North Carolina keeps drawing buyers from across the country, with fast growth in Charlotte and the Triangle and a strong military presence in the east. If you are planning a purchase in 2027, this guide covers Charlotte, Raleigh, Fayetteville, Wilmington, and Jacksonville, the loan types we can help you compare, and the state housing agency that may be worth a look. Shay Yates and the True North Yates Group team are a small, Springfield, Missouri based team licensed to lend in North Carolina, and we answer the phone. You can also read our North Carolina page for a quick overview.
Where buyers are looking in North Carolina
Here is a quick tour of places we hear about often. This is not a ranking and not advice about where anyone should live. It is simply a starting point for your own search.
Charlotte
The state's largest city and a large metro with a busy market, from in-town neighborhoods to growing suburbs in Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, and Union counties.
Raleigh
The capital and the center of the Triangle, where fast growth and a lot of new construction in places like Apex, Cary, and Holly Springs keep the market busy.
Fayetteville
Next to Fort Bragg and one of the strongest military and Veteran markets in the country, so VA loans are a regular topic.
Wilmington
A coastal city with a historic downtown and growing suburbs. Flood and wind insurance are part of the conversation.
Jacksonville
Home to Camp Lejeune, with a large military and Veteran community and a steady local market.
Loan programs to know in North Carolina
Most North Carolina buyers end up choosing among a handful of loan types. We compare them side by side for your situation, with no pressure.
- Conventional loans. A flexible choice for buyers with solid credit, and often a good fit for larger purchases or second homes.
- FHA loans. Government insured loans designed with flexible credit and smaller down payments in mind, a common route for first-time buyers.
- VA loans. A benefit for eligible Veterans, service members, and some surviving spouses. Fort Bragg and Camp Lejeune are two of the largest military installations in the country, and the state has a large Veteran community.
- USDA loans. Many North Carolina counties outside the big metros may include USDA eligible areas, so check an address on the USDA map and ask us.
- First-time buyer programs. Help from NCHFA, covered below.
First-time buyer help from NCHFA
North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) is the state agency behind homebuyer programs in North Carolina. NCHFA offers the NC Home Advantage Mortgage, which pairs a first mortgage with down payment help for eligible buyers through participating lenders. Ask us whether you may qualify.
Program details, limits, and which lenders take part are set by the agency and can change, so please check the agency's own site, NCHFA, for the latest. We do not want to promise anything the agency has not. What we can do is look at your situation and tell you honestly what to ask about.
A local thing worth asking about
New construction is a big part of the market around Raleigh and Charlotte. Builder contracts and timelines work differently than resales, so ask us before you sign.
How we work with North Carolina buyers
The path is the same wherever you are buying. First comes a no pressure conversation about your goals and your budget. Next we look at loan options and, if it makes sense, get you pre-approved so your offer stands out. Once you are under contract, we keep you posted at every step, from the appraisal to the closing table, and we explain each document in plain English. If a question comes up at 9 at night, send a text.
Next steps
Not sure where to start? Start with a simple conversation. We will listen first, then map out a plan that fits your timeline. You can see where we lend on our states we serve page, read the North Carolina page, send us a note on the contact page, or start your application. Shay and the team are just a text away.
Frequently asked questions
Is Shay licensed to help with a home loan in North Carolina?
Yes. Shay Yates (NMLS 2172921) is licensed through Southwest Funding to originate loans in North Carolina. Licensing details are on our North Carolina page, and you can verify any loan officer at nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
Does North Carolina have a first-time buyer program?
Yes. The North Carolina Housing Finance Agency offers the NC Home Advantage Mortgage, with down payment help for eligible buyers through participating lenders. Ask us whether you may qualify.
Can I buy near a military base with a VA loan?
Often yes. VA loans are available for eligible Veterans and service members buying in North Carolina, and property type and condition still matter. Tell us the area and we will talk through it.
Do I need to live in Missouri to work with you?
No. Our team works with buyers in North Carolina and other states by phone, text, and secure online tools, so you can apply and move through the process from home. Reach us any time on the contact page.
This post is general information, not financial advice or a commitment to lend. Programs and eligibility vary and are subject to credit and property approval. Talk with a loan officer about your situation.