Homegrown Homeownership: Advice from Those Who've Been There
07/15/2026
By: Madi Reynolds
Buying a home is one of the biggest milestones in life. Even the mortgage professionals who help families every day remember exactly what it felt like to buy their first home.
Kim Shelley: Buy the Home, Rent the Rate
For Kim Shelley, Mortgage Loan Professional at First Federal Bank, home has always been about more than a house.
"Home means everything," she says. "It's where you feel safe, comfortable, and at peace."
When Kim purchased her home six years ago, her first priority was simple: save for the down payment and closing costs. Today, she encourages buyers to think beyond interest rates and focus on the long-term value of homeownership.
"Buy the home and rent the rate," Kim says. "Don't let today's rates stop you from buying. Rates change, and you can refinance when they come down but you can't go back and buy yesterday's home prices."
She also encourages buyers to be cautious when shopping for a home. While a fixer-upper may seem like a bargain, unexpected repairs can quickly become expensive, especially for first-time buyers who may have limited savings after closing.
One of Kim's biggest recommendations is to ask questions.
"Always ask about special programs," she says. "Chances are we have something that can help."
Whether it's down payment assistance, financing options, or guidance through the process, Kim believes having a conversation with a lender early can open doors buyers didn't know existed.
Her favorite part of the job is watching families experience the excitement of becoming homeowners and seeing the joy that comes on closing day when they receive the keys to a place they can truly call their own.
Tyler Bringhurst: Start Early and Ask Questions
When Tyler Bringhurst began thinking about buying his first home, he didn't start by browsing listings—he started by asking for help.
"I talked with a loan officer to learn what first-time homebuyer benefits were available, created a budget, and got pre-qualified," he says. "I knew what monthly payment I could afford, and my loan officer helped me with the rest."
Five years later, Tyler still lives in the starter home that fit both his budget and his family's needs. Looking back, he says preparation made all the difference.
"Ask early, start early," he says. "Don't wait until things get emotional. Planning ahead allows you to buy with confidence instead of stress."
His advice for first-time buyers is straightforward: save consistently, stay disciplined, and don't be afraid to ask questions. From down payment assistance and grants to credit requirements and loan options, understanding what's available can make homeownership more attainable than many people realize.
"You never know what's possible until you ask," Tyler says.
For Tyler, helping local families purchase a home is about much more than financing.
"Seeing the joy people have when they're buying something that's truly their own is incredible," he says. "It's a place where they can build their life."
His favorite part of closing day is celebrating the accomplishment alongside his customers as they achieve a goal they've often dreamed about for years.
You've Got Someone in Your Corner
Every homebuying journey is different, but one thing remains the same: you don't have to navigate it alone.
Whether you're just beginning to save, wondering if you're ready to buy, or exploring programs that could make homeownership possible, First Federal's Mortgage Loan Professionals are here to help. They've been where you are, and they're passionate about helping more Idaho families find a place to call home.