They said to stay home. But they didn't say which home.

In 2020, you worked from home. You shopped from home. You staycationed from home. The point is, you might be ready for a change of scenery in 2021. If you’re in the market for a new home, here are four ways to help you save for the down payment.

Make a budget (and stick to it).

As a member, you already have free access to our budget tool within online banking and our mobile app. Set aside different amounts for different needs, and track your spending to keep pace.

Create sub savings accounts.

Once you’ve made a budget, you can use online banking to create sub savings accounts within your regular savings account. Define your sub savings accounts by name. Decide how you want to divide your money. And each month the dollars you assigned to each account will deposit automatically. The best part is your sub savings accounts can still earn up to 0.25% APY.**

Take our money, please.

With our 3% Max Checking account, you can earn nearly $450*** extra in interest every year. And with our Max Rewards Credit Card, you can earn an average of $190 in cash back every year. That’s $640 of free money.

Lower your down payment.

The easiest way to save enough for a down payment is to decrease the down payment. At LMCU, we offer multiple low down payment mortgage options with as little as 0-3% down† and participate in down payment assistance programs.

For more financial tips, check out our Wallet Wisdom blog and podcast at LMCU.org/FinancialWellness. If you’re ready to get pre-qualified, connect with one of our expert Loan Officers at LMCU.org/Mortgage or call (844) 754-6280.

**APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Rate as of 12/4/20 and subject to change after account opening. $300 minimum daily balance to avoid $5.00 monthly fee. Monthly fee waived for members with additional account relationships and those who are 23 and younger. ***Nearly $450 is earned at 3.00% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on balances of $15,000. Rate as of 12/4/20 and subject to change after account opening. No minimum balance required. Interest not paid on balances over $15,000. To earn 3.00% APY, some requirements apply. On all accounts, $5 membership required if not a member. Fees may reduce earnings. †For well-qualified borrowers.