Carolina Mortgage Insights with Paul Mattos
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Buying a Home With Room for Mom
Planning for a parent to live with you? How to finance a home with an in-law suite, an ADU, an addition or a separate home for Mom in North and South Carolina.
Buying With a Partner or Spouse
Who goes on the loan, who goes on the deed and does your spouse have to sign? How buying with a partner or spouse works in North and South Carolina.
Should I Refinance My Low-Rate Mortgage to Pay Off Debt?
Have a low mortgage rate but high-rate credit cards or car loans? Here's how to decide between a HELOC and a cash-out refinance to pay off debt, and the risks to weigh first.
Can I Buy a Home in Fort Mill, SC on a $100K Salary?
Wondering if $100K is enough for Fort Mill? See the price range it supports at today's rates and why town limits, HOA dues and your debts change the answer.
FHA Will Accept VantageScore 4.0 and FICO 10T Credit Scores in 2027: What It Means for Buyers
Starting January 1, 2027, FHA loans can use VantageScore 4.0 and FICO 10T. Here's how the change works, who it may help and why minimum scores aren't changing.
Conforming vs. Jumbo Loans: What Carolina Buyers Need to Know
A higher-priced home doesn't always mean a jumbo loan. Here's how conforming limits work in the Carolinas and how to decide which loan fits your purchase.
New Fannie Mae Rule Makes It Easier to Turn Your Current Home Into a Rental
Keeping your current home as a rental? Fannie Mae's new rule uses market rent instead of a signed lease. Here's how the 75% calculation and reserves work.
Buying in Charlotte Before Selling Your Home in Another State
Relocating to Charlotte with a home still to sell? Learn how to qualify with two payments, use equity, handle contingencies and time both closings.
Can Airbnb Income Help You Qualify?
Can Airbnb income help you qualify for a mortgage? Learn how conventional, DSCR, and bank statement lenders evaluate short-term rental income in North Carolina and South Carolina.
Can You Use Rental Income to Qualify?
Rental income may help you qualify for a mortgage, but lenders typically use specific calculations and documentation rather than simply accepting the full rent. Learn how income from existing rentals, new investment properties, house hacking, departing residences, short-term rentals, and DSCR loans may be treated.
Can I Buy a House Before Selling Mine? A Move-Up Buyer's Guide for NC and SC
Buying a new home before selling yours? Learn how lenders count both mortgages, ways to fund the down payment, and what changes if you keep your current home as a rental.
What Happens If the Appraisal Comes in Low?
A low appraisal does not automatically end a home purchase. See how it can change financing, what buyers and sellers can negotiate, and when to request a review.
What Happens If My Loan Is Denied?
A mortgage denial may have a fix, but time matters if you are under contract. Learn what to ask the lender, how to protect deadlines, and what options to review.
Biggest Mistakes First-Time Homebuyers Make
The biggest first-time buyer mistakes happen before the offer: skipping a real budget, forgetting cash beyond the down payment and comparing homes by price alone.
What Bank Statements Do Mortgage Lenders Need?
Buying a home? Learn which bank statements to send, why lenders review deposits and transfers, and how to prepare gift or business funds for mortgage approval.
What Documents Do I Need for a Mortgage?
Start your mortgage pre-approval with the right documents. See the basic checklist and learn when gifts, self-employment, or other income require more records.
Can Bonus Income Count for a Mortgage?
Bonus income may help you qualify for a mortgage, but lenders review its history and trend. Learn what documents to gather and how a usable amount is evaluated.
Can I Qualify for a Mortgage With Overtime Income?
Overtime may help you qualify for a mortgage. Learn how lenders review your earnings history, calculate a monthly amount, and handle changing hours.
Can I Get a Mortgage After Late Payments?
Late payments do not always end your homebuying plans. Learn what lenders may review, how to check your credit report, and what to do before applying.
Can I Buy a House After a Foreclosure?
A foreclosure does not permanently end your homebuying plans. Learn why the completion date matters, how waiting periods differ, and what to prepare.