Question 1

What credit score do I need to buy a house on Lake Keowee, Lake Hartwell, or in Upstate SC?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the loan type. FHA loans allow scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down. Conventional loans typically require 620+. VA loans have no official minimum credit score, though most lenders want at least 580–620. Your credit score is one factor — income, debt load, and down payment all matter too.

Question 2

How long does mortgage pre-qualification take?

Accepted Answer

Pre-qualification itself takes about 30 minutes on a call. After you submit this form, I'll follow up within one business day to schedule that call. Most clients have a clear picture of what they qualify for within 24–48 hours of our conversation.

Question 3

Does getting pre-qualified hurt my credit score?

Accepted Answer

Pre-qualification is typically a soft credit pull and does not affect your credit score. A hard pull only happens if and when you formally apply for a mortgage — which comes later in the process, only when you're ready.

Question 4

What is the difference between pre-qualification and pre-approval?

Accepted Answer

Pre-qualification is a preliminary estimate based on information you provide. Pre-approval goes deeper — it verifies income, assets, and credit with documentation, and carries significantly more weight with sellers. We start with pre-qualification to understand your picture, then move to pre-approval when you're ready to make offers.

Question 5

How much down payment do I need to buy a home on Lake Keowee, Lake Hartwell, or anywhere in Upstate SC and Western NC?

Accepted Answer

Less than most people think. VA loans require 0% down for eligible veterans. FHA loans require 3.5% down. Conventional loans can go as low as 3–5% down. Some programs also offer down payment assistance. We shop 100+ lenders to find what fits your situation — not just the standard options.

Question 6

Can I buy a home if I'm self-employed?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Self-employed buyers have more options than most people realize. Bank statement loans, 1099 programs, and DSCR loans for investor properties all exist for non-traditional income. The key is finding the right program — which is exactly what a broker with access to 100+ lenders is built to do.

Skip the stress.
Know where you stand.

Four steps to knowing
exactly what you can do.

Let's find out
what you can do.

"I look at your life,
not just your file."

Skip the stress.Know where you stand.

Four steps to knowingexactly what you can do.

Let's find outwhat you can do.

"I look at your life,not just your file."

Skip the stress.
Know where you stand.

Four steps to knowing
exactly what you can do.

Let's find out
what you can do.

"I look at your life,
not just your file."