First Time Homebuyers

The North Country Savings Bank team is here for you. We'll walk you through every step of the mortgage process, from answering your questions about where to begin to explaining all the important financial details. Our experienced Personal Bankers and Loan Experts are prepared to help first time home buyers get their credit reports in check, figure out how much house they can afford, and be there at the finish when they finally sign on the dotted line.

Buying your first home is life-changing, but it doesn't have to be stressful. We love helping people move into their dream homes. So don't worry: You've got this, and we've got you.

Great Home Options for First-Time Homebuyers

Finances are a major consideration when buying your first home, and unfortunately, for most new homebuyers, turn-key ready homes are out of reach. That is why starter homes and fixer-uppers are great options for first-time homebuyers. Each type of home can have its own obstacles and challenges, but they can also present wonderful rewards and charm as well.

Starter Homes

These homes are typically on the smaller side and may require some TLC or updating, but are usually move-in ready. Choosing a smaller home as your first home can be a great way to learn about homeownership responsibilities, without the commitment of large space maintenance. For example, if your household only consists of you and your special someone, a smaller home with fewer bedrooms creates less work because you won't have to worry about cleaning unused rooms. The cost of starter homes can vary depending on the real estate market, but they are historically much less expensive than larger, more recently updated homes. Consider a starter home as your first home if you're ready to end the cycle of renting, want to call a place your own, and don't need a lot of space right now. You can always trade up later as your family grows and you've built up some home equity.

Fixer Upper

Unlike starter homes, fixer uppers typically need work. These houses are commonly priced very low in comparison to others, making them a great option for first-time homebuyers that may not be financially able to commit to larger mortgage payments. That said, fixer uppers are huge commitments in themselves because the buyer must be willing to put in the time, energy, and resources. North Country Savings Bank offers Purchase Plus Loans that can help cover the cost of renovations as well. So if you aren't afraid to get your hands dirty and like the idea of a challenge, consider looking into fixer-uppers as a first home option. The beauty of fixer-uppers is that you can essentially make that dream home you've been envisioning for years, and you'll get to reap the benefits of all the hard work and dedication at the end. Win-win!