The Home Buying Process

Are you ready to purchase your first home, or upgrade to a different property? Buying a home is an important decision, but can often seem intimidating and overwhelming. Review these eight steps so you are ready for each stage of the process.

1.       Prequalification - Before you begin your home search, visit with a lender to see how much you may qualify for. This helps narrow the search down and having...
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Whether you are buying your first home, or looking to upgrade from your existing home, saving up for your down payment can be a daunting task. But it doesn’t have to be- utilize these tips below to be on the path to your new home sooner rather than later!

·         Establish How Much You Will Need: It is hard to start saving and stick to it if you do not have a plan outlined. Many organizations require 20%...
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Smart Uses for Your Tax Refund

With the new year well under way, tax season is quickly approaching. According to CNBC, the average Iowan received a tax refund of $2,590 in 2017. While it can be tempting to spend the extra cash on a dream vacation or the latest technology trend, smart planning and self-control can improve your financial situation for the entire year. Here are six ideas to incorporate into your tax refund planning this year:

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With ATM and Debit Card Fraud showing no signs of slowing down, consumers must strive to be more and more vigilant about their safety and card security. While fraud cannot be 100% avoided, there are a few steps that can be taken to make yourself less vulnerable.

1.      Be Alert

Always be aware of your surroundings when approaching and using an ATM. Avoid ATMs that are not well-lit or are in a desolate...
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