Mortgage Learning Center

Home Buying Basics: What every buyer needs to know

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer starting your research or an experienced buyer who wants a refresher on the process, our tools and resources can help make your next move a little easier.

What Will My Monthly Payment Be?

Understand what your payment could be based on purchase price and your down payment.

Calculate Payments

How Much House Can I Afford?

Use this calculator to estimate how much you can afford to borrow with a new mortgage.

Calculate Affordability

Adjustable-Rate Mortgage vs Fixed-Rate Mortgage:

Compare these two popular loan types and see which option might work for you.

Compare Loans

Are You a First-Time Buyer?

Explore resources just for you in our special First-Time Homebuyers section!

Take Me There

Answers from Local Lending Experts

Need more answers? No problem. Our team is happy to help. Send us a question, schedule a call or book an appointment at your local branch.

Looking for our current home loan rates?

3 yr/6mo Adjustable Rate Mortgage

RATES AS LOW AS
5.625
%
Rate
6.234
%
APR *

30-Year Fixed Rate

RATES AS LOW AS
6.625
%
Rate
6.674
%
APR *

Construction

RATES AS LOW AS
5.875
%
Rate
6.339
%
APR *

View and compare rates on different loan options here.

Affordable Lending at UW Credit Union

Our mortgage loan experts are here to help make homeownership more attainable1 for more buyers. That’s why we offer affordable lending options like WHEDA loans, HomeReady® and Home Possible®, along with down payment assistance programs to qualified buyers. 

These and other programs like them are designed to help buyers with smaller down payments or less-than-perfect credit achieve their dream of owning a home. Our knowledgeable, local home loan experts are here to help find the best option for your situation and walk you through each step in the process. 

Talk to one of our local experts to find out whether affordable lending programs are a good fit for you.

More to Explore

Crunch some numbers with our free mortgage calculators, find a free event or dive into our article library.

Calculators

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Do the Math

Use our free calculators to get a better idea of what mortgage payments look like, compare renting vs. buying and more.

Try Calculators

Articles

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Take a Closer Look

Get tips for home shopping, get a deeper understanding of the homebuying process and boost your home buying smarts.

Read Articles

FAQs

Talk to Home Expert

Get More Answers

See answers to commonly asked questions about home loans, mortgages, down payments and more.

View FAQs

How the Homebuying Process Works

Take a quick look at what to expect and some things you’ll need to do as you prepare to buy your home. 

FTHB - Homebuying Process infographic

  • 1 Organize your Personal Information
    Have your personal information like employment details and income ready. You’ll need it for you and anyone you’re purchasing your home with.
  • 2 Apply to Get Preapproved
    Getting preapproved gives you a better understanding of how much home you can afford. Start by filling out an application online.
  • 3 Shop & Make an Offer
    Now the fun starts! Hit those open houses, find your dream home and make an offer.
  • 4 Processing & Underwriting
    Once you’ve made an offer your preapproval becomes an official application and is processed by our mortgage team.
  • 5 Closing
    Here’s where you sign the paperwork and pay the down payment and closing costs. Celebrate – You’re now a homeowner!

Applying for Your Home Loan

The first step toward your new home loan is to apply online. 

Our online application offers a one-stop shop:

  • Get a fast preapproval1 for your home purchase
  • Track your loan status 24/7 from any device
  • Upload all your documents, like tax returns and pay stubs
  • Link directly to your accounts to streamline your application
  • Receive updates as your loan progresses
  • See next steps and stay in the know

Your dedicated mortgage loan officer will provide expert guidance and answer your questions along the way, so you can feel confident at every step.

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Get in Touch

We want you to feel at home with your home loan. That's why our local experts are always ready to answer your questions, understand your goals and help you take a smart step forward.

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Request a Call or Email Us | UW Credit Union

Phone Number 

(800) 533-6773

Already started an application? Pick up where you left off.

ITIN Lending - UW Credit Union is proud to accept ITIN for mortgage lending applications. 

Are you a realtor? Explore our Realtor Resource Center and discover why we’re a top Wisconsin lender.