posted
on Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Top Tips Every Home Buyer Should Hear
Discover practical guidance from our experienced home loan lenders to help turn questions into confident decisions. In this collection of top tips, our mortgage lending team explains key considerations for buying a home, how your credit has an impact on your home loan, and what to keep in mind as you move toward homeownership.
Home Buyer Top Tip #1
Deb Novak, Senior Consumer Loan Officer in Cresco
“Make sure your house payment is affordable for you and take care of your credit,” says Deb. “Those two things are key to getting approved when you’re ready to buy a home.”
Home Buyer Top Tip #2
Jamie Jordan, Consumer Loan Officer in Waverly
“Getting pre-qualified before you start looking for a home is important,” says Jamie. “It shows sellers you’re a qualified buyer and helps strengthen your offer. One way to prepare for that pre-qualification is by paying down credit card balances ahead of time, which can lower your debt-to-income ratio and put you in a stronger position when you apply.”
Home Buyer Top Tip #3
Curt Hallett, Senior Consumer Loan Officer in Charles City
"Set yourself up for success by knowing what you can afford," says Curt. "A best practice is to keep your housing ratio under 28% of your gross monthly income."
Home Buyer Top Tip #4
Dan Ollendick, Senior Consumer Loan Officer in Cresco
“Create a budget to save for an appropriate down payment and closing costs,” says Dan. “It’s also important to plan for ongoing maintenance. Homeownership comes with expenses beyond the monthly payment, and a monthly budget helps you prepare for everyday upkeep and unexpected needs.”
Home Buyer Top Tip #5
Michele Johnson, Consumer Loan Officer in Osage
"Don't be afraid to ask questions," says Michele. "Buying a home is a big decision and you deserve to understand every part of it. Whether it's about your loan, your monthly payment, or what to expect next. Your loan officer is there to walk you through the whole process. The more you ask, the more confident you feel!"
Home Buyer Top Tip #6
Brian McConnell, Senior Consumer Loan Officer in Cresco
"Start by working with your local bank, people you know and trust who can help you understand your loan options," says Brian. "Getting pre-qualified gives you a clear idea of how much home you can afford, so you can shop within your budget. As you plan, remember to save for a down payment and closing costs too."
Home Buyer Top Tip #7
Diane Schick, Senior Consumer Loan Officer in Ridgeway
“Meet with your mortgage loan officer before you start searching for a home, whether you’re planning to buy or build,” says Diane. “We’ll review your financial goals and set a comfortable budget, so you can move forward with confidence toward homeownership.”
Home Buyer Top Tip #8
Deanna Halbach, Senior Consumer Loan Officer in Osage
"Once you've started the homebuying process, the best thing you can do is keep your finances steady. Large purchases, credit accounts, and job changes can impact loan qualification," says Deanna. "To help avoid delays or disruptions in the homebuying process, check with your loan officer if you anticipate any job or credit changes."
Home loans made simple:
Ready to make the move? Stop into one of our seven locations to get started with our mortgage lending team today!