Your Path to Homeownership Starts Here - Expert Mortgage Assistance

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We know that many home loan officers have horrible reputations. Some brokers only see their clients as transactions, and a means to make quick money. They come off as impatient and pushy, failing to understand that this is a very big decision for you. At Mission One Mortgage, we take the opposite approach. We encourage our clients to take as much time as needed to ask us questions and review mortgage documents. We could say that our mission is to exceed your expectations, but we'd rather just show you. From assistance finding FHA, VA, or other loans to refinancing your current mortgage, Mission One is the team you can trust.

Here are just a few reasons why home buyers choose Mission One Mortgage:

No Additional Fees

No Additional Fees- Providing our client's services free of charge, using a mortgage broker like Mission One Mortgage can help you scout the best price on loans without a hefty price tag.

Access to 50 Lenders

Access to 50 Lenders- With access to a range of loans and interest rates available, Mission One Mortgage can shop for the best loans for your unique needs.

Accessible to Our Clients

Accessible to Our Clients- Providing a transparent and communicative service to all our clients, Mission One Mortgage ensures all phone calls are answered or returned in a timely manner.

Setting You Up for Success

Setting You Up for Success- Helping you prepare all your documents for pre-approval and the loan application, Mission One Mortgage will provide you with all the necessary information to secure the best loan.

Contact Us For Service !

Free Consultation phone-number (843) 822-5685

To understand the benefits of working with a mortgage broker, you must first understand their role in the home-buying process.

What Does a Mortgage Broker Do?

Your mortgage broker is a third party that works to connect you with mortgage lenders. Essentially, a mortgage broker works as an intermediary between a person who wants to buy a home and the entities offering loans to buy a home. The mortgage broker works with both the borrower and lender to get the borrower approved. They also verify and collect paperwork from the borrower that the lender needs to finish a home purchase. Typically, mortgage brokers have relationships with several home loan lenders. Mission One Mortgage, for example, has access to 50 different lenders, which gives us a wide range of home loans in Columbia, SC, from which to choose.

In addition to finding a home loan lender, your mortgage broker will help you settle on the best loan options and interest rates for your budget. Ideally, your mortgage broker will take a great deal of stress and legwork off your plate while also potentially saving you money.

Help with the Pre-Approval Process

If you're ready to buy a home, getting pre-qualified is a great choice that will streamline the entire process. Your mortgage broker makes getting pre-approved easy by obtaining all the documents needed to get you pre-qualified. In taking a look at your application, they will determine if you're ready for the pre-approval process. If your application needs additional items, the mortgage company will help point you in the right direction to ensure your application is as strong as it can be. Your mortgage broker will also walk you through the different types of loans, from Conventional and FHA to VA and USDA.

In order to be pre-approved for a home in South Carolina, you must have the following:

  • Two Years of W2 Forms
  • 30 Days of Pay Stubs from Employer
  • 60 Days of Bank Statements
  • A Valid Driver's License

Conventional Mortgages

Conventional loans can be used to purchase a new home or refinance your current one. Conventional loans include fixed-rate mortgages and adjustable-rate mortgages. Generally, borrowers must put down a 3% down payment for owner-occupants, 10% for a vacation property, and 20% for an investment home. If you are able to pay 20% of the total cost of the home, you can avoid private mortgage insurance, which is otherwise required. Conventional mortgages are often preferred by buyers with good credit or people needing a non-owner-occupied mortgage.

Mortgage Company Columbia, SC
Mortgage Lending Service Columbia, SC

FHA Loans

FHA mortgages are issued by the U.S. government and backed by the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD). This loan is often preferred by first-time homebuyers because it only requires a 3.5% down payment and offers more flexibility with credit requirements and underwriting standards. FHA loans have several requirements you must meet to qualify. Contact Mission One Mortgage today to learn more about FHA loans and whether or not they're best for your financial situation.

USDA Loans

Also backed by the government, these loans are insured by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and don't require money down. These loans have lower insurance requirements when compared to FHA loans, offer 100% financing if you qualify, and allow for closing costs to be covered by the seller. In order to qualify for a USDA loan, you must live in a rural area, and your household income must meet certain standards. These loans are often preferred by low-income citizens who live in rural parts of South Carolina.

Refinancing Columbia, SC
Refinances Columbia, SC

Veteran Mortgages

Also known as VA or Veteran's Affairs loans, these mortgages are reserved for the brave men and women who served in the military. VA loans help provide our military members, veterans, and their families with favorable loan terms and an easy home ownership experience. Often, those who qualify are not required to make a down payment on their home. Additionally, these loans often include less expensive closing costs.

If you are a veteran or the family member of a veteran, contact Mission One Mortgage today to speak with our Vetted VA Professional, Debbie Haberny. Debbie helps our military members, veterans, and their family members obtain home loans utilizing veteran benefits and would be happy to help as you search for a home.

Q. I was talking to my spouse about mortgage brokers, and they mentioned the phrase home loan originator. What's the difference between a broker and a loan originator?

A. The mortgage industry is full of confusing jobs and titles, making it easy to confuse roles and responsibilities. Such is the case with mortgage brokers and home loan originators. Though their roles share similarities, a home loan originator in Columbia, SC, works for a bank or credit union, while a mortgage broker works for a brokerage company. Home loan originators and mortgage brokers are both licensed by the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS).

Q. I've heard from everyone that you must have mortgage insurance to buy a home. What is mortgage insurance?

A. Essentially, mortgage insurance helps protect lenders if a borrower forecloses on the home they bought. One advantage of mortgage insurance is that when borrowers pay it, lenders can often grant loans to buyers when they might not have otherwise. Though not always required to buy a home, mortgage insurance is often needed for down payments of less than 20%.

Q. I have just been pre-approved to buy a beautiful home in South Carolina. Is there anything I shouldn't do now that I'm pre-qualified?

A. Mortgage companies like Mission One Mortgage, make getting pre-qualified for a home easy. However, as your loan process continues, your lender is required to run a new credit report before closing on a home. For that reason, it's to avoid any activity that might affect your credit score, such as:

  • Do not become a co-signer on a loan with someone else.
  • Do not quit or change your job.
  • Do not apply for new credit cards, automobile loans, or any other lines of credit.
  • Do not use your credit card to pay for large purchases, like furniture for your new house.
  • Do not avoid payments on current lines of credit, loans, or utility bills.

Q. My brother-in-law recently refinanced his home in South Carolina. What is refinancing, and should I consider refinancing my home too?

A. Refinancing your home basically means you're swapping your current mortgage for a new one, most often with a lower interest rate. If you would like to reduce the term of your loan, lower your monthly mortgage payments, or consolidate debt, refinancing may be a smart option. Many homeowners also choose to refinance if they want to switch from adjustable-rate mortgages to fixed-rate mortgages or to get cash back for home renovations. To learn whether refinancing is a viable option for your situation, contact Mission One Mortgage ASAP, as loan rates change frequently.

Mission One Mortgage: Turning Dreams into Reality, One Mortgage at a Time

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Here at Mission One Mortgage, we believe that the best communities begin with the dream of home ownership. Our mission is to make those dreams come true, with personalized service, expert guidance, and good old-fashioned hard work. As one of the most trusted mortgage companies in Columbia, SC, we have years of experience working with a diverse range of clients, from first-time buyers and investors to self-employed borrowers and non-native English speakers.

Though every mortgage situation is different, one thing never changes: our commitment to clients. Contact our office today to get started on an exceptional home-buying experience.

Contact Us For Service !

phone-number (843) 822-5685
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Latest News Near Me Columbia, SC

Medicaid changes are coming to SC with federal spending bill. Here is what you need to know.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A sweeping federal spending bill signed by President Donald Trump includes some of the most significant changes to Medicaid in years. Experts say most South Carolinians shouldn't worry about getting kicked off their coverage right away.The bill introduces new work requirements for Medicaid eligibility, but S...

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A sweeping federal spending bill signed by President Donald Trump includes some of the most significant changes to Medicaid in years. Experts say most South Carolinians shouldn't worry about getting kicked off their coverage right away.

The bill introduces new work requirements for Medicaid eligibility, but South Carolina is one of 10 states that have not expanded the program. The new requirements will largely only affect those in the expansion population, says David Anderson, a professor with the University of South Carolina’s Arnold School of Public Health.

"This is eligibility for folks who have between the ages of 18 to 64," said Anderson. "With incomes.... under 138% of the federal poverty level, which for a single individual, this is about $15,500."

One of the most significant changes requires Medicaid recipients to recertify their eligibility every six months and start the application process from scratch each time, says Sue Berkowitz with the South Carolina Appleseed Legal Justice Center.

“Congress is counting on if they make it really, really difficult and they put barriers up every step of the way that more and more people will just get kicked off, and that's how they plan to save money,” said Berkowitz.

That means most Medicaid recipients in South Carolina won’t be directly affected by the work rule, but the state could still feel other impacts from the bill.

The legislation limits state-directed payments to hospitals and providers who treat Medicaid patients and restricts federal funding to clinics that offer abortions—including Planned Parenthood.

“The network of places where individuals can get reproductive health care who are on Medicaid, most likely is going to get much smaller in a week or two,” Anderson said.

Other provisions in the bill include expanded immigration verification and increased oversight of Medicaid providers, which could create new administrative burdens for the state.

to Columbia’s soon-to-be-opened food hall.

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - A food vendor familiar with the Midlands is comingGather COLA recently announced on social media that CocoBowlz Smoothie Bar will open a new location at the food hall. Based in the Upstate, CocoBowlz has multiple locations in the region as well as others in Columbia and Irmo.CocoBowlz also operates in Gather GVL, a similar open-air food hall in Greenville.With a focus on açaí bowls and smoothies, Gather COLA said the stop is set to bring “a sweet escape with feel-good flavor to ...

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - A food vendor familiar with the Midlands is coming

Gather COLA recently announced on social media that CocoBowlz Smoothie Bar will open a new location at the food hall. Based in the Upstate, CocoBowlz has multiple locations in the region as well as others in Columbia and Irmo.

CocoBowlz also operates in Gather GVL, a similar open-air food hall in Greenville.

With a focus on açaí bowls and smoothies, Gather COLA said the stop is set to bring “a sweet escape with feel-good flavor to the BullStreet District.”

“At CocoBowlz, we bring a fresh, feel-good energy with our handcrafted açaí made with the highest quality ingredients,” CocoBowlz CEO Daniel Morales said in a social media post from Gather COLA. “We believe in creating moments of joy through healthy, delicious food -- Gather is the perfect place to do that!”

Gather COLA is being built on Bull Street across from Segra Park. It’s scheduled to open later this year.

WIS took a look at the vision for the new development earlier this year:

Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with WIS. For more free content like this, subscribe to our email newsletter, and download our apps. Have feedback that can help us improve? Click here.

Copyright 2025 WIS. All rights reserved.

LIST: July 4th events, celebrations in the Midlands

Do you know about an event you don’t see in this article? Submit it to our Community Calendar tab at the top of this website or to counton@wistv.com!COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - With the Fourth of July approaching, many community events in the Midlands are looking to help mark Independence Day:Fireworks with the Philharmonic at Segra Park Originally scheduled for Wednesday, July 2, but rescheduled for Thursday, July 3, is the annual Fireworks with the Philharmonic event at Segra Park.Gates open for...

Do you know about an event you don’t see in this article? Submit it to our Community Calendar tab at the top of this website or to counton@wistv.com!

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - With the Fourth of July approaching, many community events in the Midlands are looking to help mark Independence Day:

Fireworks with the Philharmonic at Segra Park

Originally scheduled for Wednesday, July 2, but rescheduled for Thursday, July 3, is the annual Fireworks with the Philharmonic event at Segra Park.

Gates open for the event at 6:30 p.m. and the concert will begin at 8 p.m. The South Carolina Philharmonic is performing a full show ending with the 1812 Overture, which will cue the start of the fireworks display.

Tickets already purchased with the previous date are still acceptable for entry on Thursday. Tickets are still available but will increase in price by $2 on July 3. Tickets can be purchased here.

Fort Jackson 4th of July Celebration

Fort Jackson is inviting the public to celebrate Independence Day with a free, family-friendly event on Friday, July 4. Gates open at 4 p.m. with music at 5:30 p.m. and a fireworks show at approximately 9 p.m.

The celebration includes a kids’ zone with rides, fireworks and and live music from artists Aden Webb, Syr, DJ B-SAM, and the 282D Army Band.

The event is at Hilton Field. Fort Jackson asks attendees entering from off-post to use Gate 4, Boyden Arbor Road to access Hilton Field.

Red, White and Boom Independence Day Celebration + Fireworks Spectacular at Columbia Fireflies Game

Fireworks with the Philharmonic is not the only 4th of July celebration taking place at Segra Park.

The Columbia Fireflies host the Augusta Greenjackets on Friday, with the City of Columbia will also hosting the “biggest post-game show of the year.” There will be happy hour drink specials and unlimited “Hoppy” hour for children on the SCU Kids’ Zone inflatables.

The game begins at 6:35 p.m. and the fireworks will follow. Tickets for this game are still available at the Columbia Fireflies website.

Fireworks at the Lexington County Peach Festival

Fireworks can also be seen on July 4 at the annual Lexington County Peach Festival, located at Gilbert Community Park on Rikard Circle.

The festival will include a parade starting at 9:30 a.m. with plenty of exhibits, an antique car show, activities for kids and more. It all leads up to the annual fireworks show scheduled for 9:30 p.m.

Click here for more information.

Lexington Independence Day Celebration

The Town of Lexington is also hosting its annual July 4th event at the Icehouse Amphitheater starting at 7 p.m.

The 246th Army Band will perform at 7:30 p.m. before a fireworks show scheduled for 9:20 p.m.

Click here for more information.

Born in the USA 4-Miler

For those looking to get a run in for the holiday, the Born in the USA 4-miler kicks off from the corner of Trenholm Road and Forest Drive in Columbia at 7:04 a.m. on July 4.

A firecracker youth fun run will take place later at 7:54 a.m.

On-site registration will be available starting at 6:04 a.m. on July 4.

Click here for more information.

City of Newberry Annual Law Enforcement Fireworks Display

The City of Newberry is holding its annual fireworks display on July 4 at Newberry High School. Spectators may sit in the stadium or view from adjacent properties to observe this show which will feature synchronized music.

Gates will open after 6pm and the fireworks show will begin after 9pm. The City of Newberry notes the display may begin earlier if weather requires.

Irmo Laser Lights Show

There is a free laser light show celebration at the Prisma Health Amphitheatre in Moore Park at 7473 Church St. in Irmo. There will be complimentary hot dogs (while supplies last) and Kona Ice will be on-site.

The Town of Irmo Events Committee recommends that you bring bag chairs and coolers for the evening. No tickets are necessary for this event.

‘We Love America Night’ Firework Show with the Lexington County Blowfish

The Lexington County Blowfish v. Glowfish game on Friday is recognizing Independence Day by hosting Wreaths Across America at the game and holding a large fireworks display. It’s also considered one of their “Faith and Family Nights” presented by HIS Radio 92.1 FM.

Gates open at 6 p.m. and the game begins at 7:05 p.m. with the fireworks to follow. Tickets can be purchased on the Lexington County Blowfish website.

Lake Wateree State Park Annual 4th of July Fireworks Show

The Lake Wateree Association is holding a fireworks display at Lake Wateree State Park (881 State Park Rd Winnsboro, S.C.) in the day-use area adjacent to the tackle shop. The event is from 4-10 p.m., with the fireworks show taking place at 9:30 p.m.

Be sure to bring chairs or towels for seating. Snacks and beverages will be available for purchase in the tackle shop.

This event is free with park admission.

Orangeburg County Fair July 4th Celebration

The Orangeburg County Fairgrounds is hosting a Fourth of July event with performances, fireworks and a hot dog eating contest.

Gates open at 4 p.m. and the fireworks begin at 9:30pm.

Admission for this event is free. Hot dog plates with chips and a soft drink will be sold for $6.

Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with WIS. For more free content like this, subscribe to our email newsletter, and download our apps. Have feedback that can help us improve? Click here.

Copyright 2025 WIS. All rights reserved.

Chantal has weakened and is officially a Tropical Depression, with winds reduced to about 40 mph

For the Midlands, the impacts are expected to be mild, with a chance of gusty winds and some light to moderate rain.COLUMBIA, S.C. — Tropical Depression Chantal has weakened since making landfall along the South Carolina coast but is still bringing gusty winds and periods of heavy rain to parts of the Midlands and surrounding regions as it slowly moves inland.For the latest weather forecasts and live radar, watch us on WLTX+, ...

For the Midlands, the impacts are expected to be mild, with a chance of gusty winds and some light to moderate rain.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Tropical Depression Chantal has weakened since making landfall along the South Carolina coast but is still bringing gusty winds and periods of heavy rain to parts of the Midlands and surrounding regions as it slowly moves inland.

For the latest weather forecasts and live radar, watch us on WLTX+, available to download right now for free on your TV.

Current Conditions

The now Tropical Depression has winds of 35 mph, gusts 45 mph moving to the north at 8 mph. It made landfall around a little before 5 a.m. near Litchfield Beach, about three miles north of Pawleys Island in Georgetown County.

What to expect this afternoon into the work week

Coastal impacts and rip currents

Along the coast, there still remains a threat of rough surfs. Winds may gust over 45 mph, and the risk for dangerous rip currents is expected to stick around for parts of the coast near Myrtle Beach. Beachgoers are urged to use caution and stay out of the water if warnings are issued.

Prepare and stay informed

Residents are encouraged to stay alert and be prepared.

News19 will continue to monitor the system. You can get the latest updates on-air and on the WLTX+ app available for download on your TV.

Tropical Storm Chantal expected to bring rain, gusty winds to South Carolina

While the system isn't expected to rapidly intensify, it still will impact the state's weather with heavy rain, especially near coastal low-lying areas.COLUMBIA, S.C. — Tropical Storm Chantal is off the South Carolina coast and is expected to bring gusty winds and periods of heavy rainfall to parts of the Midlands and other parts of the state this weekend. Because of that threat and concern, News19 is issuing a Weather Impact Alert for the Midlands through early Sunday.For the latest weather forecasts and live...

While the system isn't expected to rapidly intensify, it still will impact the state's weather with heavy rain, especially near coastal low-lying areas.

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Tropical Storm Chantal is off the South Carolina coast and is expected to bring gusty winds and periods of heavy rainfall to parts of the Midlands and other parts of the state this weekend. Because of that threat and concern, News19 is issuing a Weather Impact Alert for the Midlands through early Sunday.

For the latest weather forecasts and live radar, watch us on WLTX+ , available to download right now for free on your TV.

While forecasters predict the system will remain relatively weak, it could still have notable impacts between Saturday night and Sunday night.

What to expect

The system, currently located just off the South Carolina coast, is producing sustained winds around 45 mph. It is moving slowly to the north at a speed of only 7 mph. While it is not expected to strengthen significantly before moving inland, it will likely bring some tropical weather to the area as early as Saturday evening. A tropical storm watch for the coast has now been upgraded to a tropical storm warning.

For the Midlands, the greatest impacts are expected overnight Saturday into early Sunday morning, with the potential for:

Most of the rain is expected to move out by Sunday evening. The area will still experience some breezy conditions through Sunday afternoon, but conditions are expected to calm down by Sunday night.

Coastal impacts and rip currents

Along the coast, the impacts could be more intense. Winds may gust over 45 mph, and the risk for dangerous rip currents is expected to increase over the weekend.

Beaches are already experiencing a moderate risk for rip currents, but that could rise to a high risk by Sunday. Beachgoers are urged to use caution and stay out of the water if warnings are issued.

Timing the system

Prepare and stay informed

Residents are encouraged to stay alert and be prepared, especially as hurricane season gets underway.

News19 will continue to monitor the system through the weekend. You can get the latest updates on-air and on the WLTX+ app available for download on your TV.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
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