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MOVING HERE Choosing a New Bank or Credit Union

Moving is one of the most common reasons people switch their bank.

In Alexandria, you have no shortage of options — dozens of major national banks and credit unions, locally-owned financial institutions and even online-only options are available. How do you decide where to go?

Start with understanding the difference between a bank and a credit union. Both banks and credit unions provide a variety of financial services, from regular checking and saving accounts to debit cards, credit cards, savings certificates, online banking, online bill pay and much more. A credit union is typically not-forprofit and member-owned, which means the financial institution’s profits are returned to the members in the form of lower rates and fewer fees.

However, some smaller credit unions have fewer services and locations than big credit unions and local and national banks. If you tend to visit your bank or credit union branch routinely, this may be something to consider.

Here are five questions to ask yourself before committing to a new financial institution:

• Are ATM and branch locations convenient to where I live or work?

• How much of a balance do you need to avoid fees and earn interest?

• Are there fees for mobile deposits or online banking?

• Are there fees for bounced checks or overdraft protection?

• What types of rewards can I earn with my bank account?

We recommend that you talk to your friends, new neighbors and coworkers about which bank they use and why. Check out online reviews, too!

How to Choose a Real Estate Agent

Choosing who to represent you in what may be the largest financial transaction of your life is not something to take lightly. The right real estate professional can be a major factor in how smoothly your transaction goes and how happy you are in your home for years to come.

Don’t feel pressured to work with a friend or family member. Just because they’re qualified doesn’t mean they’re the right person to work with, and it could damage your relationship. However, your friends and family can be a great resource to find an agent — they can be honest with you about their experiences!

Here are some questions to ask real estate professionals that will help you decide who to work with: • Are they a member of the National

Association of Realtors?

• What training, qualifications and certifications do they have?

• Have they helped residents buy or sell properties in the neighborhoods you’re interested in?

• Do they work primarily with buyers or sellers?

• What is their communication style?

Should you expect emails, text messages or phone calls? How often?

• Are they a member of a larger team?

What type of support do they have throughout the process?

• Are they willing to provide references?

We wish you the best with your home search! Welcome to Alexandria!