Author: splashme@splashomnimedia.com

The holiday season can bring joy, celebration, and, let’s be honest, some financial stress. That’s why Curis Financial Credit Union is offering a seasonal solution designed to help you keep the holidays merry and manageable.

From November 3 through December 24, 2025, eligible members can apply for a Holiday Loan of up to $1,200*, with:

• 12-month repayment term
  
• 12% fixed APR

Whether you’re covering gifts, travel, or just need extra breathing room during the busiest time of the year, this short-term loan offers a clear, affordable way to access funds with a defined repayment plan and competitive rate.

Apply Now Through December 24

This offer is only available for a limited time, so don’t wait. Visit a Curis Financial branch or apply online to make the holidays happen.

Empower tomorrow. Today.

APPLY NOW

* Maximum loan amount is $1,200. APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Payment on a $1,200 loan at 12.00% APR for 12 months would be $107.09/month. Loan approval is subject to credit worthiness and credit approval. Rates, terms, and conditions of promotion are subject to change without notice.

What is a HELOC loan and why are more homeowners considering it? As property values rise and mortgage balances drop, many people are exploring ways to unlock the value in their homes without refinancing. But before you tap into your equity, it’s important to understand how the loan works, when it makes sense to use one, and what risks to be aware of.

What Is a HELOC Loan?

A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a revolving line of credit that allows you to borrow against the value of your home. Unlike a traditional loan with a fixed amount and payment, a HELOC gives you a flexible credit limit that you can use, repay, and reuse, similar to a credit card.

The amount you can borrow typically depends on your home’s value and the amount you still owe on your mortgage. At Curis Financial, we offer HELOCs that are structured to provide both flexibility and competitive terms, helping you turn your home’s equity into an affordable financial resource.

Using Home Equity to Your Advantage

Equity is the difference between your home’s market value and the remaining balance on your mortgage. It grows over time as you pay down your loan or your property appreciates. Using home equity can be a strategic move when you need access to funds for:

• Major home renovations
• Medical expenses
• Tuition or education costs
• Debt consolidation
• Emergency expenses

The key is to use equity for investments or expenses that bring long-term value or stability, not everyday purchases.

HELOC vs Home Equity Loan

While both HELOCs and home equity loans tap into the same source, your home’s equity, the structure is very different.

A home equity loan is a one-time lump sum with a fixed interest rate and predictable monthly payments. It’s ideal for a single, specific expense like a major remodel or debt consolidation.

A HELOC, on the other hand, functions more like a credit card. You’re approved for a maximum amount, but only borrow what you need, when you need it. You’ll typically have an initial “draw period” (often 10 years) where you can borrow, and a “repayment period” (generally 15 years) where you pay back the balance with interest.

The Consumer Finance Protection Bureau highlights this distinction clearly: home equity loans offer stability with fixed payments, while HELOCs provide flexibility but require more discipline to manage responsibly.

If you’re unsure which is the right choice, the team at Curis Financial can help compare options based on your unique needs.

Understanding Interest Rates

HELOC interest rates are usually variable, which means they fluctuate with market conditions. This can result in lower initial rates compared to fixed-rate loans, but your payments may rise over time.

Before choosing a HELOC, it’s essential to ask:

• What’s the current rate and how is it determined?
• Is there a cap on how high the rate can go?
• Can you convert to a fixed rate later?

How to Qualify for a HELOC

Qualifying for a HELOC depends on several factors:

• Home equity: You’ll generally need at least 20% equity in your home.
• Credit score: A history of on-time payments will reflect in a higher credit score, offering a better chance of approval.       
• Debt-to-income ratio: Lenders want to see that your income comfortably supports your monthly debt obligations.
• Stable income: Proof of employment and income is required.

Benefits and Risks of a HELOC

Like any financial tool, a HELOC offers strong advantages, but also comes with responsibilities. Understanding both sides can help you borrow with confidence.

Why consider a HELOC?

• Flexible access to funds: Borrow only what you need, when you need it.
• Interest efficiency: You pay interest only on the amount you use, not the full credit limit.
• Competitive rates: Typically lower than credit cards or unsecured loans.
• Potential tax benefits: Interest may be tax-deductible when used for home improvements (consult a tax advisor).

These features make HELOCs especially useful for home renovations, tuition payments, or consolidating higher-interest debt. You can access what you need, when you need it, without reapplying each time. Curis Financial’s HELOC options are structured to support that kind of flexibility.

What to watch out for:

• Variable interest rates: Payments may increase over time depending on market conditions.
• Collateral risk: Your home secures the loan. Missed payments could lead to foreclosure.
• Potential fees: Curis Financial does not charge fees other lenders may – whether it’s annual fees, early closure fees, or inactivity charges.

If you’re considering tapping into your equity, be sure the purpose aligns with long-term goals, not short-term wants. It’s also beneficial to review the full cost of borrowing over time. To explore more about the pros and cons, check out this detailed guide from NerdWallet.

At Curis Financial, we’ll help you weigh these factors honestly, so you can make an informed decision that supports your financial wellness, not just today, but years down the line. Learn more about our HELOC solutions and find out if a HELOC fits your financial plan.

Money mistakes to avoid aren’t always the dramatic kind. More often, they show up as quiet habits, easy to overlook but costly in the long run. With fall often bringing increased spending, tighter schedules, and financial distractions, now’s the time to review the patterns that could be working against your goals.

1. Ignoring Your Budget – How to Better Manage Money

A budget isn’t just about limits, it’s about clarity. Without one, your finances are reactive. You’re spending, borrowing, and saving based on impulse or guesswork, which makes it hard to spot problems until they’re already hurting your cash flow.

Rather than tracking every penny manually, start with a simple strategy: categorize fixed expenses, estimate variable ones, and assign every dollar a purpose. Tools like the Savings Goal Calculator from Curis Financial can help make these goals tangible instead of theoretical.

What you don’t measure, you can’t improve. And if you’re constantly unsure of where your money goes, chances are you’re spending more than you think. Clarity today prevents a crisis tomorrow.

2. Credit Card Mistakes That Can Lead to Long-Term Debt

It’s easy to fall into the habit of using credit for everyday purchases and justifying it with points or rewards. But once balances start to carry over, the real cost begins.

Paying only the minimum due each month doesn’t just prolong debt, it amplifies it. Investopedia notes that long-term credit card debt is among the most expensive forms of borrowing, often with interest rates exceeding 20%.

Before you reach for your card, ask: is this a purchase I can pay off in full this month? If not, consider waiting or using cash. If you’re already carrying balances, the Loan Calculator at Curis Financial can help you see how faster payments could reduce your total interest paid.

3. The Snowball Effect – Debt Management Tips

Debt rarely feels like a major issue until it is. It usually starts small: a balance carried over here, a delayed payment there. But over time, these decisions compound, quietly weakening your financial position.

This is where proactive debt management matters. Structured approaches like the snowball or avalanche method can help you not only reduce debt, but build confidence as you go and show a clear path forward.

For those struggling to find that path, working with a nonprofit counseling service like GreenPath Financial Wellness, available through Curis Financial, can be transformative. Their counselors help you analyze your full financial picture, negotiate with creditors when needed, and create an actionable repayment plan. It’s confidential, free to members, and designed to help you break the cycle for good.

4. Skipping Emergency and Goal-Based Savings

Most people understand the importance of saving, but far fewer do it with purpose. An account labeled “savings” isn’t helpful if it’s constantly drained for everyday spending. Emergency savings should be separate, accessible, and untouched unless absolutely necessary. Likewise, saving for goals like travel, holidays, tuition, or even home repairs, requires more than intention. It requires automation and structure.

Curis Financial offers savings accounts designed for both. More importantly, you can set clear, trackable goals using Curis’s Savings Goal Calculator, helping you move from vague ideas like “I should save more“, to concrete action.

Skipping this step often means relying on credit during emergencies, which then ties back into the debt cycle. As NPR recently pointed out, one of the biggest barriers to financial progress is using debt as a stand-in for savings. Creating a consistent deposit schedule today will protect you from major setbacks tomorrow.

5. Other Personal Finance Tips You Can’t Afford to Overlook

Even when budgeting and saving are in place, there are still quieter, more subtle mistakes that can drag down your financial health over time.

Failing to check your credit reports regularly leaves you vulnerable to fraud or errors that can hurt your ability to borrow affordably. Forgetting to contribute to retirement, especially if you have an employer match, is like turning down free money.

Start with One Step Today

Financial wellness isn’t about doing everything at once. It’s about doing the next right thing. If any of these issues sound familiar, you’re not alone and you don’t have to fix them all at once. Whether it’s opening a dedicated savings account, scheduling a debt consultation, or simply tracking your spending for the next 30 days, progress begins with one intentional step. Explore Curis Financial’s financial tools and resources, set your savings goals, or reach out to talk with someone who’s here to help.

Elder financial abuse is on the rise, and it’s costing older adults their life savings. According to a recent Federal Trade Commission (FTC) report, seniors are being targeted by scammers impersonating banks, tech companies, and government agencies. These fraudsters create fake emergencies and trick victims into handing over thousands of dollars, often under the illusion of “protecting” their money.

Why Online Scams Are Increasing and Why Seniors Are Targeted

The FTC found that losses reported by adults 60+ to government and business impostor scams have quadrupled since 2020. In 2024 alone, older Americans reported $445 million in losses, often representing life savings wiped out in a matter of hours.

Seniors are targeted because:

• They often have more financial assets.
• They may not be as familiar with evolving technology or scam tactics.
• They’re more likely to trust institutions and respond politely to perceived authority.

Common Impostor Scams: How Fraudsters Trick Older Adults

These scams work by triggering fear or urgency, then offering a fake solution, usually one that involves transferring money to “protect” it.

The FTC outlines three common lies:

1. “Someone is using your accounts” – A scammer claims to be from your bank or a company like Amazon, flagging suspicious activity.
2. “Your identity is linked to a crime” – Someone pretending to be a government agent warns that your Social Security number is tied to criminal activity.
3. “There’s a security issue with your computer” – Fake pop-up alerts push you to call tech support scammers who then gain access to your finances.

These impostors often appear convincing, using fake caller IDs, professional-looking emails, and urgent scripts designed to disarm even cautious adults.

Cybersecurity Tips for Seniors and Family Caregivers

Keeping seniors safe online is a shared responsibility. Start with these practical tips:

• Pause before responding. Never act on fear. Always verify unexpected calls or emails.
• Don’t click unknown links. 
• Be cautious of texts or emails claiming to be from financial institutions or the government.
• Enable alerts. Set up text or email notifications for suspicious account activity.
• Use strong, unique passwords. Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts.
• Discuss scams openly. Creating a safe space to talk about money mistakes can prevent future losses.

Curis Financial is committed to your security. Explore Identity Theft Protection resources to learn how to safeguard your personal information and respond to potential threats.

What to Do If You Suspect Financial Abuse or a Scam

Time is critical when dealing with elder financial exploitation. Take these steps immediately:

1. Stop communication with the suspected scammer.
2. Report the fraud to the FTC and local authorities.
3. Notify Curis Financial so we can help protect the member’s accounts and take fraud prevention steps.
4. Keep documentation (emails, call logs, receipts) for investigators.

Financial Fraud Protection Resources from Curis Financial

At Curis Financial, member protection is more than a feature, it’s a priority.

Here’s how we help safeguard you and your family:

• Identity Theft Protection resources
• Debit and credit card controls
• Alerts for suspicious activity
• Personalized fraud support
• Financial coaching and support for vulnerable members

If you believe you or a loved one may be at risk, don’t wait. Our team is here to help.

Financial wellness isn’t about having a perfect budget or never making a financial mistake. It’s about feeling in control of your finances and building habits that support your long-term goals, especially during seasons of spending, like the upcoming holidays. If your budget has gotten off track this year, fall is the ideal time to regroup before things get hectic.

1. Use a Personal Finance Checklist to Assess Where You Stand

Every journey starts with a check-in. A good personal finance checklist isn’t about nitpicking every line item. Instead, it helps you get a clear picture of where your money is going, what’s working, and where things could improve.

Start by reviewing:

• Your current income
• Fixed expenses (like rent or mortgage)
• Variable spending (groceries, dining out, entertainment)
• Savings account balances
• Outstanding debt or loan payments

Then, ask yourself a few honest questions:

• Am I saving consistently?
• Do I know how much I spend in a typical week?
• Are surprise expenses throwing off my budget?

This kind of self-assessment helps you identify what needs attention before the holidays, and that awareness is a powerful first step toward financial wellness.

For a deeper dive, Curis Financial offers helpful tools like our savings goal calculator, which can guide you in setting realistic, achievable targets.

2. Break Bad Spending Patterns with Smart Money Habits

Old habits are hard to break, especially when they’re tied to convenience or stress. But fall is a great time to pause and rebuild your routines. 

Try incorporating good habits like:

• Reviewing your bank transactions once a week
• Setting weekly spending limits
• Using cash instead of cards for discretionary purchases

One common barrier to financial wellness is spending that happens without much thought. You might not notice how quickly $6 coffees and $15 takeout orders add up until they’re hurting your monthly cash flow. The good news is that awareness leads to change. Small, repeated actions (like checking your balance before buying or planning meals in advance) can slowly shift your entire financial trajectory.

3. Learn How to Avoid Overspending During the Holiday Season

The holidays are a joyful time, but they can also become a financial minefield if you’re not prepared. If you want to stay grounded, it’s worth learning how to avoid overspending before the pressure to buy gifts and attend every event kicks in.

Start by creating a clear seasonal budget that includes:

• Gifts
• Travel
• Food
• Decorations or events

Once that’s in place, consider shopping earlier to avoid last-minute splurges. It’s also helpful to limit impulse buying by sticking to a written list. 

Another way to plan ahead is by using a dedicated savings account for holiday expenses, like a Holiday Club account. It allows you to contribute small amounts throughout the year, and then access those funds just before the season begins. This kind of built-in structure makes it easier to avoid credit card debt or dipping into your emergency savings when November rolls around.

4. Automate Your Savings to Stay Consistent Through the Fall

If saving feels like a chore, it might be time to take yourself out of the process. Automation is one of the simplest ways to maintain momentum, and it supports financial wellness by keeping your goals on track even when life gets busy.

Set up an automatic transfer from your checking account to a dedicated savings account each time you get paid. It doesn’t have to be a huge amount, even $20 a week adds up. What matters most is consistency.

Automated savings also make it easier to recover from unexpected expenses because you’re slowly building a buffer. You’re less likely to rely on credit cards when you have something set aside for emergencies or planned purchases.

If you’re not sure how much to set aside, that’s where a savings calculator can help. It’s a simple way to reverse-engineer your savings goals and see what’s possible based on your income and timeline.

5. Tap Into Financial Coaching for Long-Term Success

One of the most underutilized tools for building lasting financial wellness is financial coaching. A coach isn’t there to judge your spending or tell you what you can and can’t do. They’re there to help you see the bigger picture and build a strategy that fits your life. At Curis Financial, we believe in providing the tools to help our members achieve long-term financial wellness. That’s why we offer educational resources and personalized guidance through our financial education programs. Whether you’re creating a budget for the first time or looking to improve your credit score, having someone in your corner can make all the difference.

If you’ve ever wondered when to refinance a car loan, you’re not alone, and you’re asking a good question. Refinancing can be a powerful financial tool, but only when done at the right time, and for the right reasons. As the year winds down, many people find themselves reevaluating their budgets, setting goals for the next 12 months, and asking: “Could I be paying less for this loan?”

Let’s explore what refinancing really means, how to know when it’s worth it, and whether it makes sense to make a move before the calendar flips to 2026.

What Does Refinancing Do: The Basics

At its core, refinancing means replacing your existing loan with a new one. That new loan might offer a lower interest rate, a shorter term, or more manageable monthly payments.

But it’s not just about getting a better rate. Refinancing can help people:

• Switch from a variable to a fixed interest rate for predictability
• Free up cash flow during tighter financial seasons

In fact, many people don’t even realize they can refinance their car loan, even though it could save them money, particularly if they originally financed through a dealership, which often comes with higher interest rates and costs for after-sale add-on products. Bankrate suggests that borrowers with improved credit, or those early in their loan term, are the best candidates for auto loan refinancing.

Curis Financial Credit Union offers competitive car refinance rates with flexible payment options and no early payoff penalties. If you’re curious how it could help your budget, you can check out our auto loan refinance page.

That’s the big picture, but the question remains: when does it actually make sense?

When to Refinance: How to Know the Timing is Right

There’s no universal “best time” to refinance. It depends on the market and your life. But a few scenarios can signal it’s time to take a closer look:

1. Rates Have Dropped Since You Got Your Loan
   If your original loan came with a high interest rate and current market rates are noticeably lower, refinancing could reduce your total repayment cost by thousands of dollars. Even a one-point drop can make a big difference over time.
   
2. Your Credit Has Improved
   Credit scores influence loan terms more than many people realize. If you’ve been steadily paying bills, paying down debt, and keeping balances low, your credit score may have climbed enough to qualify you for a better deal than when you first borrowed.
   
3. Your Financial Goals Have Shifted
   Sometimes life changes faster than your loan terms. Maybe you’re aiming to pay off your car faster to reduce total interest, or you need to stretch your loan term to make monthly payments more manageable. Refinancing gives you the flexibility to realign your debt with your current financial priorities.

Getting a Refinance Loan with a Credit Union: Why It’s Different

Big banks and online lenders may advertise aggressive rates, but credit unions like Curis Financial Credit Union often offer more personalized service and member-friendly terms. That includes:

• Lower fees
• Competitive rates
• Guidance from people who actually know your community

Credit unions are not-for-profit and member-owned, which means the goal is your financial well-being, not maximizing shareholder returns. Refinancing through Curis Financial isn’t just a transaction; it’s a reflection of our commitment to serving our member community.

Refinance Benefits: What You Could Gain by the End of the Year

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here’s a simple rule of thumb: If you haven’t looked into your loan terms in over a year, or your finances have changed significantly, it’s probably worth having the conversation.

You may not need to act right now, but understanding your options can help you feel more in control and better prepared for whatever comes next.

If you’re ready to explore what’s possible, our team at Curis Financial is here to help you run the numbers, compare scenarios, and decide whether a refinance loan is the smart next step for you.

Want to dig deeper? You can explore auto loan refinance options directly on our website, or reach out to a team member. We’re always happy to talk through your goals and help you make a confident, informed decision.

Back to school savings can feel like a second job during this time of year. Whether you’re preparing your kindergartener for crayons and snack packs or helping your college-bound teen navigate dorm life and financial aid, Curis Financial Credit Union is here to help you with back to school savings. Let’s walk through budgeting tips and tools that work for every stage of education, from the basics to the big transitions.

Make the Most of Your Back-to-School Budget This Year

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by school supply wishlists, but taking time to plan your budget can stretch your dollars further. Start with a simple checklist and compare prices online before heading into stores.

Don’t forget to factor in things beyond supplies: activity fees, clothing, lunch plans, and transportation all add up quickly. A little planning goes a long way. When you know what you’re working with, it’s easier to make budget-friendly choices and avoid those ‘how did we spend that much?’ moments.

Kindergarten & Elementary School: Start with the Basics

You don’t need to buy everything at once. Start with what your child needs the first few weeks, then space out other purchases. For more practical ways to save on early school year costs, this back-to-school savings guide has some great tips for families with younger kids.

Now is also a great time to start building healthy money habits. Opening a savings account at Curis Financial can help your child learn how to set aside a bit of birthday cash or allowance. It doesn’t take much to get started, and those early habits often stick for life.

Middle School: Prepping for Independence

Middle schoolers often come with bigger opinions and bigger price tags. Tablets, sports equipment, and more complex schedules mean more costs. Get them involved in budgeting by letting them compare options or choose between two “wants.” This is a perfect moment to talk about value, cost, and saving up for the extras.

Set savings goals together for things like school trips or electronics. Club savings accounts from Curis Financial can help them (and you) plan ahead for seasonal spending without last-minute panic.

High School: Planning for Teen Needs and New Expenses

Between extracurriculars, cars, part-time jobs, and college prep, high schoolers are expensive. Encourage your teen to contribute to their own expenses by budgeting their income from summer or part-time work. It’s also the right time to start discussing credit, especially if they’re getting their first job or opening a checking account.

Help them build financial independence with a savings account. It’s not just about discipline, it’s about education, and Curis Financial is here to support both.

College: Big Transitions, Bigger Budgets, But Smart Savings

College brings major money moves. Between tuition, books, living expenses, and that weekly coffee habit, students can quickly lose track of spending. Help your college student create a simple monthly budget that includes financial aid, scholarships, and any side income.

Encourage them to apply for student-friendly financing like the Smart Option Student Loan through Curis Financial. Also, teach them how to research financial aid tips and compare costs beyond tuition: housing, meal plans, even transportation.

Want to go deeper? Check out this helpful guide on how much to save and spend depending on your child’s stage.

Credit Union Tools to Help You Save at Every Stage

Curis Financial offers more than just savings accounts. Our back-to-school club accounts let you automatically set aside money throughout the year so you’re not scrambling every August. We also offer financial resources, coaching, and mobile banking to keep everything at your fingertips.

Whether you’re just beginning the school journey or navigating college, Curis Financial is here to help you stay on track, spend wisely, and plan with purpose.

A mid-year financial health check is one of the smartest habits you can build to stay in control of your finances and finish the year strong. Now is a great time to step back and make sure your goals (whether it’s saving for a home, paying down debt, or building better habits) are still on track.At Curis Financial Credit Union, we’re here to help you take the stress out of personal finance, and turn it into progress. Let’s walk through a few key areas to assess your financial wellness and plan for a strong second half of 2025.

Self-Assessment: What Does Financial Wellness Mean to You?

Before diving into numbers, take a moment to reflect on what financial wellness means to you. It’s more than just paying bills on time, it’s about feeling secure, empowered, and moving towards your goals. The National Credit Union Foundation’s Financial Well-being Quickstart Guide offers a helpful framework for evaluating where you are and where you want to go.

Ask yourself:

• Am I prepared for unexpected expenses?
• Do I feel confident managing my day-to-day finances?
• Am I making consistent progress toward my savings goals?

The answers will help guide the rest of your mid-year review.

Review and Refresh Your Budgeting Strategies and Savings Goals

Halfway through the year is a great time to check in on your budgeting strategies. Think back on whether or not your income or spending has changed. Have new expenses popped up? Are there any that you can now cut?

Common budgeting mistakes in Q3 and Q4 include:

• Forgetting to account for seasonal expenses (back-to-school, holidays)
• Not adjusting for changes in bills (like rising utilities or insurance premiums)
• Setting unrealistic saving targets that derail your motivation

Try our Savings Goal Calculator to revisit your targets and create a personalized plan that works with your current budget.Don’t have a budget yet? Check out this guide to a mid-year financial checkup from U.S. News to help you get started.

Credit Check: Why Low Credit Card Interest Rates Matter More Than Ever

If you carry any credit card balances, summer is the ideal time for a quick credit check. Interest rates have surged in recent years, and according to CBS News, the average rate is now over 20%.

That makes managing credit card debt, and securing low credit card interest rates, more important than ever. Start by:

• Reviewing your credit report for errors
• Paying more than the minimum balance each month
• Exploring balance transfer offers or lower-rate cards

Set Realistic Financial Goals for the Rest of 2025

Now that you’ve checked your budget and reviewed your credit, it’s time to set clear, realistic financial goals for the next six months. This could mean:

• Building an emergency fund
• Paying down a specific amount of debt
• Saving for a holiday trip or year-end expenses

Be honest with yourself about what’s achievable, and be sure to revisit your goals monthly. Keep an eye out for “budget busters” like holiday shopping or last-minute travel, and build in some buffer room to avoid last-quarter stress.

Need help creating a plan? Curis Financial is here for you with digital tools, financial coaching, and loan options designed to fit real-life budgets. Connect with us and take control of your financial wellness.

Let Curis Financial Help You Stay on Track

Think of a financial wellness check-up like hitting pause, not to stress over what’s gone wrong, but to refocus on what still matters. There’s still time to shift gears, strengthen your habits, and move closer to the goals that matter most.

Curis Financial is here to walk the path with you, whether you’re fine-tuning your budget, cutting back on high-interest debt, or saving with intention.

Buying a home in South Carolina has been a dream for many, thanks to the South’s warm climate, charming communities, and growing economy. But with fluctuating interest rates and mixed signals in the housing market, you might be wondering, “Should I buy a house now?” 

South Carolina Homes: What’s Happening in the Market Right Now?

The South Carolina housing market has cooled compared to the frenzied activity of recent years, creating new opportunities for prospective buyers. Fewer homes are selling above asking price, and more sellers are lowering prices to attract offers. While home prices are still higher than before the pandemic, they’ve started to level out. Mortgage rates remain in the 6.5% to 7% range, but experts are hopeful for some relief later in 2025. 

The market is showing resilience in high-demand areas like Columbia, Greenville, and Charleston. For buyers who are financially prepared, this could be an ideal time to make a move, especially with guidance from a trusted credit union like Curis Financial.

When Is the Best Time to Purchase a Home?

In South Carolina, spring and summer bring more listings, but also more competition. Fall offers less selection, but sellers may be more willing to negotiate, especially if their home has been on the market a while.

Historically, fall and winter tend to offer better deals for homebuyers due to reduced competition. However, this isn’t a hard rule. According to Forbes, timing your home purchase depends more on your personal finances and local market conditions than the calendar.

Pros and Cons of Buying a House Now

Wondering if now’s the right time to be buying a home in SC? Like most big decisions, it comes with trade-offs. Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons to help you weigh your options:

Pros:

• Less buyer competition than during the pandemic peak
• Sellers may offer incentives (closing costs, repairs, etc.)
• Future refinancing potential if rates drop
• Access to local home loan options through Curis Financial

Cons:

• Interest rates remain higher than historical lows
• Inventory is improving but still tight in some areas
• Property insurance and taxes may be rising in some counties
  

Still unsure? PBS NewsHour suggests this year could bring rate relief and better affordability. However, if you’re financially ready now, waiting might not necessarily lead to savings.

Home Buying Tips for First-Time South Carolina Buyers

Buying a home can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. With these essential buying tips, you can better prepare for the home buying process:

1. Check your credit and work on improving your score. Need help? Here’s a quick guide.
2. Get pre-approved. This shows sellers you’re serious and helps you understand your budget.
3. Work with a local lender. Through our relationship with The Servion Group, we offer mortgage options tailored for South Carolinians, especially first-time buyers.
4. Know your market. Look at neighborhood trends, not just price.
5. Budget beyond the mortgage. Factor in closing costs, maintenance, property taxes, and insurance.

Remember: don’t just panic buy. The right home for you is out there, so it’s important to be patient and stay informed.

Curis Financial and The Servion Group

Our dedicated specialists guide you through each step of the process. We’re here to help you navigate the homebuying process with confidence. Here’s what you can expect:

• Tailored mortgage options, including FHA, USDA, and VA loans
• Competitive rates with low closing costs and flexible terms
• Local expertise to help you understand the South Carolina market
• Digital tools and real, human support from application to closing
  

Buying a home is a huge milestone, so it’s important to make sure you do it right. Our team is here to help make sure you’re taken care of every step of the way.