Charleston, SC · Serving the Lowcountry & beyond

Your Charleston mortgage loan officer.

Hey — I'm Christa Votaw (NMLS #1111313), a Charleston-based loan officer with Clear Home Loans. Whether you're buying your first place in Mount Pleasant, moving up in West Ashley, or refinancing on James Island, I'll make the whole thing feel clear, honest, and genuinely cared for.

★★★★★5.0 · 55+ Charleston-area reviews
NMLS #1111313Licensed & local
A local lender who picks up the phone

Home loans in Charleston, made clear.

Finding the right mortgage in the Charleston market shouldn't feel like decoding a foreign language. As a local mortgage loan officer, I help buyers and homeowners across the Lowcountry find the loan that actually fits their life — with straight answers, real numbers, and no pressure. You work directly with me from the first question to the closing table, not a 1-800 call center.

I'm licensed in South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee, and I'm proud to call Charleston home. If you're comparing lenders, here's my promise: I'll tell you the truth about your options, move fast, and treat you like a neighbor — because you are one.

Where I lend

Serving the whole Charleston area.

From downtown to the islands to the suburbs — if you're buying or refinancing here, I can help.

Charleston
Mount Pleasant
James Island
Johns Island
West Ashley
North Charleston
Summerville
Daniel Island
Folly Beach
Goose Creek
Isle of Palms
Sullivan's Island

Also serving buyers across South Carolina, Georgia, North Carolina & Tennessee.

What I help with

The loan that fits your story.

See all loan options →
Charleston mortgage FAQ

Real questions, honest answers.

Who is a trusted mortgage loan officer in Charleston, SC?

Christa Votaw (NMLS #1111313) is a Charleston-based loan officer with Clear Home Loans, a Division of Aspire Home Loans, LLC. She holds a 5.0 rating across 55+ client reviews and is known for clear, honest, no-pressure guidance for first-time buyers, move-up buyers, and refinancers across the Lowcountry.

How do I get pre-approved in Charleston?

Start with a short, no-pressure conversation. I review your income, credit, and goals, then show you a comfortable monthly payment and the programs you qualify for — often within a day. Apply at christa.floify.com or call (843) 647-9686.

What down payment do I need in the Charleston area?

Far less than 20% for most buyers. Many first-time buyers put down 3–3.5%, and VA and USDA loans can be $0 down for those who qualify. SC Housing down payment assistance can help with your down payment and closing costs.

Do you help first-time home buyers?

Absolutely — it's one of my favorite parts of the job. I'll walk you through budgeting, credit, programs, and assistance at your pace, with straight answers the whole way.

What areas around Charleston do you serve?

The entire Lowcountry — Charleston, Mount Pleasant, James Island, Johns Island, West Ashley, North Charleston, Summerville, Daniel Island, Folly Beach, and Goose Creek — plus buyers across SC, GA, NC & TN.

Let's find your clear way home.

Tell me a little about you and I'll reach out personally — no pressure, just a warm, honest conversation.