Top 3 Reasons To Buy a Home Before Spring
If you’re planning to buy a home this year, you may be focused on the spring market. And hoping that when spring does hit, you’ll see:
Stretch Your Budget at the Grocery Store
If the cost of groceries has you concerned about a strain on your finances, you’re not alone. But there are ways you can work to stretch your budget...
Teach Your Kids About Budgeting
Nothing feels more adult that setting a budget and sticking to it. But it isn’t something you just inherently know how to do. Like with all essential...
First Federal Bank Recognized by USA Today for Customer Service
First Federal Bank was recognized by USA Today in America’s Best Customer Service 2026 and America’s Best Customer Service Financial Services 2026.
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Avoid These Red Flags When Trying to Save Money
If you’re working hard to save money, you probably have been attempting to set a budget for yourself. That’s an excellent financial practice with...
What Are the Best 7 Exercise Moves?
You’ve probably heard of super foods, but what about super MOVES? It has been well established we don’t need to spend hours in the gym to achieve...
Investing Tips for 2026
Most people think of investing as a way to save for retirement. And that is one of the key ways most Americans set aside money for their future...
5 Ways to Improve Brain Health
Your brain health is affected by many things: your habits, your diet, your social life. Dr Jaggannath, MD says, “After years in neurosurgery, I’ve...
Home Updates That Could Pay You Back When You Sell
Planning to sell this spring? While you may be tempted to hold off until the first blooms or the spring showers hit, that may be cutting in close in...
Don’t Fall Prey to This AI-Generated Scam
You feel you are fairly savvy when it comes to financial fraud. You’ve stayed up to date on the latest methods and technology used by criminals, and...
First Federal Bank Recognized as one of America's Best Regional Banks
First Federal Bank was recognized as one of America’s Best Regional Banks for 2026 by Newsweek.
5 Tips for Better Sleep
In a recent study, researchers from Oregon Health & Science University found sleep quality stood out as a primary predictor of life expectancy,...
How Much Money Should You Have Saved?
Wondering how much money you should have set aside by the time you turn 30? What about 40? Financial Planner Lindsey Shinners talks through key...
Teach Your Child Financial Skills with an Allowance
It is critically important for children to learn about finances from an early age. As parents, there are many ways you can facilitate those essential...
The Housing Market Is Turning a Corner Going into 2026
After several years of high mortgage rates and hesitation from buyers, momentum is quietly building beneath the surface of the housing market....
7 Expert Tips for Financial Success
Financial guru Dave Ramsey is known for his practical, debt-free approach to personal finance. You don’t have find the time to tune in to his...
10 Health Tips for 2026
Is one of your goals for 2026 to to focus on your health? If so, the American Medical Association (AMA) has 10 evidence-based tips to help you. Check...
Turning a House Into a Home: The Benefits You Can Actually Feel
There’s a lot of conversation about home prices, mortgage rates, and affordability right now – and those things are important. But if you’re thinking...
The Best Way for Women to Meet Their Fitness Goals
Many people set weight-loss resolutions for the new year, especially women. January typically brings an increase in gym memberships and visits. But...
How to Plan a Family Road Trip
Is your family looking forward to traveling together in the new year? Having a trip to look forward to is exciting. There are things you can do in...
How To Stretch Your Options, Not Your Budget
One of the biggest homebuying advantages you could give yourself today is surprisingly simple: a flexible wish list.
How Does Your Credit Score Affect Your Car Insurance?
You are probably aware factors like your driving record, vehicle type, and zip code impact your car insurance rate. But what about your credit score?...
Building a Family Financial Plan
When you make financial plans as a single person, you often don’t have anyone to answer to but yourself. You can dictate exactly how your money gets...
The Sign of Fraud You’re Probably Missing
Most people think of financial fraud showing up as a large, unusual charge on their bank account. But it’s the little transactions that can actually...
Making Sure You Remain Healthy This Holiday Season
The holiday season is officially in full swing. It’s a busy time of year with lots of fun opportunities to get together with family and friends. It...
Why Buying a Home Still Pays Off in the Long Run
Renting can feel much less expensive and much simpler than buying a home, especially right now. No repairs, no property taxes, no worrying about...
7 Financial Resolutions to Make for 2026
The new year is a great time to think about your finances and set goals. You don’t have to call them, “resolutions,” if you don’t want to. But...
What Americans Think of New Year’s Resolutions
Do you believe in New Year’s Resolutions? For the Americans who follow the practice, financial goals are at the top of their list for 2026. A new...
4 Reasons Your House Is High on Every Buyer’s Wish List This Season
When the holidays roll around, travel plans, family gatherings, and all the chaos of the season may make you think it’s better to pull your listing...
How Gen Z is Mastering the Art of Soft Saving
With the majority of Gen Z living paycheck to paycheck, saving money can feel like a luxury. A new trend has emerged that has shifted the traditional...
Are You Aging Well?
As life span increases, it is important to think about how we age, and what factors impact our quality of life. After all, you want to feel your best...
The VA Home Loan Advantage: What Every Veteran Should Know Right Now
If you’ve served in the military (or if your spouse has), you have access to one of the key home financing options available to eligible service...
Do You Understand How Credit Utilization Impacts Your Score?
There are multiple factors that go into calculating your credit score. You know you need to pay your bills on time. And to avoid paying only the...
How Everyday Moments Lead to Financial Success
Parents know the foundation for success as an adult begins in childhood. Learning good habits and practices is important in the developmental years....
Why Your Home Equity Still Puts You Way Ahead
If you’ve seen headlines about home prices dropping, it’s easy to wonder what that means for the value of your home too. Here’s what you really need...
Watch Out for These Customer Service Scams
It feels like AI is everywhere today. And while it can be used as a helpful everyday tool, it unfortunately has also been seized on by those who want...
John Medina Named to Florida Trend’s Florida 500 List
First Federal Bank is honored to announce that President and CEO John Medina has been named one of Florida Trend’s Florida 500, recognizing the...
Good News on the Food Allergy Front
You hear a lot about peanut allergies today. And you might wonder why. Chances are, you did not know many kids who were allergic when you were...
How To Make Sure Your Sale Crosses the Finish Line
If there was one step that could help make your home sale smoother, wouldn't you want to know about it?
10 Easy Ways to Save Money
Saving money can be a challenge, even under the best of circumstances. It requires discipline. Planning. Sacrifice. And disposable income. Or does...
Are You Financially Prepared for the Holiday Season?
Holiday expenses can be a real burden on many families. Gifts, meals, special events, travel… it all adds up! How can you make sure you don’t go into...
Start Planning Now in Prep for your 2026 Sale!
You’ve got big plans for 2026. But what you do this year could be the difference between a smooth sale and a stressful one. If you’re thinking of...
First Federal Bank Expanding to Starke
First Federal Bank is expanding; the newest full-service banking center is coming to Starke, FL. This marks the 27th full service banking center,...
5 Little Known Tips to Help You Save on Groceries
Grocery bills keep creeping up. But just because food costs are rising doesn’t mean you can’t fight back. With some smart strategies, you can save...
7 Tips for Sleeping Better While Traveling
Quality sleep is always important, and there are many reasons it can be disrupted. But many people who travel for business or leisure experience...
2026 Housing Market Outlook
After a couple of years where the housing market felt stuck in neutral, 2026 may be the year things shift back into gear. Expert forecasts show more...
7 Tips for Lowering Your Utility Bill
You can probably feel it in the air; fall is here! Sure, if you live in Florida, that does not mean the same as it does in other places. And winter...
Does Not Drinking Enough Water Shorten Your Life?
It seems today everyone carries a water bottle with them wherever they go. When did the trend begin, and is it really necessary? We know we need to...
Don’t Let Unrealistic Pricing Cost You Your Move
These days, you’re going to want to get your price right when you get ready to sell your house. It’s more important than ever. Why? While you may...
This Habit Could Be Damaging Your Credit Score
There are many factors that influence your credit score, and it is always changing. You probably know how important it is to make your bill, credit...
Can This Diet Help Your Teeth?
The Mediterranean diet has been touted for years for its health benefits. There have been many offshoots of this popular way of eating that have...
Why Experts Say Mortgage Rates May Ease Over the Next Year
You want mortgage rates to fall – and they've started to. But is it going to last? And how low will they go?
Know How to Spot an AI Scam
The age of AI is here. Some embrace the change, other fear it. But perhaps surprisingly, as AI tools become more prevalent, most people believe they...
Do You Think Your Teen is Financially Prepared for Adulthood?
As a parent, you are focused for 18 years on preparing your child for adulthood. Becoming an adult is an important milestone, and when it happens,...
Closing Costs Unpacked: State-by-State Breakdowns for Today's Buyers
If you’re planning to buy a home this year, there’s one expense you can’t afford to overlook: closing costs.
Common Questions About Escrow
Buying or selling a home often raises a lot of questions, especially when it comes to escrow. If you are new to the process, it can feel a little...
How to Keep Yourself Safe from Online Scams
October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a time to spotlight the importance of taking daily action to reduce your risk when online and...
When Should You Worry About Memory Loss?
Memory loss is an issue commonly associated with dementia and the elderly. But the simple fact is it can have many causes, affecting anyone at any...
Do You Know How Much Your House Is Really Worth?
Want to know something important that most people rarely get professionally checked? Spoiler alert: it may be the value of your home.
How Your Credit Score Impacts Your Auto Loan
Are you in the market for some new wheels? Buying a vehicle in the fall, especially from October to December, is a prime time for deals due to...
What’s the Difference Between Baking Powder and Baking Soda?
Many of the best chefs will tell you they don’t always follow a recipe. They often follow their gut or wing it when in the kitchen. Cooking to taste...
Patience Won’t Sell Your House. Pricing Will.
Waiting for the perfect buyer to fall in love with your house? In today’s market, that’s usually not what’s holding things up. And here’s why.
How To Make Sure You Save Enough By Age 35
It’s common to think about how much money you need to save for your retirement. But that may be a long time from now, depending on your current age....
Should You Let Your Pets Sleep with You?
According to a survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, nearly 50% of pet owners share beds with their furry friends. Sleep researcher Wendy...
Why 50% of Homes Are Selling for Under Asking and How To Avoid It
If your selling strategy still assumes you’ll get multiple offers over asking, it’s officially time for a reset. That frenzied seller’s market is...
The One Word that is a Dead Giveaway of Attempted Fraud
Seventy-three percent of American adults have experienced an online scam or attack. Opening your email or text messages can feel like wading through...
How to Approach Your Annual Health Screening
We all know it is important to see our primary care physician once a year to keep tabs on our health and risk factors for serious conditions or...
Thinking About Renting Your House Instead of Selling? Read This First.
If your house is on the market but you haven’t gotten any offers you’re comfortable with, you may be wondering: what do I do if it doesn’t sell? And...
Do You Have a Hurricane Financial Kit?
As we head into the peak of the hurricane season, you want to make sure you are prepared for a potential disaster. You need more than flashlights,...
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8 Native Perennials for a Care-Free, Colorful Garden
Perennials bloom year after year, bringing color to your garden every spring and summer. Native plants provide essential food and shelter for native...
From Frenzy to Breathing Room: Buyers Finally Have Time Again
If you tried to buy a home a few years ago, you probably still remember the frenzy. Homes were listed one day and gone the next. Sometimes it only...
What I Wish I Could Teach My Younger Self About Money
Have you ever wished you could reach out through time to give your younger self some advice? Robyn from A Dime Saved is a Dime Earned has some...
The Benefits of Cinnamon
While it may seem hard to believe as most of us are enduring the heat of summer, Fall is right around the corner! And it’s not just the season of...
Is It Better To Buy Now or Wait for Lower Mortgage Rates? Here’s the Tradeoff
Mortgage rates are still a hot topic – and for good reason. After the most recent jobs report came out weaker than expected, the bond market reacted...
How to Build Wealth in 10 Years
The word, “wealthy” probably means different things to different people. We tend to think of millionaires and billionaires when we hear the word....
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Fighting Weeds
Lawn care may feel like a chore, but we all know it is important and helps boost your home’s value. You may have a garden to tend to in addition to...
A Second Home Might Be the Missing Piece in Your Retirement Plan
Are you wondering if you’re on track to retire someday?
What Are the Benefits of a Mutual Bank?
Do all banks seem the same? If so, you might want to take a closer look. After all, there are more than 10,000 banks in the U.S., and each one offers...
How Extreme Heat Affects Your Mental Health
Much of the U.S. has been dealing with extreme heat this summer. We all know the dangers this kind of weather poses to our physical health. But what...
5 Expert Tips for Financial Success
Caroline Russell, Senior Marketing Manager at One Day in July, a financial advisory firm, has some important advice for ensuring your financial...
Florida Makes Back-to-School Tax Free Holiday Permanent
Governor Ron DeSantis recently announced the return of Florida’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday, which will run Aug. 1 through Aug. 31, giving...
Today’s Tale of Two Housing Markets
Depending on where you live, the housing market could feel red-hot or strangely quiet right now. The truth is, local markets are starting to move in...
How Could Social Security Changes Impact Your Retirement Planning?
Social Security has been in the news a lot this year. But it can be hard to understand exactly what is happening, especially when the changes come...
Is Biking the Best Summer Exercise?
When you think about working out in the summertime, swimming might come to mind. It's an excellent form of exercise. Or maybe you are considering...
Mortgage Rates Are Stabilizing – How That Helps Today’s Buyers
Over the past few years, affordability has been the biggest challenge for homebuyers. Between rapidly rising home prices and higher mortgage rates,...
Ways You Should – And Should Not – Use a HELOC This Summer
A Home Equity Line of Credit, or HELOC, can be a very helpful financial tool for homeowners. Many use the money to make improvements, and summer is a...
How Coffee Can Give Your Garden a Boost
You probably recognize coffee's ability to give you a boost. But what about your garden? Coffee grounds can be beneficial to plants when used in...
What You Should Know About Getting a Mortgage Today
If you’ve been putting off buying a home because you thought getting approved would be too hard, know this: qualifying for a mortgage is starting to...
Beware the Rise of Old School Fraud Techniques
When we think of financial fraud, we tend to worry most about new and evolving threats in the digital age. It can be easy to forget the, “old school”...
Is Watermelon the Best Summer Fruit?
Do you have a favorite summer fruit? There are many reasons you should consider watermelon, if it is not already at the top of your list. It's a...
Why Financial Planning Matters, and How to Do It Well
We tend to think of financial planning as something only the wealthy need to think about. But there are many practical reasons for all of us to...
Top 10 Beaches for Families in the U.S.
Who doesn’t think about the beach this time of year, regardless of where you live? Summer time fun in the sun go hand in hand. And, you don’t have to...
What Every Homeowner Needs To Know In Today’s Shifting Market
Here’s something you need to know. The housing market is getting back to a healthier, more normal place. And even though it may not sound like it,...
First Federal Bank Celebrates Full Service Branch in Jacksonville
Jacksonville is not only the largest city by landmass in the continental United States, it is the largest city in the Southeastern U.S. and the state...
Why You (May) Need to Eat More Fat
Dietary fat has been portrayed as the big bad for such a long time, it can be easy to forget your body actually NEEDS it. If you are not getting...
3 Reasons To Buy a Home This Summer
Are you thinking about buying a home, but not sure if now’s the right time? A lot of people are waiting and wondering what the market’s going to do...
Have You Fallen for These Common Banking Myths?
According to a new NerdWallet survey, banking misconceptions abound. The survey of more than 2,000 U.S. adults, conducted online by The Harris Poll,...
5 Tips to Make Your Next Move Easier
Few people can truly say they look forward to moving. Sure, there can be excitement about a new home or city. Fresh job opportunities. Being closer...
Buying Your First Home? FHA Loans Can Help
If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you might feel like the odds are stacked against you in today’s market. But there are resources and programs out...
Are There Perks to Having a Perfect Credit Score?
You probably hear a lot about the importance of having a good credit score. The higher the better is the general consensus. But is there a limit to...
The Top 5 Signs You Are Dangerously Stressed
We have come to expect a certain level of stress in our lives. Sometimes it can feel like a competition. We compare our stress levels; wear them like...
Is It Better To Rent or Buy a Home?
You’ve probably asked yourself lately: Is it even worth trying to buy a home right now?
What to Know About Buy Now, Pay Later Plans
With prices rising and concerns about the economy top of mind, there has been a rise in Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) plans. Consumers can use BNPL for...
How Can You Alleviate Your Allergy Symptoms?
If you don’t get excited about the opportunity to get outdoors once the weather warms up, it’s probably because you suffer from seasonal allergies....
Newly Built Homes May Be Less Expensive Than You Think
Do you think a brand-new home means a bigger price tag? Think again.
Is Your Budgeting Method Failing You?
Certified Financial Coach Amy Scott believes most budgeting advice is wrong because it is reactive. According to her, traditional budgeting sets you...
10 Tips to Keep Your Kids Water Safe This Summer
Summer activities tend to revolve around water. As the weather heats up, families will flock to the beach, lakes, natural springs, pool, rivers, and...
Common Real Estate Terms Explained
If you're a first-time homebuyer, chances are you'll come across some terms you’re not familiar with. And that can be overwhelming, especially while...
Don’t Fall for These 5 Budgeting Myths
When it comes to the topic of budgeting, people tend to have negative perceptions. They think it is too hard, takes too much discipline, or is out of...
First Federal Bank Hosts Nonprofit Summit to Strengthen Community Partnerships
On May 22, First Federal Bank hosted its first Nonprofit Summit, bringing together nonprofit organizations, community leaders, and banking...
Is Gen Z Experiencing Money Dysmorphia?
Money dysmorphia, the experience of believing you're better or worse off with money than you actually are, can lead to poor financial decision...
Don’t Let Student Loans Hold You Back from Homeownership
Did you know? According to a recent study, 72% of people with student loans think their debt will delay their ability to buy a home. Maybe you’re one...
First Federal Bank Facilitates Three Rivers Legal Services Grant
Three Rivers Legal Services, Inc. (TRLS), in partnership with First Federal Bank (FFB), was awarded an Heirs Property Family Wealth Protection Fund...
How to Get the Most from Your Credit Card Rewards
You probably seen credit card rewards advertised as a benefit. But do you know how to make the most of your rewards once you earn them? Here’s how...
5 Ways Your Mobile Devices Can Support Better Health
In the digital age, there are so many apps that can help make our lives easier. But did you know they can also be used to improve or maintain your...
Housing Market Forecasts for the Second Half of the Year
From rising home prices to mortgage rate swings, the housing market has left a lot of people wondering what’s next – and whether now is really the...
4 Ways to Raise Your Credit Score
You probably know there are many benefits to having a high credit score. Perhaps you are aware of some strategies you can employ to raise yours....
Fun Ways You Can Reuse Toilet Paper Rolls in the Garden
You have probably heard the phrase, “reduce, reuse, recycle.” But have you ever thought of using toilet paper rolls for gardening? Turns out they...
The 20% Down Payment Myth, Debunked
Saving up to buy a home can feel a little intimidating, especially right now. And for many first-time buyers, the idea that you have to put 20% down...
Can You Guess the Age Group Most Vulnerable to Financial Fraud?
We tend to think of fraud as being an issue primarily impacting older people. And it is true the elderly are often the target of scammers. However,...
5 Things That Keep You From Sleeping Well
If you’ve ever doubted how important sleep is, all it takes is one night of tossing and turning to find out. Chances are you know how much a night of...
Paused Your Moving Plans? Here’s Why It’s Time To Hit Play Again
It’s not really a surprise that 70% of buyers paused their home search last year. Maybe you were one of them. And if so, no judgment. Conditions just...
How Your Freezer Can Help You Save Money
There is no doubt Americans are concerned about grocery prices today. We’re all looking for ways to save on everyday items, and perhaps changing our...
Electric Vehicles Continue to Grow in Popularity
Regardless of how you may feel about electric vehicles (EVs), they have just enjoyed a record year. About 1.7 million EVs were sold in the U.S. in...
What You Can Do When Mortgage Rates Are a Moving Target
Have you seen where mortgage rates have been lately? One day they go down a little. The next day, they go back up again. It can feel confusing and...
6 Money Savings Tips that Stand the Test of Time
Boomers are the butt of many jokes these days, and often the object of ire for younger generations. But they have proven they know how to manage...
Study Shows This One Thing Can Help You Fall Asleep Faster
If you’ve ever known the frustration of tossing and turning in bed, unable to fall asleep in a timely manner, chances are you’d be willing to try...
4 Ways To Make an Offer That Stands Out This Spring
Now that spring is here, more and more buyers are jumping back into the market, and competition is heating up.
Keep Your Accounts Safe With These 5 Mobile Banking Tips
A 2023 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) survey reported mobile banking was the preferred choice for close to half of American households,...
5 Tips for a Successful Garden this Spring
Spring is in the air! The warmer temperatures and longer days often mean more time outdoors. Why not spend that time preparing your garden for the...
How to Save on Summer Travel This Year
With Spring Break in the rear view mirror, it’s time to set your sights on summer vacation, and travel! How can you find the best deals? Travel...
First Federal Bank Contributes $100,000 to One More Child through Strong Families Tax Credit Program
First Federal Bank, headquartered in Live Oak, Florida, provided a significant contribution of $100,000 to One More Child. The donation is part of...
Why Pre-Approval Is More Important Than Ever This Spring
Spring is here, and so is the busiest season in real estate. More buyers are out looking for homes, which means more competition for you. If you want...
5 Things To Teach Your Teen About Saving Money
When you are young, saving money is often not something you make a priority. But this is also a time when you can create healthy habits that will...
The Best Week To List Your House Is Almost Here – Are You Ready?
If selling your house is on your to-do list this year, the time to start prepping is now. Experts say the best week to list your house is coming up...
6 Common Money Mistakes Gen Z Makes, and How You Can Avoid Them
The economy is top of mind for many Americans these days. One age group in particular is struggling with finances. Approximately 60% of Gen Zers...
5 Tips for Reducing Heart Disease Risk
We hear all the time about the prevalence of heart disease, and how to mitigate risk. From diet to exercise, to understanding your family history,...
4 Things To Expect from the Spring Housing Market
Spring is in full swing, and the housing market is picking up along with it. And if you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time to buy or...
4 Digital Wallet Mistakes You Could Be Making
Technology has the potential to make our lives easier in so many ways. A digital wallet is a financial app that stores payment information and...
Understanding SBA 7a Small Loans
Let’s talk about SBA 7a Small Loans and why you should be doing more! SBA defines Small Loans as loans $500,000 and under. These smaller loans come...
Your Family Medical History Matters
We have all felt annoyed at the sheer amount of paperwork required in order to see a medical professional. Even with the advent of online check-ins...
Rising Inventory Means This Spring Could Be Your Moment
Want to know two reasons this spring might finally be your time to buy? Inventory has grown and sellers may be more willing to negotiate as a result....
10 Tips for Saving on Groceries
There is a lot of talk these days about grocery prices. But it really is not a new issue. And the good news is, there are established methods to help...
Should I Buy a Home Right Now? Experts Say Prices Are Only Going Up
At one point or another, you’ve probably heard someone say, “Yesterday was the best time to buy a home, but the next best time is today.”
When You Drink Coffee Matters
Many people like to begin their day with a cup of coffee. For some, that is all they need. Others will continue to consume the popular beverage...
5 Ways You Can Boost Your Retirement Savings
You may have been told you are never too young to begin planning for retirement. But it is very likely in your younger years it feels very far away....
10 Tips for Successful Meal Planning
Meal planning and preparation may not excite you. Or maybe it does. Either way, it can help bring order to your life, save you money on groceries,...
Do You Know How Much Your Home Is Worth?
Over the past few years, you’ve probably seen a whole lot of headlines about how home prices keep going up. But have you ever stopped to think about...
Are You Making These Saving Mistakes?
We all know we should make it a priority to save money. But as with many things in life, it can be easier said than done. It can be overwhelming to...
The Health Benefits of CrossFit
There are a lot of different options to choose from when looking for an exercise regimen. Some methods are considered more, “tried and true.” Others...
The Return to Urban Living — Why More People Are Moving Back to Cities
After years of suburban and rural migration during the pandemic, cities have been making a comeback in the past couple of years. According to the...
7 Expert Budget Tips
We all know we should make a budget and stick to it, if we want to set ourselves up for financial success. But it often feels like to much work....
Ditch These 4 Habits To Improve Brain Health
When it comes to good health, you probably think of things like diet and exercise as the best ways to promote it. But what about your brain? Do you...
Buying a Home May Help Shield You from Inflation
It feels like everything is getting more expensive these days. That’s because inflation has remained higher than normal for longer than expected –...
First Federal Bank Opens First Branch in Jacksonville
First Federal Bank’s newest location will be opening in Jacksonville, FL. This is the 26th full service banking center, accompanying locations in...
Protecting Yourself from, "Frankenstein Fraud"
There is no shortage of ways people with bad intentions will try to commit fraud. The problem seems to compound with each passing year. Synthetic...
4 Ways Seniors Can Enhance Their Mental Health
Did you know your mental health can deteriorate through the years? Socially isolated seniors have a 59% greater risk of mental and physical decline...
The Perks of Buying a Fixer-Upper
There’s no denying affordability is tough right now. But that doesn’t mean you have to put your plans to buy a home on the back burner.
6 Ways to Prepare for Health Care Costs in Retirement
When planning for retirement, one key expense you may not fully account for is health care. The simple fact is that as we age, our medical needs tend...
Is Fasting Right for You?
Fasting has grown in popularity over the past decade, but it is nothing new. Humans have been doing it the entirety of our existence. How and why...
The Real Benefits of Buying a Home This Year
Have you been wondering whether you should keep renting or finally make the leap into homeownership? It’s a big decision, and let’s be real — renting...
3 Expert Banking Tips for 2025
The start of a new year is a time many look to make financial changes. Perhaps you wish to save more in 2025. Maybe you need to take a fresh look at...
Validation Tips
At First Federal Bank, your security is our top priority. As fraud and scams continue to evolve, it's essential to stay informed and cautious when...
First Federal Bank Named a Top Regional Bank by Newsweek
First Federal Bank has been honored as one of America’s Best Regional Banks for 2025 by Newsweek. This marks the fifth consecutive year the bank has...
5 Key Life Skills You Can Teach Your Children
Parents are their child’s first, and arguably most important, teachers. From the very beginning, our children are watching and learning from our...
Smaller Homes, Bigger Opportunities: The Homebuilder Trend Buyers Love
It’s no secret that affordability is tough, given the current mortgage rates and home prices. And that may have you worried about how you’ll be able...
Why Knowing Your Full Retirement Age Is Important
Whether you will be retiring in 2025, or years from now, a little planning goes a long way toward setting you up for success in your golden years....
Improve Your Immunity This Winter
Winter tends to bring more sickness, as people are stuck indoors in small spaces together, and cold and flu season is in full swing. Here are some...
When Is the Perfect Time To Move?
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of waiting for the perfect moment to make your move – especially in today’s market. Maybe you’re holding out...
How Applying for a Credit Card Impacts Your Score
You know it is important to monitor your credit score regularly. And have probably learned a few tips for how to improve it. But do you know how...
How to Stop Snoring
Whether you sleep alone or with a partner, snoring can have a negative impact on your well being. Not only is it disruptive, it can also pose a risk...
The Truth About Credit Scores and Buying a Home
Your credit score plays a big role in thehomebuying process. It’s one of the key factors lenders look at to determine which loan options you qualify...
How to Leverage a HELOC for Financial Success
You understand how your home is an excellent investment for the long term. But there may be times you need to benefit from ownership in the short...
Walk Down Memory Lane – Dr. Hugo Sotolongo
I remember arriving in Live Oak, Florida in 1974 as a 10-year-old immigrant from the Dominican Republic and not being able to speak English. Prior to...
Great Indoor Workouts for Kids
We all have the potential to go a little stir crazy during the winter months, when we spend more time indoors. This can be especially true for...
New Year, New Home: How To Make It Happen in 2025
This is the time when a lot of people take a moment to reflect and set their goals for this year. And as you picture what you want your 2025 to look...
Take the 52 Week Savings Challenge
The 52-week money challenge is a savings plan that gained popularity through social media around 2013. The concept is simple: You start by saving $1...
You Can Still Garden in Winter
Winter is here. Colder weather has arrived, at least for Florida. This is not the time of year you think of tending to your outdoor plants, or...
The #1 Reason People Move: To Be Closer to Family and Friends
Have you ever thought about packing up and moving to be closer to the people who mean the most to you? Maybe you’re tired of long drives to see your...
Do HIIT Workouts Really Work?
When it comes to workouts, certain buzzwords tend to get a lot of attention. In recent years, HIIT has been all the rage. You may have tried the...
Changing Trends in Family Life
Parenting approaches shift over generations. The way you were raised may not be the way you choose to raise your own children. Societal beliefs and...
The Top 2 Reasons To Look at Newly Built Homes
When planning a move, a newly built home might not be the first thing that comes to mind. But with more brand-new homes on the market and builders...
Plan These Retirement Moves for 2025
If you will be entering the new year as a retired person, or plan to enter that new phase of your life in 2025, there are some things you should...
Why is Tai Chi More Popular Than Ever?
Are you making any health-related resolutions for the new year? There are many benefits to the popular practice tai chi, and they go beyond the...
Why Owning a Home Is Worth It in the Long Run
Today’s mortgage rates and home prices may have you second-guessing whether it's still a good idea to buy a home right now. While market factors are...
Is Saving or Investing Better for Your Long Term?
The closer you come to your retirement years, the more you want the assurance that you have planned appropriately. Will you have enough set aside...
Why Thank You is the Secret to Family Happiness
You may have heard the saying, “It’s the little things that matter most.” Many people think saying, “Thank you” qualifies as a little thing, but it...
Control the Controllables If You’re Worried About Mortgage Rates
Chances are you’re hearing a lot about mortgage rates right now, and all you really want to hear is that they’re coming back down. And if you’ve seen...
Setting Your Financial Resolutions for 2025
It’s that time of year again – to set your New Year’s Resolutions. Vows to exercise more, eat healthier and lose weight tend to be common. But also...
First Federal Bank Doubles Donations for Giving Tuesday
First Federal Bank, in collaboration with its customers, generously donated $9,945 on Giving Tuesday to benefit non-profit partners in our Community...
Great Family Road Trips to Plan for 2025
It’s not too early to begin thinking about your travel goals for the new year. Planning ahead can save you money and stress. Want to take an epic...
How to Know if You Have Arthritis, and What to Do About It
Arthritis is commonly associated with people of a, "certain age." And is a general term often used to cover a number of issues. But what is it...
Don’t Miss Out on the Growing Number of Down Payment Assistance Programs
With rising home prices and volatile mortgage rates, it’s important you know about every resource that could help make buying a home possible. And...
How to Prepare for a Job Interview
Do your 2025 plans involve looking for a job? Whether you are new the work force or a seasoned professional looking for a change, some of the ways...
3 Tips For Better Sleep
The inability to sleep well can be extremely frustrating, and can add to health issues. The stress of the holiday season tends to exacerbate any...