Helping First-Time Buyers Find Their First Home

Helping young families settle into their first home is one of the most rewarding parts of our role at Clonmel Credit Union.

"We get families into homes. That's what it's all about," commented Richard, our Mortgage Advisor. "It's not about chasing a mortgage or ticking boxes. It's about that shift, when a family who've never owned a home before walks through their front door and knows it's theirs. That's why we do it," he says.

One local family that we were delighted to assist with a Clonmel Credit Union mortgage was that of the well-known local broadcaster and DJ, Owen Lonergan.

We were thrilled that Owen agreed to share his voice with us and tell us about his mortgage experience.

A First-Time Buyer and Family Home

"My name is Owen Lonergan. I work on a local radio station in Tipperary. I have a young family and a fiancée," said the man who really needs no introduction!

Owen was a first-time buyer and came to us to find a family home as he was about to start a new chapter, including getting married and raising a young family.

At this stage of life, people want to be grounded. They're looking for stability, to nest and strengthen their roots within a community. Home ownership is a hugely important practical step, but it also brings peace of mind for growing families like Owen's.

For first-time buyers and switchers, our job is to guide them and give them friendly, professional advice at every step of the application and buying process. We will discuss your requirements and look at how we can package the ideal mortgage for you. We aim to prepare the application and take the hassle out of the whole process for you.

As Owen explains, "It was the one-on-one communication that I liked. Richard in the mortgage department and Rachel were just unbelievable. Other lenders, I don't think they can compete with Clonmel Credit Union on the personal level."

First-Time Buyers and Switchers

We want every homeowner to turn the keys to their new home with faith in their financial well-being. We'll work alongside buyers to ensure clarity and confidence at every stage of the journey.

First-time buyers can borrow up to four times their gross income. Second and subsequent buyers can borrow up to 3.5 times their gross income. In both cases, borrowers can access up to 90% of the property's value.

The overall monthly loan repayments, including the mortgage and other financial commitments such as car loans or credit cards, cannot exceed 40% of your net monthly income.

Leaving the last word to Owen, we wanted to know if he would recommend Clonmel Credit Union to his friends and family.

"If anybody's out there in any doubt about who to go with for a mortgage, hands down Clonmel Credit Union is the only one I would ever recommend," he said.

When a mortgage finally comes through, it is not just paperwork. It is not just an approval letter. It is a new beginning. Security within your own four walls. A home is your castle, and there's no place like home!

We Would Love to Hear From You

Starting your mortgage journey does not have to feel daunting. Richard and the team are here to help, with no pressure and no obligation. Whether you prefer to drop us an email, pick up the phone, or simply call in for a chat, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Email mortgages@clonmelcu.com, call us on 1800 945 987, or come and see us at our Parnell Street branch in Clonmel. We will put the kettle on.

Variable Rate 3.95% (4.02% APR). Loans are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. Loan Protection is provided to eligible members at no extra cost. In the event of death, the outstanding loan may be repaid. Terms and conditions of cover apply.

Owen Lonergan works at a local radio station in Tipperary and spent 15 years renting before buying a home for his young family. He discovered Clonmel Credit Union's mortgage offering through his work, and when the right property came up, everything fell into place.

"Hands down, Clonmel Credit Union is possibly the only one I would ever recommend," he says.

What stood out was the personal service from Richard and Rachel in the mortgage department. Having compared other lenders, Owen is clear that no one else comes close on a personal level.