Allen & Gerritsen (A&G), in partnership with client First Citizens Bank, has announced the launch of a new Amazon Alexa skill. The First Citizens Home Buying Assistant helps users navigate the daunting process of purchasing a home for the first time by answering common questions about every step of the process.

A&G and First Citizens Bank developed the skill to meet the needs of a younger, tech-savvy audience at the critical life stage of first-time home buying. In rethinking how information that is traditionally viewed as complicated and confusing can be delivered by marrying it with emerging technology, First Citizens Bank sought to demonstrate that it understands–and is able to offer the support needed–for customers in moments when they need financial assistance the most as it has since it’s founding 126 years ago.

The First Citizens Home Buying Assistant covers subjects in a number of categories, including planning, budgeting, closing and general terminology. Using any Amazon Alexa-enabled device, users can get answers to questions including:

• When should I start looking at houses?
• What is a conventional mortgage?
• What hidden costs are there in the home buying process?
• What documents will I need to provide in order to get a loan?
• What is the difference between a Mortgage Banker and a Mortgage Broker?
• What is a renovation loan?

In addition to the creation of the skill, A&G also developed and implemented a digital creative campaign to drive awareness and usage among both current and prospective customers.

The First Citizens Home Buying Assistant can be downloaded here.