Loan Programs & Services

The right loan, for the right move.

Q: What credit score do I need to buy a home in Wilmington, NC?

Conventional loans typically require a minimum FICO score of 620, while FHA loans may allow scores as low as 580. VA and USDA loans also generally accept scores between 580 and 620, depending on the borrower's overall financial profile.

Q: Can I buy a home with 0% down in North Carolina?

Yes. Eligible veterans and active-duty military members may qualify for a VA loan, while eligible buyers purchasing homes in USDA-approved rural and suburban areas may qualify for a USDA loan. Both loan programs offer 100% financing with no down payment.

Q: How long does it take to get pre-approved?

Most buyers can receive a mortgage pre-approval in as little as 15 minutes after submitting the required financial information, allowing them to begin shopping with confidence.

Q: What states is Nana Benonis licensed in?

Nana Benonis is licensed to originate residential mortgages in North Carolina, Florida, and Virginia, with her primary office located in Wilmington, North Carolina.

Q: How long does closing take once I'm under contract?

Most home loans close within approximately 21 to 30 days after a purchase contract is signed, although timelines can vary depending on the loan program, appraisal, underwriting, and the speed at which required documents are provided.

Compare FHA, VA, USDA, jumbo, and specialty loans from a licensed Wilmington NC mortgage lender — built for first-time buyers, refinances, and everything in between.

From your first home to your forever home — purchase, refinance, or specialty programs — every loan I work on is hand-walked through to closing. As a mortgage loan officer Wilmington NC buyers trust, and a licensed mortgage broker with Revolution Mortgage, I help you compare real numbers, not guesswork. Browse the programs below and let’s find the one that fits your goals.

Licensed In

FL · NC · VA

Loan Term

14+

Avg. Closing

21–30 Days

NMLS ID

#2215828

Every borrower deserves a loan that actually fits them.

Some buyers need the lowest down payment. Some need flexibility on credit. Some are self-employed and need a smarter qualification path. The right program depends on your situation — that’s where I come in.

Loan Programs Comparison

QUICK COMPARISON

Loan programs at a glance

A quick side-by-side to help you narrow down where to start. Full eligibility is determined during pre-approval.

Program	Min. Down	Min. FICO	PMI	Best For
Conventional Purchase	3%	620	If <20% down	Most buyers
FHA	3.5%	580	MIP required	First-time / credit building
VA	0%	580	None	Veterans & active duty
USDA	0%	620	Guarantee fee	Rural / suburban areas
Jumbo	10%	700	Varies	High-value homes
Bank Statement	10–20%	660	Varies	Self-employed
DSCR (Investor)	20–25%	660	N/A	Real estate investors

How It Works

From application to keys, in five steps.

A clear path with no guesswork. Here’s exactly what to expect when you work with me.

STEP 01

Apply

Apply online in 15 minutes, by phone, or in person at our Wilmington branch.

STEP 02

Pre-Approval

I review your application and send a pre-approval letter so you can shop with confidence.

STEP 03

Lock Your Rate

Lock your rate, review your written Loan Estimate, and confirm the program.

STEP 04

Underwriting

Our in-house team reviews your file, the appraisal, and the title work.

STEP 05

Closing

Once cleared to close, we schedule your signing. See you at the closing table.

Let's make moves — get pre-approved in 15 minutes.

Start your application

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Conventional loans typically require a minimum FICO score of 620, while FHA loans allow scores as low as 580. VA and USDA loans also accept scores starting around 580–620, and Nana can help match you to the program that fits your credit profile.

Can I buy a home with 0% down in North Carolina?

Yes. Qualified veterans and active-duty service members can use VA loans, and buyers purchasing in eligible rural or suburban areas can use USDA loans — both allow 0% down.

How long does it take to get pre-approved?

Pre-approval can typically be completed in about 15 minutes online, by phone, or in person at the Wilmington branch, giving buyers a pre-approval letter to shop with confidence.

What states is Nana Benonis licensed in?

Nana is licensed to originate mortgages in North Carolina, Florida, and Virginia, with her branch based in Wilmington, NC.

How long does closing take once I'm under contract?

Average closing timelines run about 21–30 days from application to closing, though this can vary based on loan type and how quickly documentation is submitted.