Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. PCMCU is here to help you understand the process, avoid common pitfalls, and make confident decisions from day one. Whether you’re just starting to explore or ready to make an offer, you’ll find guidance every step of the way.
PCMCU was named Green Bay’s Best Mortgage Lending Company in 2025 because we offer local expertise, great rates, and support every step of the way.
PCMCU offers a special savings account just for first-time homebuyers! It’s designed to help you save, plus reward you with an extra bonus for reaching your goal to save 10% down to avoid PMI. HomeReady Savings!
Here are some frequently asked questions about this account:
HomeReady Savings is a special savings account to help first-time homebuyers save money for a first home purchase, including a down payment and closing costs.
First-time homebuyers (those who have not owned a primary residence in the past three years) who are at least 18-years old may be eligible. You also must be a member of PCM Credit Union to qualify. Check PCMCU’s eligibility requirements here.
You can stop at any PCMCU branch or apply online to open an account. You will need to provide $250 as well as some basic personal information, such as your name, address, and social security number.
HomeReady Savings is a variable rate account. The rate may change after the account is opened and throughout the term of the savings. Please contact the credit union for the current APY and more details.
A one-time bonus of $1,500 or $2,500 may be issued to a HomeReady Savings account owner when the funds are used for a first home purchase financed through PCMCU. The bonus will be determined by your approved loan amount. If the loan amount is $250,000 or less, then the bonus will be $1,500. If the loan amount is over $250,000, then the bonus will be $2,500.
To receive the bonus, you must provide the initial deposit of $250 and make minimum monthly, re-occurring deposits of $100 via automatic transfers. The account must also be seasoned for at least 12 months prior to loan closing.
Yes, you can deposit more into the account at any time. There is no maximum limit for deposits, but you must make a minimum of $100 monthly deposits to be eligible for the bonus.
Withdrawals with no penalty will be permitted after 12 months in the event a home is purchased through PCM Credit Union with at least 10% down, the savings has reached the maximum term of 10 years, or the applicant has applied for a mortgage through PCMCU but does not qualify.
Early withdrawals prior to completing a first home purchase or before the 10-year savings term would be subject to a penalty of $5.00 or 180-days dividends, whichever is greater.
See how your savings can grow in a PCMCU HomeReady Savings account.
Our partners at GreenPath Financial Wellness offer a free, five-part online Housing 101 course designed to guide you through every step of the homebuying process, from your first “should I buy?” moment to closing day.
GreenPath also offers a wide range of resources to help you make informed home purchasing decisions. Their Housing Blog covers topics like renting versus buying, mortgage options, the homebuying process, and more.
The homebuying process is filled with unfamiliar terms and industry jargon that can be confusing for first-time buyers. This glossary breaks down common words and phrases you’ll encounter along the way.