Introduction
Mortgage rates in Arvada, Colorado, have fluctuated in recent times, reflecting broader economic trends. Nationwide, rates climbed to multi-decade highs (over 7% for a 30-year loan) in 2023 gowestassociation.org, and in Colorado the average 30-year fixed rate has been hovering in the mid-6% range as of late 2025 nerdwallet.com. This means homebuyers need to be strategic and proactive to secure a good mortgage rate. One key strategy is shopping for competitive rates: by comparing offers, borrowers can potentially save hundreds per year in interest costs nerdwallet.com. Even a fraction of a percentage point difference in the rate can translate into thousands of dollars saved over the life of a loan, so it pays to shop around. Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
Equally important is choosing the right lending partner. Online lenders and big banks advertise heavily, but working with a local lender in Arvada offers distinct advantages. On Tap Credit Union, a financial institution founded in Colorado and deeply rooted in the community, brings local expertise to the table. They understand the Arvada market and have tailored their mortgage products and services to meet the needs of local homebuyers gowestassociation.org. In this comprehensive blog, we’ll explore how you can find an excellent mortgage rate in Arvada and how working with a lender who is attuned to the local market can be a major advantage.
Why Buy a Home in Arvada?
Arvada, Colorado, is a thriving suburb northwest of Denver, boasting excellent schools, a vibrant community, and a variety of outdoor activities. Known for its charming neighborhoods and growing real estate market, Arvada attracts both first-time buyers and seasoned homeowners. With a population of over 120,000 and median home values trending upwards, it's a prime location for those looking to invest in property near Denver.
Why a Local Arvada Credit Union can Improve Your Outcome?
Choosing a qualified local lender, such as a trusted credit union or a community-focused bank, offers personal service and market knowledge that can prove decisive in your home financing process. For more about a specific highly-rated credit union in Arvada, see our local lender list below.
Personalized Service and Faster Decisions: Local lenders offer a level of personal service that big national banks often can’t match. Because they’re part of the community, they can provide one-on-one guidance and quicker loan decisions. On Tap Credit Union exemplifies this with its hands-on approach; every borrower’s situation is evaluated individually to craft the best solution gowestassociation.org. Plus, a local credit union keeps underwriting and processing close to home, often resulting in faster turnaround and less red tape for qualified borrowers.
Local Market Insight: An Arvada-based lender has intimate knowledge of the local housing market and neighborhoods. This can be an asset during the mortgage process. For example, understanding Arvada’s property values, taxes, and market conditions helps in making accurate appraisals and lending decisions. On Tap’s team know the difference between Arvada’s historic Olde Town district and newer developments in west Arvada. Their local insight can help guide you on things like choosing loan types for older homes versus new builds, or timing your rate lock if local market conditions are shifting. Essentially, they are neighbors helping neighbors, which adds confidence for homebuyers.
Community Trust and Reputation: On Tap Credit Union has deep roots in the Arvada community and a proven track record. In recent years, Arvada residents have repeatedly voted On Tap Credit Union as the “Best of the Best” in local surveys – including Best Credit Union/Bank and Best Mortgage Company in Arvada citybiz.co. This kind of recognition shows that your neighbors have had positive experiences with On Tap’s service and rates. When you choose a local lender with such accolades, you’re choosing a partner that the community trusts.
Community Involvement: Beyond just loans, On Tap is heavily involved in local initiatives. They partner with organizations like Habitat for Humanity of Colorado and the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority to help make homeownership more accessible. By staying local, you’re supporting an institution that gives back to your community while also receiving top-notch service for your mortgage needs.
Smart Rate Strategies
You cannot control the rate market, but you can control how you play it. Three levers matter for most buyers. First, discount points, which trade upfront cash for a lower rate. The key is your break even, calculated as total point cost divided by monthly savings. Second, temporary buydowns, which reduce the payment early on and are often funded by a seller or lender credit. They can ease the first two years while income grows or while you plan for a future refinance. Third, timing your lock. A lock and shop protects you while you look, and some programs offer a one time float down when pricing improves under defined conditions. We show each path side by side so tradeoffs are obvious.
Points vs. No Points: Finding the Break Even
Points can be effective when your time horizon is long. Suppose a $400,000 loan where one point costs $4,000 and lowers the rate enough to save about $110 per month. The break even is roughly 36 months. If you plan to keep the loan for five to seven years, points may win on total cost. If you plan to refinance within two years, they usually do not. Also consider taxes and opportunity cost. Dollars spent on points are not available for reserves, repairs, or furniture. We model a zero point path with stronger reserves next to a points path with a lower payment so you can pick based on stability, not guesswork.
For neutral guidance on points and credits, see the official explainer: CFPB on points and lender credits
Temporary Buydowns Explained
A two one buydown reduces your rate by two percent in year one and one percent in year two. A one zero buydown lowers it by one percent in year one. Funds are deposited and applied to your payment each month, so you still make the scheduled payment while the subsidy covers the difference early on. This can work when your income will rise, when you expect to refinance if rates fall, or when you prefer a softer landing during the first years of ownership. We also compare using the same credit as a lump sum closing cost reduction so you can see the math both ways and choose the approach that aligns with your goals.
Policy details are available in the Fannie Mae Temporary Interest Rate Buydowns
Locking, Floating, and Float Downs
A rate lock protects you from negative market moves for a defined period. Floating means you wait, accepting both risk and potential reward. Many buyers choose to lock once they are under contract, then ask whether a one time float down is available if the market improves. Rules vary by program, including thresholds for improvement, any fees, and timing windows. We translate the fine print and track the economic releases that often move rates. The goal is simple. Lock when the value of protection exceeds the value of waiting for a small dip.
Choosing the Right Loan Type
Conventional fixed rate loans provide predictability. Adjustable rate mortgages can make sense for shorter horizons or when caps are strong and your plan is credible. FHA can help buyers with smaller down payments or credit in rebuild mode. VA rewards service and does not require monthly mortgage insurance. Local portfolio options can solve for special cases like unusual income, an accessory dwelling unit plan, or condo project nuances. Rather than memorize acronyms, focus on outcomes. We compare payment comfort, cash to close, and total cost so the recommendation is transparent.
For an overview of adjustable rate mortgages, see CFPB ARM overview
For how caps limit adjustments over time, see CFPB on ARM rate caps
Types of Mortgage Loans Offered by On Tap Credit Union
On Tap Credit Union offers a full suite of home loan options, comparable to what you’d find at large banks, but with the local touch. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned homeowner, they likely have a mortgage that fits your situation:
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Conventional Fixed-Rate Mortgages: These are the classic 30-year and 15-year fixed loans. You lock in an interest rate and payment that stays constant for the life of the loan, which is ideal if you plan to stay in your home long-term or just prefer the peace of mind of a steady payment.. On Tap offers competitive fixed rates updated frequently to reflect market conditions. For instance, the average 30-year fixed rate in Colorado has recently been around 6.5–6.6% APR, with 15-year fixed rates around the mid-5% range nerdwallet.com. By checking with On Tap, you can get an up-to-date quote; often credit unions can offer lower fees or slightly better rates than big banks because they are not-for-profit.
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Adjustable-Rate Mortgages (ARMs): If you’re looking for a lower initial rate or expect to move or refinance in a few years, an ARM might be attractive. On Tap provides adjustable-rate mortgages where the interest rate is fixed for an initial period (such as 5 or 7 years) and then can adjust periodically. ARMs often start with interest rates below the 30-year fixed rate. This kind of product can significantly reduce your monthly payment in the early years.
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FHA Loans: First-time buyers or those with moderate credit scores often turn to FHA loans, which are insured by the Federal Housing Administration. These loans can be a great option if you need a bit more leniency on qualifying. On Tap’s home loan consultants will help you navigate FHA guidelines.
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VA Loans: If you are a U.S. military veteran or active-duty service member (or eligible surviving spouse), you can take advantage of your VA loan benefits. VA loans, backed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, require no down payment in most cases and have no monthly mortgage insurance premium – one of the best deals around for those who’ve served.
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USDA Rural Home Loans: For homebuyers looking in the more rural outskirts of the Arvada area or other eligible parts of Colorado. These loans are backed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and can provide 100% financing (no down payment) for homes in designated rural areas. While Arvada itself is largely suburban, there are nearby communities and properties that fall under USDA eligibility. USDA loans are great for keeping upfront costs low.
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First-Time Homebuyer Programs: One of the biggest advantages of working with a local lender like On Tap is access to special first-time buyer programs. On Tap goes beyond standard loans by helping new buyers tap into grants and assistance, such as conventional loans with as little as 3% down for first-time buyers arvadachamber.org. They also participate in state and local programs that can reduce the barriers to homeownership.
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Jumbo Loans: Home prices in the Denver Metro, including Arvada, can sometimes exceed conforming loan limits. On Tap Credit Union offers jumbo loans for qualified borrowers to finance up to 90% of a home’s value with only a 10% down payment and not requiring private mortgage insurance. That is a significant benefit, as most lenders would mandate hefty insurance premiums or a 20% down payment on jumbo loans. On Tap’s jumbo is structured as a 5/1 ARM, which keeps the initial rate low (fixed for five years) and then adjusts, helping those larger loans remain affordable.
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Specialty Loans: As a community lender, On Tap doesn’t just offer vanilla mortgages; they can also craft unique programs for special situations. For example, On Tap has a Fast Track Refinance program for homeowners who want to refinance into a short-term loan and pay off their mortgage faster. With Fast Track, you can choose terms as short as 10 years, often at lower rates, to become mortgage-free sooner.
Down Payment Assistance and Grants
One of the most challenging parts of buying a home is coming up with the down payment and closing costs. Here’s the good news: On Tap Credit Union offers and participates in several down payment assistance (DPA) programs that can dramatically lower your upfront costs. Qualifying for these grants and assistance programs is often easier than you might think, and they aren’t limited to first-time buyers only. Let’s explore some of the options available:
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On Tap $7,500 First-Time Homebuyer Grant: On Tap Credit Union provides its own grant for eligible first-time buyers. Qualified borrowers can receive $7,500 toward their down payment and closing costs, and this is true grant money – no repayment, ever. The program is subject to income limits (the exact qualifying income varies by county and household size), but for many middle-income families in Arvada, this can be a game-changer.
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Metro DPA Program: On Tap participates in the Metro Mortgage Assistance Plus program (commonly called metroDPA), a regional initiative to help homebuyers in the Denver metro area. Through metroDPA, buyers who purchase a home as their primary residence in certain designated “social equity” areas or within the metro area can qualify for $15,000 up to $25,000 in down payment assistance grants. Requirements include a minimum credit score of 640 and a household income under $150,000 per year. If you fit those guidelines, metroDPA essentially provides free money toward your purchase. It’s an excellent option to explore if you need a boost to reach your down payment goal.
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Dearfield Fund for Black Wealth: One particularly impactful program On Tap offers is through the Dearfield Fund, which is aimed at helping Black and African American first-time homebuyers build generational wealth through homeownership. Qualified buyers can receive up to $40,000 in down payment assistance with no monthly payments and 0% interest on that assistance. Instead of monthly payments, the amount is repaid when the homeowner eventually sells or refinances the home, plus a small share (5%) of the home’s appreciation. This model allows buyers to get into a home with a much lower upfront investment. To qualify, you need to identify as Black/African American, be a first-time buyer purchasing in the eligible counties (which include Jefferson County, covering Arvada), have household income under $150,000, and have at least 3% of the purchase price saved yourself.
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$1,000 Down Habitat/CHFA Partnership: On Tap has shown real leadership by collaborating with Habitat for Humanity of Colorado and the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) to create a pathway to homeownership with as little as $1,000 down. In this setup, On Tap provides part of the financing and Habitat/CHFA provides the rest, enabling some buyers to afford homes up to $650,000 with a tiny down payments gowestassociation.org. The program is geared toward moderate-income families who might otherwise be priced out. Payments are capped at 30% of the household’s income, ensuring the home remains affordable. Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA)
How do these programs help? In a nutshell, down payment assistance and grants reduce the amount of cash you need upfront, making homeownership attainable sooner. The bottom line is don’t assume you need 20% down; with On Tap’s help, you might only need a few percent, or even less, thanks to these assistance options.
If you’re interested in down payment assistance, it’s wise to start the conversation early. Some grants are first-come, first-served each year, and they require a bit of extra paperwork.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Get a Great Mortgage Rate in Arvada
Securing an excellent mortgage rate involves a combination of preparation, research, and timing. Here’s a step-by-step guide to put you on the right track – follow these steps to improve your chances of locking in a low rate with favorable terms:
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Check Your Credit (and Improve It if Needed): Your credit score is one of the most important factors in the rate you’ll be offered. Before applying for a mortgage, obtain your credit reports and scores. Lenders categorize credit scores into ranges (excellent, good, fair, etc.), and higher scores typically qualify for lower interest rates. If your score isn’t where you want it to be, take time to improve it: pay down high credit card balances, continue making on-time payments, and correct any errors on your report. On Tap Credit Union can actually help with this process, their home loan consultants will review your credit with you and, if the score is too low to qualify right now, they’ll give you guidance on how to raise it and work with you over time until you’re ready arvadachamber.org. As a general rule, a score of 740+ will garner the best rates, but even if you’re in the 600s, On Tap may have programs (like FHA loans) to assist. Either way, know your number and improve it where possible to save money on the loan.
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Determine Your Budget and Down Payment: It’s crucial to identify how much house you can afford before you start shopping for properties. This involves calculating a comfortable monthly payment and translating that into a target price range. Use the Housing Expense Ratio. The housing expense ratio is a simple rule of thumb in personal finance. It states that your total monthly housing costs—including mortgage, property taxes, insurance, and HOA dues—should not exceed 30 percent of your gross income. Sticking to this guideline can help keep your finances healthy by ensuring you have room in your budget for savings and other living expenses. While 30 percent is a general benchmark, your personal ratio may vary based on circumstances and goals. At this stage, also consider how much you can put toward a down payment. A larger down payment (if you can manage it) could help you snag a better rate or avoid PMI, so it’s a balance. The goal of this step is to have a clear price range in mind so you can target your home search appropriately and ensure your rate quote is based on the right loan amount. On Tap’s team will happily do pre-qualification calculations for you to pinpoint that range.
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Get Pre-Approved: Pre-approval is essentially a green light from the lender, indicating how much they are willing to lend you and at roughly what terms, pending final property details. To get pre-approved, you will complete a mortgage application (with no specific property yet) and provide documentation of your income, assets, and debts. Pre-approval with On Tap is not only free, it’s also smart: it locks in a contingent rate (or at least gives you a target rate) and produces a pre-approval letter that you can use when making offers on homes. This letter shows sellers that you’re a serious, qualified buyer. Importantly, getting pre-approved does not obligate you to take the loan, but it does give you a clear picture of what interest rate and loan amount you qualify for. During pre-approval, On Tap will verify your credit score and financial information; often the loan officer will ask for recent pay stubs, W-2s or tax returns, and bank statements to document your savings. Have these documents ready to go. The sooner you get pre-approved, the sooner you can confidently house-hunt knowing your financing is solid.
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Shop for a Home (Locally) and Make an Offer: With your pre-approval letter in hand and a clear budget, you can begin house hunting in Arvada with confidence. This step is about finding the right home, but it can also indirectly affect the rate you end up with. For example, interest rates can fluctuate day to day; you might find a home and go under contract during a week when rates dip slightly (lucky you), or rates might have inched up since your pre-approval. Rest assured, On Tap will update your rate quote when you have a specific home and loan amount, and they’ll advise you on locking (next step). As you shop, keep your lender in the loop: if you’re close to making an offer, let On Tap know. They can provide an updated payment estimate for that specific property (including property taxes or HOA fees, which affect your affordability). When you’re ready to make an offer, having On Tap in your corner can strengthen it. Once your offer is accepted, you’ll go under contract to buy the home, and the mortgage process moves into the final stages.
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Lock In Your Interest Rate: After you’re under contract, you’ll want to lock in your mortgage rate at the optimal time. “Locking” means you commit to a specified interest rate for a set period (typically through your closing date). Mortgage rates change daily, and they could go up or down while you’re in the home-buying process. Locking protects you from increases. On Tap allows rate locks for up to 60 days, which is sufficient for most home purchase transactions. You and your loan officer will decide on the moment to lock. If you’re comfortable with the current rate and the market seems volatile, locking sooner is wise. On Tap will provide their insight, but ultimately it’s your call. The lock guarantees your rate cannot go up during the lock period, even if market rates climb.
Following these steps will put you in an excellent position to snag a great mortgage rate.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
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Comparing quotes that aren’t apples-to-apples — match lock period, points, property type, and credit score before deciding.
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Looking only at the rate — consider APR, points, and all lender/third-party fees.
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Skipping a full pre-approval — weak docs can sink your offer and delay closing.
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Ignoring taxes, insurance, HOA/metro district fees — model the whole payment (escrows).
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Overusing points or misusing temporary buydowns — compute the break-even and consider your likely timeline.
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Waiving inspection with no plan — speed alternatives exist that preserve protection.
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Overlooking condo/HOA health — reserves, delinquencies, litigation, insurance, and project approval can make or break financing.
Featured Member Success Stories
One of the best ways to appreciate the value of working with On Tap Credit Union is to hear from those who have been through the process. Suzanne's testimonial speaks volumes. Suzanne C., a longtime member of On Tap since 2012, found herself in a challenging situation as a single mother. She needed to refinance her home and also hoped to tap some equity for expenses, all while keeping her monthly payments manageable. Suzanne turned to On Tap Credit Union for help, and Home Loan Consultant Leslie Larson stepped in to guide her. “Leslie believed in me and helped me refinance my home and establish a Home Equity Line of Credit during a difficult time. As a single mom, that not only helped me support myself and my daughter, but has had far reaching and powerful positive results that helped change my life,” - Suzanne.
Frequently Asked Questions
Buying a home and getting a mortgage can raise a lot of questions. Here we address some of the most common questions homebuyers in Arvada ask, with concise answers to put your mind at ease:
Q: What credit score do I need to get approved for a mortgage?
A: While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, a higher credit score will generally qualify you for a better rate and easier approval. In practice, many loan programs require a minimum score in the mid-600s (FHA can go around 580 or higher with sufficient down payment, VA and conventional typically 620+). If your score is a bit low right now, don’t be discouraged. On Tap will offer guidance on how to improve it, and even if you can’t get approved immediately, we will create a plan with you to get you mortgage-ready. In short, the higher your score, the better.
Q: How much down payment is required? Do I really need 20%?
A: No – you do not need 20% down, especially not with the programs available through On Tap. The down payment requirement varies by loan type. With some conventional loans, first-time buyers can put as little as 3% down. FHA loans require 3.5% down. VA and USDA loans can go 0% down for those who qualify. On Tap also offers its own down payment assistance grants and participates in programs that can cover a portion of your down payment (see the Down Payment Assistance section above). Of course, if you do have 20% to put down, that can eliminate mortgage insurance and potentially get you a slightly better rate, but it’s by no means a requirement to buy.
Q: What will my closing costs be, and can I roll them into the loan?
A: Closing costs are the various fees and prepaid expenses required to finalize the mortgage and transfer the property. In Colorado, a good rule of thumb is that closing costs run about 2% to 3% of the loan amount. This includes charges like the appraisal fee, title insurance, recording fees, lender origination or underwriting fees, prepaid interest, homeowners insurance, and property tax escrows. The bottom line is, yes, there will be closing costs, but there are ways to manage them.
Q: Do I have to be a member of On Tap Credit Union to get a mortgage?
A: You can apply for a mortgage with On Tap without being a member initially, but you will need to become a member of the credit union before the loan closes. The good news is membership is easy and open to many people in our community (anyone living or working in Jefferson, Denver, Boulder, or Larimer counties, among others, is eligible). To join, all that’s required is opening a savings account with a $5 deposit . Many members love that they can make their mortgage payments and do their everyday banking all in one place with local service.
Q: Can I refinance later if rates drop, and is there a penalty for paying off my loan early?
A: Yes, you can absolutely refinance your mortgage later if interest rates decline or if your financial situation changes – and with On Tap Credit Union, there are no prepayment penalties on our home loans. We encourage our members to refinance when it makes financial sense. For example, if you take a 30-year fixed now at today’s rates and two years from now rates are significantly lower, you can refinance into a new loan at that time.
Q: How fast can we close?
A: Timelines vary by appraisal and title, but clean files move faster. We front load documents and verify third party items early so the last week feels calm.
Q: Should I waive inspection?
A: We do not recommend skipping due diligence. If speed matters, consider a shorter inspection window or a pre inspection where allowed.
Q: How much cash should I keep after closing?
A: How much cash should I keep after closing? Beyond required reserves, hold a cushion for the first year. You will likely buy basics and handle small fixes. Liquidity now is often better than spending every dollar on points
Have more questions? We’re here to help! Feel free to contact our mortgage team with any other queries – whether it’s about income requirements, how co-borrowers work, what escrow means, or anything else. Buying a home is a big deal, and there are no silly questions. On Tap Credit Union takes pride in educating our borrowers every step of the way, so you feel confident and informed.
Meet Your Arvada Mortgage Advisors
When you work with On Tap Credit Union for your home loan, you’re not dealing with a faceless call center or an online form – you have real, local mortgage advisors dedicated to your success. Let’s introduce our Arvada-area home loan experts:
Leslie Larson (NMLS #449654) – Leslie is one of On Tap’s star Home Loan Consultants and has been helping members achieve homeownership for years. In fact, Leslie was voted Best Mortgage Agent/Consultant in Golden in the Colorado Community Media “Best of the Best” awards, a testament to her expertise and the trust she’s earned. She brings a wealth of knowledge on all types of loans – from first-time buyer programs to refinances – and is known for her friendly, down-to-earth approach. Leslie takes the stress out of the mortgage process by clearly explaining each step and being available to answer questions, no matter how small.
Ian Pertner (NMLS #996100) – Ian is another key member of our Home Loans team, serving Arvada and beyond. With a strong background in financial services and lending, Ian prides himself on being a “financial advocate” for his borrowers. He will take the time to understand your overall financial goals; not just push a mortgage. Ian is great at finding the right loan product for tricky scenarios and is extremely detail-oriented when it comes to the numbers. He’s also deeply rooted in Colorado and understands the local market nuances.
Leslie, Ian know the Arvada market inside and out and On Tap approves about 97% of mortgage applications – a reflection of how they find ways to say “yes” for their members wherever possible. You can contact our mortgage advisors directly at 303.279.6414 (our main number; just ask for the home loans department) or via email at homeloans@OnTapCU.org.
Well-Rated Local Mortgage Lenders in Arvada, CO
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On Tap Credit Union
Highly rated local credit union specializing in a full suite of home loan options, including low down payment programs, VA, FHA, jumbo, and first-time buyer offerings. Award-winning community lender known for personal service.
Address: 5675 Olde Wadsworth Blvd., Arvada, CO 80002
Phone: (303) 279-6414
Website: Visit website -
Community Banks of Colorado
Personalized mortgage guidance and competitive rates for Colorado residents.
Address: 12379 W 64th Ave, Arvada, CO 80004
Phone: (303) 657-7000
Website: Visit website -
FirstBank
Strong local presence and Arvada-specific mortgage products.
Address: 6350 McIntyre Pkwy, Arvada, CO 80403
Phone: (303) 423-1400
Website: Visit website -
U.S. Bank
Wide range of loan options and in-person consultations.
Address: 6350 McIntyre Pkwy, Arvada, CO 80403
Phone: (303) 423-1400
Website: Visit website -
Premier Members Credit Union
Credit union with a focus on member satisfaction in mortgage lending.
Address: 12379 W 64th Ave, Arvada, CO 80004
Phone: (303) 657-7000
Website: Visit website -
Front Range Mortgage
Licensed mortgage broker offering VA, FHA, and conventional loans.
Address: 12191 W 64th Ave #102-5, Arvada, CO 80004
Phone: (303) 524-9907
Website: Visit website -
A Home's Best Mortgage, Inc.
Mortgage broker providing customized lending solutions.
Address: 7985 Vance Dr STE 300, Arvada, CO 80003
Phone: (303) 650-9400
Website: Visit website -
Uptown Mortgage
Locally owned brokerage offering conventional, USDA, VA, and FHA loans.
Phone: (303) 839-5262
Website: Visit website
Resources & Tools
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Educational Guides and Articles: We have a wealth of educational content on our website and blog. For example, if you’re a first-time buyer, be sure to download our Free Home Buyer’s Guide. This guide walks you through the journey from application to move-in day, explaining terms and providing tips so you can focus more on finding the right home and less on worrying about the process. Our blog also features helpful articles – such as tips on improving your credit score, understanding the mortgage process, and budgeting for homeownership. If you prefer video content, check out the On Tap Videos page on our site for quick videos explaining various financial topics.
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Financial Coaching: As a member of On Tap, you have access to free financial coaching citybiz.co. This isn’t just generic advice – our certified financial coaches can help you create a plan to boost your savings, reduce debt, or improve credit in preparation for buying a home. They’ll work with you confidentially to craft a budget or strategy that meets your goals. Many of our members have taken advantage of this service to get mortgage-ready. For example, if you find you need to save a bit more for a down payment or want to figure out how to comfortably afford a certain mortgage amount, a coach can map out a savings plan or debt payoff plan. This is a tremendous resource to tap into early on.
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Online Calculators: We offer a robust set of online calculators to help you crunch numbers at your own pace. These include: Mortgage Qualifier Calculator (figure out how much you might qualify to borrow), Affordability Calculator (determine a purchase price that fits your budget), Mortgage Payment Calculator (estimate your monthly payment for a given loan), Mortgage APR Calculator (see the effect of fees on your true interest rate), Mortgage Comparison Calculator (compare two different loans side by side), Mortgage Refinance Calculator, Bi-Weekly Payment Calculator (to see how much faster you’d pay off your loan if you pay every two weeks), and more. There’s even a Rent vs. Buy Calculator for those on the fence about whether it makes sense to purchase a home. The calculators are there to give you clarity and help you plan. Mortgage Calculator
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Homebuyer Workshops and Seminars: On Tap Credit Union regularly participates in or hosts homebuying workshops; often in partnership with local community organizations. These workshops (sometimes held virtually) are free and cover the end-to-end process of buying a home in Colorado. You’ll learn about credit, financing options, the role of realtors, the inspection process, etc. Keep an eye on our “News and Events” page for announcements of upcoming workshops. .
Take action now – the Arvada housing market is dynamic, and getting your financing lined up with a great rate can give you a real edge. Let On Tap Credit Union show you why so many of your neighbors have made us their top choice for mortgages in Arvada gowestassociation.org. We’re confident that once you experience our combination of competitive rates, local expertise, and outstanding service, you’ll be raising a glass to celebrate both your new home and the decision to finance it with On Tap. Cheers to your homebuying success!