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.
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.
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.
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 You Use Gift Funds on FHA Loans?
FHA buyers can often use eligible gift funds for the down payment and closing costs. Learn who may give a gift, what paperwork lenders need, and why transfer timing matters.
What Happens During Mortgage Underwriting?
Underwriting is the lender's final review of your income, assets, credit and the home. Learn what underwriters check, what conditions mean and how to avoid delays.
What Is Earnest Money? A Guide for NC and SC Homebuyers
Earnest money is a good-faith deposit held in escrow and credited at closing. Learn how it works in NC and SC, how it differs from due diligence and how to protect it.
What Not to Do Before Closing on a House
Between contract and closing, lenders keep checking your credit, job and accounts. Here's what not to do before closing, why it matters and what to do instead.
What Are Closing Costs for Buyers in North Carolina and South Carolina?
Closing costs often run 2% to 5% of the price. See what NC and SC buyers pay for, how prepaids and escrow work, and how seller and lender credits can lower your cash.
Can I Use Gift Funds for a Down Payment?
Yes, most loans allow gift money for a down payment. Who can give it, when you need your own funds, the gift letter, and how to move the money without delays.
Can I Buy a House With 5% Down? NC & SC Guide
Buying with 5% down may leave more savings available, but closing costs and PMI still matter. Explore the trade-offs and mortgage options for NC and SC buyers.