What is the Non-Delegated Correspondent channel?

As a Non-Del Correspondent, you can originate loans under your own name while using Cardinal Financial’s powerful loan tech, Octane^®. Octane handles underwriting, pricing, and more with speed, precision, and powerful automation. Bottom line? This channel gives you more ways to grow your business, with more control and less busywork.

Who is eligible to join the channel?

Currently, the Non-Del channel is for existing Cardinal Financial Wholesale brokers operating in a non-delegated capacity. Whether you’re a broker, mini-correspondent, or both, you may be eligible. Reach out to your Account Executive to learn more, and stay tuned for wider eligibility to come!

Is the Non-Del channel available everywhere?

Currently, we can support Non-Del correspondents in all states except Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Wider availability is in the works—we’ll let you know as soon as those states become eligible.

What makes Cardinal’s program different from other lenders?

Our channel is different because we took the time to get it right. We didn’t jump into this space overnight just to be able to say we did it. Instead, we built with intention, based on what our partners told us they needed—better processing support, clearer visibility, faster automation, and fewer headaches.

What products are available?

Currently, we support Conventional loans for our Non-Delegated Correspondents. Stay tuned for additional loan types coming soon.

What tools will I use to manage my loans?

You’ll use Octane to price, lock, and manage your loans. Everything happens in one streamlined system. You can learn more about Octane here.

Can I build my pricing and margin strategy directly in the system?

Yes. Octane lets you set your comp and company margin right in the pricing engine. No more spreadsheets or manual math. Your whole team gets clear, consistent pricing from top to bottom.

Do I need third-party software for disclosures or loan documents?

Our Smart Docs engine draws and customizes disclosures and loan packages inside Octane—no outside vendors required. That saves you time and money while helping you close faster.

How do I apply to be a Non-Delegated Correspondent?

If you’re currently a broker with us, your AE will send you an invitation through Comergence. Once you receive it, you’ll complete your application and upload all required documents. Interested in signing up as a new partner? Please fill out the Become a Partner form.

How long does approval take?

After you submit your application, we’ll review your file within 24 hours. Once everything looks good, we’ll send your package to our Counterparty Risk team for final approval.

What documents and details do I need to provide?

• Fee and margin setup
• Preferred credit, AMC, and title vendors
• MERS Org ID
• Your warehouse lender
• What level of support (like processing) you want from us
• A list of your team members and their roles

What happens after I’m approved?

Once approved, we’ll start configuring your access. You’ll complete the Non-Delegated Correspondent agreement and onboarding forms through Comergence. We’ll set up your account preferences in Octane and align you with an underwriting team, a credit manager, and a principal underwriter. You’ll also receive system credentials and training.

How do I submit loans?

Once you’re set up, you’ll use Octane to price, lock, and submit loans. Your files will follow Cardinal’s standard processing and underwriting path.

Will I still have control over my loans as a Non-Delegated Correspondent?

Absolutely. With Octane, you’re in the driver’s seat. You control the borrower experience, manage your pipeline your way, and originate and close loans in your own name, using your own warehouse line. You get clear pipeline visibility, a seamless integrated workflow, and smart automation to scale efficiently. And when you need support, we’re here to help.

How transparent is the process?

With Octane, you always know where your loan stands. You’ll see what’s missing, what’s approved, and what needs attention—without having to make calls or send emails. There’s no mystery, no delay, just answers. You’ll get real-time alerts with status updates, action items, and more helpful info.

How does the closing process work?

Your loans are eligible for automated closing. Our team will work with your title provider to manage the process seamlessly.

How is funding handled?

Loans are funded through your warehouse line using Octane, with assistance from our fulfillment team. If your warehouse line isn’t integrated, we’ll guide you through a manual process as a backup.

What happens after the loan is funded and purchased?

Once the loan is purchased, our post-funding process kicks in. MERS transfer happens automatically after we issue the Purchase Advice. You’ll provide final documents and we’ll handle the rest.

Who do I reach out to for help?

Your Account Executive is your main point of contact from application through onboarding. Our onboarding team handles documentation and setup. Once you’re live, you’ll also have access to your underwriting and funding teams. For direct questions about onboarding, you can email us anytime at [email protected].