Woman with house keys

Turns out “staying in” hits different when you own the place.


    


Buying your first home might feel like something you’re supposed to do later. 

After more saving... 

More credit history...

More... “adulting


But with FCU’s first-time homebuyer mortgage program, qualified buyers may be able to finance 100% of their home purchase with no down payment required1. If you’re building your career, earning steady income, and ready to put down roots, homeownership may be closer than you think.


Start Your Application          Talk to a Mortgage Expert 

You Might Be More Ready Than You Think

Buying your first home doesn't always require years of planning, perfect credit, or a huge down payment. If you're building your career, earning steady income, and ready to stop dreaming of "someday," this program may help you get there sooner.

Why it could be a great fit:

  •  Designed specifically for first-time homebuyers.
  •  100% financing available for qualified buyers1
  •  No down payment required1
  •  Standard mortgage rates
  •  Eligible ARM loan options

    

Don't Let the Myths Hold You Back

You've probably heard that you need perfect credit, years of financial history, or to wait until you're more established. The reality is that many qualified first-time buyers have careers they're building—not decades of homeownership experience.

Here's what matters:

  •  680+ credit score
  •  Early in your credit journey? You may still qualify.
  •  Need extra support? You can apply with a qualified co-signer, but you don't have to.
  •  Local mortgage experts to help guide you

    

Build More Than Your Career

You're already investing in your future. Whether you've landed your first full-time job, finished school, or are growing your career, your home can grow with you. Imagine having a place where you can decorate however you want, give your pet a backyard, host friends without asking permission, and build equity with every qualifying mortgage payment instead of simply paying rent.

Even more reasons to love it:

Home Loan Options


FCU’s mortgage team will help you find a mortgage option that best suits you with the term you need and the monthly payment you can afford.



Fixed-Rate Mortgage³

A fixed interest rate means your principal and interest payment remain the same for the life of the mortgage. The most common terms are 30-year, 20-year or 15-year fixed rate mortgages.

Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM)⁴

ARMs feature rates that will adjust periodically based on market conditions; however, the initial rate is typically lower than a fixed option. It's a good option if you plan to sell or refinance your house before the rate goes up.

FHA/USDA/VA - Backed Mortgages

Government-backed loans help make homeownership more affordable for many, including first-time home buyers, with lower down payment requirements and low or no closing costs.

Construction and Land Loans

One Loan, from construction through final permanent mortgage. FCU offers new construction loans to make your vision for a custom home a reality. FCU can help you finance the land as well.

Other Mortgage Loans

Looking for something a little different? Florida Credit Union offers financing for condos, manufactured homes with land, barndominiums, and other unique homeownership opportunities. We also provide customized financing solutions that combine mortgage and home equity options to help fit your goals.

New Homebuyer FAQs
Many first-time homebuyers are surprised to learn that a 20% down payment isn't always required. Depending on the loan program and your qualifications, you may be eligible for a low down payment—or even no down payment. An FCU Mortgage Loan Officer can help you explore the options available based on your unique situation.
 
Getting ready to buy starts with understanding your financial picture. Paying down debt, building your savings, maintaining good credit, and avoiding new loans or credit cards can all help strengthen your application. Even if you're not planning to buy right away, an FCU Mortgage Loan Officer can help you create a plan and let you know what steps may improve your buying power.
 
The right choice depends on your goals, finances, and timeline. While renting offers flexibility, buying a home allows you to build equity and invest in your future. If you're wondering whether now is the right time, an FCU Mortgage Loan Officer can help you compare your options and determine what makes the most sense for you.
 
Yes. Buying a home with a co-borrower—such as a spouse, partner, or family member—may help you qualify for a loan by combining your income and financial resources. An FCU Mortgage Loan Officer can explain how co-borrowing works and help you decide if it's the right option for your situation.
 

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DISCLOSURE

Home Mortgage Disclosure Act Notice

The HMDA data about our residential mortgage lending is available online for review. The data shows geographic distribution of loans and applications; ethnicity, race, sex, age and income of applicants and borrowers; and information about loan approvals and denials. This data is available online at the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Website (www.consumerfinance.gov/data-research/hmda/(Opens in a new window)). HMDA data for many other financial institutions is also available at this website.  


Subject to credit approval. APR = Annual Percentage Rate. This is a special and limited time offer that can be discontinued anytime based on market conditions. Your rate may be higher based on your creditworthiness and property valuation. An adjustable-rate mortgage loan (ARM) with a fixed interest rate for the first 5 years. Afterward, the 5/1 ARM switches to an adjustable interest rate for the remainder of its term. The rate adjusts based on the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) published by the Federal Reserve. Special rate for in-house portfolio loan only. 5/1 Year ARM with no points and an estimated $4,000 closing cost monthly payment example: The payment on a $250,000 loan would be $1,439.14 per month at an adjustable interest rate of 5.625% and a 5.775% APR with a 360-month term. ARM rates subject to increase during the loan term. This payment and rate would be in effect for the first five years with annual adjustments thereafter according to the disclosure above. Rate quoted as of 05/27/2026. Down payment requirements and interest rate are based on borrower’s creditworthiness.


1. 100% financing available for qualified borrowers. Subject to credit approval. Applies only to in-house portfolio loans.

2. “FCU Local Heroes®” lender credit program: Available to first responders, teachers, licensed medical professionals, and military personnel (active and veterans) for a first mortgage purchase or refinance application. Eligibility requirements apply. Second and investment residences not eligible. This program offers a credit at closing of $575. This offer is subject to change without notice. Other terms and conditions may apply. Available for new applications submitted on 1/1/2025 and forward.

3. Fixed-Rate First Mortgage- Terms are 10, 15, 20 and 30 years. Maximum loan amount is $832,750. Credit approval and other restrictions apply.

4. Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) loan terms are 15, 20, and 30 years amortization. ARM rates are subject to change during term of loan. Maximum amount for conventional loan is $1,665,500. Jumbo loans-call for details.