Three Things to Avoid When You’re Pre-Qualified May 7th, 2025 by: Kitty Tankard Few life events compare to the excitement of buying your first home. It’s a significant step financially, so make sure you avoid these pitfalls once you’re pre-qualified for your mortgage: 1. Don’t take on any new debt. When you’re getting ready to move, it’s easy to get excited picking out the new furniture and home ... Read More
How Business Owners Can Avoid Vendor Fraud Apr 30th, 2025 by: Regan Godderz Outsourcing takes trust – trust that the vendor will maintain the same level of client service, uphold your quality standards, and keep your information safe. When this trust is exploited by fraudsters, it can lead to financial losses and even damage to your hard-earned reputation. As a business owner, it’s important to take measures against ... Read More
How Supporting Small Businesses Helps Local Economies Apr 24th, 2025 by: Regan Godderz Picture the cheery jingle of that bell hanging off the door of your favorite local craft shop, the grumpy chihuahua in the window of the tailor down the street, and the name of the hostess who knows your favorite table at your go-to restaurant. These small businesses don’t just strengthen our local community, they’re often ... Read More
Stay Ahead of AI Fraud: Spotting and Preventing Scams Apr 22nd, 2025 by: Regan Godderz Artificial intelligence has only made fraud smarter. According to the FTC, younger people are losing more money to fraud than older people. 44% of 20-29 year olds lost money to fraud in 2024, compared with 24% of 70-79 year olds. With criminals exploiting AI to carry out their scams, fraud attempts are happening more often ... Read More
Understanding and Combatting Check Fraud Apr 21st, 2025 by: Regan Godderz In today's digital age, businesses face a myriad of security challenges, and check fraud has increased dramatically. In 2024, the numbers of organizations reporting attempted or actual payments fraud rose to 80%, up from 65% in 2022, according to the 2024 AFP Payments Fraud and Control Survey Report. Checks continued to be the most problematic ... Read More
Top 5 Benefits of Homeownership Apr 14th, 2025 by: Doug McGregor If you’re wondering if owning a home is still ‘worth it,’ you’re not alone. Many people today are delaying buying a home longer than previous generations. However, the fundamental values of owning a home are still as valid today as in years past. Here are the top 5 benefits of owning a home: [siteorigin_widget class="SiteOrigin_Widget_Image_Widget"][/siteorigin_widget]1. ... Read More
America’s Best Bank by Forbes Apr 7th, 2025 by: Kitty Tankard NBH Bank and its divisions Hillcrest Bank, Bank Midwest, Community Banks of Colorado, and Bank of Jackson Hole are proud to be named one of America's Best Banks by Forbes, ranking #35 overall. Forbes’ 16th annual America’s Best Banks list looks at the 200 largest publicly-traded banks and thrifts by assets and ranks the top 100. They ... Read More
Relax: You may be doing better with money than you think Apr 3rd, 2025 by: Doug McGregor It’s easy to let ourselves get discouraged scrolling through posts of friends in exotic locations and buying new homes. But don’t get caught in the comparison trap when it comes to your spending and saving habits. Here are a few tips to help you keep on the right financial path. Don't live in the land ... Read More
What’s the score? A brief explanation of credit scores. Mar 17th, 2025 by: Doug McGregor Credit Score Your credit score is a part of the package of information lenders use to decide whether or not they will lend you money or extend credit. Other factors include things like your employment history and income and their own internal scoring systems. There are two primary credit scoring models you need to know about: FICO® ... Read More
Protect Yourself from Tax Refund Fraud Mar 13th, 2025 by: Regan Godderz It’s tax season and scammers know many people look forward to a refund check. Fraud rises this time of year, and it’s important to stay vigilant against tax refund check fraud. Here are common scams to look out for: Fake refund checks Scammers will send you a fake refund check and then contact you ... Read More