Carolina Mortgage Insights with Paul Mattos
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Do You Really Skip a Payment After Closing?
Your first mortgage payment usually isn't due for over a month, but you're not skipping one. How interest in arrears, prepaid interest and your closing date work.
Will My Mortgage Get Sold?
Got a letter saying your mortgage was transferred? Why loans get sold, what stays the same, the 60-day grace period and how to spot a fake transfer letter.
Can a Different Realtor Lower My Mortgage Payment?
Your realtor doesn't set your rate, but a strong agent can still lower your payment. How seller credits, buydowns and smart negotiating change what you pay.
Moving Money Before Closing
Selling a home, moving 401(k) or brokerage funds, or using Venmo? How to move money before closing without delaying your loan, and what lenders need to see.
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.
Points vs. Lender Credits
Pay points for a lower rate or take lender credits for lower closing costs? How to find your break-even and choose the right option for your NC or SC loan.
Mortgage Rate Locks Explained
When should you lock your mortgage rate, and for how long? How locks, float-downs, extensions and new-construction locks work for NC and SC buyers.
What Charlotte-Area Realtors Are Seeing Right Now: Carolina Realtor Pulse Results
Charlotte-area Realtors shared what's working, what buyers are worried about and what they want from lenders. Here are the first Carolina Realtor Pulse results.
How to Shop for Homeowners Insurance in NC and SC: Tips From Local Agents
Four local insurance agents share how NC and SC buyers should shop homeowners insurance: what to ask, common coverage gaps, roof issues, flood and when to start.
Custom Build Budgets: Allowances, Change Orders and Upgrades
Allowances, change orders and upgrades are where custom home budgets run over. Learn how each one works and how extra costs can affect your construction loan.
How Much Money Do I Need to Buy a Home?
How much money do you need to buy a home? Add your down payment and closing costs, subtract credits, and plan for monthly costs and savings after you move in.
FHA Appraisal Requirements in North Carolina and South Carolina: What Can Prevent a Home From Qualifying?
Most homes don't need to be perfect to pass an FHA appraisal. Here's what the appraiser looks for, common repair issues in the Carolinas, and what happens next.
Planning to Move to Charlotte in 2027? What Homebuyers Should Do Now
Moving to Charlotte in 2027? Here's what to do 6–12 months ahead: set a real budget, plan your current home's sale, prep for a job change and protect your credit.
Cash-Out Refinance Explained
Learn how cash-out refinancing works, how much equity you may access, what it costs, and when another home-equity option may make more sense.
When Does It Make Sense to Refinance?
When should you refinance your mortgage? Learn how to compare rates, closing costs, loan terms, mortgage insurance and your break-even timeline.
How Much Emergency Savings Should I Have After Buying?
Learn how much emergency savings to keep after buying a home, including living expenses, move-in costs, repairs and mortgage reserve requirements.
Can I Buy a Home With Only $10K Saved?
$10,000 can be enough to buy a home in NC or SC, but the down payment is only part of it. Here's what the money needs to cover and how to stretch it.
Is It Better to Put More Money Down? How to Decide
More down lowers your payment and can avoid PMI, but draining savings can backfire. Here’s how to find the right down payment and keep enough cash after closing.
Should I Rent or Buy in Charlotte?
Renting or buying in Charlotte depends on more than the monthly payment. Compare flexibility, upfront cash, full ownership costs, and how long you may stay.
Should I Wait for Interest Rates to Drop?
Should you buy now or wait for mortgage rates to fall? Learn how to judge today’s payment, cash needed, loan options, and the risks of relying on a future refinance.