---
title: Helping With Your Homeownership Dreams
description: As a locally-based financial institution, we're committed to helping customers reach their housing goals. In celebration of American Housing Month, check out our blog for more information on what products and services your community bank can offer to help you make the jump to homeownership.
image: https://blog.tompkinsbank.com/hubfs/House%20Image%20Better%20Crop.jpg
---

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          - [CDs & IRAs](https://tompkinsbank.com/personal-banking/deposits/cds-and-iras)
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# Helping With Your Homeownership Dreams

 Published by [Stacy Merill, VP, Residential Mortgage Lending Manger](https://blog.tompkinsbank.com/author/stacy-merill-vp-residential-mortgage-lending-manger) on  Feb 24, 2022 9:42:57 AM

Buying a home can be a complicated process. But as community bankers, we can help navigate you through it every step of the way. So here’s a reminder that we can help you realize your dream of homeownership or plan your move to a new home in the current economy. 

With interest rates so low, homeownership remains very affordable, which is why people have been buying homes throughout the pandemic. To prepare yourself, the best way to start is by allowing a mortgage lender to educate you about the current housing market. We can help you understand what mortgage programs are best for you and which you can afford, including the amount you’ll need to put down and pay monthly.

Being armed with this knowledge is especially important now with the housing inventory so low and home buying so competitive. In fact, it’s not unusual for many people to make offers on the same house within one or two days. Becoming prequalified can give you an edge in that process.

Education for First-time Homebuyers  
We are focused on building relationships, so we enjoy spending time educating our clients to make things as easy and affordable as possible. This is important when it comes to big financial decisions like buying a house. And especially for first-time homebuyers, who often have low-to moderate incomes. [Connect with a mortgage originator to review your options.](https://www.tompkinstrust.com/loan-officers)

Owning a home is only one part of your financial picture – a picture that changes as you and your family grow. Please remember that we want to help with your other needs including banking, insurance, and financial growth and planning. Please give us a call. We’re always ready to help.

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