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Your path to home ownership starts with this Austin community bank

Top view of nuclear family with small daughters sitting on sofa in their new home. Young family buying a first house, big milestone and home ownership concept.

SouthStar Bank can make buying a home a reality. Getty Images

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For over a century, SouthStar Bank has been a cornerstone of the Texas community, dedicated to fostering financial growth and stability for its residents.

With a deep-rooted commitment to personalized service, the bank offers a variety of mortgage solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of homebuyers in Austin and beyond.

Whether you're a traditional homebuyer, a first-time purchaser, a veteran, a Spanish-speaking client, or are utilizing an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), SouthStar Bank has a program designed to help.

Traditional Mortgage Program
SouthStar Bank's Traditional Mortgage Program is ideal for those seeking conventional loan options.

This program offers competitive rates and flexible terms, ensuring that buyers can find a mortgage solution that fits their financial situation.The bank's experienced loan officers guide you through each step of the process, making homeownership both accessible and straightforward.

H.O.P.E. Program
Understanding that not all potential homeowners have a standard financial profile, SouthStar Bank introduced the H.O.P.E. (Home Ownership Possibilities Expanded) Program.

This initiative is designed to assist those who may face challenges qualifying for traditional mortgages, such as limited credit history or unique income situations.By considering alternative credit criteria and offering flexible terms, the H.O.P.E. Program opens doors for many to achieve their dream of owning a home.

ITIN Mortgage Lending
Recognizing the vibrant and diverse population of Texas, SouthStar Bank offers the ITIN Mortgage Lending Program.

This program is specifically tailored for individuals who do not have a Social Security Number but possess an ITIN.It provides an opportunity for non-citizen residents to secure mortgage financing, reflecting the bank's commitment to inclusivity and support for all community members.

VA Mortgage Program
In honor of the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women, SouthStar Bank provides the VA Mortgage Program.

This program offers veterans and active-duty military personnel favorable loan terms, including options for no down payment and competitive interest rates.It's a testament to the bank's dedication to giving back to those who have served our country.

Star Advantage Program
For clients seeking customized mortgage solutions, the Star Advantage Program offers bank-held portfolio loans. This program is ideal for unique financing needs that may not fit traditional secondary market guidelines. By keeping these loans in-house, SouthStar Bank can provide flexible terms and personalized service, ensuring that clients receive a mortgage solution tailored to their specific circumstances.

In your community
SouthStar Bank's commitment to the community extends beyond banking services.In Austin, the bank actively participates in local events, supports neighborhood initiatives, and collaborates with organizations that aim to improve the quality of life for residents.

By building strong relationships and investing in community development, SouthStar Bank strives to make a positive impact in the areas it serves.

Connecting with SouthStar Bank in Austin
If you're interested in exploring mortgage options or learning more about the bank's services, SouthStar Bank's Austin lending team is ready to assist.You can expect personalized guidance, a deep understanding of the local real estate market, and a commitment to finding the best mortgage solution for your needs.

Locate your nearest branch to speak directly with a loan officer, or visit the SouthStar Bank website to explore your mortgage options and get started with pre-qualification.

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All loans subject to approval. Other fees and restrictions may apply. SouthStar Bank NMLS #410624. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

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First-time Homebuyers Guide

Spring Showings

Competition among Austin-area homebuyers set to heat up in mid-April

This newly listed home in South Austin (7337 Menchaca Rd. Unit 31) shows how nice a spring open house can look. realtor.com

If you’re a first-time homebuyer in the Austin metro area, beware of mid-April.

A new study from Austin-based Realtor.com shows that in 2025, the best time to list a home for sale in the Austin area is the week of April 13. This translates into stepped-up competition among homebuyers during that time frame.

Why is the week of April 13 such a popular time to put a home on the market in the Austin area? Brandy Wuensch, president of the Austin Board of Realtors and Unlock MLS, offers three reasons:

Springtime offers a pleasant climate for open houses, leading to more potential buyers touring homes.
Buyers often prefer to move in the spring so they can settle into a new home before the start of the school year in the fall.
Homes listed during this week historically generate more buying activity, and can sell more quickly and at higher prices compared with earlier in the year. According to Realtor.com, the list price of a typical Austin-area home during the week of April 13 is $47,000, or 9.6 percent, above what the list price would have been at the beginning of the year.

“This period tends to hit the sweet spot — buyer demand is high, inventory is still manageable, and sellers are well-positioned to benefit from heightened competition,” says Wuensch, founder and broker-owner of Cedar Park-based City View Realty Group.

For homebuyers, especially first-timers, that heightened competition could be an obstacle in the hunt for a home.

Wuensch says homebuyers should be ready to quickly pounce on a desired home during the week of April 13. She recommends that buyers obtain mortgage pre-approval ahead of that period to demonstrate they’re serious about making a purchase.

“With homes likely to receive multiple offers, be prepared to make swift and competitive bids,” says Wuensch.

Also, determine in advance your must-haves and nice-to-haves before wading into the crowded pool of buyers, she advises.

“Staying informed about market activity and working closely with a professional agent can give you an edge, offering timely insights and access to new listings as they hit the market,” Wuensch adds.

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