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The 5 Most Common Backyard Injuries

Ah, summer! It’s a carefree, cherished time in a child’s life. School’s out. The weather’s great. You’re with family and friends. And the backyard is...

What Rising Inflation Could Mean for Your Move

Inflation is moving in the wrong direction again. But before the headlines cause concern, here’s what’s happening, why it matters for the housing...

7 Things to Know Before Taking Out a Personal Loan

There are many reasons you may consider taking out a personal loan. Before you apply for one, you want to make sure you consider some key factors....

The Journey to 250

The countdown to America250 is almost over! This summer will be full of celebrations for the 250th anniversary of the founding of our country. But...

Why Some People Are Still Choosing to Move Right Now

First Federal Bank Announces Agreement to Sell Third Party Origination Division to Mortgage Forward, a CUSO in the Great Lakes Credit Union Family of Companies

First Federal Bank, headquartered in Florida, and Mortgage Forward, in Illinois, jointly announced today that they have signed a definitive agreement...

Air Conditioning Tips that Can Save You Money

Summertime means heat and humidity for much of the country. Which often leads to higher electric bills, as your air conditioning unit gets a serious...

How to Spot Scams and Protect Your Money

Florida loses more than $1 billion to scams every year. In 2024, the Federal Trade Commission ranked our state the worst in the country for fraud —...

How to Stay Safe While Having Fun This Summer

Summer is here, and that means more time with family and friends. Outdoor fun. And sometimes, unfortunately, it can mean danger. The American Red...

What Most Veterans Don't Know About Their VA Home Loan Benefit

Simple Habits that Help You Spend Less and Save More

Saving money can feel like a chore. Even an impossible feat. Especially if you are stretching your budget as far as you possibly can. The best way to...

Soil Mistakes That Sabotage Your Gardening Efforts

Spring is the time of year many people tend to their gardens. You probably have spent time considering which species to plant, and where. But have...

FFB Rededicates Lake City and Live Oak Branches

First Federal Bank celebrated its legacy of service and continued commitment to the communities it calls home with two building rededication...

Could Co-Buying Be the Answer for Some First-Time Buyers?

Failing to Learn These Financial Skills Could Cost You

Financial literacy is an essential life skill. Yet many people reach adulthood without the basic knowledge they need to successfully manage their...

The Meaning of Memorial Day

Next week we commemorate Memorial Day in the United States. Do you know what this day is truly about? Observed on the last Monday of May, it honors...

Is Late May a Good Time To List Your House?

Top Ways to Save on Your Streaming TV Services

Whether you are working on setting a budget, or looking for ways to save money, examining your streaming subscriptions can be a helpful and important...

Workout Myths that Can Keep You From Getting Healthy

Have you ever gotten so wrapped up in the duration and type of exercise that may be best, that you become overwhelmed and can’t even get started with...

What You Need to Know Before Looking for a Car Loan

If you’re in the market for a new car, you have probably been doing your research on makes, models, and pricing. As you think about what vehicle fits...

More Options Are Popping Up This Spring

May is Military Appreciation Month

Military Appreciation Month takes place every year throughout the month of May, reminding Americans to pay tribute to those who have sacrificed so...

5 Ways to Use a Home Equity Line of Credit

Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth and how much you still owe on your mortgage. As you pay down your mortgage and your...

5 Fruits to Protect Your Health

Antioxidants protect cells from cumulative damage and may reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and inflammatory conditions over time. Best of...

The 10 Best Markets for First-Time Buyers This Spring

For some time now, buying your first home hasn’t just felt difficult - it may have seemed unattainable.

Expert Advice for Parents on Saving Money

Many families are looking for ways to save money. It can be challenging, especially when you have children. But creating fun experiences – and...

How to Make Earth-Friendly Choices for Your Workout

When you think of Earth Day, you probably look at changes you can make to your purchasing habits or home cleaning routines. But did you know the way...

When Buying a Home Feels Out of Reach, Some Families Are Choosing This Instead

The Financial Leverage You Hold as a Homeowner

There’s good news for homeowners! New research reveals rising home values have boosted equity for many homeowners, increasing how much they may be...

Your House Hasn’t Sold Yet. Should You Rent It Out Instead?

When your house sits on the market longer than expected, it can get frustrating fast.

How Simple Daily Habits Can Contribute to Good Health

Many people think improving health requires significant changes. Major diet alterations. Frequent, long workouts. But the truth is, the real trick is...

Watch Out for this New Google Scam

Trying to stay ahead of scammers can be exhausting. Just when you feel you know how to avoid their tricks, they develop a new approach. Case in point...

America Gives

Part of the America250 initiative is focused on volunteer service to others. There are so many ways we can all give back. This year, as the country...

A Potentially Strong Week To List Your House May Be Just Around the Corner

5 Ways to Utilize a Personal Loan

Even if you set a budget and stick to it, work hard to save money and set some aside, there are still times in your life when you may need to take...

10 Tips for Saving at the Pump

Americans across the country are facing rising gas prices. How much you pay at the pump depends on where you live. And prices are fluctuating wildly....

First Federal Bank Celebrated Baker County Little League Opening Day

First Federal Bank was honored to be part of a special Opening Day tradition as CEO and President, John Medina, threw the ceremonial first pitch at...

The Remodel You’ve Been Dreaming About May Be Closer Than You Think

First Federal Bank Announces Increased Lending Commitment to Ellianos Coffee

First Federal Bank is proud to announce an increased lending commitment to Ellianos Coffee, a premier drive‑thru coffee franchise. First Federal has...

Expert Advice on How to Actually Stick to Your Budget

Setting a budget is hard. Actually sticking to it? Ugh! One key, according to financial experts, is to make your budget as thorough as possible. The...

The Story of America

Effective storytelling creates connection, evokes emotion, challenges perception, and inspires action. The story of America has been doing all of...

The #1 Reason Buyers Walk Away (And How You May Get Ahead of It)

How Much Money Do Americans Have in the Bank?

Do you ever wonder how the balance of your savings account compares to others? The Federal Reserve tracks this data, and makes it publicly available....

Everything You Need to Know About St. Patrick’s Day

Many of the holidays we celebrate have clear meanings and origins. Others, we may be a little fuzzy on. Take St. Patrick’s Day. Do you know what it...

Spring Sellers May Have an Edge. Here’s Why.

What Happens If Your Credit Score Reaches 800?

When it comes to credit scores, we all know higher is better. But what do the numbers actually mean, and how do they impact you? Are there tangible...

The Great American Field Trip

A key element of the America250 initiative is the America’s Field Trip Contest. It is one of the many ways Americans can get involved in celebrating...

Top Mistakes Homeowners Are Making in 2026 (And How To Help Avoid Them)

Are You Ready to Open Your Child’s First Savings Account?

You’ve been talking to your child about money, hoping to start them on the path to a secure financial future. Are you ready to let them begin...

First Federal Bank Recognized by Newsweek for Culture

First Federal Bank was recognized by Newsweek in America’s Greatest Workplaces for Culture, Belonging & Community 2026.

Celebrating America 250

This is a significant year for America. July 4, 2026 will be the 250th anniversary of the day the Declaration of Independence was signed. The...

A Big Reason Home Sales Slowed in January. And It  Might Not Be What You Think.

If you saw headlines that talked about how “home sales fell sharply in January,” it probably raised an eyebrow – especially if you’re thinking about...

Advice Financial Experts Would Give Their Younger Selves About Saving Money

If you could go back in time and have a conversation with your younger self about money, what would you say? Are there things you wish you had known?...

3 Nutrition Tips for Optimal Health

We all want to do what we can to optimize our health. What that looks like is going to be different for everyone. Registered dietitian Whitney Evans,...

Four Ways Your Home Equity Can Work for You

Don’t Become a Victim of this Tax Scam

Ready or not, tax season is upon us. And it provides yet another opportunity for scammers to try to separate you from your hard-earned money. The...

The Power of Chicken Noodle Soup

When the temperatures outside are cold, the days are shorter, and the germs are spreading, it’s easy to want to turn to comfort foods. And what comes...

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...

Mortgage Rates Recently Hit a 3-Year Low. Here’s Why That’s Still a Big Deal.

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.

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,...

The Credit Score Myth That’s Holding Would-Be Buyers Back

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...

First Federal Bank Welcomes NOLA Lending Group

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...

Why More Homeowners Are Giving Up Their Low Mortgage Rate

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,...

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...

The Truth About Down Payments (It’s Not What You Think)

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...