Need Help?
Exploring mortgage options can feel complex, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Whether you’re buying your first home, building new, or refinancing, our local mortgage team is here to provide clear answers and support from start to finish.

Leah Peeler
Mortgage Loan Officer
NMLS#: 2279750
With more than 36 years in the banking industry, I’ve built a career on helping clients achieve their financial goals with confidence. I proudly serve Gastonia, Cleveland County, and the surrounding area, offering personalized service and straightforward guidance. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a growing family, or a homeowner considering refinancing, I’ll be right by your side every step of the way.
Apply NowHello, Gastonia
Gastonia continues to attract new residents thanks to its affordability, community-focused neighborhoods, and quick access to Charlotte. The Cox Road corridor in particular offers families a convenient lifestyle with nearby schools, parks, and retail centers.
As a local loan officer, Leah understands the pace of the Gastonia market and provides the guidance needed to secure financing smoothly. Her decades of experience mean clients receive not only competitive options, but also the personal reassurance of working with someone who knows the community inside and out.
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Understanding Homebuyer Programs in Gastonia
There are many different ways to finance a home in Gastonia, depending on your goals and location. Leah also helps clients explore manufactured home loans, first-time buyer programs, investment property financing, and second home loans.
Eligibility for Mortgage Programs in Gastonia
Each loan program has its own eligibility criteria. FHA loans are generally available to buyers with credit scores of 580 and above, while conventional loans typically require 620 or higher. VA loans offer unique benefits for eligible military families, and USDA loans depend on income limits and property location.
With a full review of your credit, income, and property goals, Leah will prepare a loan estimate to help you plan confidently.
Improving Credit to Secure Pre-Approval
Securing a mortgage begins with preparation, and your credit profile plays a major role in the process. Leah works with clients to review credit reports, identify areas for improvement, and create a strategy to strengthen scores – whether that means paying down balances, correcting errors, or avoiding unnecessary inquiries.
With a pre-approval in place, you’ll know your budget, understand your loan options, and present a stronger offer in Gastonia’s competitive market. Leah’s guidance ensures you’ll be prepared to move forward when the right home becomes available.


