Home Loan Guide

We know that the home buying process can seem overwhelming. That's why we've created a helpful home loan guide that's filled with resources to help you get started and find the right mortgage for you.

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Buying a house
Choosing a Mortgage
Mortgage Calculator
FAQs

Home Buying Resources

Home Search Checklist

Searching for home? Use this checklist on your home buying journey!

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Mortgage Application Checklist

Prepare yourself for the loan application process with the assistance of this Mortgage Application Checklist.

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Negotiating the Best Home Purchasing Deal

When buying a home, you are probably going to have a real estate agent helping you and giving you pointers on negotiating a price. However, it’s still your money on the line, and that means you should take an active role in getting the best deal.

Preparing Your Finances for Homeownership

As exciting as buying a home is, it is also a serious decision that requires quite a bit of planning. Learn how you can start preparing your finances so you're on track to home ownership.

Ready to Look For a Home Checklist

When it comes to determining your readiness for homeownership, a frequently asked question is, "How do I know when I'm prepared?" Utilize this checklist as a helpful tool during this phase.

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Saying “I Do” to Homeownership

Saying "I Do" to Homeownership: How to Make the Most of this Very Important Relationship. Buying a home is a major commitment.

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The Road to Homeownership: The Basics

Buying a home is at once an exciting and challenging venture. With commitment, planning, and learning, you can become a successful homeowner.

Choosing a Realtor That is Right For You

When you are ready to buy a home a real estate professional can help you sort through all the important details, financial and otherwise, involved in the home buying process.

First-Time Home Buying Mistakes To Avoid

Acquire valuable insights from common mistakes made by homebuyers and discover effective strategies to avoid them using this comprehensive guide.

Choosing a Mortgage

Advantages and Disadvantages of FHA Loans

If you’re looking to buy a home, you may have been attracted to the loosened approval standards that can come with a government-backed Federal Housing Authority (FHA) loan.

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The Difference Between an Adjustable Rate and a Fixed Rate

Choosing the right type of mortgage is vital to getting what you want out of your home purchase. Learn more about what type of mortgage would be best for you and your goals.

Buying a Duplex – Pluses and Minuses

Often the talk around home purchases concentrates almost entirely on house vs. condo. However, depending on your situation, a duplex could be a very intriguing option.

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Buying a Home Sold through Short Sale or Foreclosure

If you are planning to buy a home and want to get a good deal (and who doesn’t?) you may have considered purchasing one sold through short sale or foreclosure.

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Getting a Mortgage

Thinking of taking the first step towards owning a home? Watch this short video on the steps towards getting a mortgage loan.

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The Basics of Mortgages

Mortgages, are loan products can be quite complicated. Knowing the basics of how mortgages work can help guide you to the loan that is most appropriate for you.

The Five-Step Mortgage Management Plan

Has your mortgage payment become too large for comfort? If so, take swift and informed steps toward resolution.

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Mortgage calculator

FAQs

Am I eligible for membership at Community First Credit Union?

Community First Credit Union membership is open to anyone who lives, works, or attends school in one of the following Florida counties: Baker, Brevard, Broward, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Indian River, Lake, Martin, Nassau, Orange, Palm Beach, Putnam, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, or Volusia.

Membership is also open to any relative of an existing or eligible Community First Credit Union of Florida member. We also offer membership to select employer groups, including employees of Brooks Rehabilitation, Miller Electric Company, and Web.com. Not sure if you qualify? Contact us.

What do I need to apply for a mortgage?

When applying for a mortgage with Community First Credit, it is helpful to have the following information on hand:

Your social security number
Valid United States Driver's License, Permanent Resident Card, or United States Passport
Your annual income

It's also helpful to begin gathering the following documents:

W-2 forms from the previous two years, if you collect a paycheck
Profit and loss statements or 1099 forms, if you own a business
Recent paycheck stubs
Your two most recent tax returns
A complete list of your debts, including credit cards, student loans, car loans, and child support payments, along with minimum monthly payments and balances
Lists of your assets, including bank statements, mutual fund statements, real estate and automobile titles, brokerage statements, and records of other investments or assets

Other documents may be required depending on the type of loan you're applying for and your financial situation. While the paperwork needed may seem daunting, you'll have a dedicated Home Mortgage Advisor who will guide you every step of the way and can identify what you need.

How can I request a Mortgage Pay Off Statement?

There are three easy ways to request a Mortgage Pay Off Statement at Community First. Choose the one that’s best for you below:

Contact our Automated Payoff System at 877-772-9633
- There is no fee for faxed payoff requests.
Reach out to our Member Service team at 866-843-2513
Log into our Online Banking or Mobile Banking app.
Then, navigate to your mortgage account and select “Download Payoff Statements.”