For 20+ years, Wilmington families have trusted David Starling with the largest financial decision of their lives.

A different kind of mortgage advisor.

David Starling never set out to be the loudest mortgage lender in Wilmington, only the most trusted. As Branch Manager and Senior Mortgage Consultant with Highland Mortgage (NMLS #119565), he has spent more than two decades helping Wilmington-area families buy first homes, build custom houses on the coast, refinance to lower payments, and invest in their futures.

Treat people like family.

That principle has guided David's practice from day one. Clients get his direct cell phone number. They get weekly updates without having to ask. They get an honest opinion, even when the answer is "wait six months and improve your credit." It's the reason families come back for their second, third, and fourth home, and why local Realtors, financial advisors, and attorneys send him their best clients.

Local roots, deep expertise.

David has originated loans in nearly every neighborhood from Castle Hayne and Ogden to Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Leland, Hampstead, and Topsail. He knows which Wilmington zip codes carry the highest insurance, which Brunswick communities require extra HOA review time, and how to structure a jumbo loan for a Porters Neck or Figure Eight Island home so it closes on time.

Education over sales.

Every conversation starts with teaching: how mortgage rates actually move, what the difference is between a pre-qualification and a fully underwritten pre-approval, how PMI cancels, why a 15-year refi might be smarter than a cash-out, and when it's better to keep the loan you have. David's clients walk away knowing more, and making better decisions because of it.

Beyond the loan.

David is deeply involved in the Wilmington community, partnering with Realtors, financial advisors, CPAs, and local nonprofits to help families and small businesses thrive. He believes the mortgage is just one piece of a much bigger financial picture, and treats it that way.

Get started.

Whether you're three years away from buying or three weeks away from closing, the right next step is the same: a 30-minute conversation, free of pressure or obligation. Schedule a strategy call or start your pre-approval.