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Evaluating Your Wants and Needs as a Homebuyer

July 5, 2023 by Kevin Martini

When it comes to buying a home, the process can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options available, evaluating your wants and needs as a homebuyer is important to ensure you make the right decision. There are key factors you should consider when assessing your requirements, enabling you to make an informed choice that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and preferences.

Location, Location, Location

Choosing the right location is paramount when buying a home. The neighborhood you select will significantly impact your daily life, including your commute, access to amenities, and the overall community atmosphere. Here are some essential aspects to evaluate: Proximity to Work and Transportation, Amenities and Services, and Safety and Security

Proximity to Work and Transportation

Consider the distance between potential neighborhoods and your workplace. A shorter commute can greatly enhance your quality of life, saving time and reducing stress. Additionally, assess the availability of public transportation options, such as buses or train stations, which can provide convenience and flexibility.

Amenities and Services

Evaluate the proximity of essential amenities, including grocery stores, schools, healthcare facilities, parks, and recreational areas. Access to these amenities can greatly enhance your day-to-day life, ensuring your needs are met conveniently.

Safety and Security

Research the safety record of the neighborhood you’re considering. Look into crime rates, the presence of neighborhood watch programs, and the overall sense of security. Prioritizing safety will help provide peace of mind for you and your family.

Defining Your Must-Haves

Every homebuyer has unique preferences and requirements regarding the features of their potential new home. Identifying your must-haves will help you narrow down your search and focus on properties that meet your specific needs. Here are some factors to consider: Size and Layout. Outdoor Space, and Energy Efficiency

Size and Layout

Determine the ideal property size based on your current and future needs. Consider the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, living spaces, and storage areas required to accommodate your lifestyle. Additionally, assess the house’s layout to ensure it aligns with your preferences.

Outdoor Space

Evaluate the importance of outdoor areas, such as gardens, balconies, or patios. If you enjoy spending time outdoors or have children or pets, having a private outdoor space can greatly enhance your quality of life.

Energy Efficiency

Consider the home’s energy efficiency, as it can impact both your environmental footprint and utility costs. Look for features such as energy-efficient appliances, proper insulation, and solar panels, which can help reduce your carbon footprint and save you money in the long run.

Setting Realistic Financial Goals

Establishing a clear budget is crucial when buying a home. It helps determine the price range you can comfortably purchase and avoid financial strain. Here are some steps to consider: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage First, Calculate Affordability, and Factor in Additional Costs

Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage First

Speak with a mortgage strategist with the Martini Mortgage Group and get pre-approved for a mortgage. This process involves confidential consultation and providing your financial information to assess your loan eligibility. Being pre-approved gives you a competitive edge when making an offer and shows sellers that you are a serious buyer, but it also provides you with price and cost clarity.

Calculate Affordability

Evaluate your current financial situation and determine how much you can spend on a home. Consider your income, savings, existing debts, and future expenses. Use online calculators or consult with a financial advisor to get a clear understanding of your affordability range.

Factor in Additional Costs

In addition to the purchase price, consider other costs associated with homeownership, such as property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and potential renovations or upgrades. These expenses will give you a realistic estimate of the total property cost.

martini factor bottom line

Evaluating your wants and needs as a homebuyer is an essential step in finding your dream home. By considering location, home features, and budget, you can make an informed decision that aligns perfectly with your lifestyle and preferences. Remember, buying a home is a significant investment, so taking the time to evaluate your requirements will help ensure a successful and fulfilling homeownership experience.

To maximize your home buying potential and ensure a seamless mortgage experience, we invite you to contact a mortgage strategist with the Martini Mortgage Group today. Their expertise and personalized approach will guide you through the financial intricacies of homeownership, helping you secure the best mortgage options available.

Don’t let this opportunity slip through your fingers. Take action now and reach out to the Martini Mortgage Group. Let their professional mortgage strategists elevate your homebuying journey to new heights. Your dream home is just a call away!

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Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: homebuyer, Martini Mortgage Group

The Martini Mortgage Group Ultimate Home Buying and Mortgage Guide: Martini Buyer Guide | Summer 2023 Edition

June 11, 2023 by Kevin Martini

The Martini Buyer Guide, created by Kevin Martini and Logan Martini, is an invaluable resource for individuals and families purchasing a home. Regardless of whether you are a first-time homebuyer or have previous experience in the real estate market, crucial factors demand consideration before making such a significant investment. The Martini Buyer Guide has been curated to provide accurate and up-to-date information about the dynamic realms of real estate and mortgages.

Within the pages of the Summer 2023 edition of the Martini Buyer Guide, you will discover a wealth of informative articles that cover various aspects of the homebuying process and the intricacies of obtaining a mortgage. These articles have been thoughtfully designed to offer readers a simplified understanding of the current state of the real estate market, equipping them with valuable insights into the mortgage process and market dynamics. With the knowledge acquired from this comprehensive homebuying guide, readers can confidently navigate the complexities and make well-informed decisions when purchasing their dream home.

Whether you are venturing into the market for the first time or are a seasoned homebuyer seeking the latest industry insights, the Martini Buyer Guide is an indispensable tool to steer you through the winding terrain of real estate and mortgage markets.

The Summer 2023 Martini Buyer Guide was curated to simply explain what is going on in the real estate and mortgage markets

Senior Mortgage Strategist and Raleigh Mortgage Broker Logan Martini
martini buyer guide summer 2023 best raleigh mortgage broker

The Martini Mortgage Group’s Guide to Buying a Home and Getting a Mortgage

Below at things to consider when buying a home and a glimpse of some of the articles found in the pages of the Summer 2023 homebuyer guide:

  • WHAT IS HAPPENING IN THE HOUSING MARKET
  • THE 3 FACTORS AFFECTING HOME AFFORDABILITY TODAY
  • JUMPSTART YOUR HOMEOWNERSHIP JOURNEY WITH DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE
  • WHAT PAST RECESSIONS TELL US ABOUT THE HOUSING MARKET
  • WHAT PAST RECESSIONS TELL US ABOUT MORTGAGE RATES
  • THINGS TO AVOID AFTER APPLYING FOR A MORTGAGE
  • UNDERSTANDING THE “MARRY THE HOUSE, DATE THE RATE” STRATEGY
  • MEDIAN HOME PRICE IN THE U.S BY DECADE
  • WHY TODAY’S HOUSING MARKET IS NOT ABOUT TO CRASH
  • OUTSMART SAVVY AND UNETHICAL MARKETERS

What is Happening in the Housing Market

The recent shifts in the housing market likely have you questioning their implications on buying a home this summer. To help you, the Martini Mortgage Group has identified the top three factors you should consider closely. See the full article that starts on page 4.

The 3 Factors Affecting Home Affordability

The dramatic increase in mortgage rates last year led many buyers to put their plans on hold. However, affordability is impacted by more than just mortgage rates. To understand affordability, you must look at three factors: Mortgage Rates, Home Prices, and Wages. For more information, check out the full article starting on page 10.

Jumpstart your Homeownership Journey with Down Payment Assistance in North Carolina offered by the Martini Mortgage Group

Are you a first-time homebuyer or planning an upgrade? Are you struggling to pull together that hefty down payment?

Say goodbye to your worries because the Martini Mortgage Group is here to help!

Together with the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA), the Martini Mortgage Group offers many mortgage products and down payment aid programs. We’re determined to make your dream of owning a home in whatever county you are in North Carolina not just affordable but downright achievable. Check out the article that starts on page 13 of the Martini Buyer Guide or check out this blog article: Jumpstart Your Homeownership Journey with Down Payment Assistance in North Carolina offered by the Martini Mortgage Group

First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit in North Carolina

Suppose you’re a first-time homebuyer in North Carolina. In that case, you may be eligible to save up to $2,000 a year with the Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) offered by the Martini Mortgage Group in partnership with North Carolina Housing and Finance Agency (NCHFA). This tax credit is not just for the first year; it’s up to $2,000 yearly as long as the home remains your primary residence.

Let’s Connect

It is understandable if you are filled with questions and concerns about securing the most cost-effective mortgage and navigating the real estate maze. We’re eager to converse with you about the insights you’ve gathered from the Summer 2023 Edition of the Martini Buyer Guide and aid you on your journey to acquire your new home. Contact us at (919) 238-4934 – we eagerly await the opportunity to assist you.

Logan Martini

Logan Martini | NMLS 1591485 | Senior Mortgage Strategist | Martini Mortgage Group at Gold Star Mortgage Financial Group, Corporation | NMLS # 3446 | 507 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27604 | (919) 238-4934 | www.MartiniMortgageGroup.com | [email protected] | Equal Housing Lender

raleigh mortgage broker logan martini
Kevin Martini

Kevin Martini | NMLS 143962 | Certified Mortgage Advisor | Martini Mortgage Group at Gold Star Mortgage Financial Group, Corporation | NMLS # 3446 | 507 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27604 | (919) 238-4934 | www.MartiniMortgageGroup.com | [email protected] | Equal Housing Lender

certified mortgage advisor kevin martini

Filed Under: Applciation Process, Appreciation, Certified Mortgage Advisor, Down Payment, Home Loan, Home Loan Rates, Home Loans, Homebuying Strategies, Housing Market, Kevin Martini, Logan Martini, Marry the House, Date the Rate, Martini Mortgage Podcast, MCC, Mortgage, Mortgage Broker, Mortgage Credit Certificate, NCHFA, North Carolina Housing and Finance Agency, Raleigh, Raleigh Mortgage, Raleigh Mortgage Rates, Real Estate, Recession, Things to Consider when Buying a Home, Uncategorized, Wake County Tagged With: Buying a home, homebuyer, homebuying process, Kevin Martini, Logan Martini, Martini Buyer Guide, mortgage, Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC), mortgage proces, NCHFA, Raleigh, Raleigh Mortgage Broker, real estate and mortgage markets, real estate market

 Recession, Rates and Real Estate in Raleigh

May 10, 2022 by Kevin Martini

When there is a conversation about a recession coming to Raleigh, North Carolina it is natural to be curious about what it means for mortgage rates and real estate values.

Episode 142 of the the Martini Mortgage Podcast with Certified Mortgage Advisor Kevin Martini is called Recession, Rates and Real Estate. In this special episode, Kevin Martini unpacks what experts believe will happen to Raleigh real estate and Raleigh home loan rates when there is a recession because there will be one — it is not a question of ‘if’, it is ‘when’ it will happen.

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There is a lot of chatter recently about the thoughts of a recession coming to visit us. There are a lot of conversations about the upward movement in mortgage rates in 2022. And about the Federal Reserve, increasing the Fed funds rate and reducing their balance sheet. There is the reality that homebuyers are facing challenges finding the right place to call home. Welcome to Episode 142 of the Martini mortgage podcast. My name is Kevin Martini, and I’m a certified mortgage advisor with the Martini Mortgage Group, which is located in Raleigh, North Carolina, however, myself, along with a very talented crew of mortgage professionals, help families in all 100 counties in North Carolina, and pretty much in every state in the US to I’m calling this special episode of the Martini mortgage podcast recession rates and real estate recession rates and real estate. Oh, my, let us start with the recession. What is it simply put it is when there’s a decline in economic activity for two consecutive quarters, as reflected by the GDP and other economic indicators. GDP in the US dropped 1.4% In the first quarter of 2022. And this drop is an indicator of the potential recession coming. When will it come? I do not know. I do know this as it relates to a recession. It’s not if a recession is going to happen. It is when will a recession happen? And when the recession happens, what will happen to mortgage rates and real estate home values. When the recession rears its head. Historically, real estate performs very well. Since 1960, in the US, there have been nine recessions. In eight out of nine recessions, real estate values increased during the recession. The anomaly was during the Great Recession, which was during the housing crisis. Today, it is nothing like it was in 2008. Today, there were requirements to get a home loan. And back then the only requirement to secure a mortgage was to make sure you were breathing. Let me highlight before the Great Recession. If you had a low credit score with no job, you were getting a home loan, and in many instances you are able to get multiple home loans. It is critical to highlight to you the housing crisis led us into the recession, home values have not declined because of the recession. They declined because of the housing crisis. Let me say this again for the people in the back. The housing crisis led us into recession, home values did not decline because of the recession. They declined because of the housing crisis. Today, the home loans on the books are nothing like the ones that were on the books during the housing crisis. In addition, during the housing crisis, there was an excess inventory back then which amplified the situation. Recession does not mean reduction of home values. Also I feel obligated to highlight this deceleration of home values does not mean depreciation of home values. It is expected that values will not appreciate at the rate they have appreciated, hence deceleration. However, homes are still forecasted to appreciate. According to the home price expectation survey, home values over the next five years are projected to appreciate cumulative about 25% With the current inflation, some have the opinion that this cumulative 25% appreciation we’re five years is a conservative prediction. Here’s why.

At the time of this recording of episode 141 of the Martini Mortgage Podcast, inflation is 8.5%. During periods of inflation, fixed assets like real estate perform very well since Owning a home is a hedge against inflation. Let me illustrate using what happened in the 70s During the 70s, consumer prices increased 7.1%. However homes appreciated 9.9%. Too far back. Okay. Let us look at the 90s. during that decade, consumer prices increased 3%. And homes appreciated 4%. When we look back at this period of time that we’re in today, it is my opinion, we will look back at 2022 as the good old days of real estate, we will right now are in a housing boom, not a housing bubble friends. Sure, this market has challenges and I understand it’s not easy out there. However, there are things that I can do as a certified mortgage advisor to put your offer in the pole position by allowing you to make a same as cash offer. Nothing very good for you is easy. If you want to be healthy, you have to exercise and eat right. It’s hard to exercise consistently and eating right is hard to Yes, buying a home for the first time or as a repeat homebuyer is not easy today. However, it’s easier if you follow the proper steps. The first step to homeownership is always the home loan. And the second step is to go find a home. And the third step is to make a same as cash offer with an approval package from the Martini Mortgage Group. I know their inventory challenges, and mortgage rates have drifted upward. And sure it would have cost you last if you purchased 12 months ago. But I’m reminding you that of this old Chinese proverb The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now for all those out there that fear our real estate bubble. Let me talk about inventory for a hot second. In 2007, there were 116 million households. Today there are 130 million households. Simply put, there are 14 million more households. And Freddie Mac estimates 3.8 million homes shortage of single family homes for those 130 million households. Let me compare this to the peak in 2007, where there were 3.7 million homes available for sale. And today there are under 900,000 homes for sale. Again, right now is an opportunity and is worth the effort. Even if mortgage rates are higher today, as compared to this time last year. Let us talk about mortgage rates and the Federal Reserve and what they are doing. As a primer. Mortgage rates are based on mortgage bonds, not on the federal funds rate. The Fed funds rate and mortgage rates are two different things. Remember when the Fed funds rate was zero, and many thought that meant mortgage rates were at zero? Obviously, you know that was not the case. Mortgage rates are based on mortgage bonds. When mortgage bond price moves downward to attract more buyers yield is increased. When yield is increased home loan rates rise between 1231 2021 and the end of April of 2022. The mortgage bond price has deteriorated nine point during that period of time. Why the move? Inflation is one of the key reasons for this move in mortgage rates. Again, home loan rates live in the bond market and the Nemesis to the to a bond is inflation. Inflation is high and high inflation negatively impacts mortgage rates. However, from a historical perspective, mortgage rates are still at a record level. Don’t believe me? Well, let

me share this fact with you. When my wife Ronnie and I purchased our first home, the rate for our mortgage was in the mid 90s. And that was not even for a fixed rate mortgage. If our first mortgage would have been a fixed mortgage, it would have been in double digits. What I am going to share now Next, it’s just literally going to blow your mind. What the Federal Reserve is doing today, based on history will improve mortgage rates over time. Raising the Fed funds rate is designed to lower inflation, lower inflation means improvement in home loan rates. Now, inflation did not just pop up overnight, it took time, so will take time for the Fed to get inflation under control. But they will. When inflation gets under control, mortgage rates should improve. You heard me correctly, I believe, rates will come down from the current levels. However, they will likely get worse before they get better, they will get worse because the Fed has a very large inventory of mortgage bonds they will be selling off. But when the dust settles, it should be a good thing. When will the dust settle? It is my gas best case by the end of 2022. But that may be too optimistic with the quantity of bonds they have to sell. And based on where inflation is today. But worst case, in the beginning of 2024. So should you wait to time the market? No. timing the market for mortgage rates is insane, because it’s essentially impossible to do. But even if you could wait it out for the pivot to lower mortgage rates, you will be paying a premium for the home since the home would have appreciated why you wait it. Here’s the fact you have three options today. Number one, call your folks and see if your bedroom is still available. Number two as you can keep renting and we all know that rents are up just under 20%. And then you’re subject to future increases. Or number three, take advantage of the housing boom, we are in today and lacking your housing costs. And no if I’m your mortgage advisor, I will monitor the markets for you after closing for the opportunity to lower your fixed housing costs with a refinance. In closing.

It is not if a recession will happen. It is when it will happen. During periods of recession, home values have done very well. Right now there’s not a housing bubble. Right now there is a housing opportunity. Right now mortgage rates are higher than they’ve been in the past several years. However, they are still very attractive and below the historic average. The Fed is working hard to control inflation, and they will but it will take time. Speaking of time, right now is it time to explore your homeownership options as a first time homebuyer or as a repeat homebuyer. Perhaps you are living in a house that you owe. But you and your family have outgrown it. Now is the time to upgrade. My name is kevin martini and I am a certified mortgage advisor with a martini Mortgage Group. I provide trusted advice with a frictionless process that offers great rates and certainty to you and your family. My number is 919-238-4934 Looking forward to connect. Stay safe out there and wishing you peace and blessings. Now it’s time for the disclaimer. This material has been prepared for marketing purposes only. This is not a loan commitment or guarantee of any kind. loan approval and rates are dependent upon borrower’s credit collateral financial history and program availability at time of origination rates in terms are subject to change without notice. The Martini Mortgage Group at PCL financials the division of celebrity Home Loans NMLS 227765 with a branch address of 507 North London street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604 You can contact certified mortgage advisor and producing branch manager kevin martini NMLS NUMBER 143962 by calling the branch and that number is 919-238-4934. For a full list and more licensing information, please visit www NMLS consumer access that or or by visiting www.MartiniMortgageGroup.com equal housing lender

Filed Under: Fed Funds Rate, Fed Interest Rate Decision, Federal Reserve, Home Loan Rates, Home Loans, Inflation, Kevin Martini, Martini Mortgage Podcast, Mortgage, Mortgage Podcast, Mortgage Rates, Raleigh, Real Estate, Real Estate Podcast Tagged With: Fed Funds Rate, home, homebuyer, housing crisis, inflation, Kevin Martini, loan, Martini Mortgage Podcast, mortgage, mortgage advisor, mortgage bonds, Mortgage Podcast, mortgage rates, North Carolina, Raleigh, rates, Real Estate, Real Estate Podcast, recession

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    Martini Mortgage Group at Gold Star Mortgage Financial Group, Corporation | NMLS # 3446 | For licensing information go to: www.nmlsConsumerAccess.org and/or www.GoldStarFinancial.com Please review our Disclosures & Licensing information | Gold Star Mortgage Financial Group Corporation has no affiliation with the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the US Department of Veterans Affairs, the US Department of Agriculture or any other government agency. Equal Housing Lender. For further information about Gold Star Mortgage Financial Group, Corporation, please visit our website at www.GoldStarFinancial.com. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for financing or interest rate guarantee. Applicant subject to credit, acceptable appraisal, title, and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved. Other terms and conditions apply. Contact Gold Star Mortgage Financial Group, Corporation for more information and up-to-date rates.

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