Straight answers, written by a loan officer
Ask Joe
The search engine of this site. Short answers first. Then the full explanation.
- First-Time Buyers
Should I use a mortgage broker or a bank?
A bank's loan officer offers that bank's loans. I work as a broker. I shop your file across a network of over 100 lenders instead of handing you one company's rate. Sometimes a bank is the better call for you, and when it is, I'll tell you.
- South Carolina
How do South Carolina property taxes work when I buy a home?
In South Carolina, the home you live in is assessed at 4% of its value, and it skips school operating taxes. A second home or rental is assessed at 6%, without that break. You have to apply for the 4% yourself. And when you buy, the county reappraises the home, so the seller's bill may not be yours for long.