Product showcase: Gravy’s homeowner app has purpose in tough market

That includes the ability to set up an FDIC-insured, high-yield bank account to help users save for their home down payment. The app also helps customers set a savings rate goal and auto deposits, and it enables deposits in the account from friends and family. In addition, it helps educate users on how to buy their first house, how to find lenders and real estate agents, and how to improve their mortgage credit scores.

“We are laser focused on that specific score, what it is and then how to move it up into the right [direction] in advance of applying for your first home,” Dunn said. “And then finally, when you are ready or you’ve got the down payment saved, your mortgage credit is in good shape.”

The app can set users up with a national network of real estate agents and lenders at the right time. Gravy has three lender partners that do business nationally and it also works with Anywhere Real Estate (formerly Realogy), whose brands include Century 21, Coldwell Banker and Better Homes and Gardens.

Gravy also touts its “Gravy Rewards” program, which enables customers who set up the app to start winning 5% off on their rent each month in the form of points that can be redeemed toward a future home purchase.

Based in St. Louis, MO, the company has raised just under $3 million in venture capital to date. Ten employees work for Gravy so far, with half at headquarters, and the difference (including Boston-based Dunn) working remotely.