The internet is ingrained in everything we do, from paying bills to shopping for a home. Among all generations of home buyers, the first step in the home search process is to look online for properties, according to the National Association of Realtors’ 2022 Home Buyer and Seller Generation Trends report.
With so much information available at your fingertips it can be hard to make sense of it all, especially for a process as complicated as a home purchase. The study also found first-time home buying among younger generations is on the rise, with over four out of five younger millennial home buyers (81%) purchasing for the first time. Just under half (48%) of older millennial buyers were first-time buyers, making it even more imperative to have a firm understanding of the factors involved in purchasing a home.
That’s where a community bank like WCF Financial Bank comes in. Our expert lenders can help explain not only what you can afford and what to expect during the process, but other factors to consider when determining the right time to buy a home.
During National Homeownership Month in June, WCF Financial Bank wants to remind you to contact us for help with the homebuying process. Even if you are not ready to take the plunge just yet, we can help you to establish a budget and set financial targets, so that when the time is right, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to secure the keys to a home of your own.
If you are interested in buying a home, please visit one of our knowledgeable lenders!
Brad CheyneVice President / LendingWebster City(515) 832-1973NMLS ID: 1206542
Meet Brad Cheyne
Vice President / Lending
With 6 years of insurance experience, 7 years in business and 15 years in banking under his belt, Brad is well-positioned to serve WCF’s clients as vice president of lending. A self-described straight talker, he is committed to making the lending process efficient and smooth. Brad earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and mathematics from Loras College. He pitched for men’s fastpitch softball for 20 years, including at the world tournament in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. When he’s not busy with work, you might find him in a duck blind or out fishing with his two beautiful children.
Julie E. OlmsteadAssistant Vice President / LendingWebster City(515) 832-1752NMLS ID: 2136879
Meet Julie E. Olmstead
Assistant Vice President / Lending
Julie joined the bank as a teller in 1998. She has more than 23 years of experience in many aspects of banking with WCF. Even though the banking industry has changed over the years, the one thing that has not changed for Julie is her passion for helping others. She was born and raised in Webster City, where she resides with her husband, Dale. She has two grown sons, Nicholas and Brett. Julie belongs to St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church and serves her ministry in many ways. She enjoys running, biking, skiing, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Senior Vice President / Independence Market President
Stephanie joined the WCF team in 2002 while attending Webster City High School. She has held many roles during her career, beginning in the Webster City office before moving to the Independence branch. Today she is part of the bank’s Executive team and serves as the Market President in Independence with responsibilities for the growth and oversight of that office. She also is the bank’s Compliance Officer, a lender, and is instrumental in the bank’s employee training efforts.
Upon graduation from Webster City High School, Steph earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Buena Vista University, and later completed the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She earned additional certifications in Executive Leadership from the Wisconsin School of Business, as well as from the Iowa Bankers Association Compliance School. In 2021 Stephanie was honored as one of six recipients of the prestigious Bank Beat Magazine Outstanding Women in Banking. She and her husband live in Independence and are very involved in their children’s activities, and she serves as the Relay for Life Treasurer.
Kelly J. SmithSenior Vice President / Tama Market President / Senior Loan OfficerTama(641) 484-2078NMLS ID: 535722
Meet Kelly J. Smith
Senior Vice President / Tama Market President / Senior Loan Officer
Kelly has served within the banking industry for the past 26 years, performing all aspects of lending and managing banking functions. He currently serves WCF in a variety of roles, including senior vice president as well as market president and senior loan officer for Tama/Toledo operations. Kelly earned a bachelor’s degree in finance at Buena Vista University and a master’s degree from the Graduate School of Banking in Madison, Wisconsin. He is a part of the Region 6 Housing Trust Board. He enjoys spending time with family and friends, golfing, hunting and doing just about anything outdoors.
Lesa HaugheyAssistant Vice President / LendingTama(641) 484-2079NMLS ID: 1958636
Meet Lesa Haughey
Assistant Vice President / Lending
With 19 years of banking experience and the ability to help in all areas of the bank, Lesa can help Tama area customers with most all their banking needs. Lesa’s role is Customer Service meaning one may find her opening a new account, closing a loan, or processing a deposit for customers. Lesa earned her bachelor’s degree in banking and finance from Buena Vista University and holds a professional designation from the Iowa Bankers Consumer and Compliance School. She is active in her community through volunteering at the Wieting Theater. Lesa enjoys shopping, boating, skiing, and being active with her family and friends.
