the instructions, modules, data, sequences, files, designations, notifications, or information described above to be communicated through network 108 between server 102, mortgage processor computing device 104, borrower computing device 106, realtor computing device 110 and/or loan officer computing device 112 using computer 912, as described above. This type of logical network connection is commonly used in conjunction with a local area network (LAN). The instructions, modules, data, sequences, files, designations, notifications, or information may also be communicated from bus 924 through a communication path 962 to network 108 using serial port 932 and a modem 964. Using a modem connection is commonly used in conjunction with a wide area network (WAN). It will be appreciated that the network connections shown herein are merely exemplary, and it is within the scope of the present invention to use other types of network connections between server 102, mortgage processor computing device 104, borrower computing device 106, realtor computing device 110 and/or loan officer computing device 112 including both wired and wireless connections.

(44) As can be appreciated, the system and methods described above overcomes the previously mentioned drawbacks and deficiencies that currently exist in this field by providing a cloud-based mortgage processing platform that provides for all of the functionality set forth above. While the system and methods have been described with reference to a mortgage application process, it should be understood that it is contemplated that the system and methods be used with any type of loan process that requires interaction between a mortgage processor and a borrower.

(45) From the foregoing, it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to attain all the ends and objects hereinabove set forth together with other advantages which are obvious and which are inherent to the system and method. It will be understood that certain features and sub combinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and sub combinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the claims. Since many possible embodiments of the invention may be made without departing from the scope thereof, it is also to be understood that all matters herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings are to be interpreted as illustrative and not limiting.

(46) The constructions described above and illustrated in the drawings are presented by way of example only and are not intended to limit the concepts and principles of the present invention. As used herein, the terms “having” and/or “including” and other terms of inclusion are terms indicative of inclusion rather than requirement.

(47) While the invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof to adapt to particular situations without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope and spirit of the appended claims.