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May 20, 2024

Unlocking the Door to Homeownership: Understanding Home Loan Options 

Embarking on the journey to homeownership is a significant milestone, and at Citizens First Bank, we’re dedicated to making this process as smooth and straightforward as possible. With our range of home loan options tailored to fit your needs, we’re here to guide you through every step of the way. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the various types of home loan products offered by Citizens First Bank, providing valuable insights for prospective homebuyers. 

Fixed-rate vs. In-house Balloon Products: 

When considering home loan options, it’s essential to weigh the benefits of fixed-rate and in-house balloon products. Our fixed-rate mortgages offer the stability of consistent monthly payments over 15, 20, or 30 years. Eligibility factors include credit scores/history, income ratios, job history, and property details. On the other hand, our balloon loans provide a guaranteed rate for 2, 3, or 5 years, with favorable terms and free renewal options afterward. 

The Advantages of Pre-approval For a Home Loan: 

Securing pre-approval for a home loan offers several advantages that can streamline the homebuying process. With pre-approval in hand, you gain a competitive edge when making offers on your dream home, as sellers view you as a serious and qualified buyer. Additionally, pre-approval helps you understand your budget, closing costs, and upfront expenses, allowing for better financial planning. Our Mortgage Loan Officers are available to provide expert guidance and local insights for properties in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois. 

Tips For Improving Credit Scores to Qualify for Better Home Loan Terms: 

Maintaining a healthy credit score is crucial for securing favorable loan terms. By paying bills on time, keeping credit card balances under 30% of the available limit, and utilizing credit wisely, you can improve your creditworthiness. Additionally, consider the length of time for credit card balances and loans, as longer credit history can positively impact your credit score. 

The Role of Down Payments and Closing Costs in the Home Buying Process: 

Understanding down payments and closing costs is essential for a smooth home buying process. While some loan options offer 100% financing, others require a down payment, such as 3% for first-time homebuyers. At Citizens First Bank, we’re committed to providing a range of loan options tailored to fit your needs. Our offerings include not only the conventional 3% down payment option for first-time buyers but also the 100% no down payment VA loan and Rural Development first-time homebuyer loans. These are fantastic alternatives for those looking to purchase their dream home without the initial burden of a down payment. 

Additionally, closing costs can vary, and it’s crucial to have sufficient funds available in your account for a seamless closing process. What sets us apart at Citizens First Bank is our dedication to being with you every step of the way, from underwriting to closing. Unlike some lenders who rely on third parties, your lender at Citizens First Bank handles the entire process in-house, ensuring efficiency and transparency throughout. Furthermore, we’re committed to building lasting relationships with our customers by servicing all our products, fostering a lifetime partnership beyond just the initial transaction. With Citizens First Bank, you’re not just getting a loan, you’re gaining a trusted partner for all your homeownership needs. Let us guide you home with confidence. 

At Citizens First Bank, we’re committed to helping you achieve your homeownership dreams. Contact us today to explore our home loan options and start your journey to owning a home with confidence. 

Citizens First Bank – Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender