Realize Your Dream of Home Ownership

When you work with Christa Votaw - Clear Home Loans, you’ll benefit from our flexible appointments, ongoing availability, and commitment to customer service and satisfaction. You will work with a dedicated professional who will thoroughly evaluate your financial circumstances to help you qualify for a loan that works within your budget. Our goal is to get you the most favorable rate available, all the while working to answer your questions and make the application process as smooth and simple as can be.

Contact us today to help you make a smart financial decision!

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We offer you absolute clarity and transparency in all we do.

Your partner for Perfect Vision in all things mortgage and home loan refinancing.

Our Simple Process

01. Application

The application is your first step in securing financing. It allows your lender to review your income, credit, debts, and assets so they can understand your financial picture. Being thorough and accurate here helps ensure a smooth process later and prevents surprises down the road.

03. Finding Your Home

This is where your dream starts to take shape. Working with a trusted real estate professional, you’ll tour homes, compare options, and narrow in on the right fit. Having your financing ready allows you to focus on finding the home that matches your lifestyle and budget.

02. Pre-Approval

Pre-approval is like getting your “green light” to shop for a home. It shows sellers you’re a serious buyer and helps you know exactly what price range you qualify for. With a pre-approval letter in hand, you’ll be in a stronger position to make an offer in a competitive market.

04. Closing

Closing is the finish line of your journey — the day the keys are officially yours. At this stage, you’ll review and sign the final documents, transfer funds, and complete the legal side of the purchase. While it may feel like a lot of paperwork, it’s also the most exciting step — because you’re officially a homeowner!

Still have Questions?

Happy to connect! In this discovery call, Christa will clearly outline your path, review loan options, down payments, and steps to get you a pre-approved with confidence.

Book a Call - Home Loan Discovery Session

Find the Right Loan for You

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, and the right loan program can make all the difference. At Clear Home Loans, we believe in making the process simple and transparent. That’s why we offer a range of mortgage options—whether you’re a first-time buyer, a military veteran, or looking to upgrade your forever home. Each program comes with unique benefits designed to fit different financial goals and situations. Explore your options below and discover which path will help you achieve your dream of homeownership with confidence.

Our Loan Options

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Conventional Loans

Conventional loans are one of the most popular options for homebuyers. Backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, these loans typically require good credit and a minimum down payment starting at 3%. They’re flexible, available for primary homes, second homes, or investment properties, and often allow you to avoid mortgage insurance once you reach 20% equity.

FHA Loans

FHA loans are designed to make homeownership more accessible, especially for first-time buyers. With down payments as low as 3.5% and more flexible credit requirements, FHA loans can be a great option if you’re just starting out or working to rebuild your credit. These loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration, offering peace of mind for both lenders and borrowers.

VA Loans

Available exclusively to veterans, active-duty service members, and eligible surviving spouses, VA loans offer unmatched benefits. With no down payment, no private mortgage insurance, and competitive interest rates, VA loans make it easier for those who have served to achieve homeownership. It’s one of the best ways to thank our military families for their service.

USDA Loans

USDA loans are designed to help buyers in eligible rural and suburban areas. With no down payment required and reduced mortgage insurance costs, these loans are perfect for families who want to enjoy homeownership outside of busy city centers. Income limits apply, but many buyers are surprised to find they qualify.

Testimonials

What others are saying

“Exceptional Service and Competitive Rates”

I had the pleasure of working with Christa again on a recent transaction and she went above and beyond to assist my buyer clients. In addition to being communicative, professional and a joy to work with, she was also able to get them a very competitive rate! She is dedicated to her clients and their agents and I would highly recommend her.

– Shannon, Realtor

“Self-Employed? Christa Makes It Easy.”

Christa is absolutely fantastic! As a self-employed borrower, I was worried about the mortgage process, but she made everything smooth and stress-free. Her expertise in a wide range of loan options was evident, and she took the time to find the best fit for my situation. Communication was top-notch—she was always available to answer questions and kept me informed every step of the way. If you're looking for a knowledgeable, friendly, and efficient loan officer in South Carolina, I highly recommend Christa!

– Ben, second time home buyer

“Closed in 20 Days with Christa’s Expertise”

Christa did in excellent job and made the home buying process so easy. We closed in like 20 days and I absolutely wouldn’t have been able to do it without Christa being so on top of things. My family had warned me that buying a house was the most stressful thing I would ever do but I felt like I got the princess treatment the entire time. 10/10 would recommend for anyone looking

– Cathy, first time home buyer

“A Rockstar Experience from Start to Finish”

I had the best experience working with Christa. She was an absolute Rockstar throughout the entire process. From start to finish, Christa was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly efficient.
What impressed me the most about Christa was her ability to communicate effectively with both myself and my clients. She was always available to answer any questions or address any concerns that arose during the loan process. Her quick response time and attention to detail truly set her apart from other loan officers I have worked with in the past.

– Raquel, Realtor

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much do I need for a down payment?

Many buyers believe they need 20% down, but that’s not always the case. Conventional loans can start as low as 3%, FHA requires 3.5%, and VA or USDA loans may allow zero down. The right option depends on your credit, income, and the loan program that best fits your needs.

2. What credit score do I need to qualify?

Generally, a score of 620 is the baseline for conventional loans, while FHA loans may allow scores as low as 580 with 3.5% down. VA and USDA loans are more flexible and often don’t have strict minimums. That said, higher credit scores can mean better interest rates and terms.

3. How much house can I afford?

Affordability depends on your income, debts, down payment, and current interest rates. Lenders usually look at your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio to determine a comfortable payment. Getting pre-approved is the best way to know exactly how much home you can afford before you start shopping.

4. What are closing costs, and how much will they be?

Closing costs typically range from 2%–5% of the home’s purchase price. They include items like appraisal fees, title insurance, taxes, and lender fees. Sometimes, sellers can help cover part of these costs, and there are also loan programs that offer assistance.