What is often a requirement of many lenders regarding cash reserves?

Many lenders require borrowers to have sufficient cash reserves to cover initial mortgage payments as a way to ensure that the borrower is financially stable and capable of handling their immediate payment obligations. This requirement helps mitigate risk for the lender, as it confirms that the borrower is not only able to acquire the mortgage but also has a financial cushion to sustain them in the early days of homeownership. Having cash reserves can provide a safety net in case the borrower faces unexpected financial challenges. Additionally, it shows the lender that the borrower has a plan for managing their finances responsibly post-closing.

Other options presented might address different aspects of financial management but do not align with the specific requirement many lenders focus on regarding mortgage readiness. For instance, covering renovation costs or utility expenses, while important for overall home management, do not directly relate to the lender's primary concern of ensuring mortgage payment capability. Maintaining a checking balance above a certain limit may indicate financial health, but it does not directly demonstrate the specific readiness to make mortgage payments, which is crucial for lenders when evaluating a borrower's loan application.