Sandy Spring Bank Lays out the Welcome Mat for First-Time Homebuyers

June is National Homeownership Month

Buying your first home can be a dream come true but navigating the process can be quite the opposite. The mortgage team at Sandy Spring Bank is ready to assist you through what seems to be a complex home buying process. In just the past year, Sandy Spring Bank has helped over 1,000 individuals and families across Maryland, Virginia and D.C. get into a home of their own.

In the interview below, Lynne Pulford, Division Executive of the mortgage division, shares how Sandy Spring Bank mortgage services are especially helpful to first-time homebuyers.

What services does Sandy Spring Bank offer first-time homebuyers?  
One new and exciting service that we started this year is complimentary First-Time Homebuyer Workshops. Our mortgage bankers will talk you through how to find the right home and the step-by-step buying process, from contract to closing. You will also learn about the value of getting pre-approved for a mortgage loan, as well as specialized down payment assistance that can help you purchase a home sooner. 

During June, and throughout the year, our mortgage bankers will also be available at select community offices to offer free advice on buying a home.   

What makes Sandy Spring Bank’s mortgage team unique? 
Our mortgage team members have established themselves as trusted advisors. We pride ourselves on building long-lasting relationships with our clients. We’re there when our clients buy their first home, their retirement home, and everywhere in between. 

We spend a lot of time listening and responding to market challenges and specific needs of the communities we serve, such as developing the welcome home program that provides affordable financing options. Additionally, our civil service loan program benefits civil service employees, such as teachers, police officers and firefighters who give so much to the communities they serve. 

What are some examples of how your team has made an impact in the lives of your clients? 
There are so many great stories we’ve heard from our clients—it’s hard to choose! One that comes to mind is when we helped a family renovate their home, making it handicap accessible for their young child. We guided them through the process—from creating a list of their needs, to counseling through all aspects of the loan process; including originating, underwriting and closing. 

Over the past year we’ve also helped several people become the first in their family to ever own a home. That’s a great feeling, for both them and us!