Latest News

Recent Posts

Homeownership Made Simpler: Key Takeaways from Our Recent Webinar

During our recent First-Time Homebuyer Webinar, Lafayette Federal’s mortgage experts walked attendees through the homebuying process, from understanding credit requirements and obtaining a strong pre-approval to exploring financing options designed to make homeownership more accessible. The session also highlighted Lafayette’s Essential Workers Mortgage Program, which offers qualified borrowers up to 100% financing with no private…

Read more

Here’s One Thing Most Home Buyers Forget to Budget For: Landscaping

But while most home buyers easily get awestruck by landscaping and outdoor spaces during showings, many overlook the actual cost of maintaining them. From lawn upkeep, irrigation repairs, to tree maintenance, the costs can add up quickly, especially for larger properties with elaborate landscaping features. If you’re a first-time home buyer, understanding the true costs…

Read more

Housing Market Update

June 18, 2026 Recent global events continue to influence the housing and mortgage markets. Ongoing conflict involving Iran has contributed to higher energy prices, which can fuel inflation concerns. When inflation expectations rise, mortgage rates often follow suit. Adding to the uncertainty, a stronger-than-expected jobs report has some market observers questioning whether the Federal Reserve…

Read more

Need More Time After Selling Your Home? A Leaseback May Help

Selling a home and buying another doesn’t always happen on the same timeline. Sometimes sellers need a little extra time after closing to move into their next home. That’s where a leaseback agreement can help. A leaseback, also known as a rent-back agreement, allows the seller to remain in the home for an agreed-upon period…

Read more

Shred With Confidence: Protect Yourself from Identity Theft

Shredding your confidential documents is a secure and environmentally responsible way to safely dispose of sensitive information. From old bank statements and tax records to medical bills and credit card offers, shredding sensitive paperwork helps reduce the risk of identity theft and fraud while keeping your personal information out of the wrong hands. Many everyday…

Read more

Housing Market Update

May 15, 2026 Mortgage rates don’t move in isolation. Economic trends, inflation, and even global events can all influence what borrowers see when shopping for a home loan. Right now, one of the biggest factors impacting rates is rising inflation tied to higher energy costs. Ongoing instability in the Middle East — particularly around the…

Read more

Understanding Cash to Close When Purchasing a Home

Even before starting your home-buying journey, you’re probably already aware that the numbers aren’t just about the home’s purchase price and your down payment. There are dozens of smaller fees, expenses, credits, and adjustments in the real estate transaction that you need to account for. This is where the term “cash to close” comes into…

Read more

Using Credit as a Tool (and Not a Crutch)

What separates financially confident households from financially stressed ones? The relationship they have with credit. The difference isn’t about income, it’s about intention. Credit is one of the most powerful financial instruments available. Used strategically, it can accelerate wealth: helping you purchase a home that appreciates, smoothing your cash flow during investment cycles, or earning…

Read more