Welcome Home

What Does Your “Welcome Home” Look Like?

Is it a cozy reading nook, a wagging tail at the door, the sound of laughter in the backyard, or a warm wave from your new neighbor? However you picture it, your version of home is personal, and AmeriCU Credit Union is here to help make it real.

You’ve been preparing for this moment saving diligently, scrolling through listings, imagining the life you’ll build. Now, you’re ready to take the next step. And when you are, we’re ready too with the tools, guidance, and support to help you find and finance the home you’ve always dreamed of.

Because at AmeriCU, we don’t just help you buy a house, we help you come home.

Tips For Buyers

AmeriCU is Here to Help Every Step of the Way

AmeriCU is Here to Help Every Step of the Way

Buying a home is a big milestone and we’re here to make sure you feel confident and prepared. Here are four simple, member-focused steps to help you get started:

1. Track Your Spending with Purpose: Take a close look at where your money goes each month. Are there areas like streaming subscriptions or frequent dining out where you could cut back? Redirecting even small amounts toward your savings can bring you closer to your down payment goal faster.

2. Know (and Grow) Your Credit Score: Your credit score plays a big role in the mortgage rate you’ll qualify for. Stay on top of it by paying bills on time and keeping credit card balances low. A stronger score can mean better loan terms and more home for your money.

3. Explore the Local Market: Start researching home prices in your area to get a realistic sense of what you can afford. Knowing the median home value helps you set a clear savings target and plan with confidence.

4. Ask Questions: We’re here for you, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. AmeriCU’s certified financial counselors are ready to guide you from the moment you decide to start saving. Whether it’s budgeting, credit tips, or understanding mortgage options, we’re just a conversation away.

Promo Image

SONYMA Mortgages

State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) helps make homeownership affordable for first-time homebuyers by offering special, low-interest loans, and down payment assistance.

  • As little as 3% down
  • Up to $15,000 toward your down payment
  • Competitive, fixed rates
  • Flexible credit requirements
  • Designed for first-time homebuyers

Learn more about SONYMA and see if it’s the right fit for you or talk with one our mortgage representatives below to get started today!

AmeriCU Mortgage Executives

Melissa B Update 2026

Melissa Bradlinski

Mortgage Executive | Office Located in Rome

Phone: 315.356.3000 ext. 6211

Cell: 315.982.8288

[email protected]

NMLS #: 1594826

Katie Fairbrother is a Mortgage Executive at AmeriCU Credit Union.

Katie Fairbrother

Mortgage Executive | Offices Located in Herkimer and North Utica

Phone: 315.356.3000 ext. 3433

Cell: 315.281.6781

[email protected]

NMLS #: 1276482

Shauna Grant Chernoff

Shauna Grant-Chernoff

Mortgage Executive | Offices Located in Auburn and Fayetteville

Phone: 315.356.3000 ext. 3439

Cell: 315.373.8704

[email protected]

NMLS #: 1460014

Cathy Heilman-Feltz is a Mortgage Executive at AmeriCU Credit Union.

Cathy Heilman-Feltz

Mortgage Executive | Offices Located in Fort Drum, Lowville, and Watertown

Phone: 315.356.3000 ext. 6325

Cell: 315.783.9390

[email protected]

NMLS #: 623938

Ana Maria Lasher is a Mortgage Executive at AmeriCU Credit Union.

AnaMaria Lasher

Mortgage Executive | Office Located in Liverpool

Phone: 315.356.3000 ext. 6023

Cell: 315.269.6726

[email protected]

NMLS #: 1718893

Myles Nashton is a Mortgage Executive at AmeriCU Credit Union.

Myles Nashton

Mortgage Executive | Offices Located in Commercial Drive and Oneida

Phone: 315.356.3000 ext. 6253

Cell: 315.762.2102

[email protected]

NMLS #: 623940

Erika Plumpton is a Mortgage Executive at AmeriCU Credit Union.

Erika Plumpton

Mortgage Executive | Office Located in Cicero

Phone: 315.356.3000 ext. 3346

Cell: 315.408.5365

[email protected]

NMLS #: 1759409

Let's Connect

Questions? Click the ‘Let’s Connect’ button in the bottom right-hand corner to get started!


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Membership eligibility is required. Insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.