Interest rates have recently decreased, creating more opportunities for potential buyers. Purchasing a home is one of the most important financial decisions a person makes in their lifetime, and there is much more to selecting a mortgage lender than ensuring you are getting the best rate. With so much at stake, it is important to pick a lender who can provide you with the best experience and loan for you. Here are a few compelling reasons to consider working with a local lender.

1. Help You Prepare to Purchase

   Many people think they don’t have what is needed to purchase a home, but what you think you need and what you actually need may be very different. You may be able to buy sooner than you think, or if you need time to prepare, an experienced lender can provide strategies to help you plan for a future purchase such as how to overcome any issues with your debt-to-income ratio, how to pay off debt, save, or tap into other investments to secure a down payment.

2. Personalized Service

   A local lender will get to know you, your unique financial situation, and goals. They will guide you through the process each step of the way and have access to a variety of loan options to fit your needs and budget as well as their own custom products. At Southern First, for example, we offer our Dream Mortgage, which offers up to 100% financing with no down payment or mortgage insurance required.*

3. Local Market Knowledge & Relationships

   Local lenders that live and work in your area will be familiar with the neighborhood you’re purchasing in and local market trends. They are typically involved in their communities and well-connected with local Realtors®. These relationships can help. When the Realtors® that are a part of your deal have a relationship with your lender, they know they can count on a smooth and timely closing.

4. Direct Access to Support
   Using a local lender gives you direct access to get your questions answered quickly. Our Mortgage Executives are available when you need them and have a full team behind them to assist you. The underwriter and processor working on your loan are right here and able to help answer questions.

At Southern First, our team is passionate about helping people achieve their dreams of homeownership. We offer competitive rates and a variety of products including low down payment options such as FHA, VA, and USDA loans. Reach out today to get started at 877-679-9646 or southernfirst.com/mortgage.

*Loan originations are subject to underwriting and credit approval. Other terms, conditions, and certain fees may apply. The Dream Mortgage Program is a Special Purpose Credit Program designed to expand access to credit for underserved borrowers (low to moderate income and minorities) or locations, which are subject to change without notification. Applications are subject to underwriting and credit approval; additional terms and conditions may apply. Not all applicants will qualify.