Remote Work Is Changing Homebuying Behavior
The shift to remote work is reshaping how and where people buy homes—and LBC Capital is helping clients stay ahead of the trend. With more flexibility in where people live, North Carolina’s secondary cities are quickly becoming top choices for remote professionals. Strategic mortgage planning has never been more important, and LBC Capital offers expert guidance for buyers navigating this evolving landscape.
Freedom from Location Limits
Remote work has moved from a temporary fix to a permanent feature in the job market. As of 2024, about 25–30% of workers in the U.S. operate in hybrid roles, and 13% work fully remote. That flexibility allows borrowers to prioritize lifestyle over commute, giving rise to a new wave of migration into affordable, high-quality areas.
In North Carolina, remote work adoption is among the highest in the country. Raleigh leads with over 24% of its workforce working remotely. Charlotte follows closely at 21.5%, with Durham at 19.5%. These rates place all three cities in the top 10 for remote work nationally. This shift is driving demand in nearby, more affordable areas that still offer proximity to city amenities.
A Rise in “Zoom Towns”
The term “Zoom towns” describes smaller cities and suburban areas that have seen a surge in housing demand due to remote work. In North Carolina, secondary cities like Cary, Durham, and Winston-Salem have become prime examples of this trend. These areas offer strong infrastructure, job growth, and an excellent quality of life—all without the high price tags of major metros.
NC’s Secondary Cities Offer a Strong Value Proposition
Cary and Durham Lead the Way
Cary was recently ranked the second-best real estate market in the country, while Durham followed closely at fourth. The rankings considered factors like affordability, job market strength, and population growth. These cities offer a compelling mix of livability, educational resources, and business activity.
While Cary ranks low on affordability (96th), it still draws significant buyer interest due to low unemployment and consistent job creation. Durham, on the other hand, presents a balanced mix of affordability and amenities, making it attractive to first-time homebuyers and seasoned professionals alike.
Quality of Life as a Mortgage Planning Factor
For remote workers, the decision on where to live is no longer just about job proximity. Access to parks, healthcare, schools, and community resources plays a much bigger role. These lifestyle upgrades can influence not only where people move, but also how much they borrow and what kind of mortgage products they choose.
How Remote Work Is Reshaping Mortgage Planning
Alternative Income Documentation
Remote work often includes non-traditional income sources—freelance, contract, or hybrid earnings. This makes traditional mortgage qualification more complex. LBC Capital specializes in loan options that accommodate these needs. We help clients utilize Non-QM (non-qualified mortgage) products that accept alternative documentation like bank statements or profit-and-loss reports.
These loans are ideal for gig workers, entrepreneurs, and remote employees paid in non-standard ways. LBC Capital ensures borrowers are matched with the right loan product based on their income profile.
Embracing Digital Mortgage Tools
Remote work and digital lending go hand in hand. Borrowers now expect fast, accessible online mortgage solutions. LBC Capital delivers fully digital application processes, secure document uploads, and direct communication with loan officers—making remote mortgage planning seamless from start to finish.
More House for the Money
Secondary cities in North Carolina offer lower home prices compared to major metros like Raleigh or Charlotte. That means remote buyers often qualify for more space, newer homes, or better neighborhoods without exceeding their budget. LBC Capital helps borrowers identify high-value opportunities in these growing markets, ensuring long-term equity potential.
Mortgage Products That Fit Remote Buyers
Conventional and Government Loans
LBC Capital offers a full range of mortgage options for remote and hybrid workers. Conventional loans are available for buyers with stable income, while FHA loans provide low down payment options for first-time buyers. USDA loans support purchases in rural areas, which often include North Carolina’s secondary cities. VA loans remain a strong option for eligible veterans and service members.
We work closely with clients to determine which loan structure fits their lifestyle, income type, and long-term goals.
Jumbo Loans for High-Income Remote Workers
Many remote professionals are high earners relocating from expensive states like California or New York. These buyers often need jumbo loans—mortgages that exceed conforming loan limits. LBC Capital provides competitive jumbo options for borrowers seeking larger homes or properties in higher-cost areas like Cary or Chapel Hill.
Market Trends Show Long-Term Potential
Demand Continues Despite Inventory Constraints
In Raleigh and the surrounding Triangle area, total home sales fell by 16.2% from March 2023 to March 2024. This was largely due to high mortgage rates and low inventory. However, buyer interest remains strong. Policymakers are already responding with changes to zoning laws to encourage new housing construction and improve availability.
These adjustments point to long-term market stability. Buyers who enter now can benefit from appreciation as demand continues to outpace supply.
Migration Into North Carolina Remains Strong
North Carolina continues to rank among the top inbound states. Affordable living, low taxes, and high quality of life drive new residents from across the country. For borrowers, this means strong appreciation potential and stable job markets—both of which are key to sound mortgage planning.
LBC Capital closely tracks these migration trends to help clients make informed buying decisions, whether they’re relocating from out of state or moving within North Carolina.
Why Choose LBC Capital for Mortgage Planning?
Experience with Remote and Hybrid Borrowers
LBC Capital understands the nuances of income verification and loan approval for remote workers. We’ve helped countless clients—freelancers, consultants, remote tech workers, and more—secure loans that fit their unique situations.
Our team simplifies the process by identifying the right products, ensuring compliance with documentation requirements, and keeping applications on track.
Personalized Guidance from Start to Finish
We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. LBC Capital provides customized loan solutions that align with each client’s budget, goals, and timeline. Whether you’re buying in Cary, Durham, or elsewhere in North Carolina, our local market expertise helps you act with confidence.
Future-Focused Mortgage Strategies
Remote work isn’t just a trend—it’s a long-term shift. LBC Capital helps clients plan not only for today’s needs but also for tomorrow’s possibilities. That means identifying properties with strong resale value, understanding how hybrid work could impact lifestyle, and structuring loans that support flexibility.