First Time Home Buyer

Step into homeownership

Let us guide you with personalized service—beginning to end.
Image with couple of woman and man sitting on a coach
Tailored home financing
Low monthly payments

Highlights

Reduce your environmental impact

We maintain servicing from approval to final payment

Flexible loan terms to fit your budget

Personalized guidance from experts

Competitive rates

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Reduce your environmental impact

We maintain servicing from approval to final payment

Flexible loan terms to fit your budget

Personalized guidance from experts

Competitive rates

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Guidance for every step of buying a home

Check your credit

Request copies of your credit report at least 90 days before you apply.

Determine your budget

Your lender will look at your debt-to-income ratio to determine how much home you will qualify for.

Compare lending options

There are multiple home loan types—review the requirements for each.

Get pre-approved

A pre-approval gives you an advantage over other buyers because it helps you determine your budget and shows the sellers you're serious about buying.

Hire a real estate agent

Real estate agents provide expertise and guidance through all the ins and outs of shopping for a home.

Shop for your home

Make sure to establish your needs vs. wants in the home of your dreams.

Make an offer

Making an offer can be tricky to navigate. Your real estate agent will help with a plan of action.

Get an inspection

You might need more than one inspection, including whole house, pest, or roof.

Close your loan

You'll sign loan documents at the title company. Often your real estate agent along with the title company agents will be present.

Move into your home

Pack early, plan ahead, and prep your new home. On moving day, start early, clean, and change locks. Enjoy your new home!
Check all steps in our Home Buyer Guide:

Our tips for home buyers

Do's

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Keep credit cards open
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Get insurance quotes
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Gather documents
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Get pre-approved

Avoid

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Missing loan payments
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Switching to be self-employed
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Maxing out credit cards
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Opening new credit or loans

Have questions or ready to apply?

What our members say:
“Friendly and listened to our needs”
Karie Carranza
“This was the easiest and most convenient loan process we've ever experienced … Yolo FCU will be recommended to all our friends and family. You are the best!”
Christine Mendes
“We love banking at Yolo Federal. The products can't be beaten!”
Laurie Richardson
Yolo FCU Member

Knowledge that gives you the power

Unlock your financial wellness with a home loan checkup

When was your last Home Loan checkup? Reviewing your Home Loan health is equally important.

What to consider when buying a multifamily property

In this blog we’ll cover 4 factors that should be considered before finalizing the deal.

3 tips for investing in multifamily properties

Unlike single dwelling units, multifamily could boost your income while reducing vacancy rates.

Unfilter your home renovation

There are many things to consider before tackling a large or small home renovation project.

Unlock your financial wellness with a home loan checkup

When was your last Home Loan checkup? Reviewing your Home Loan health is equally important.

3 tips for investing in multifamily properties

Unlike single dwelling units, multifamily could boost your income while reducing vacancy rates.

What to consider when buying a multifamily property

In this blog we’ll cover 4 factors that should be considered before finalizing the deal.

Unfilter your home renovation

There are many things to consider before tackling a large or small home renovation project.

Frequently asked questions

I'm just beginning my search, where do I start?

A great place to start is by downloading our Home Buyers Guide to understand the home buying process from beginning to end.

How is interest calculated?

Interest is calculated by multiplying your outstanding balance by your interest rate divided by 12. Interest is recalculated every month based on the outstanding balance, interest rate, and 30 days’ worth of interest.

What is the difference between a first and second mortgage?

A first mortgage is the main loan on your home, typically used to purchase it. A second mortgage is an additional loan taken out using your home’s equity. The main difference is the order they are recorded, based on the date and time each mortgage or deed of trust is filed. First mortgage payments are usually due on the 1st of the month, while second mortgage payments are typically due around the 15th. Second mortgages often have a shorter repayment term than first mortgages.

How long does a Home Loan take to process?

The number of days from application to closing can range from 30-60 days depending on a number of factors.

  • Loan Type
  • Appraisals
  • Title clearance and more

Can anyone apply for a Home Loan?

To apply, you must qualify for membership, and the property must be located in Yolo, Sacramento, Placer, or El Dorado counties or within 50 miles of our corporate office.

To qualify for membership, you must live, work, worship, attend school, or looking to purchase your primary residence in Yolo, Sacramento, Placer, or El Dorado counties.

Where can I obtain a free credit report?

You can obtain a free copy of your credit report from annualcreditreport.com

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Interested in applying for a loan?

Speak with our Real Estate team to get started.

Have questions? We are here to help.

Everyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Yolo,
Sacramento, Placer,
or El Dorado counties is eligible for membership.
Everyone who lives, works, worships, or attends school in Yolo, Sacramento, Placer, or El Dorado counties is eligible for membership.