Educational

8 Proven Ways to Save for a Home Down Payment Faster For many aspiring homeowners, saving for a down payment can feel like the biggest obstacle between renting and owning a home. While it may seem overwhelming at first, the good news is that there are several...

What are the Benefits of a VA Loan? Many people believe purchasing a home requires a hefty amount of cash upfront, but there are many low to no down payment options available to homebuyers. One of these options is specifically geared toward members of the military –...

In today's real estate market, having all of your 'ducks in a row' is essential to be a competitive buyer. With low inventory and homes flying off the market before they're even publicly listed, it's critical to jump into the homebuying game ready to play. This is no...

A common misconception about home buying is that you'll need to have a hefty down payment to become a homeowner. Quite the opposite is true - there are so many mortgage programs out there that aim to help make homeownership an attainable feat for all. Putting 20% down...

If you’ve owned your home for a while, you’ve probably heard the term equity come up. It’s a common word in homeownership conversations, but many people aren’t exactly sure what it means – or how it applies to them. In simple terms, home equity is the portion of your...

If buying a new home is on your radar, a good place to begin is by finding a great lender. Your lender can help paint a realistic picture of your path to homeownership from start to finish. Since purchasing a home may be your largest financial transaction, it’s...

The thought of creating a budget may seem a bit daunting, but it doesn't have to be! A few small changes and fixing a habit here and there can add up over time. If buying a home is in your future, getting started with a budget now can pay off tenfold when you're ready...

5 New Year’s Resolutions to Help You Become a Homeowner in 2026 The new year is a time for a fresh start and new opportunities. It’s also a great time to set big goals and begin accomplishing them. If buying a house happens to be on your to-do list for 2026, it’s time...

Smart Money-Saving Strategies for Homebuyers Buying a home is an exciting journey, but it’s also a major financial commitment. While it's natural to focus on the down payment and monthly mortgage, there are many other ways to save money throughout the homebuying...

Planning Your Dream Home: How to Estimate Your Monthly Mortgage Payments Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or planning to upgrade to your dream home, knowing what to expect in terms of monthly mortgage payments is essential for budgeting wisely. At C&F...