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Every homebuying journey looks a little different. Some buyers are purchasing their very first home, others are building their dream home, and some are looking for ways to make retirement more comfortable. No matter where you are in life, having an experienced mortgage professional by your side can make all the difference.

For Mike Kirby, VP/Regional Mortgage Lending Manager – Treasure Valley, and Jake Tolman, VP/Mortgage Loan Professional & Reverse Mortgage Specialist, helping customers reach their homeownership goals starts with listening.

Every Journey Starts with a Conversation

After years of helping families purchase homes throughout the Treasure Valley, Mike has learned that one of the biggest barriers to homeownership isn't finances—it's uncertainty.

"Many people think they need perfect credit or a large down payment before they can even talk to a lender," Mike says. "The truth is, that's exactly why we're here. We can help you understand your options and create a plan."

Mike encourages buyers to start the conversation early, even if purchasing a home is still months or years away. Meeting with a loan professional ahead of time allows buyers to improve their financial position, understand what programs they may qualify for, and confidently prepare for when the right home comes along.

His advice is simple: don't wait until you've found your dream home to begin the process.

"It's never too early to ask questions," he says. "The more prepared you are, the smoother the process will be."

For Mike, the most rewarding part of his job is helping customers achieve something that can impact generations.

"Helping families build stability through homeownership is incredibly rewarding," he says. "Knowing you've helped someone achieve one of life's biggest milestones is something special."

There's a Mortgage for Every Stage of Life

Jake knows that mortgages aren't one-size-fits-all. Throughout his career, he's helped first-time homebuyers, growing families, and retirees find financing solutions that fit their unique goals.

"As a loan officer, our job is to find the loan that's right for each individual customer," Jake says. "Everyone's situation is different, and that's why taking the time to understand their goals is so important."

As First Federal's Reverse Mortgage Specialist, Jake also works with homeowners who are planning for retirement. He believes many people don't realize the number of options available to them, whether they're purchasing a new home or looking to use the equity they've built over the years.

His biggest piece of advice?

"Ask questions," Jake says. "There are no bad questions during the mortgage process. We want our customers to understand every step and feel confident in the decisions they're making."

One of Jake's favorite moments comes at the very end of the process.

"Watching customers sign their closing documents and seeing the excitement on their faces never gets old," he says. "It's an incredible feeling knowing you've helped make that moment possible."

You've Got Someone in Your Corner

No matter where you are in your homeownership journey, you don't have to navigate it alone.

Whether you're buying your first home, building a custom home, refinancing, or exploring reverse mortgage options, First Federal's mortgage team is here to help you understand your options and guide you every step of the way.

Sometimes all it takes is one conversation to get started.

Speak to an Expert!

Learn More about Mike

Learn More about Jake