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Smart Questions, Safer Loans
Smart Questions, Safer Loans Author: Primis Mortgage | Published: Monday, June 23, 2025 Buying a new home can come with a lot of questions and decisions, so it’s important to make the right choices. With a variety of mortgage scams out there, here are four questions to ask yourself before locking down a loan—keeping you and your new place safe leading up to closing day. Are the interest rates too good to be true? It’s typically a red flag when the mortgage rates being offered seem noticeably lower than market interest rates. This could mean there are various hidden fees. The lender might come back later, saying you no longer qualify for that rate or even tack on extra fees after locking in the original rate. Are they saying my credit score doesn’t matter? Even though some loan programs don’t require a high credit score, that doesn’t mean your credit score doesn’t matter. If you’re told your credit score won’t affect your mortgage, don’t fall for it! That could spell out undesirable terms, and it’s sometimes used to prey on low-income borrowers. Does my lender know my budget? No, it’s not really your mortgage company’s job to come up with your household budget, but your lender should still know about your financial situation. If they don’t ask any questions about your finances or even your monthly income, then it’s probably not someone you want handling your home purchase. Will I be penalized for paying off my loan early? For some loans, your lender can charge a penalty if you pay off your loan “too soon.” These are called prepayment penalties, and although they can offer lower overall interest rates, you’ll want to make sure they aren’t hidden in the fine print. Be sure to ask your lender about the prepayment stipulations before agreeing to a loan. With an important process like buying a new home, it’s worth taking extra caution when picking your lender. Asking yourself these questions ahead of time can help save you from mortgage headaches later on. If you have questions or are ready to talk with a trusted loan officer, connect with one near you today! The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Related Tags Mortgages Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
5 Hot Summer Homebuying Tips
5 Hot Summer Homebuying Tips Author: Primis Mortgage | Published: Monday, July 21, 2025 Summer is a popular time for homebuying. With the warmer weather, longer days, and time to make moves, many people are shopping for a new home. But possible summer competition doesn’t mean you can’t find your dream home. Planning ahead, submitting a strong offer, and securing a solid team behind you can help make your summer goals a reality. Here are five tips to get you started: 1. Don’t skip older listings Just because some homes are only on the market for a day or two, doesn’t mean the houses left aren’t right for you. When a house has been on the market for a little while or has been re-listed, that doesn’t automatically mean there is something wrong with it. Buyer and seller’s situations can change, so it’s worth adding them to your search list. 2. Look for a diamond in the rough If you’re not finding a home with all the bells and whistles, and you don’t mind rolling up your sleeves, a fixer-upper might be right for you. Also consider the full picture; maybe there’s an older, more affordable home in your ideal location that just needs a little extra work. Putting in a little elbow grease (or hiring some help) could help you secure your dream home at a more affordable price. 3. Plan ahead for house hunting Summertime can get a little hectic, we get it. A little forethought can make all the difference in preparation for the hunt. For example, instead of that typical long family vacation, you might want to shift your dates around to prioritize your home search. 4. Get a buyer’s agent early Having to navigate your home search and negotiate by yourself can be stressful. That’s why it’s essential to lock in a real estate agent early in the process. You’ll get professional market insight, negotiation skills, and local knowledge to help you find the right home. Be sure to also find a lender you trust; this dynamic duo can make the homebuying process a lot smoother. 5. Don’t forget, seasons change Summer can be a great time to look at homes, with picturesque landscaping and great weather. But it’s important to remember that you’ll be in this house all year long. So, if you’re not in love with the foliage or temporary noisy surroundings, remember elements can change with the seasons. You can always ask your real estate agent for insight, too, in these situations! If you think summer’s the right time to find your new home or if you have any homebuying questions, just reach out to your loan officer or connect with one today! The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Related Tags Mortgages Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
The Fall Advantage: Three Reasons to Buy Now
The Fall Advantage: Three Reasons to Buy Now Author: Primis Mortgage | Published: Tuesday, August 18, 2026 If you’re stuck wondering when is the ‘right’ time to buy a new home, this is your sign to kick-start your journey. With less competition and a motivated market, fall can be an ideal time to secure your new place. Not convinced? Here are three reasons fall is the great time for you and your family! 1. Less competition With summer usually being the busiest time for homebuying, once fall rolls around, you’ll have fewer buyers to contend with. This allows you more time to find your dream home and negotiate a better price, all without the added pressure of competing offers. 2. Motivated sellers Since this season falls so close to the holidays and end-of-year festivities, many sellers are eager to sell their property. Their willingness to close the deal quickly may help you secure a lower price or a better contract, keeping things smooth and efficient. 3. Insight into maintenance One of the best times to assess a home’s heating and insulation is when the temperature starts to decrease. Take advantage of open houses and walkthroughs to check for drafts or unusual indoor temperatures. Also, be on the lookout for any other repairs that need to be done throughout the home—inside and out. Fall in love with your new home Hoping to avoid the extra pressure of competing bids? Find your new place with less competition and favorable terms this fall and be home for the holidays! If you’re ready to start your homeownership journey, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Related Tags Mortgages Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
Why Refinance?
Why Refinance? Author: Primis Mortgage | Published: Friday, September 5, 2025 Refinancing is a hot topic right now—and for good reason. Everyone’s talking about rates, but what does refinancing really mean for you? The truth is, it’s about more than just chasing a lower number. Done right, it can be a powerful tool to reshape your finances and free up options for the future. Here are a few reasons people choose to refi:Lower Your Payment – If rates drop or your credit has improved, refinancing could cut your monthly payment and keep more money in your pocket. Switch Loan Types – Life changes, and your mortgage can too. Refinancing lets you switch to a loan type or term that better matches your goals today — whether that’s paying off sooner, lowering monthly payments, or gaining stability with a fixed rate. Tap Into Equity – Your house has value you’ve been building over time. A cash-out refinance lets you use that equity for things like renovations, education, or paying off higher-interest debt. Consolidate Debt – Rolling higher-interest loans into a mortgage with a lower rate can simplify payments and potentially save thousands. Boost Your Cash Flow – A lower rate may also mean a lower monthly payment. That puts more money back in your pocket each month — to save, spend, or use where it matters most. When to think about it:Rates are lower than when you bought. Your financial situation has improved (better credit, higher income). You want to restructure debt or fund a major project. Refinancing isn't one-size-fit-all—but it can be a smart move if it lines up with your goals.Curious if a refi makes sense for you? Let's talk. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations to any individual. Primis Mortgage Company (“Primis Mortgage”) is a subsidiary of Primis Bank, a Member FDIC. Primis Mortgage NMLS #1894879 | AL #23183 | BK #1042893 | ML #1894879 | #41DBO-166162 Licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). As always, all loans are subject to credit approval and product guidelines. Other terms and conditions may apply. For all state license information visit primisbank.com/disclosures. Related Tags Mortgages Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
Stop, Drop, and Read: 5 Fire Safety Tips for Your Home
Stop, Drop, and Read: 5 Fire Safety Tips for Your Home Author: Primis Mortgage | Published: Tuesday, October 21, 2025 It’s officially spooky season, which means it’s time to turn up the heat on fire safety. Fires, especially inside your home, can sneak up on you, so it’s important for your family to be prepared. From safety drills to cooking tips, here are five ways to keep your home safe and your family protected. 5 Hot Tips for a Safe HomeDon’t Skip Smoke Alarms: It’s important to install smoke alarms on all levels of your home. Remember to test them monthly and expect to replace the batteries every six months. Plan Ahead: Especially if you have multiple levels and a big family, planning an escape plan helps the whole family stay prepared. Familiarizing your kids with the alarm sounds could also help reduce panic in the moment. Get A Fire Extinguisher: Make sure you have at least one fire extinguisher in your home—one per floor is even better! Also, check their ABC rating so you can use them on any type of fire. Pay Attention When Cooking: Leaving your cooking equipment unattended is a common cause of home fires. Make sure the cooking area is clear of flammable items and keep children away from these spaces. Don’t Leave Candles Unattended: When lighting candles, use a sturdy base and keep them away from flammable objects. Always extinguish the candle before leaving and try to have flashlights on hand for emergency situations. Fire safety doesn’t have to be scary; planning and taking small steps can make a big difference. Start this month by following these five tips and keep your family safe and focused on their upcoming Halloween costumes. If you have any questions or are considering starting your homebuying journey, find a loan officer near you today! The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Related Tags Mortgages Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
Primis Premium Checking Named One of the Best Online Checking Accounts to Start 2026
Primis Premium Checking Named One of the Best Online Checking Accounts to Start 2026 Author: Primis | Published: Tuesday, January 6, 2026 As we head into 2026, many consumers are taking a closer look at how—and where—they bank. With most traditional checking accounts offering little to no interest, choosing an account that helps your money grow can make a real difference over time.That’s why Primis Premium Checking was recently recognized by Yahoo Finance as one of the best high-yield online checking accounts to start the new year.Why High-Yield Checking MattersThe national average interest rate for interest-bearing checking accounts remains low, hovering around 0.07% APY, according to the FDIC. But some online banks are changing the equation by offering high-yield checking options that allow customers to earn significantly more—without sacrificing access to their everyday funds.High-yield checking accounts can help your money work harder while still offering the flexibility you expect from a checking account, including debit card access, bill pay, ATM withdrawals, and direct deposit.Why Yahoo Finance Recognized Primis Premium CheckingIn its list of the 10 Best Online Checking Accounts for January 2026, Yahoo Finance ranked Primis Premium Checking among the top options for its combination of competitive interest, simple requirements, and customer-friendly features.With Primis Premium Checking, you get:A premium annual percentage yield (*APY) with no minimumsNO overdraft fees, everFREE cashier’s checks and stop paymentsFREE ATM* use—nationwide$1 minimum deposit to open account and earn interestEarly direct deposit, up to two days early.Cutting-edge digital account toolsTogether, these features create a checking account designed to help customers earn more—without jumping through hoops or paying unnecessary fees.Designed for Everyday BankingPrimis Premium Checking is built for real life. Whether you’re managing daily expenses, setting aside funds for upcoming goals, or simply want a smarter place to keep your money, this account delivers flexibility, transparency, and strong earning potential.With no monthly fees and no balance requirements, it’s an account that works just as hard for customers with modest balances as it does for those keeping more in checking.Start 2026 with a Smarter Checking AccountRecognition from a trusted financial publication like Yahoo Finance reinforces what Primis customers already know: Premium Checking offers a better way to bank.If you’re ready to earn more on your everyday money —without hidden fees or complicated requirements — Primis Premium Checking is a strong place to start.Open your Primis Premium Checking account today and start the new year with confidence. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. *APY = Annual Percentage Yield. $1.00 minimum opening deposit required and no minimum amount required to obtain APY. Rates may change at any time. Customers who opened accounts prior to 09/24/2024 may have different rates. Please log in to your account online to review your current rate. Fees may reduce earnings. This account is only available online. Primis deposit accounts are not available in Puerto Rico or other US territories. Related Tags Reviews & Recognition Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
A No-Frills Bank with Competitive APYs and 24/7 Customer Service
A No-Frills Bank with Competitive APYs and 24/7 Customer Service Author: Primis | Published: Friday, August 2, 2024 "A tech-first financial institution with all of a big bank’s security and insurance and a tech company’s digital-first, online banking approach."The Fortune Recommends team independently reviewed all of our online account offerings, praising the high rates, low fees and around-the-clock customer service. Comparing Primis to industry giants like Ally and SoFi, it's easy to see that our account offerings can go head-to-head with anyone.Read the full review on Fortune's website: CLICK HERE Related Tags Reviews & Recognition Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
Primis Revives a Timeless Lesson in Financial Empowerment
Primis Revives a Timeless Lesson in Financial Empowerment Author: Primis | Published: Wednesday, February 11, 2026 More than a century ago, Maggie L. Walker—the trailblazing businesswoman and the first Black woman in the United States to charter a bank—believed that financial confidence begins with even the smallest act of saving. At the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank in Richmond, she gave children their own penny banks and taught them how setting aside just a little at a time could build security, independence and opportunity. Her message is as meaningful today as it was in 1903. Primis is proud to carry her legacy forward. This year, Primis teammates brought Walker’s timeless lesson to Heavenly Playhouse Childcare Center in Henrico County, Virginia, hosting a fun and engaging financial literacy event designed especially for young learners. Primis representatives Amanda Gravely, director of in-market banking, along with market center managers Becky Ring and Kristine Allen, led students through interactive activities focused on two foundational concepts: the difference between needs and wants, and the importance of saving. Students participated in a lively grab‑bag game, pulling out everyday items and deciding whether each one was a need or a want—a simple exercise that sparked thoughtful conversations and lots of smiles. To build on the lesson, the group read a children’s book about saving money and talked about what the kids hoped to save for in their own lives. Every child received a piggy bank to decorate, transforming the lesson into a hands-on creativity session. As they personalized their banks, the Primis team shared the story of Maggie L. Walker and why teaching children to save has remained such a powerful tradition for more than 100 years. After decorating, Primis judges selected three standout designs. The first-place winner received $100, second place received $50 and third place received $25.And to help each child begin a habit that could last a lifetime, Primis sent every child home with a crisp $5 bill to start their savings journey. In recognition of the partnership and Heavenly Playhouse’s commitment to local families, Primis also presented the childcare center with a $1,000 gift. “Getting out into the communities we serve isn’t just part of our work—it’s something we’re truly proud to do,” Gravely said. “Maggie Walker showed us that financial empowerment can start small. That lesson still holds so much value today, and we’re honored to help children build confidence and smart saving habits early in life.” For Primis, supporting young learners isn’t just a moment; it’s a continuation of a legacy rooted in access, empowerment and community. A simple piggy bank may not seem like much, but for many children, it’s the first step toward understanding their own financial future. To learn more about Primis community initiatives, visit primisbank.com/community. Related Tags Reviews & Recognition Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
Why This Top Workplaces Recognition Matters
Why This Top Workplaces Recognition Matters Author: Ann-Stanton Gore | Published: Wednesday, May 27, 2026 Earlier this week, Primis announced that we earned eight 2026 Top Workplaces Culture Excellence awards through a nationally recognized workplace excellence program based entirely on teammate feedback. You can read the full announcement here.While we’re incredibly proud of the recognition itself, I’ve spent even more time reflecting on why it matters.At Primis, culture has never been a side initiative. It’s a foundational part of how we operate, grow and lead. As we’ve expanded, we’ve worked intentionally to build a company where people feel appreciated, supported, challenged and connected to meaningful work.That’s not always easy during periods of growth. Maintaining a strong culture takes commitment, communication and leaders who genuinely care about people. It takes teammates who show up every day wanting to make each other better. And it takes an organization willing to invest in leadership development, recognition, professional growth, flexibility and well-being.What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that it came directly from our teammates.We had 56% participation in the survey — significantly higher than the average participation rate for these programs. To me, that says something important: our people care. They care enough to engage, share feedback and help shape what Primis becomes next.The awards recognized strengths across multiple areas, including:Culture Excellence AwardsTop Workplaces for Appreciation Top Workplaces for Compensation & Benefits Top Workplaces for Employee Well-Being Top Workplaces for InnovationTop Workplaces for Leadership Top Workplaces for Professional Development Top Workplaces for Work-Life FlexibilityIndustry AwardsFinancial Services Top WorkplacesThat’s something our entire team should be proud of.Culture impacts more than the employee experience. It influences how teams collaborate, how customers are served, how leaders lead and how companies grow. It helps attract great talent, retain strong teammates and build trust in the marketplace.And in banking especially, that matters.In an industry that can sometimes feel transactional or overly corporate, we want Primis to feel different. We want people to feel connected to leadership, empowered to grow and proud of where they work.We know there’s still work ahead. Great cultures are never “finished.” But this recognition is an encouraging reminder that we’re building something special together.Most importantly, these awards belong to our teammates. They are the reason Primis continues to grow, evolve and stand apart. Related Tags Reviews & Recognition Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel
A New Name. A Deep Bench of Banking Experience.
A New Name. A Deep Bench of Banking Experience. Author: Primis | Published: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 Primis may be a newer name, but our story didn’t start in 2021.Primis Bank officially launched on March 31, 2021, when Sonabank became Primis Bank and Southern National Bancorp of Virginia became Primis Financial Corp. What changed was the name. What didn’t change was the experience behind it.Long before Primis entered the picture, our team was working to build a bank grounded in relationships, strong service, and real-world expertise. Today, we’re still guided by that same commitment—just with better tools, improved technology, and a fresh perspective on how banking should actually work.Where It StartedOur roots trace back to Sonabank, whose first branch opened in Virginia in 2005.From the very beginning, our goal wasn’t just to be another bank. It was to build something better—an institution that combined personal service with smart, strategic growth. As Sonabank expanded across Virginia through acquisitions and community partnerships, we deepened our expertise while growing alongside the customers and businesses we served.Each step forward helped strengthen our foundation. Each expansion helped bring new capability to our customers. And each milestone moved us closer to becoming the modern banking partner we are today.Building Strength Through GrowthOver the next decade, Sonabank grew its footprint through strategic acquisitions and steady expansion—adding new locations, welcoming new customers, and broadening its ability to serve both individuals and businesses throughout Virginia and the Mid‑Atlantic region.In 2017, Sonabank entered a transformational chapter through its merger with Eastern Virginia Bankshares. The combined organization brought together the experience of two successful Virginia banking institutions—including the legacy of a bank whose history dated back more than a century.That combination of scale, experience, and commitment to community banking created a stronger institution—one equipped to better serve customers across evolving markets and economic cycles.Introducing PrimisBy 2021, it was clear the future of banking would demand something more: better technology, simpler solutions, and a more customer‑focused experience.That’s why Sonabank officially became Primis Bank on March 31, 2021—marking the beginning of a new brand built to reflect where we were going, not just where we had been.Primis represents a deliberate step forward. A move toward smarter service. Better access. And a banking experience designed to meet customers where they are—whether that’s online, on the phone, or in person.While our name may be new, the expertise behind it comes from years of real‑world banking experience.Experience That Moves Banking ForwardToday, Primis brings together that legacy of experience with a modern approach grounded in innovation and real human support.We combine the strength and security of an FDIC‑insured financial institution with the mindset of a technology‑driven company—giving customers simpler products, faster service, and access to real Primis representatives 24/7.We’re proud of where we’ve come from. And even more focused on where we’re going next.Because better banking doesn’t happen by accident.It happens when experience meets new ideas.When real people stay focused on real customer needs.And when a bank is willing to challenge the status quo.That’s the story behind Primis—and we’re just getting started. Related Tags Reviews & Recognition Share on YOU ARE NOW LEAVING PRIMISBANK.COM We hope you'll come back again soon.Primis links to other websites for your convenience. However, Primis has no control over the content or quality of the site you are visiting, and the site may not have the same privacy and security practices that we do. We encourage you to read the privacy and security policies of all sites you visit. Continue Cancel