By J.D. Herman
Local financial institutions have long provided important benefits by forging long standing relationships within the communities they serve. Unlike larger corporate banks that rely on volume to generate profits, community banks focus on building lasting relationships. A deep understanding of local needs allows regional banks to provide specialized financial services, something Prosperity Bank has been providing customers for decades.
Founded in 1983, Prosperity Bank built its stellar reputation by focusing on smaller rural communities. Based in El Campo, Prosperity acquired North Houston Bank in 2010. Despite the new name, the Eastex Banking Center had serviced the East Aldine Management District since the 1970s, and many of the managers and tellers have been with the bank for years. In fact, Lending Assistant Sue Luther and Banking Manager Carmen Bernal have been with the branch for over 20 years. This connection to the community is important to note, as loan decisions are handled locally by people who understand the needs of neighborhood families and businesses.
Jack Battle, Eastex Banking Center President believes in a “community banking philosophy where personal relationships and great experiences go hand-in-hand.” Prosperity, which ranks among the top 100 U.S. banks with over $31 billion in assets and 285 banking centers, is helping residents in East Aldine invest in their futures with two programs–HOPP (Home Ownership Possibilities Program) and The Good Cents Savings Program.
Traditionally, homeownership has been the primary way for families to grow wealth in the United States while also playing a vital role in helping to build strong communities. Buying a house is a huge financial decision though, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Prosperity’s Home Ownership Possibilities Program (HOPP) aims to make the process easier, especially if you’ve had credit issues or found it hard to save up a big down payment. One of the primary benefits of the program is the 100% financing or refinancing of the lesser of the purchase price or appraised value of a family’s primary residence. In addition, private mortgage insurance is waived and there is more flexibility in the credit underwriting process. Additionally, closing costs can be contributed from monetary gifts and housing assistance programs–which the Prosperity team can also help navigate.
Prosperity Bank also recently launched The Good Cents Savings Program. Whether saving for a new car, a vacation or retirement, The Good Cents Savings Program turns every swipe of your Prosperity Bank Debit Mastercard into savings. Each purchase is rounded to the nearest whole dollar and the difference is transferred from checking into savings. While a lot of banks offer similar programs, Prosperity helps customers achieve their financial goals quickly by matching 2% of transfers (up to $50 per month). So the next time you shop, you’ll also be saving.
To enroll in the Good Cents Savings Program, you must have a current and active Prosperity Bank Personal Checking Account, Prosperity Bank Debit MasterCard, and Personal Savings Account. Mr. Battle recommends contacting the Eastex Banking Center directly if you need for personalized support in setting up an account or inquiring about HOPP and other programs. “We provide convenient technology options that our customers expect – all backed by the highest level of security,” says Mr. Battle. “At every touch point, you’ll find knowledgeable associates ready to serve our customers with accuracy and a smile time and time again.”
Prosperity Bank
3945 Little York Rd
Houston, TX 77093
www.prosperitybankusa.com