There isn't one single minimum credit score — it depends on the loan type and your overall financial picture.
Conventional loans: Most lenders start at 620, with better rates and terms typically available at 680+.
FHA loans: As low as 580 for 3.5% down (or 500–579 with 10% down in some cases).
VA loans: No strict government minimum, though most lenders look for 580–620+.
Non-QM and specialized options (including first-lien HELOCs): More flexible — we can often work with lower scores when other factors (like equity, income stability, or reserves) are strong.
At OpenKey Mortgage Advisors, we shop multiple lenders so we can find the best fit for your score and situation. Even if your credit isn't perfect, let's talk — many clients qualify with creative solutions. Contact us for a personalized review.
The typical timeline from application to full approval is 30–45 days, with many conventional loans closing in about 42 days on average in 2026.
Pre-approval: Often within 1–3 days once we have your documents.
Full underwriting & approval: 3–6 weeks, depending on how quickly documents are provided and any conditions are cleared.
Complex situations (self-employed, non-QM, or first-lien HELOCs): May take a bit longer due to extra verification, but we keep you informed every step.
Factors like a clean file, prompt responses, and a straightforward property can speed things up. At OpenKey, we guide you closely to help avoid delays. Let's discuss your timeline goals!
Every loan is a little different, but here's what we usually need:
Basic for everyone: Recent pay stubs, W-2s (last 2 years), tax returns (last 2 years), bank statements (2–3 months), photo ID, and proof of assets.
If self-employed: Business tax returns, profit & loss statements, 1099s/K-1s, and sometimes 12–24 months of bank statements.
For refinances or HELOCs: Current mortgage statement and proof of home equity.
Don't worry if your paperwork isn't perfect — we’ll guide you on exactly what’s needed and help organize it. The sooner we have complete documents, the faster we can move. Upload them securely through our portal or bring them to a consultation.
Yes! We help clients refinance for lower rates, shorter terms, cash-out equity, or to switch to a better loan type (including first-lien HELOCs for more flexibility).Whether you want to reduce monthly payments, pay off your home faster, consolidate debt, or tap equity for home improvements/investments, we’ll shop options to see what makes the most sense.Even if you have an existing low rate, innovative solutions like first-lien HELOCs can sometimes provide better cash-flow benefits. Bring us your current loan details and we’ll run the numbers honestly.
No hidden fees, we believe in full transparency.
You will see standard mortgage costs such as:
Origination fees (usually 0.5%–1% of the loan amount, covering processing and underwriting)
Discount points (optional — pay upfront to lower your interest rate)
Third-party fees like appraisal, title insurance, and recording
We clearly explain every fee upfront in your Loan Estimate. As independent advisors, we shop multiple lenders to help you minimize costs and avoid unnecessary charges. Our promise: clear communication with no surprises. We'll walk you through the full breakdown before you move forward.
We offer a full range of mortgage solutions to fit different needs:
Conventional loans
Government-backed loans (FHA, VA, USDA)
Non-QM loans — great for self-employed, investors, or unique financial situations
Specialized options, including powerful first-lien HELOCs (revolving home equity lines in first position that most big banks don't offer, with excellent liquidity and cash-flow tools)
Whether you're a first-time buyer, refinancing, consolidating debt, or optimizing equity as an investor, we shop multiple lenders to find the right program for your unique situation. No one-size-fits-all here, just tailored advice.
Great question, many people mix these up!
Pre-qualification: A quick, informal estimate of what you might qualify for. It’s based on basic information you provide (no hard credit pull in many cases) and is not a guarantee. Useful for early house hunting.
Pre-approval: A more serious step. We review your documents, pull your credit, verify income/assets, and issue a formal letter with a specific loan amount. This makes your offer much stronger with sellers.
At OpenKey, we recommend getting pre-approved before seriously shopping homes. It’s free and gives you confidence plus a competitive edge. Let’s get you pre-approved today!
Absolutely, we love helping first-time buyers!
We offer FHA loans (low down payment as little as 3.5%), conventional options with as little as 3% down, VA/USDA where eligible, and flexible non-QM programs.
Our process includes:
Personalized guidance on programs
Credit & budget review
Help with down payment assistance options
Education every step of the way (no pressure, just clear advice)
Many of our first-time clients also explore first-lien HELOCs later for ongoing equity access. If you're ready to start your homeownership journey in the Upstate SC area, we're here to make it achievable and stress-free.
Explore competitive rates, flexible terms, and personalized solutions designed to fit your financial goals.
