Press Release: Beecher, IL. (June 2, 2025) - In recognition of National Homeownership Month, First Community Bank and Trust (FCBT) and the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) are encouraging consumers to consult their local community banker to make the homebuying process, simple, efficient and more affordable.

“An important component in building financial independence is owning a home,” said Wendy Hoekstra, Vice President – Retail Lending. “At First Community Bank and Trust, we aim to make homeownership as accessible and straightforward as possible. By understanding your unique needs, we can help identify the best financing options for you—whether it’s for your first or forever home.”

Tips for a Smoother Homebuying Journey:

• Explore Pre-Qualification: Before starting your home search, consider securing a pre-qualification. This helps inform what you can afford and strengthens your negotiating position with sellers.

• Build a Financial Cushion: Set aside funds to cover closing fees, repairs, and adjustments to property taxes to help manage these additional expenses and avoid surprises during the process.

• Assess your Credit Rating: A higher credit score can lead to better mortgage rates. FCBT can help review your credit report and offer tips to improve your credit before applying for a mortgage. FCBT customers can also check their credit report anytime using Credit Sense in First eBanc.

• Explore Downpayment Options: While a 20% down payment is standard, there are many programs available for lower down payments. We’ll help you explore these options to suit your financial situation.

“Homeownership is an important step toward financial stability and community building for many Americans,” said ICBA President and CEO Rebeca Romero Rainey. “Your community bank can guide you through each stage of the process, helping you understand mortgage rates, terms and related expenses, providing tailored advice and additional resources to help you make informed decisions.”

Consult your community bank for:

• Loan Guidance: Determining the ideal loan amount and products that align with your budget and lifestyle, reviewing the mortgage process in detail, and identifying programs tailored to your needs.

• Budget Planning: Providing insight into how mortgage-related costs affect your monthly budget to help you plan for the long term.

For more information on how FCBT can support your homeownership needs, visit us at www.firstcbt.bank or contact us at (708) 946-2246.

About First Community Bank and Trust
First Community Bank and Trust is a privately-owned bank. Established in 1916 First Community Bank and Trust has been serving Beecher, IL, Peotone, IL and the surrounding communities for over 109 years. Our commitment to providing the best banking products and services is matched only by our outstanding customer service. We offer traditional community banking services, including mortgage, consumer, and commercial lending, as well as state of the art electronic banking services.

Press Contact:
Steve Koehn, Senior Vice President
First Community Bank and Trust
(708) 946-2246

About ICBA
The Independent Community Bankers of America® has one mission: to create and promote an environment where community banks flourish. We power the potential of the nation’s community banks through effective advocacy, education, and innovation.

As local and trusted sources of credit, America’s community banks leverage their relationship-based business model and innovative offerings to channel deposits into the neighborhoods they serve, creating jobs, fostering economic prosperity, and fueling their customers’ financial goals and dreams. For more information, visit ICBA’s website at icba.org.

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