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If you are a first-time home buyer in NC and need clarification on home loans or mortgage rates, Total Mortgage has the absolute solution for you. We have some of the brilliant minds in the real estate market who can find the best down payment assistance in NC for you. So, you don't have to check the NC requirements for first-time home buyers anymore—we will do that for you. We will also ensure you get the best current mortgage rates in New Carolina. Here at Total Mortgage, we believe in fulfilling dreams. And your dreams are our dreams now. So, let's plan and find the best property in North Carolina for you.

What our North Carolina clients say

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Denise was a pleasure to work with. She made the entire process smooth and efficient, and we were able to close in less than two weeks with a great rate. She was always prompt, knowledgeable, and responsive. I highly recommend her!

Victor J.

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Scott was fantastic to work with, and made obtaining a mortgage loan easy! We provided him with lots of background information, and it all showed up populated in TM’s application for our review and signature. Wow; that saved us so much time! He watched interest rates carefully , enabling us to lock in at a great rate. Scott is an excellent communicator and kept us on track and apprised at every step of the way. Could not have been happier with his services!

Marguerite D.

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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ + Denise Panza is truly THE BEST OF THE BEST 🙏❤️! As a Florida real estate professional and an expert in Naples FLORIDA area, I have had the pleasure of working with Denise on multiple mortgages for my clients / buyers, and she has consistently delivered an exceptional experience. Her professionalism, extensive knowledge, and more than 30 years of mortgage banking experience are evident throughout every transaction. Denise always goes above and beyond to find the right financing solution, communicate clearly, meet important deadlines, and ensure the entire loan process moves forward as smoothly as possible. Her responsiveness, attention to detail, and ability to get things done in a timely manner continually exceed everyone’s expectations. Most importantly, Denise genuinely cares about every client she serves. She combines expertise and determination with a warm, personal approach that gives buyers confidence and peace of mind throughout the mortgage process. I trust Denise completely with my clients and highly recommend her to anyone seeking an experienced, dependable, and outstanding mortgage loan originator. She truly puts the fun in funding and delivers five-star service every time! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Naples L.

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This is my second time working with Tim and somehow he's gotten better, this was streamlined and Tim kept me updated and informed all throughout the process. Returned calls and e-mails in a timely manner and gave me all the necessary information that i could use so as to make a decision.

Anthony S.

zillow

Nic was, without a doubt, the most knowledgeable person I worked with throughout the entire mortgage process. He made himself available at every turn and took the time to answer every question thoroughly. There were definitely moments when I felt lost or overwhelmed, but Nic always had a way of breaking things down, explaining them clearly, and making the complicated parts feel simple. My situation was anything but straightforward and he never gave up on me. Instead he rolled up his sleeves and out in the work and provided valuable insight, and walked me through every step. If you want someone in your corner who is knowledgeable, dedicated, responsive, and willing to do the work, Nic is the guy! I’m incredibly grateful for everything he did to make this happen, and I’m already looking forward to the next deal we get to make.

Terrell M.

google

Our Lender, Zach, C., was extremely responsive, knowledgeable, and frank. He even made himself available in the nights and weekends, and took the time to explain any concept that was challenging. Would fully recommend.

Joshua99david

zillow

I would 100% recommend Shane as your mortgage lender. He was extremely nice and thoughtful throughout the whole experience. He made the process extremely quick and easy and was there anytime you needed him. Definitely use Shane as your lender!

Brianna H.

zillow

Zach was great. Fast to respond. Answered all questions when needed. Overall loan process was efficient. Nothing bad to say here ! Thank you Zach! Would recommend to anyone!

Teddy G.

zillow

I've used Joselyn Bryant for two separate home purchases now, and both experiences have been excellent. I can be very analytical and tedious when it comes to needing to know lots of details (especially since a home purchase is such an expensive and major life decision) and she has been extremely accessible and knowledgeable with all of my questions. She is quick to respond, almost always has the answer, and will find it out very quickly if she doesn't. I highly recommend using Joselyn if you are in any stage of looking for a home / mortgage!

Casey D.

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I first came across Shane in some google searching in 2024, and at that point he helped me realize we weren't in position yet to make a purchase. We continued slowly eyeing the market for the next couple years and Shane stayed in touch, occasionally checking in to see how we were doing and give an update on rates. Fast forward to 2026, we finally decided we wanted to fully engage in the homebuying process, and Shane was ready to go to bat for us right away on short notice. We (luckily) had an unusually fast process of finding a home we liked and having an offer accepted, and Shane was ready with our pre-approval and full mortgage process, guiding us as first time homebuyers through the process and responding quickly to all our texts and calls with questions. Along the way Shane also made some savvy, smart, creative recommendations that helped us nail the purchase and drew compliments from my real estate agent. Basically, you want Shane on your team as you go through the homebuying process (especially if it's your first time), you'll feel confident and supported the whole way!

Peter M.

zillow

Frequently asked questions about North Carolina mortgages

What is considered a good mortgage interest rate?

When exploring mortgage rates, it's essential to evaluate not only the interest rate but also consider additional loan terms such as annual percentage rates (APRs), fees, and closing costs. A comprehensive comparison of loan specifics from multiple lenders is crucial in identifying the most advantageous deal tailored to your circumstances.

Should I lock my mortgage rate?

Mortgage rates are subject to frequent and unpredictable changes. Contemplating locking your mortgage rate may be prudent under the following conditions:

  • Rising rates: If there's a sustained upward trend in rates over several weeks or months, securing your rate ensures it won't exceed the initially qualified rate.
  • Federal Reserve meeting: Anticipating a potential rate increase during a Federal Reserve meeting, consider locking your rate before the meeting for financial security.
  • Desire for financial certainty: Locking your rate guarantees a stable monthly mortgage payment, shielding you from unexpected changes.
  • Set closing date: If your closing date is fixed with no expected delays, securing your rate is a strategic decision.

How long does a mortgage rate lock last?

The specific lock-in period may vary, but generally, you can secure a mortgage rate for 30 to 60 days. Once the rate lock expires, unless the lender agrees to an extension, the initially locked rate is no longer guaranteed. Changes in factors like credit score, loan amount, debt-to-income ratio, or appraisal value during the lock-in period could potentially void the initial rate lock.

Is it possible for me to negotiate my mortgage rates?

Depending on your credit qualifications and willingness to obtain quotes from multiple lenders, negotiating a lower mortgage rate may be feasible. Another option is purchasing mortgage points, where paying a percentage of the interest upfront can reduce the interest rate and monthly payments. A mortgage point is equivalent to approximately 1% of the total loan amount, translating to around $2,500 on a $250,000 loan.

How are interest rates determined?

Lenders establish interest rates for their loan products, influenced by factors such as the Federal Reserve's actions, economic conditions, and consumer demand. Changes in short-term rates by the Federal Reserve can prompt lenders to adjust mortgage rates. Individual considerations, including credit score, down payment, income, as well as the varying levels of risk and operational expenses for lenders, can also impact mortgage rates.

How frequently do mortgage rates change?

Mortgage rates can vary daily, influenced by factors like inflation, the bond market, and the overall housing market.

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