Schedule a time with a Loan Officer
Apply Now

Mortgage Lenders in Raleigh NC

  • Buy A Home
  • Refinance
  • Learning Center
  • About
  • Contact
(919) 238-4934
CALL US TODAY! (919) 238-4934
  • Buy a Home
  • Refinance
  • Learning Center
  • About
  • Contact
  • Buy a Home
  • Refinance
  • Learning Center
  • About
  • Contact

FHA Home Loans Explained by Raleigh Mortgage Broker Kevin Martini

December 20, 2022 by Kevin Martini

Are you a homebuyer looking to buy your first house in the Raleigh, NC area?

If so, then you may have heard about FHA Home Loans and the potential benefits of them. But what exactly are FHA Home Loans and how do they work? As an experienced mortgage broker in the Raleigh area for more than 15 years, this article has been curated to answer all your questions about this popular loan program.

In this article, I will share a glimpse of what you need to know about FHA loans including who can apply for one and some of their advantages both financially and long-term. I truly believe, armed with knowledge on FHA Home Loans from my helpful explanations, you’ll be able to make educated decisions that could potentially save you thousands of dollars over time and help you create generational wealth with the proper mortgage strategy.

What is a FHA Home Loan?

FHA Home Loans are a type of mortgage loan that is insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). This government-backed insurance is designed to help qualified borrowers get into a home easier and with less money down. FHA loans do not require a high credit score and offers a lower down payment requirement than more traditional mortgage loans, making them an ideal choice for first-time homebuyers and repeat homebuyers too!

FHA loans are also incredibly flexible, as they can be used to purchase a wide variety of properties from single-family homes to townhomes and much more.

Advantages of FHA Home Loan with Kevin Martini

In terms of advantages that come with choosing FHA Home Loans, the most notable one is their low down payment option.

With FHA Home Loans, borrowers only need to put down 3.5% of the total purchase price as a down payment. This amount is significantly lower than what is typically required for more traditional mortgage loans and can be attained with a variety of financial sources such as gifts from family or funds from your local housing agency.

Another advantage of FHA Home Loans is that they are assumable, meaning that if you eventually decide to sell your home, a qualified buyer can assume the balance of the loan without having to go through the entire approval process again. This makes it easier for buyers and sellers alike, especially in today’s highly competitive housing market.

Things to know about the FHA Home Loan

It’s important to note, however, that FHA Home Loans do come with certain restrictions and requirements. The most notable of these is the Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP). All FHA Home Loans require borrowers to pay an annual MIP in order to keep their loan in good standing. This does add an additional cost on top of the loan itself, but it’s important to remember that the MIP is what allows borrowers with lower credit scores and higher debt-to-income ratios to qualify for a loan in the first place.

Although there is no income limit with FHA Home Loans, the borrower must still demonstrate an ability to repay the loan. This means that having a steady job and verifiable income are important for obtaining approval.

Additionally, the property must be appraised by an FHA-Additionally, there is a loan limit in place which varies depending on the particular county and/or area of the country. In Wake County and Raleigh, NC, the loan limit for a one-family with a FHA Home Loan in 2023 is $502,550.

As you can see, there are a few things to consider when it comes to FHA Home Loans. Myself and the entire Martini Mortgage Group can help you navigate the process, so don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions or would like to start the application process. Together we can find a solution that’s best for you and get you into your dream home as quickly and easily as possible.

The Kevin Martini Bottom Line

Now that you know more about FHA Home Loans and their potential benefits, it’s time to start your mortgage journey! If you’re ready to take the next step, contact me today so we can discuss your options and help you find the perfect home loan for your unique situation. With my trusted advice and expertise in the Raleigh mortgage market, I’m confident that you’ll be able to make an informed decision on which loan program is right for you.

Filed Under: Buy a Home, FHA Home Loan, Home Loans, Kevin Martini, Mortgage, Raleigh, Real Estate, Wake County Tagged With: Buying a Home in Raleigh, FHA Home Loan, Kevin Martini, Mortgage Tips, Raleigh, Raleigh Mortgage Broker, Raleigh Mortgage Lender, Real Estate

Things to Know and Consider when Buying a Home (Martini Buyer Guide | Winter 2022)

December 7, 2022 by Kevin Martini

If you are a first-time homebuyer or a repeat homebuyer, there are many things one needs to know and consider when buying a home.  Certified Mortgage Advisor Kevin Martini and Senior Mortgage Strategist Logan Martini curated the Winter 2022 Martini Buyer Guide to simply explain the current real estate and mortgage markets plus vital information about buying a home and the process of getting a mortgage.  The Winter 2022 edition of the Martini Buyer Guide has many informative articles that talk about things one needs to know about the current real estate and mortgage markets. 

winter 2022 martini buyer guide
Winter 2022 Edition of Martini Buyer Guide

If you are buying real estate, if you are selling real estate, if you are refinancing a mortgage or if you work in the real estate arena then the Winter 2022 Martini Buyer Guide would be very helpful since it simply explains the current real estate and mortgage opportunity.

The Winter 2022 Martini Buyer Guide was curated to simply explain what is going on in the real estate and mortgage markets.

Logan Martini, Raleigh Mortgage Broker & Senior Mortgage Strategist

Contents of the Winter 2022 Martini Buyer Guide (things to know and consider when buying a home)

best raleigh mortgage broker logan martini

What is happening in the market?

With everything going on in the housing market right now, you may have a number of questions about what that means for you and your plans to buy a home. Here are three things that are likely top of mind for you.

  • Why did Raleigh mortgage rates rise so much in 2022?
  • What is happening with home prices in Raleigh?
  • Should I buy a home in Raleigh today?
raleigh mortgage lender martini mortgage group what is happening in the housing market page 1 of 2 winter 2022 martini buyer guide
raleigh mortgage lender martini mortgage group what is happening in the housing market page 2 of 2 winter 2022 martini buyer guide

Expert insights for today’s homebuyers

If you want to buy a home today in Raleigh or anywhere for that matter, here are a few things experts say you should know about what to expect and why homeownership is so important.

raleigh mortgage lender martini mortgage group expert insight for todays homebuyers winter 2022 martini buyer guide

Trends that are good news for Raleigh homebuyers

As the Raleigh real estate market has cooled but still remains strong, some of the intensity buyers faced during the peak frenzy of the pandemic has cooled too! Here are four trends that may be beneficial when you go to buy a home today.

  1. More homes to choose from
  2. Bidding wars have eased
  3. More negotiation power
  4. Higher loan limits
raleigh mortgage lender martini mortgage group trends that are good news for raleigh homebuyers winter 2022 martini buyer guide 1 of 3 1
raleigh mortgage lender martini mortgage group trends that are good news for raleigh homebuyers winter 2022 martini buyer guide 2 of 3 1
raleigh mortgage lender martini mortgage group trends that are good news for raleigh homebuyers winter 2022 martini buyer guide 3 of 3

2/1 Buydown

Increasing Raleigh mortgage rates are presenting some challenges and opportunities not just for first-time homebuyers but also to repeat homebuyers too! Leap over the challenges and into the opportunity with a creative mortgage strategy offered by the Martini Mortgage Group called a Seller Paid Buydown.

raleigh mortgage broker kevin martini steer paid buydown winter 2022 martini buyer guide
FREE BUYDOWN CALCULATOR

In most markets in North Carolina, especially in the Triangle, homebuyers will find that sellers are more willing to negotiate on price or other terms more than they have been in recent years.

Logan Martini, Raleigh Mortgage Broker & Senior Mortgage Strategist

5 traps to avoid when buying a home

raleigh mortgage broker logan martini winter 2022 martini buyer guide 5 traps to avoid when buying home 1 of 3
  1. Home shopping before a solid mortgage approval.
  2. Not considering the costs of sale.
  3. Overlooking the costs of improvements, utilities and maintenance.
  4. Using the wrong down payment strategy.
  5. Shopping for a mortgage vs. shopping for the right mortgage professional.
raleigh mortgage broker logan martini winter 2022 martini buyer guide 5 traps to avoid when buying home 2 of 3
raleigh mortgage broker logan martini winter 2022 martini buyer guide 5 traps to avoid when buying home 3 of 3

Top reasons to own your home!

  • Personal Expression
  • Accomplishment
  • Investment
  • Comfort
  • Family
  • Community
  • Privacy
  • Stability

The non-financial benefits of homeownership

While you could see less competition and more room for negotiation, you may be wondering if now’s the best time to buy a home given Raleigh mortgage rates are higher than they were last year. While the financial aspects are important to consider, there are also powerful non-financial reasons it may make sense to become a homeowner. See the full article on page 16 of the Winter 2022 edition of the Martini Buyer Guide.

Things to avoid after applying for a mortgage!

raleigh mortgage broker kevin martini winter 2022 martini buyer things to avoid after applying for a mortgage page 1 of 2
raleigh mortgage broker kevin martini winter 2022 martini buyer things to avoid after applying for a mortgage page 2 of 2 png

Why buying a home makes better sense than renting

If there is a time to rent, that time is not now.

Kevin Martini, Certified Mortgage Advisor and Raleigh Mortgage Broker

The long-term benefit of homeownership

Consider this: if you know people who bought a home 5, 10, or even 30 years ago, you’re probably going to have a hard time finding someone who regrets their decision. Why is that? The reason is tied to how you gain equity and wealth as home values grow with time.

raleigh mortgage broker kevin martini winter 2022 martini buyer benefit of homeownership page1 of 2
raleigh mortgage broker kevin martini winter 2022 martini buyer benefit of homeownership page 2 of 2
Things to Know and Consider when Buying a Home (Martini Buyer Guide Winter 2022)Download

Let’s chat…

I’m sure you have questions and thoughts about securing the proper mortgage with the lowest cost of borrowing and real estate process.

We’d love to talk with you about what you’ve read in the Winter 2022 Edition of the Martini Buyer Guide and help you on the path to buying your new home. Our number is (919) 238-4934 and we look forward to working with you.

logan martini raleigh mortgage lender with martini mortgage group 2

Logan Martini

Senior Mortgage Strategist | NMLS 1591485

[email protected]

    kevin martini best raleigh mortgage broker

    Kevin Martini

    Certified Mortgage Advisor | NMLS 143962

    [email protected]

      Filed Under: 2-1 Buydown, Affordability, Agency Loan, Appreciation, Buy a Home, buydown, Buydowns, Conforming Loan, Conforming Loan Limits, Conventional Loan, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Home Loan Rates, Home Loans, Home Values, Housing Market, Inflation, Kevin Martini, Loan Limits, Logan Martini, Martini Buyer Guide, Mortgage, Mortgage Rates, Raleigh, Real Estate, Things to Consider when Buying a Home Tagged With: Buying a Home in North Carolina, Kevin Martini, Logan Martini, Martini Buyer Guide, Martini Mortgage Group, MartiniBuyerGuide.com, North Carolina, Raleigh, Raleigh Mortgage, Raleigh Mortgage Broker, Raleigh Mortgage Lender, Raleigh Real Estate, Real Estate, Real Estate Tips, Things to know and consider when buying a home

      2023 Raleigh Conforming Loan Limits 

      November 30, 2022 by Kevin Martini

      The 2023 conforming loan limits for the Raleigh, North Carolina and the Triangle of North Carolina by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) have been established. 2023 will bring a $79,000 increase in conforming loan limits for a one-unit property in Raleigh, North Carolina and surrounding areas.  The new 2023 conforming loan limit is $726,200.

      Higher conforming loan limits benefit both a homebuyers and homeowners too! For a homebuyers, it opens more price points with lower down payments  For homeowners, they can access more equity.

      kevin martini best raleigh mortgage broker

      Kevin Martini

      Raleigh Mortgage Broker & Certified Mortgage Advisor

      Benefits from the 2023 Loan Limit Increase

      BUY A HOME

      It may make sense for you to consider a new home purchase using the higher loan amounts. This may be the perfect time for you to lock in your interest rate before interest rates move higher.

      REFINANCE

      It may be worth it to consider a home loan refinance if:

      • You currently have a home loan that is near the loan limit
      • You’d like to make some home improvements
      • You’d like to consolidate other debts into your home loan (such as home equity loans or credit cards)
      • You’re paying mortgage insurance and your home has increased in value from the time when you purchased the home
      • You anticipate a change in your cash flow situation in the coming months (college funding, retirement, elder care, etc.)

      Raleigh, NC 2023 Conforming Loan Limits 

      One-Unit

      Two-Unit

      Three-Unit

      Four-Unit

      $726,200

      $929,850

      $1,123,900

      $1,396,800

      All cities and towns in Wake County to include Raleigh and Apex, Garner, Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, Knightdale, Morrisville, Roseville, Wendell, Zebulon.

      History of Conforming Loan Limits in Raleigh

      conforming loan limits in raleigh kevin martini 507 n blount st raleigh nc 27604 martini mortgage group raleigh mortgage broker

      What are conforming loan limits?

      Fannie Mae (a.k.a. Federal National Mortgage Association or FNMA) and Freddie Mac (a.k.a. Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation or FMCC) were created by Congress to provide liquidity, stability and affordability to the mortgage markets.  Both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are government-sponsored entities not lenders instead, they offer access to funds and guarantees.

      Loans guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Fredie Mac are commonly referred to as conforming loans since they conform to the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines. Conforming loans are also referred to as agency or conventional loans.

      Housing and Economic Recovery Act (HERA)

      In response to events of 2008, HERA was a piece of legislation that requires a baseline conforming loan limit to be adjusted annually to properly reflect the changes in average home prices using data from the last four quarters from the FHFA House Price Index (a.k.a.FHFA HPI).

      According to the most recent FHFA HPI, home price rose on average 12.4% from the third quarter of 2021 to the third quarter of 2022. In North Carolina, home prices rose 17.4%. The Raleigh – Cary metro area had a 16.7% year-over-year change and is ranked #18 of 100 top metros.

      Be ready to make you move

      Let’s connect so you can understand how higher conforming loan limits can help you and your family.

      Filed Under: Agency Loan, Conforming Loan, Conforming Loan Limits, Conventional Loan, Fannie Mae, FHFA, Freddie Mac, Kevin Martini, Loan Limits, Logan Martini Tagged With: 2023 Conforming Loan Limits, 2023 Fannie Mae Loan Limits, 2023 Freddie Mac Loan Limits, Kevin Martini, Logan Martini, North Carolina, Raleigh, Raleigh Mortgage Broker, Raleigh Mortgage Lender

      • « Previous Page
      • 1
      • …
      • 8
      • 9
      • 10
      • 11
      • 12
      • …
      • 25
      • Next Page »

        Contact Form


        to Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | TCPA Consent * By submitting you agree to our Privacy Policy, Online Policy, TCPA Disclosure & Consent for SMS/Texting. Msg/data rates may apply. This consent applies even if you are on a corporate, state or national Do Not Call list. By checking this box, you expressly consent that Martini Mortgage Group may call, text and email you about your inquiry. This may involve the use of automated means and prerecorded/artificial voices. This consent is not a condition to purchase any products or services. You are providing express written consent under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) to be contacted by Martini Mortgage Group. You may revoke this consent at any time by replying 'STOP' to any text message you receive or by contacting us at +1(919) 238-4934.

        Quick Links
        • Buy A Home
        • Refinance
        • Learning Center
        • Contact
        • About
        • Blog
        • Apply Now
        Loan Options
        • Conventional
        • FHA
        • VA
        • Jumbo
        • Reverse Mortgages
        • Cash-out Refinance
        • First Time Home Buyers
        • Bank Statement Loans
        • USDA
        • DSCR
        Resources
        • Home Purchase Qualifier
        • Refinance Analysis
        • Search Homes For Sale
        • Home Value Estimate
        • Mortgage Calculator
        • Mortgage Process
        • FAQs
        • Living in Raleigh
        • Podcast
        Contact
        • Martini Mortgage Group
          507 N Blount St
          Raleigh, NC 27604
        • Find us on Google

        • Phone: (919) 238-4934
        • NMLS# 143962
        Martini Mortgage Group at Gold Star Mortgage Financial Group

        Copyright © Martini Mortgage Group | All Rights Reserved.
        Terms of Use | Privacy Policy

        FacebookTwitterLinkedinYoutubeInstagram
        Equal Housing Lender

        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.

          Contact Form


          to Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | TCPA Consent * By submitting you agree to our Privacy Policy, Online Policy, TCPA Disclosure & Consent for SMS/Texting. Msg/data rates may apply. This consent applies even if you are on a corporate, state or national Do Not Call list. By checking this box, you expressly consent that Martini Mortgage Group may call, text and email you about your inquiry. This may involve the use of automated means and prerecorded/artificial voices. This consent is not a condition to purchase any products or services. You are providing express written consent under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) to be contacted by Martini Mortgage Group. You may revoke this consent at any time by replying 'STOP' to any text message you receive or by contacting us at +1(919) 238-4934.

          Copyright © 2025 · Martini Mortgage Group on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in