Your Path to Homeownership
Live Where You Teach. Build a Future Where You Belong.
Homeownership is one of the most powerful ways to build long-term financial stability, create equity, and become more connected to the community you serve. Whether you're purchasing your first home, moving closer to your school, or planning your next chapter, our At Your Service Mortgages** program offers mortgage solutions and benefits designed specifically for educators, including 0% down financing, no PMI, and no lender fees.
Start your homeownership journey today and discover what may be possible for you as a Holland Public Schools teacher.
The Mortgage Process
Step 1: Determine your budget and financing options
Set your budget, including your monthly payment, down payment and closing costs, and reserves for maintenance and repairs. Our mortgage calculators can help you crunch the numbers.
Apply for preapproval. Complete an application in as little as 20 minutes online using our FastApp Home Loan App. Afterward, your mortgage loan officer will review your financing options with you. Learn why preapprovals are important here.
Start your search
- Determine your needs and wants in a house—the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, yard size, etc.
- Many websites and apps are available to help you see what’s on the market in your desired area.
- Find a realtor. Ask trusted sources for recommendations! Your realtor will show you properties
that meet your needs and budget.
Step 2: Let's make an offer
Work with your agent to prepare your initial offer. Your offer can be conditional on financing and home inspection, and itemize what’s included in the sale. Your agent will present the offer along with an earnest deposit to show you are a serious buyer.
3-5 days later* | The seller can accept, reject or return a counteroffer. If they counteroffer, you can negotiate by raising your offer or changing the conditions.
Step 3: Once your offer is accepted
Update Application. During the application process, Consumers will ask for your supporting documents to verify your income and assets and will send you the completed loan application package for your signature. We will also collect the appraisal fee at this time.
Within 10 days | Unless otherwise stated in your purchase agreement, you typically have 10 days to complete any home inspections. Depending on the results, you may have further room to negotiate or reconsider moving forward with the deal.
Step 4: Your application is now being processed
Consumers will order the title commitment and an appraisal on the property and review the details of your purchase agreement.
Consumers will receive the results of the title search. We will also review your debt to income ratios, current debt structure and asset verification in order to ensure that all qualifications for the mortgage are met.
Once underwriting can ensure that any questions regarding the loan application have been answered and all conditions for financing have been met, your loan will be approved!
Step 5: You’re ready to close
At closing, you’ll sign the loan documents with the title company to register the house in your name and pay your down payment (minus the deposit you made when presenting your offer). The title company will pay the seller. You’re ready to move in!
Doug is a mortgage loan officer who is passionate about helping educators and first-time homebuyers achieve their homeownership goals. With extensive experience in mortgage lending and personal finance, he provides clear guidance, trusted advice, and personalized support throughout the homebuying journey. Contact Doug.
Whether you’re exploring your options, preparing to buy your first home, or looking for guidance on available teacher benefits, Doug is ready to help.
As a way to say thank you for your service, we are offering special mortgage deals for our members who are teachers!
Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Discover what documents you'll need, what lenders look for, and how pre-approval can strengthen your position as a buyer.
Learn MoreGet Mortgage-Ready: Steps to Pre-Approval
Learn the key steps lenders evaluate during the pre-approval process and how to prepare for a smoother homebuying experience.
Learn MoreWhat's Included When You Buy a Home?
Gain a better understanding of the costs, features, and responsibilities that come with purchasing a home.
Learn MoreMortgage Basics: Understanding Loan Types & Interest Rates
Explore common mortgage options and interest rate basics to help you choose the loan that's right for your financial goals.
Learn MoreWhat to Expect During the Home Closing Process
Learn what happens between offer acceptance and closing day so you can confidently navigate the final steps of your home purchase.
Learn MoreCommon Reasons Home Offers Get Rejected
Understand the most common mistakes buyers make and how to submit a stronger, more competitive offer on your next home.
Learn MoreMortgage Qualifier Calculator
The mortgage qualifier calculator steps you through the process of finding out how much you can borrow.
Learn More*Time estimates are for informational purposes only; actual times may vary.
**Program available on purchase of single-family primary residence on less than 10 acres. All loans subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change and may vary based on creditworthiness, qualifications, and collateral conditions.
