Now that you’re settling in to your new home, there are some important things you need to consider. The American Bankers Association recommends the following tips.

1. Create a budget.

The key to a good budget is including as much information as you can, so that you can adequately prepare and plan. It's important to keep accurate records of your spending so you can spot places to save money and know how much you can reasonably spend. ABA’s budgeting worksheet (also available in Spanish) will help you document and categorize your expenses.

2. Protect your property.

Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, you need insurance to protect your belongings. Check with your local insurance agent, you might be able to get a discount if you have things like dead bolt locks, an alarm system, or smoke detectors, or if you already have a policy with that company, like car insurance. Also, find out if you’re in a flood zone. If you’re concerned about flooding, you will need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy. Learn more at floodsmart.gov.

3. Protect your safety.

Make sure all of the locks on your doors and windows work properly. If it makes you more comfortable, look into having an alarm system installed. Also, check your fire and carbon monoxide alarms once a month to be sure they’re working. If you have a dryer, clean the lint from the entire system, from the dryer to the exterior vent cap. Lint is extremely flammable and poses a fire risk.

4. Take your tax deductions.

Be sure you know all the tax deductions associated with your move and new home. If you use a portion of your home for business purposes or moved for a new job, you may be able to take deductions. Homeowners can deduct mortgage interest, property taxes and loans for home improvements.

5. Make your house - your home.

Decorating your space will make it more comfortable and personal. Be smart about where you invest your money on improvements to ensure you’re building equity in your home. For example, updates in the kitchen and bathroom usually provide the best return on investment.

6. Save up for a rainy day.

Although life may be sunny now, it’s a good idea to create a rainy day fund. The fund should have at least three to six months of living expenses in case you or someone in your household loses a job or becomes ill and unable to work.

From Our Customers

"When clients are needing a lender, my first recommendation is Platte Valley Bank. Rob Bradshaw at the Smithville South location has been a tremendous partner in the mortgage process. Everything is done professionally and timely. He keeps all parties well informed during the whole process."

Phil W.

· Realtor Relationship

From Our Customers

"Thank you, thank you to Steve Hayward! You went above and beyond with answering questions and prompt attention on paperwork, making all it all go so smooth. You were on top of it!"

Kristy W.

Liberty, MO · Refinanced Home

From Our Customers

"I would like to commend Steve and his team of loan professionals on our recent house loan. Applying for a house loan is more complicated now then it used to be. You explained the loan process in detail, guided us each step of the way to ensure we understood your loan process, and provided a timeline. You have a very customer service oriented team, I would recommend PVB to anyone looking to secure a house loan."

Darrell B.

Kansas City, MO · New Home Purchase

From Our Customers

"Steve is very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the entire loan and closing process. He guided me throughout, answered my questions, and made sure everything was in order and timely. The process couldn't have gone any smoother. I really appreciate his work in making this happen."

Sean M.

Holt, MO · Home Purchase Remodel

From Our Customers

"Just wanted to say thank you to Jason Payne for all of his help and patience! I love my new home and I'm looking forward to spending many years here creating wonderful memories!"

Nancy L.

Kansas City, KS · Purchased New Home in 2016

From Our Customers

"We were very pleased with the professional manner that Steve addressed our questions and concerns. The entire process was a great experience with everything handled in a timely manner with all time lines met. We are truly grateful for the friendly atmosphere and casual approach Steve has to knowing and greeting his customers needs. We feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity and privilege to have worked with Steve Hayward."

William M.

Trimble, MO · Home Refinance

From Our Customers

“I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. Aaron is very responsive, got us a great rate, and he made it extremely easy on us with use of technology (only had to physically sign documents for him once). Our Realtor even commented multiple times about how great THEIR experience was with him. Overall, very impressed and would absolutely recommend.“

Reid K.

Gladstone, MO · Home Purchase

From Our Customers

"We own a very unique home and my husband and I are both self-employed, so we were prepared for a very difficult situation. She knew what documents we needed to complete, she went to work and closed on our refinance in a matter of a few weeks. It was a very smooth process, she answered our questions about refinancing. As an added bonus, she is one of the best closers I have ever worked with as a realtor. She's a 10 on a scale of 1-5!"

Anne R.

Kansas City, MO · Refinanced Home in 2015

From Our Customers

"From the first inquiring phone call to the final signing of papers, Steve Hayward at Platte Valley Bank was kind and professional. He kept us informed and responded to all our questions in a timely manner with patience and knowledge. When we came up against a hurdle, his team dug in and found the solution. We appreciate his hard work and would definitely recommend his services."

Chris & Melissa K.

Independence, MO · Home Purchase

From Our Customers

"I've had a working relationship with Platte Valley Bank and Keri Rotterman for the last 16 years. She's always professional and keeps the process running smoothly by making communication a priority. Lending guidelines are increasingly complex but Keri's knowledge and experience keep my buyers on task. She goes the extra mile to get us our ultimate goal... A new home. I believe in Keri so much that she has done my personal home loans!"

Paige S.

· Realtor Relationship

From Our Customers

"John is fantastic to work with. He knows the mortgage lending and underwriting process! He will help streamline your home loan at Platte Valley Bank and offer wonderful & competitive rates and closing costs! Five Stars!"

Gus S.

· Builder/Realtor Relationship

From Our Customers

"I am so pleased to have been referred to Rob Bradshaw by my real estate agent. He is able to combine professionalism and genuine friendliness, which makes for a very pleasant banking experience. I was treated as a person and not a number, which is rare in current corporate environments. My entire experience with Rob and staff from opening new accounts to the mortgage process has been positive."

Theresa C.

Smithville, MO · Home Purchase

From Our Customers

"Keri was phenomenal. She made the entire process from start to finish super easy and with little stress. I would highly recommend her and Platte Valley Bank to anyone looking for a home loan."

Chris S.

Platte City, MO · Bought a home in June 2016

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