- First-Time Homebuyer Guide
Gain clarity on the process
- Calculators
Map out your financial path
- Value Check®
Look up your home's value
The Benefits of Homeownership
Buying a home is a major financial step, whether you're considering a condo, townhouse, or single-family home—new construction or something with history.
While homeownership comes with added costs, it also helps you build equity and grow your wealth over time.
House hunting can be exciting, but it’s important to do your homework first. Consider factors like how long you plan to stay in the home and what fits your budget before making a decision.
If you're looking at a home in a subdivision, planned community, or condo, you may have to pay a Homeowners Association (HOA) or Property Owners Association (POA) fee. These fees typically cover services like trash and snow removal, landscaping for shared areas, and maintenance of amenities such as clubhouses, playgrounds, pools, and tennis courts. HOA costs can vary widely, so be sure to factor them into your budget. Additionally, if you live in a state with higher property taxes, this will be an expense to plan for each year.
Financing Your Home Purchase
We’re here to help make homeownership more accessible with a variety of loan options:
- Home Loans – Whether you're buying your first home or upgrading to a new one, we offer competitive rates and flexible terms to fit your budget.
- First-Time Homebuyer Program – If you're a first-time buyer, we have special programs designed to help make your dream of homeownership a reality.
- Swing Loans – Need additional financing options? A Swing Loan allows you to use the equity in an existing home to help secure your new home purchase.
- VA Loans – If you’re an eligible service member, veteran, or military family member, take advantage of VA loan benefits, including no down payment and favorable loan terms.
Not sure which loan is right for you? Our Mortgage Experts are here to guide you through the process and find the best solution for your needs
Homeownership - AACU Homeownership FAQs
Consider how long you plan to stay in the home, what fits your budget, and whether HOA or property taxes apply, since these all affect your true monthly cost. Review Homebuying Costs for a full cost breakdown.
A Swing Loan lets you use the equity in your existing home to help secure your new home purchase, bridging the gap before your current home sells. Talk to a Mortgage Loan Officer to see if this fits your timeline.
Eligible service members, veterans, and military family members can take full advantage of VA loan benefits offered directly through AACU, including no down payment and favorable loan terms. Compare VA Loans for full eligibility details.
HOA or POA fees typically cover shared services like landscaping, snow removal, and amenity maintenance, and can vary widely, so factoring them into your budget matters before you buy. Review the Budget Calculator to plan around these costs.
AACU Mortgage Experts guide members through the full range of loan options available to find the best fit for their own specific homeownership goals. Talk to a Mortgage Loan Officer to start that conversation.