Banking, Mortgages, and Financial Planning

Finding the right financial institution is a big decision when you move to a new community. Austin has a wide array of Interstate banks, Community banks, and Credit Unions offering a wide array of services and locations to serve you. More importantly, selecting financing for your new home is an exciting and adventurous experience-and a challenging one. In addition to financial institutions, there are many sources of financing available through private lending sources, special corporate financing for transferees, and business loans. In this section you will find information designed to help newcomers overcome some of the hurdles they may encounter and point them in the right direction.

Taking it with You

With a vibrant and diverse economy like Austin’s, you’ll find a lot of choices when it comes to banking. Interstate banks, community banks and credit unions all have a wide range of services and locations to offer. But moving your banking can seem a little daunting, especially in the middle of relocating. Here are a few tips that can help make the process easier.

Get your stuff together.
First, you’ll want to your banking information to be in order and accessible. Having a list of accounts, addresses, phone numbers and some recent statements is a good idea, but be sure to keep this valuable personal
information safe.

Hang on to your old account for a little while, at least until any new home loan
closes. Moving to a new account can sometimes slow things down.

Submit a change of address to your bank and to any creditors.

If you have a safe deposit box, arrange to clear out the contents and turn in the keys.

Take out enough cash or traveler’s checks for your traveling needs.

If you are using a moving service then you may also need to get a certified or cashiers check to pay them.

If you haven’t made the leap to online banking before, now could be a good time to do it. Spend a few minutes spent familiarizing yourself with all the Web-based financial tools available. It can save you hours of extra trips and phone calls when you need up-to-date information or funds transferred fast.
Online banking is always open. It’s also a great source when you need transaction records quickly.

Choose the new place

When you’re ready to pick a new home for your banking, it’s the perfect time to think about what you really prefer in a bank. You’re likely to be using it for some time. If you have your account at an interstate bank, simply sticking
with it might be the best option for you. Simple is good during a move, especially if you find a branch near where you live or work. But take a few minutes to evaluate what you’re getting now, including the service, convenience, rates and fees. With all the options open to you in Austin, you might be able to get more of what you want elsewhere.