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If you've ever applied for a mortgage and suddenly found yourself bombarded with calls, texts, or emails from unfamiliar lenders, you're not alone. What you experienced was likely the result of a "trigger lead." What Are Trigger Leads? Trigger leads are a marketing tool used by some lenders and credit bureaus. When you apply for a mortgage and authorize a credit check, the major credit bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax) may flag that activity and sell your information to other mortgage lenders. These companies use your recent inquiry as a "trigger" to reach out and compete for your business—often within hours of your application. These leads can result in dozens of unsolicited contacts from companies you've never heard of. Some might sound aggressive or misleading, which can be unsettling, especially during an exciting homebuying journey. Why Does This Happen When lenders pull your credit for a mortgage, it signals to the bureaus that you're actively shopping for a home loan. That makes your information incredibly valuable to other lenders, who pay for access to try and win you over before you commit. Unfortunately, even though you're working with a trusted mortgage team, other companies don't hesitate to step in with pressure tactics or confusing pitches. Can You Stop Trigger Leads? The short answer is that you can reduce them but stopping them entirely requires a bit of effort. Here's how to protect your information and your peace of mind: Opt Out Before You Apply Visit www.optoutprescreen.com or call 1-888-5-OPT-OUT (1-888-567-8688). This is the official site for opting out of pre-screened credit offers from the major bureaus. You can opt out for 5 years by submitting your information online or permanently by completing and mailing a form. Timing matters: Do this a few days before your credit is pulled to ensure the opt-out takes effect in time. Register with the Do Not Call List While this won't stop all calls from trigger leads, it can help reduce general telemarketing. Register at www.donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222. Let Us Know We understand how frustrating trigger leads can be. Let our team know if you're being contacted, and we'll help you verify what's legitimate and what's not. Why We Don't Use Trigger Leads We believe in building relationships—not buying them. The Sharpe Mortgage Team does not purchase or act on trigger leads. If you're hearing from us, you reached out first. And that's how it should be. Final Thoughts Buying a home should be exciting, not stressful. Trigger leads may be legal, but they can feel like an invasion of privacy. If you plan to apply for a mortgage soon, take a few simple steps to protect yourself. And if you're already working with the Sharpe Mortgage Team, know that you've got a team of professionals standing by your side—no pressure, no gimmicks. Have questions about the mortgage process? Call our team today at 336-575-9448. We're always here to help.

Whether you’ve called Winston-Salem home for years or are just starting to explore the area, one thing is for sure—this city leaves an impression. With its unique blend of Southern charm, cultural richness, and small-town friendliness, it’s easy to see why so many people are proud to plant roots here. If you’re considering a move, here are five reasons locals love living in Winston-Salem: 1. The Best of Both Worlds: City Life with Small-Town Feel Winston-Salem strikes a rare balance. It’s big enough to offer family-friendly activities, local events, and convenient shopping, yet small enough to feel like home. You’ll find tight-knit neighborhoods, friendly faces, and a sense of community that makes everyday life more meaningful. 2. An Affordable Place to Call Home Compared to other North Carolina cities, Winston-Salem offers a lower cost of living and affordable housing options. From historic homes in Ardmore to new builds in growing areas like Clemmons and Kernersville, there’s something here for every lifestyle and budget. 3. A Food Scene That's Worth Savoring From farm-to-table favorites to long-standing local staples, Winston-Salem’s culinary scene is one to brag about. Whether grabbing coffee from Camino Bakery, enjoying barbecue from Little Richard’s, or exploring fine dining downtown, there’s no shortage of spots to satisfy your cravings. 4. Art, Culture, and History Around Every Corner Locals take pride in the city’s thriving arts landscape and historic roots. Home to the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art, Old Salem Museums & Gardens, and several festivals throughout the year, Winston-Salem has plenty of things to see, do, and experience. It’s a city that celebrates creativity and honors its past. 5. Outdoor Spaces and Weekend Adventures Love to get outside? With nearby hiking trails, greenways, and beautiful parks like Salem Lake, Winston-Salem makes it easy to enjoy nature. Plus, you’re just a short drive from the Blue Ridge Mountains—perfect for a weekend escape. Thinking of Making Winston-Salem Home? Whether relocating, upsizing, downsizing, or just exploring your options, the Sharpe Mortgage Team is here to help make your move seamless. Give us a call at 336-575-9448 to talk through your homeownership goals. We live here, we love it here—and we’d love to welcome you home.

For the Sharpe Mortgage Team, feedback is more than a formality. It’s how we ensure we’re showing up the way our clients need us to. One of the most effective ways we track that is through the Net Promoter Score or NPS. What Is NPS? Net Promoter Score is a widely used customer satisfaction metric that measures how likely someone is to recommend a business to others based on one simple but powerful question: “On a scale of 0 to 10, how likely are you to recommend us to a friend or colleague?” Responses fall into three categories: Promoters (9–10): Clients who had a great experience and are likely to refer friends and family. Passives (7–8): Those who are satisfied but not necessarily enthusiastic. Detractors (0–6): Those who didn’t feel fully supported and may be unlikely to return. The NPS is calculated by subtracting the percentage of Detractors from the percentage of Promoters. The final score ranges from -100 to +100. How the Sharpe Team Uses NPS We don’t collect Net Promotor Scores for the sake of appearances. We use them to listen. We review every piece of feedback, and if there is a reason to celebrate or improve, we do both. That means we’re not just checking boxes but finding ways to do better every time. For the Sharpe Team, this is simply part of the process. We take the time to communicate, follow through, and make sure our clients feel supported from start to finish. It’s not about chasing a perfect score but consistency in how we show up, one conversation at a time. Ashley McKenzie-Sharpe's Net Promoter Score for 2024 was 94.92 That number reflects hundreds of client experiences, including buyers, refinancers, and families who felt heard, informed, and cared for throughout the loan process. We’re proud of the score. But more importantly, we’re proud of what it says: that we’re doing right by the people who trust us during one of life’s most significant financial moments. Questions? We're Just a Call Away If you plan to buy, refinance, or have questions about your options, The Sharpe Team is here to help. Call us at 336-575-9448 to start the conversation—no pressure, just straightforward guidance.

We're thrilled to share some exciting news— Highlands Residential Mortgage has once again been recognized as one of the Top 10 Mortgage Companies for Customer Satisfaction in the Jumbo Division by Experience.com for 2024! This back-to-back recognition is a testament to Highlands' unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service, personalized guidance, and smooth mortgage experiences for borrowers nationwide. At the heart of that mission? Loan originators like Ashley McKenzie-Sharpe exemplify what it means to lead with integrity, heart, and hometown service. A shley Ranks in the Top 10 Nationwide! In addition to Highlands' corporate achievement, we're proud to celebrate an incredible individual accomplishment— Ashley has ranked in the Top 10 among all mortgage professionals nationwide on the Experience.com platform!  This isn't just a ranking. It's the result of genuine client feedback collected across thousands of reviews. Experience.com's rankings are based on verified borrower experiences, so this honor speaks volumes about Ashley's consistent delivery of personalized service, deep mortgage knowledge, and unshakable dedication to her clients. What Sets Ashley Apart? Whether it's a first-time homebuyer looking for guidance, a seasoned homeowner exploring financing options, or someone navigating a unique lending scenario, Ashley shows up with answers, compassion, and a plan. Her clients often describe her as: "Responsive, caring, and professional." "Always one step ahead." "Truly invested in making the experience stress-free." These aren't just compliments; they're the foundation of a customer-first philosophy that Ashley lives out every single day. Thank You To Our Clients We're so grateful to every client who shared their experience. Your feedback celebrates our team's hard work and helps other homebuyers feel confident choosing a lender they can trust. If you're planning a home purchase or refinance and want personalized guidance from a team that puts your goals first, The Sharpe Mortgage Team is here to help. Call us at 336-575-9448 to get started.

The 4th of July is a time to come together, celebrate freedom, and enjoy the best of summer with your community. Here in Winston-Salem and the surrounding Triad, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the red, white, and blue—whether you're into fireworks, baseball, history, music, or craft brews. Celebrate Independence Day with these 4th of July events happening in and around Winston-Salem. Winston-Salem Dash Fireworks Game Date: Wednesday, July 3, 2025 Time: Game starts at 6:30 PM Location: Truist Stadium Kick off your Independence Day celebrations early at the Dash's annual 4th of July Game! Watch America's favorite pastime, then stick around for their biggest fireworks display of the year. This event is always a crowd favorite, so grab your tickets early Bolt, White & Blue Celebration at Truist Stadium Date: Friday, July 4, 2025 Time: 6–10 PM Location: Truist Stadium (no game this time!) Not a baseball fan? No problem. Truist Stadium is hosting an Independence Day block party featuring live music, food, inflatables, and plenty of family fun. End the night with another round of dazzling fireworks. No ticket is needed to enjoy the party. Old Salem Independence Day Celebration Date: Friday, July 4, 2025 Time: 10 AM–4 PM Location: Old Salem Museums & Gardens Step back in time and see how early Americans celebrated the birth of a nation. Old Salem's annual celebration includes historical reenactments, music, crafts, and traditional readings of the Declaration of Independence. It's a meaningful and educational way to honor the holiday. Salem Band "Stars & Stripes" Concert Date: Friday, July 4, 2025 Time: 7:30 PM Location: Salem Square, Old Salem Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy a patriotic concert by North Carolina's oldest community band. Held in the heart of Old Salem, this free outdoor event includes beloved American marches, hymns, and tributes to military service members—the perfect way to wrap up your Independence Day Celebrations. Kernersville 4th of July Parade & Fireworks Date: Friday, July 4, 2025 Time: Parade at 9 AM, Gates open at 5 PM, Fireworks at dusk Location: Downtown Kernersville (Parade) & Kernersville Elementary (Evening Events) Start the day with a classic small-town parade featuring colorful floats, lively music, and friendly faces from around the community. In the evening, head to Kernersville Elementary for food vendors, live music, and one of the area's best community fireworks shows. Independence Weekend at Wise Man Brewing Date: Friday, July 4–Sunday, July 6, 2025 Location: Wise Man Brewing, Downtown Winston-Salem Looking for a laid-back way to celebrate all weekend long? Wise Man Brewing will host a relaxed holiday weekend complete with food trucks, live music, and limited-edition brews to toast the 4th in style. With games and great vibes, it’s a fantastic spot for the whole family. Celebrate Freedom and Home As you celebrate freedom this 4th of July, it's also a great time to reflect on what home means to you. Whether you're ready to buy your first home or simply considering a move, we’re here to help you confidently take the next step. For more information or to start your pre-approval process contact the Sharpe Mortgage Team at (336) 575-9448.

When buying a home, misinformation can be one of the biggest obstacles between buyers and their dream property. Let’s flip the script on some of the most common mortgage misconceptions we hear from clients every day, and set the record straight. Myth #1: "I need a 20% down payment to buy a home." Reality: While a 20% down payment can help you avoid Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), it's not required. Many loan programs—like FHA, VA, and some conventional loans—offer low or zero down payment options. Depending on your financial situation and the loan you qualify for, you could buy a home with as little as 3% down. Myth #2: "I need perfect credit to get a mortgage." Reality: A perfect credit score is nice, but it's unnecessary. Different loan programs accommodate a range of credit scores, and even if yours is on the lower end, that doesn't mean you're out of the running. We work with buyers every day who are rebuilding credit or have had bumps in the road. What matters most is finding the right solution for your situation. Myth #3: "Getting pre-approved is the same as being pre-qualified." Reality: While often used interchangeably, these terms mean very different things. A pre-qualification is a quick estimate based on self-reported financial info. A pre-approval involves a complete application and credit check, making it more reliable and attractive to sellers. Myth #4: "The lowest interest rate is always the best deal." Reality: A low rate can be a great benefit when paired with the right loan terms. A loan with the lowest rate might come with higher fees or shorter terms that don't work for your goals. The best deal fits your financial picture holistically, not just the headline number.. Myth #5: "Once I'm approved, I'm in the clear." Reality: Final approval happens at closing. That means your lender will continue verifying your financial situation until the deal is done. Any major purchases, new credit lines, or employment changes could affect your approval. Stay steady and transparent with your lender through the final signature. Let's Talk Facts, Not Fiction No matter where you are in your homebuying journey, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Contact the Sharpe Mortgage team at (336) 575-9448 for more information or to start your pre-approval process. We're ready to help you make smart, informed decisions about your next move.

As North Carolina grows, safe and affordable housing becomes increasingly vital. Governor Josh Stein acknowledges this urgent need: "Our state is growing, and people need a safe and affordable place to live. We will remain focused on identifying solutions to lower the cost of housing for North Carolinians at every stage of life and work to ensure every person has a safe place to call home." What Stein is Proposing Governor Stein's initiative will direct $35 million annually into the state's Housing Trust Fund. Additionally, another $15 million will specifically target workforce housing loans. The investments aren't temporary solutions. They represent a long-term, sustainable commitment to expanding housing opportunities across North Carolina. Why This Matters As home prices and rent costs steadily climb, many North Carolinians feel priced out of the market. Governor Stien's proposed funding directly addresses this issue by increasing the inventory of affordable homes and making homeownership accessible to more people, creating stability and fostering community growth What This Means for Homebuyers Buyers might benefit from a broader range of mortgage options, potentially lower interest rates, and expanded eligibility criteria as affordable housing availability grows. Next Steps to Prepare for Homeownership Get Pre-Approved Early : Connect with the Sharpe Mortgage Team to determine what you can comfortably afford. A clear understanding of your financial position simplifies homebuying and gives you a competitive edge. Incrementally Build Your Savings : While several low-down-payment programs are available, steadily setting money aside can provide you with more options and greater financial security when you're ready to buy. Take Action Today Contact the Sharpe Mortgage Team at (336) 575-9448 for more information or to start your pre-approval process. With the proper preparation and guidance, your dream of homeownership may become a reality sooner than you think!

June is National Homeownership Month —and it's more than just a celebration of real estate. It's about what home truly means: comfort, freedom, stability, and the chance to create something that's all your own. Whether you dream of a kitchen built for hosting, a beautifully landscaped backyard, or simply investing in your future, owning your home could be the answer. A home isn't just a place to live; it's a foundation for the life you want to build. So, Should You Buy Now or Wait? We always hear this question, especially in today's market, and here's the honest answer: while waiting for rates to drop might seem like the right thing to do, holding off could cost more than you think. Home prices are still rising, and many buyers are taking advantage of current incentives—like seller-paid closing costs—that may not stick around as demand picks up. Here's Why Buying Now Could Pay Off Start building equity sooner —every payment moves you closer to full ownership. Freedom to personalize your space —no more asking permission to paint the walls! Stability and predictability —fixed-rate mortgages can protect you from rising rent. Preparation is Power Whether you're actively looking or just testing the waters, getting pre-qualified now can set you up for success later. It gives you a realistic view of what you can afford, confidence to make quick, informed decisions, and a competitive edge when the right home comes along. Think of it as your financial foundation—so when opportunity knocks, you're ready to answer. Knowing your options is always a good idea. If you think homeownership might be your next step, or you're just curious about where to start or what's possible in today's market, I'd love to be your resource. Let's talk about what home could look like for you. Call The Sharpe Mortgage Team at (336) 575-9448 to start your pre-approval today.