Your Path to Homeownership Starts Here - Expert Mortgage Assistance
Mortgage Broker in Duval, FL
Few purchases give you a sense of pride and accomplishment like buying a new home. From white picket fences and lush green grass to cookouts with neighbors and holidays with the family, owning a home is magical. Like most great things, though, enduring the home-buying process takes a lot of work. There are many steps to take and difficult decisions to make along the way. One of the most crucial decisions is what type of home loan and mortgage broker to choose. Whether it's your first time buying a home or you're a seasoned owner with multiple properties, you will need a trusted mortgage broker in Duval, FL, with your best interests at heart.
If you're like most people, you need a mortgage professional whose top priority is their customers - an expert who can provide accurate advice and guidance so you can make educated decisions. That's where Mission One Mortgage comes into the picture.
DifferenceThe Mission One Mortgage Difference
Whether you want the best interest rates or don't know where to start in the home-buying process, Mission One Mortgage can set you up in the right direction. From getting you pre-qualified to buy a home to securing a veteran's loan, Mission One Mortgage is the trusted solution you need. As Duval natives, we're proud to serve the Lowcountry and all of South Carolina with trusted mortgage brokerage services.
Unlike some mortgage companies in Duval, FL, we bring years of high-level experience and insight to the table. Having worked with hundreds of clients during our time in business, we know you're probably going through a range of emotions right now. Buying a new home can be a scary process, especially for first-time buyers. That's why we make every effort to make ourselves accessible and available for clients. Our primary goal is to help you make the right mortgage for your family and your budget.
- Mortgage Broker Duval, FL
- The Mission One Mortgage Difference
- Why Should I Work with a Mortgage Broker in Duval, FL
- Exploring the Benefits of Working with a Mortgage Broker
- Common Home Loan Options in South Carolina
- Home Mortgage FAQs
- Mission One Mortgage: Turning Dreams into Reality, One Mortgage at a Time
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- 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- 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- 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- 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.
Why Should I Work with a Mortgage Broker in Duval, FL?
Most people simply don't have access to the hundreds of thousands of dollars needed to purchase a home with cash. Instead, they take out a mortgage loan to buy a home. Unfortunately, many homebuyers are anxious to get the ball rolling and, due to their excitement, fail to shop around for the best mortgage rates. To some degree, avoiding this step makes sense, as it requires a lot of legwork and research to get the job done. For those not wanting to spend hours researching a reasonable mortgage, there's an alternative to consider - working with a mortgage broker.
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 Duval, FL, 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
BenefitsExploring the Benefits of Workingwith a Mortgage Broker
Most people choose to use a mortgage broker because they have access to different lenders and interest rates. But a great mortgage broker brings more to the table than a choice of lenders.
Save You from Unneeded Stress:One of the biggest advantages of hiring a mortgage broker is that they can find and vet loans while managing the mortgage process on your behalf. The best mortgage companies, like Mission One Mortgage, hire brokers who are experts at keeping underwriting on track, coordinating with relevant parties, and handling all paperwork involved. At the end of the day, mortgage brokers save you stress and time and often expedite the closing process.
More Access: We touched on this earlier, but it bears repeating: A mortgage broker provides access to a range of loans, rates, and lenders. In fact, many mortgage brokers can get rates lower than what the average person could get from a lender.
Save You Money: There's a chance that your mortgage broker can get your mortgage fees reduced or waived by the lender, which could save you a good deal of money.
Help with Unfavorable Financial Situations: Expert mortgage brokers can often assist in challenging financial situations, like when a buyer has inconsistent income or less-than-perfect credit. Experienced brokers, like those at Mission One Mortgage, are often aware of lenders willing to will work with nontraditional borrowers.
Provide Key Insights: Mortgage brokers share important insights, such as your chances for a home loan approval and exactly how much house you can afford. They can also save you from making costly mistakes based on their years of expertise in the mortgage industry.
Home LoanCommon Home Loan Options in South Carolina
While settling on the best type of home loan isn't as exciting as searching for the home of your dreams, it's equally important. Yes, your Mission One Mortgage loan officer in Duval, FL, will be happy to help explain the differences between home loans. But understanding the basics ahead of time will save you stress and time in the long run.
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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.
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.
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.
FAQsHome Mortgage FAQs
Do you have questions about the complexities of mortgages and home loans? As your advocate, Mission One Mortgage is here to answer any questions you have about mortgages and the home-buying process. We encourage you to call our office to speak directly with one of our mortgage experts or continue reading below for answers to some frequently asked questions.
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 Duval, FL, 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
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 Duval, FL, 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 !
(843) 822-5685
Latest News in Duval, FL
The 15 Best Things To Do On Duval Street In Key West
Lisa Cericolahttps://www.southernliving.com/travel/florida/duval-street-things-to-do
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.What Bourbon Street is to New Orleans, Duval Street is to Key West. Yes, this quirky road is tourist central, but that's because there's ...
If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
What Bourbon Street is to New Orleans, Duval Street is to Key West. Yes, this quirky road is tourist central, but that's because there's so much to see and do here. Although Duval Street is just about a mile long, it is a hub for restaurants, shops, galleries, and bars, and a prime place to take in Key West's colorful scenery and history.
At the northern end of Duval is Mallory Square, where you can take in a nightly show of street performers and musicians that's only rivaled by the magnificent sunsets you'll see here. It's a must-do for any visitor. At the Southern end is the Southernmost Point, which is a concrete marker that's one of the most popular selfie spots in town.
And in between, you'll find enough to keep you busy for a weekend. Start with our suggestions here and build your own Duval Street itinerary.
01 of 15
Embark On The Ultimate Bar Crawl
They don't call it the Duval Crawl for nothing. Start at one of the more famous watering holes like Sloppy Joe's, Captain Tony's Saloon, or the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery. Order a cold drink, listen to a little live music, and then stroll over to the next fine establishment on the block—there are dozens!
02 of 15
Run With The Bulls
No this isn't Pamplona, it's Key West. Every summer, during the annual Hemingway Days festival, Ernest Hemingway lookalikes ride a manmade bull on wheels in a lively parade. The Pulitzer Prize-winning author lived and wrote in Key West throughout most of the 1930s.
03 of 15
Find The Perfect Souvenir
Whether you're in the market for a mini buoy modeled off of the Southernmost Point, or a slightly offensive, only-in-Key-West statement T-shirt, there are plenty of souvenir shops that line Duval Street. For more of a boutique experience, head to Tucker's Provisions, a cute shop that stocks clothing, accessories, and home goods.
04 of 15
Take A Ghost Tour
If you're into the paranormal, then you've come to the right place. Key West is home to its fair share of ghoulish haunts like the town's oldest graveyard, historic Victorian mansions, and more. (The local ghost hunters say even the Hard Rock Café is haunted!) Explore the city by night and hear these spooky tales with Ghosts & Gravestones Key West.
ghostsandgravestones.com/key-west; 501 Front Street, Key West, FL 33040; 866-955-0668
05 of 15
Head To Mallory Square At Sunset
Join the crowds at Mallory Square for a nightly celebration. As the sun sinks into the sea, you'll find acrobats, guitarists, sword swallowers, and entertainers like Will Soto performing his juggling high wire act.
mallorysquare.com; 400 Wall Street, Key West, FL 33040
06 of 15
Attend A Costume Party
It's completely acceptable to wear costumes year-round in Key West. But the atmosphere gets extra festive during the annual 10-day Fantasy Fest, held every October. More than 50,000 costumed revelers descend to Duval Street for a flamboyant parade and party.
fantasyfest.com; 922 Caroline Street, Key West, FL 33040; 305-295-9112
07 of 15
Stay At The Southernmost House
Near the end of the 19th century, wealthy business owners began constructing pastel-colored Victorian mansions that many today describe as Key West-style architecture. To spend the night in one of these historic homes, book a room at the Mansion on the Sea. Often called the Southernmost House because it's the southernmost home in the U.S., this hotel and a museum is located at the southern end of Duval Street.
themansiononthesea.com; 1400 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040; 305-296-3141
08 of 15
Bike Around Town
Renting bicycles and cruising down Duval is a great way to explore the entire stretch from end to end. Start at the Southernmost Point and then ride up the strip all the way to Mallory Square on the north end. You'll find plenty of places to stop along the way. There are several shops where you can easily borrow a set of wheels for the day. Visit Blue Sky Rentals, Fury Key West Bike Rentals, or We Cycle to reserve a ride.
09 of 15
Catch A Drag Show
Home to an active and fun-loving LGBTQ community, Key West is a great place to check out a drag show or two. On Duval Street, talented divas perform nightly shows at AquaPlex Bar and Nightclub and La Te Da.
aquakeywest.com; 711 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040; 305-294-0555
lateda.com; 1125 Duval Street, Key West, Florida, 33040; 305-296-6706
10 of 15
Visit Local Art Galleries
Because of its colorful history and tropical landscape, Key West has attracted international artists from around the world for years. Browse through island-inspired collections at places like the Peter Lik Gallery at 519 Duval Street.
11 of 15
Visit Ernest Hemingway's Home
Did you know that around 40 six-toed cats live at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum? Legend has it that the writer was given a white six-toed cat by a ship's captain and the legacy lives on. At the home, you can also go on one of the daily tours to learn about the life and times of one of Key West's most famous residents.
hemingwayhome.com; 907 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040; 305-294-1136
12 of 15
Eat A Slice Of Key Lime Pie
Key lime pie is the signature dessert of the quirky island. Equal parts sweet and tart, it's a must-try at Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe on Duval Street. Or, do a Key lime pie crawl and try some reader-selected favorites, many of which are in Key West.
kermitskeylime.com; 335F Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
13 of 15
Hop On A Conch Train Tour
Perfect for families (kids 12 and under ride free), the 90-minute Conch Train Tour has been introducing visitors to the unique aspects of Key West since the 1950s. The tour departs from the Front Street Depot, makes a loop through Old Town Key West, and ends right behind Mallory Square.
conchtourtrain.com; 305-707-5775
14 of 15
Snap An Only-In-Key-West Photo
While it's now the restored façade of a drugstore, The Strand Theater was a popular place for live shows in the 1920s, and it's the perfect backdrop for a unique photo. Or head over to the Southernmost Point to snap a tourist-style selfie. Be on the lookout for one of the many wild roosters that roam the island and snap a pic—if you can catch it in time!
15 of 15
Sample Key West Delicacies
You can't spend a day on Duval Street without trying some of the local cuisine. Outside of the obvious prerequisite to get your fill of Key lime pie, you should also get a cup of Cuban Coffee from the Duval Street outpost of Cuban Coffee Queen; try a lobster roll from DJ's Clam Shack; and order Caroline's Famous Fish Sandwich from the always popular Caroline's Cafe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Florida lawmakers consider changes to acceleration program funding, impacting Duval schools
Michelle Vecerinahttps://flvoicenews.com/florida-lawmakers-consider-changes-to-acceleration-program-funding-impacting-duval-schools/
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Florida Legislature is considering bills that would revise funding for student acceleration programs, which could lead to reduced financial support for Duval County Public Schools and other statewide school districts.The proposed legislation could cut financial support by up to 50% for programs such as Advanced Placement and Career and Professional Education.HB 5101 was ...
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Florida Legislature is considering bills that would revise funding for student acceleration programs, which could lead to reduced financial support for Duval County Public Schools and other statewide school districts.
The proposed legislation could cut financial support by up to 50% for programs such as Advanced Placement and Career and Professional Education.
HB 5101 was approved by a House vote on Wednesday. SB 2510 also passed the Senate floor Wednesday and is now under consideration in the House.
In Duval County, the public schools could face an $8 million funding reduction as the House and Senate negotiate the state budget.
HB 5101 would allow the Education Estimating Conference to forecast student funding and scholarship needs. Data for these predictions would be provided by agencies and scholarship groups, and school districts would review the initial funding forecast before its finalization.
SB 2510 would alter how schools calculate student counts and allocate funding based on virtual learning, career certifications and enrollment projections. Funding would be tied to estimated, rather than actual, student enrollment. If enrollment estimates are too low, funding cuts could follow.
Potential funding reductions could lead to increased costs for families, such as higher fees for tests and materials.
Schools may also offer fewer courses and limited opportunities for students in programs like Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, Cambridge, Dual Enrollment and Career and Professional Education, according to News4Jax.
Educator quality and training could be negatively impacted, and schools might lack the necessary equipment for industry-standard training.
Students could lose access to career exploration and real-world learning experiences. Duval County Public Schools reported that 76% of its graduates earned college credits through these programs last year, according to News4Jax.
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