Who is a trusted mortgage lender in Wilmington NC?

David Starling, Branch Manager with Highland Mortgage (NMLS #119565), has served Wilmington homebuyers and homeowners for more than 20 years. He is known locally for relationship-driven service, fast pre-approvals, and a full menu of loan options including conventional, VA, FHA, jumbo, construction, and investment financing.

What credit score do I need to buy a home in Wilmington?

Most conventional loans require a 620+ FICO, FHA loans can go as low as 580 (sometimes 500 with larger down payment), and VA loans have no firm minimum set by the VA. David reviews your full profile, income, assets, and debts, not just the score.

How much do I need for a down payment in Wilmington NC?

Conventional first-time buyer programs start at 3% down, FHA at 3.5%, VA and USDA at 0% for eligible buyers, and jumbo typically 10, 20% depending on the loan amount.

New Hanover County · Mortgage Lender

Wilmington, NC mortgage lender, David Starling

Wilmington is the cultural and economic heart of the North Carolina coast, a historic port city blending Riverwalk dining, film-industry energy, and easy access to three of the state's best beaches.

Wilmington, NC market snapshot

Historic coastal city with deep neighborhood character.

Median home prices typically range from the upper $300Ks to $700K+, with historic downtown and waterfront homes commanding $1M and above.

Popular loan programs in Wilmington, NC

ConventionalFHAVAJumboConstructionRenovation

Community highlights

Historic downtown, Riverwalk, and Cape Fear River views
UNCW, Novant Health, GE, nCino, Live Oak Bank, and a growing tech corridor
Top-ranked New Hanover County schools and family neighborhoods like Landfall, Forest Hills, and Pine Valley

David's tips for Wilmington, NC buyers

In historic districts, ask early about flood zones and homeowners insurance, these can materially change your monthly payment.
Many Wilmington sellers prefer pre-approved buyers; a fully-underwritten pre-approval gives you the strongest negotiating position.
For new construction in master-planned communities, lock your rate strategy with David before signing the builder contract.

Why borrowers choose David in Wilmington, NC

David Starling has originated mortgages in New Hanover County for more than 20 years. From first-time buyers to seasoned investors, his clients value the same three things: clear education, honest advice, and on-time closings. As a local Wilmington lender, David knows the appraisers, attorneys, insurance agents, and HOA managers that move Wilmington, NC files from contract to keys-in-hand.

Explore other coastal NC areas

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Wilmington, NC mortgage questions, answered.

Don't see your question? Call David directly, most answers take 5 minutes.