Your first home starts with a personal conversation.
Buying your first home is exciting – but it can also feel overwhelming. At FVSBank, we make the process easier with local lenders who explain your options, answer your questions, and help you feel confident every step of the way.
Whether you’re just starting to dream, ready to get pre-qualified, or actively shopping, we’re here to help you move forward.
What First-Time Buyers Should Know
Buying your first home comes with a lot of new terms, decisions, and paperwork.
We’ll help you understand :
- How much home you may be able to afford
- Down payment options
- Fixed-rate vs. adjustable-rate mortgages
- Closing costs
- Credit score considerations
- What documents you will need
- What happens from application to closing
Loan Options for First-Time Home Buyers
Every buyer’s situation is different. FVSBank offers mortgage options that may fit your goals, including:
Fixed-Rate Mortgage
A steady monthly principal and interest payment with a rate that does not change.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgage
A lower initial rate option that may be helpful if you plan to move or refinance in a few years.
Local Mortgage Guidance
Our lenders live and work in the communities we serve, so you get personal support from people who know the local market
Not Sure Where to Start?
That’s exactly why we’re here. You don’t need to have everything figured out before talking with us. A first conversation can help you understand your next step – even if you’re months away from buying.
Schedule a First-Time Buyer Conversation
With us, you’ll make less of a down payment, and you’ll receive the lowest possible mortgage insurance rates, too.
*PMI rates vary based on creditworthiness and loan characteristics, including credit score and loan-to-value ratio.
Final PMI premiums are determined at underwriting and may differ from initial estimates.
What You May Need to Get Started
When you’re ready to apply, it helps to gather:
- Recent pay stubs
- W-2s or tax returns
- Bank statements
- Current debts or loan information
- Estimated down payment amount
- Photo ID
Our local lending team will walk you through exactly what is needed.
Get Started on Your Application
Buying your first home just got easier
You may not need a huge down payment to buy your first home. With Down Payment Assistance programs through WHEDA or the Home Possible® and HomeReady® programs, FVSBank can help eligible buyers cover upfront costs and move into a home sooner.
Down Payment Advantage
WHEDA Easy Close (DPA)
Easy Close Down Payment Assistance (DPA) program, which must be paired with a WHEDA mortgage
Low Down Payment
Eligible customers can pay as low as 3% down payment with low PMI (Private Mortgage Insurance).
*PMI rates vary based on creditworthiness and loan characteristics, including credit score and loan-to-value ratio.
Final PMI premiums are determined at underwriting and may differ from initial estimates.
Chris Dummer
Chris Dummer is passionate about helping customers find the right loan solutions to achieve their goals.
NMLS# 905854
Email Chris
920-907-8693
Specialties:
first-time homebuyers
home loans
refinance guidance
Justin Szatkowski
Justin Szatkowski is dedicated to helping customers identify the loan solution that best supports their financial goals.
NMLS# 488728
Email Justin
920-907-8697
Specialties:
first-time buyer support
mortgage solutions
refinance support
Oshkosh
Julie Spanbauer
Julie Spanbauer enjoys helping buyers navigate the homebuying process by building a long term relationship.
NMLS# 488889
Email Julie
920-231-1165
Specialties:
first home journey
loans to fit your home goals
refinancing made simple
Waupun
Derek Drews
Derek Drews loves helping customers realize the dream of homeownership.
NMLS# 442239
Email Derek
920-324-5528
Specialties:
your path to owning your first home
personalized home loan options
offering smarter refinancing options
First Time Home Buyer Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need 20% down to buy my first home?
Not always. There may be loan options with lower down payment requirements depending on your situation.
Should I get prequalified before looking at homes?
Yes. Pre-qualification can help you understand your budget and show sellers you’re a serious buyer.
What credit score do I need?
Credit requirements vary by loan type. A lender can review your situation and explain your options.
How long does the mortgage process take?
Timelines vary, and your lender will guide you from application through closing and keep you updated along the way.
*HomeReady/Possible:* Client will receive a 1 point (1.000) loan level price adjustment (LLPA) credit on HomeReady and Home Possible purchase loans locked on or after January 2, 2024. One point (1.000) is equal to 1% of the loan amount. Minimum credit amount will be $2,000. Maximum loan amount is $350,000. Offer is not available with any other discounts or promotions. Offer cannot be retroactively applied to previously closed loans or loans already in process; offer is not transferable. Rocket Mortgage reserves the right to cancel/modify this offer at any time. Additional restrictions/conditions may apply. This is not a commitment to lend.