Thinking About Buying a Home? Start with Clarity
You may have noticed more conversation lately around mortgage rates and homebuying. While no one can predict what the market will do next, moments like this often spark a helpful question: Am I in a good position to buy or refinance if the timing feels right?
At 1st University Credit Union, we believe the most important part of homeownership happens before you start scrolling listings or touring homes.
Rather than focusing on a specific rate, this is a great time to focus on readiness. Understanding your options, your comfort level, and what’s realistic for your budget can help you move forward with confidence (whether you’re ready now or just beginning to explore).
Homeownership Starts with Clarity, Not Pressure
Getting clarity doesn’t mean you’re committing to anything. It simply means you’re learning where you stand and understanding what options might make sense for you.
When you have a clearer picture of what you qualify for, what your monthly payment might look like, and which options align with your goals, decisions become easier and far less stressful. Preparation gives you flexibility — and peace of mind.
That’s where a conversation with our mortgage team can help.
How to Get the Most Out of a Mortgage Conversation
Patti is our mortgage loan officer, and she’s known for walking members through their options in a clear, no-pressure way — whether they’re ready now or just starting to explore. If you decide to talk with Patti, there’s no need to have everything perfectly figured out. Here are a few things that can be useful to think about ahead of time:
Your general credit picture
You don’t need an exact score. A general sense of whether your credit is excellent, good, fair, or still a work in progress is enough to get the conversation started.
A comfortable monthly payment range
Rather than focusing on a purchase price, think about what feels manageable month to month. This helps shape options that fit your life, not just the numbers.
How long you plan to stay in the home
Are you thinking short-term or long-term? This can influence which loan options make the most sense for you.
Any savings you plan to use
Down payment funds, gift money, or savings set aside for closing costs are all helpful to mention (even if you’re still building them).
Your timing — even if it’s “not sure yet”
Whether you’re thinking “soon,” “later this year,” or “someday,” sharing that helps guide the conversation. There’s no wrong answer.
And don’t worry if some of this feels uncertain or incomplete. That’s completely normal. Patti’s role is to help you sort through the details, answer questions, and help you understand what’s realistic for you.
A Conversation, Not a Commitment
Many members reach out simply because they want clarity, not because they’re ready to apply or move forward right away. You don’t need perfect credit, a home picked out, or all the answers. You just need a starting point.
If homeownership is on your horizon — even if it’s a year or more away — starting the conversation now can make the journey smoother when you’re ready to take the next step.
No pressure. Just clarity.
Contact Patti by phone (254) 752-2797, text (214) 284-4800, email pparker@culink.net, or contact request form here.
Author: Shelley Carlson, EVP of Marketing and Relationship Management for 1st University Credit Union. She’s passionate about helping members make smart money moves and live life with confidence.