Fall Gardening Tips for the Southern Lawn

October 28, 2024 by First Federal Bank

Those of us who live in the south know gardening and lawn care look a little different in the fall than in other parts of the country. Unlike many people, we are not preparing for harsh winter weather. Our growing season is longer, just as our foliage is different. There are a few key things you can do this time of year to keep your garden and lawn

Topics: Lifestyle, Homeowners

Temporary Buydown

August 08, 2024 by First Federal Bank

Buydowns: A Strategy for Lowering Interest Rates

1. Upfront Payment: Another party pays an upfront payment at closing.2. Interest Rate Reduction: In exchange for the upfront payment, First Federal Bank will lower the interest rate on the mortgage for a specified period. We do 3-2-1 buydowns, 2-1 buydowns, and 1-0 buydowns.A common buydown might be...

Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity

Is a HELOC Right for You?

August 07, 2024 by First Federal Bank

A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a popular way to turn home ownership into cash when you need it. You can turn the equity in your home into a line of credit that functions like a credit card. According to Business Insider, whether a HELOC is the right move for your finances depends on a few factors:

Topics: Homeowners, Mortgages / Home Equity

Required Documents

August 01, 2024 by First Federal Bank

To ensure a timely and successful loan processing, at minimum you’ll need to provide the following documentation when you apply for your loan:

  • -Driver’s License(s)-Social Security number(s)-Current and previous residence history for the past two years-Name and address of your employment for the past two years-Paystubs from the last 30...

Topics: Homeowners

Condo Look-up

July 30, 2024 by First Federal Bank

If a buyer is interested in securing condominium financing, it’s important to know that condos have their own process of being approved for financing. Review the lists below to determine whether a condo project is currently approved for financing. Please note the lists are categorized based on the type of financing obtained for the condo.

Topics: Homeowners

Living Room or Family Room – What is the Difference?

July 29, 2024 by First Federal Bank

Many of the rooms of your home are very clearly defined: bathroom, bedroom, kitchen. Some spaces are not always as easy to identify. Yahoo asked interior designers to clarify what separates a family room from a living room. Here is what they had to say:

Topics: Family, Lifestyle, Homeowners

The Loan Approval Process

July 25, 2024 by First Federal Bank

Embarking on the journey to homeownership is an exciting yet intricate process. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade, understanding the loan approval process can ease your path to securing your dream home. This guide lays out each crucial step, from the initial prequalification to the final closing, providing a clear...

Topics: Homeowners

The Benefits of Having a Disaster Plan

May 20, 2024 by First Federal Bank

Hurricane season is just around the corner. It officially begins June 1, and forecasters are expecting an active season for 2024. The Florida Division of Emergency Management has developed a guide to help residents prepare to keep their families and their property safe. It includes important steps you should be taking now to ensure you are in the...

Topics: Financial Education, Family, Homeowners

Credit Questions

April 11, 2024 by First Federal Bank

Are you looking to buy a house in the next year? If so, make sure you check your credit first!

As you are considering purchasing your new home, your first step should be reviewing your credit report. Your credit report is an important collection of data which a mortgage company will base your approval, rate, and terms of your mortgage loan....

Topics: Homeowners

How to Maximize Space Under Bathroom and Kitchen Sinks

March 08, 2024 by First Federal Bank

Do the spaces under your kitchen and bathroom sink look cluttered and unorganized? Or is it just really hard to find things you need? Check out these tips for maximizing that space!Add some shelvesMost sink space is fairly tall, but there aren’t that many bathroom items or sink appliances that reach all the way to the top of the cabinet. To...

Topics: Homeowners

The content on this site is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered accounting, legal, tax, or financial advice. First Federal Bank recommends that customers conduct their own research and consult with professional legal and financial advisors before making any financial decisions. Links to third-party websites may be provided for your convenience; however, First Federal Bank does not guarantee the reliability, accuracy, or safety of the information, products, or services offered on these external sites. We are not liable for any damages resulting from the use of these links, and we do not investigate, verify, or endorse the content or opinions expressed on any third-party sites.

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