Author: Paul Hankins

Paul Hankins, founder of Brickwood Mortgage, is a South Carolina native, entrepreneur, and seasoned mortgage professional with more than 23 years of experience in residential lending, real estate investment, property management, and renovation projects in South Carolina.

The Dos and Don’ts of Mortgage Pre-Approval

Two women sit at a kitchen table, focused on documents and a laptop.

Embarking on the journey to homeownership involves several important steps, and one of the first is securing a mortgage pre-approval. At BrickWood Mortgage, Inc. a trusted mortgage lender in South Carolina, we understand the significance of pre-approval in the homebuying process. Here we will delve into the dos and don’ts of mortgage pre-approval, guiding you […]

Top Financial Benefits of Reverse Mortgages for Seniors

Elderly couple at a table with a laptop, smiling as they shake hands with a person in the foreground.

As retirees navigate their golden years, financial planning becomes a critical aspect of maintaining a comfortable and secure lifestyle. One option that has gained popularity among seniors is the reverse mortgage. While often misunderstood, reverse mortgages offer a range of financial benefits for older homeowners. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top financial […]

Comparing Mortgage Rates for Various Loan Types: Conventional, FHA, USDA, and More.

A miniature wooden house with a key rests on mortgage application papers. Nearby are stacks of gold and silver coins.

Navigating the intricate landscape of mortgage options can be overwhelming, especially for first-time homebuyers. One of the critical aspects to consider is the type of loan, and more importantly, the associated mortgage rates. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore and compare mortgage rates for three common loan types: Conventional, FHA, and USDA. Understanding Conventional […]

The Role of Credit Scores in Mortgage Lending: What You Need to Know!

A miniature house model, a blank chalkboard, a calculator, a mortgage document stamped "Approved,”.

Your credit score plays a pivotal role in many aspects of your financial life, and when it comes to securing a mortgage, it’s especially crucial. Mortgage lenders use your credit score as a key factor in determining your eligibility for a loan and the interest rate you’ll be offered. We’ll delve into the significance of […]

How can I best utilize my VA home loan to buy my first house?

A couple discusses mortgage documents at a table. The man, in a plaid shirt, points at a paper. The woman, holding a house model.

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, and as a military veteran, you have a unique advantage with the VA home loan program. VA loans offer excellent benefits, but using them effectively requires careful planning and understanding of the process. In this blog, we’ll explore how you can make the most of your VA […]

How Mortgage Brokers Help You Find the Best Mortgage Rates

A couple smiles warmly as a businessman hands them keys, symbolizing a successful home purchase.

When embarking on the journey to purchase a home, one of the most critical aspects is securing the best mortgage rate possible. Mortgage interest rates today can vary considerably, impacting your monthly payments and the overall cost of homeownership. A mortgage broker is a great resource in this situation. In this blog, we’ll explore how […]

Fixed vs. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages: How Mortgage Calculators Help You Choose

Mortgage application stamped "Approved" on a table with a calculator, pen, keys, and house paper cutouts.

The decision to choose between a fixed-rate mortgage and an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is one of the most critical choices you’ll make when purchasing a home. The option you select will significantly impact your monthly payments and the overall cost of your home. In this blog, we’ll discuss how mortgage calculators, particularly for those in […]

Reverse Mortgage vs. Home Equity Loan: Which is Right for You?

Two people sit at a table with real estate documents, a model house, a key, and a pot of coins.

Deciding between a reverse mortgage and a home equity loan depends on your individual financial situation, needs, and goals. Both options allow you to tap into your home’s equity (either as the existing owner or during the purchase process), but they work differently and have distinct advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a comparison to help you […]

Why Do Lenders Charge Home Loan Prepayment Fees?

A model house with a red roof sits beside stacks of coins on wooden blocks.

When it comes to home loans, borrowers (including first-time buyers in SC) often aim to pay off their mortgages early to reduce interest payments and achieve financial freedom. However, many lenders impose prepayment fees, which can be a source of frustration for borrowers. With this in mind, we want to explore the reasons behind lenders […]

No Social Security?

If you don’t have a Social Security Account, you may want to look into this. With your free, personal my Social Security account, you can receive personalized estimates of future benefits based on your real earnings, see your latest Statement, and review your earnings history. It even makes it easy to request a replacement Social […]