Are You Ready for Homeownership? Plan Now and Be Ready by Spring.

Home sweet home mat with black coffee in mug in a hand

Buying a home is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming without a plan. At Farmers & Merchants Bank, we believe that with the right timeline, tools, and support, you can go from dreaming to doing. Whether you’re looking to buy your first home in the spring or use the equity in your current home to upgrade, we’re here to help you make confident financial decisions.

Planning Ahead: First-Time Homebuyer Winter Checklist

If you’re a first-time buyer, now is the perfect time to start preparing for homeownership—so you can hit the spring market with confidence.

Here’s a month-by-month guide to help you prepare:

December – Know Where You Stand

  • Review your credit report
  • Start tracking your spending and saving
  • Estimate how much house you can afford

Tip: A better credit score = better mortgage rates.

January – Build a Budget & Down Payment Fund

  • Set a goal for your down payment (typically 10–20%)
  • Start or increase contributions to a dedicated savings account
  • Cut non-essential expenses to build your home fund faster

Tip: Talk to us about special programs for first-time buyers!

February – Get Prequalified

  • Meet with one of our friendly mortgage lenders
  • Review your loan options and get prequalified
  • Understand your expected monthly payments and closing costs

Tip: Prequalification strengthens your offer when spring listings go live.

 March – Start Your Search

  • Connect with a local real estate agent
  • Narrow down neighborhoods and must-haves
  • Attend open houses or virtual tours

Tip: Be ready to act quickly in a competitive market.

April – You’re Ready to Buy!

  • Make your offer
  • Finalize your loan application
  • Schedule inspections and prepare for closing

Tip: We’ll be right beside you every step of the way.

Let’s Talk About Your Next Step

Whether you’re building equity or getting ready to invest in your first home, our local lending team is here to guide you through the process. We offer:

  • Friendly, one-on-one service
  • Competitive home loan and HELOC rates
  • Local decisions and fast turnarounds

Let’s make 2026 the year you step into your new home—prepared and confident.

Ready to get started?

Connect with a Mortgage Lender today or apply online! https://fmbankin.mortgagewebcenter.com/ https://fmbankin.mortgagewebcenter.com/Account/BorrowerLogin/Login

Farmers & Merchants Bank – Rooted in Community. Ready to Serve You.

NMLS #718145
published on 09/03/2025

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