Penny Update: What Members Should Know
January 30, 2026
Starting February 1, 2026, Sentinel Federal Credit Union will no longer offer pennies (one U.S. cent coins) for…
Meet The Sentinel Mortgage Team
Buying a home is a big step, and having the right team matters. Our mortgage professionals are here to answer questions, offer guidance, and help you move forward with confidence.
Pat Wahl
Mortgage Department Manager
Pat Wahl is the Mortgage Department Manager at Sentinel Federal Credit Union. With decades of experience in mortgage lending, Pat is dedicated to helping members navigate the home-financing process with confidence and clarity.
Kaylee Hamling
Mortgage Loan Officer
Kaylee Hamling is a Mortgage Specialist at Sentinel Federal Credit Union who brings energy, care, and dedication to every member she works with. She takes pride in helping members feel confident and supported throughout the home-financing process.
Start Your Home Loan with Sentinel Credit Union
Ready to move forward? Getting started is simple! Download the home loan application below, complete it at your convenience, and submit it to our lending team for review. Our local experts are here to guide you every step of the way.
Book Initial Meeting or Have Questions?
Close
Have questions first?
Connect with our mortgage team for a personal meeting to ask questions and get more information.
Our friendly local mortgage team will be in touch with you as soon as possible. Please do not submit any personal information using this form.
Please submit completed applications to mortgage@sentinelfcu.org
Home Loan FAQs
What types of home loans does Sentinel FCU offer?
Sentinel FCU offers a variety of home loan options, including fixed-rate mortgages, adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs), FHA loans, VA loans, jumbo loans, and refinancing options.
How do I apply for a home loan with Sentinel FCU?
You can apply for a home loan with Sentinel FCU online through our website, over the phone with one of our mortgage specialists, or in person at any of our branches. We make the application process convenient for you.
What are the current interest rates for home loans at Sentinel FCU?
Interest rates can vary based on the type of loan and market conditions. Contact one of our mortgage specialists today for the most up-to-date information on our competitive rates.
What is the minimum down payment required for a home loan?
Down payment requirements vary depending on the type of loan you choose. FHA loans, for example, typically have lower down payment options, while conventional loans may require a higher down payment. Our mortgage specialists can guide you through the options that best suit your financial situation.
How long does the home loan approval process take?
The approval process can vary based on several factors, including the complexity of your application and the responsiveness of required documentation. At Sentinel FCU, we strive to provide prompt decisions and keep you informed throughout the process.
Can I refinance my existing mortgage with Sentinel FCU?
Yes, Sentinel FCU offers refinancing options that may help you lower your monthly payments, reduce your loan term, or access equity for home improvements or debt consolidation. Contact us to discuss how refinancing can benefit you.
Latest Mortgage Tips
Latest Mortgage Tips
Used vs New Car Loans in Rapid City: What Makes the Most Sense?
January 28, 2026When shopping for a vehicle, one of the biggest decisions is whether to buy new or used. The…
How to Get Pre-Approved for an Auto Loan in Rapid City
January 28, 2026Buying a vehicle is exciting, but walking onto a dealership lot without financing in place can quickly turn…
Your End-of-Year Homeowner Checklist
November 26, 2025
I always tell homeowners that December is the perfect time for a quick check-in—not just on your home itself, but…
Read More
Construction Loans Explained: What to Know Before Building Your Home
November 26, 2025
More and more people are dreaming about building their perfect home instead of trying to compete in the traditional housing…
Read More
Stuffed with Savings: Reasons to Refinance Before the Holidays
November 4, 2025
The holidays are right around the corner — which means full plates, full hearts, and (let’s be honest) sometimes a…
Read More
What a Government Shutdown Means for Today’s Mortgage Market
October 27, 2025
There has been a lot of buzz recently about the government shutdown, and if you’re in the middle of buying…
Read More
Fall Into Savings: Make the Most of Your Mortgage This Season
September 29, 2025
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisper, fall is the perfect time to take a closer look at…
Read More
Five Ways to Lower Your Mortgage Rate Before You Buy
August 27, 2025
5 Ways to Lower Your Mortgage Rate: If you’re thinking about buying in the Black Hills, I’d love to walk…
Read More
What’s Really in Your Mortgage Payment?
August 27, 2025
Buying a home in the Black Hills is thrilling, but understanding your mortgage payment can sometimes feel confusing. Many people…
Read More
How to Get Pre-Approved for a Home Loan (Without the Stress)
August 24, 2025
Hi, I’m Kaylee Hamling, a mortgage loan officer here in the beautiful Black Hills. I love helping people turn the…
Read More
Pros and Cons of Buying a House with a Pool
July 3, 2025
Owning a pool provides recreational opportunities, enhances property value, and can be a great place for social gatherings. However, it…
Read More
Latest Mortgage Tips
Penny Update: What Members Should Know
January 30, 2026Starting February 1, 2026, Sentinel Federal Credit Union will no longer offer pennies (one U.S. cent coins) for…Used vs New Car Loans in Rapid City: What Makes the Most Sense?
January 28, 2026When shopping for a vehicle, one of the biggest decisions is whether to buy new or used. The…How to Get Pre-Approved for an Auto Loan in Rapid City
January 28, 2026Buying a vehicle is exciting, but walking onto a dealership lot without financing in place can quickly turn…
Home Loans Made Easy
01
Preparation
Gather your financial documents, including proof of income, tax returns, and employment information.
02
Application
Complete our easy online application or visit one of our branches to meet with a mortgage specialist.
03
Review and Approval
Our team will review your application and documentation promptly. You’ll receive updates throughout the process.
04
Closing
Once approved, finalize the details and schedule your loan closing. Congratulations, you’re on your way to owning your new home with Sentinel Federal Credit Union!
Get The Home Of Your Dreams
Buy A Home
Looking for your new home is an exciting time. You can picture yourself relaxing in your favorite spot or celebrating with your friends and family in your brand-new space.
We want to help you realize your dream of owning your own home in South Dakota, and, let you know that buying your home might be easier than you think.
- Competitive rates and flexible terms
- Mortgage prequalification available so you will know what you can afford to spend
- Knowledgeable, friendly advice from our mortgage team
Our knowledgeable Mortgage Loan team will help you get the best financing that will fit your budget so that you can make the move to your new home in no time.
Refinance A Home
Now is a great time to take advantage of lower interest rates and refinance your home loan. Refinancing can help you save hundreds of dollars every month or thousands of dollars over time.
Reasons to refinance:
- Lower your interest rate
- Reduce your monthly payment
- Shorten the term of your home loan
Our Mortgage Loan team will help you save by refinancing your current mortgage.
Build A Home
Did you find the perfect spot to build your home in South Dakota? We make it easy to finance the home of your dreams with a residential lot loan and a short-term construction loan.
Benefits of a residential lot loan:
- Use to purchase or refinance your parcel of land
- Available for your primary or secondary home
Benefits of a construction loan:
- Short-term loan