06/12/2026
26 years in the mortgage industry boils down to a few essential truths that can help you when buying a home.👇
Here is a quick breakdown of expert advice from our very own Nicole Raley, Vice President of Mortgage Operations, and a little bit of an inside scoop on her✨:
The 20% Down Myth is Busted 🚫
"That you have to have 20% down to finance a home. We have programs for as low as 3.5% down and government, income-qualifying programs that do not require a down payment."
The "Hidden Gem" Strategy 💎
"I think a 'hidden gem' that is not utilized as often as it should is paying discount points to permanently buy down your rate. You can often times, in negotiation, ask for seller concessions to pay these discount points."
Built on 26 Years of Experience 💼
"I started as a receptionist for a mortgage department while I was in college. Working in mortgage, I became interested as I was also going through milestones, graduating college, getting married, and buying our first home. I decided to make a career out of it and learned all areas of mortgage. 26 years later, I am still in Mortgage and I came to Farmers 14 years ago to start the Secondary Market Mortgage department for the bank."
❤️ Her favorite part of the job?
"Our Mortgage Team and working with them every day to help customers with all of their mortgage needs."
📚 🎬 Off the clock:
"I think most of my friends would say I am a movie buff, but I also enjoy a good book when I have time. I am currently reading 'Remarkably Bright Creatures'."
Have questions about down payment assistance or buying down your rate? Call Nicole at (903) 255-1821 to connect with her and the Farmers team today! 🔑