Centris Blog
Credit Unions vs. Banks: The Differences Between the Two
Credit Union Philosophy A credit union is a financial institution that offers all the same products and services as a bank does, but credit unions have a people-first mentality. Credit unions exist to serve their members (banks call them customers), not to make a...
Which Type of Mortgage is Right For You
Mortgage 101 A home is one of the largest if not the largest investments you'll make. Just as you research a car or electronics purchase, the same time and attention must be put into a home, especially the financing of it. Many factors come into play when you apply...
Fraud: How to Identify and Prevent It
Fraud Awareness Unfortunately fraudsters and scammers have become increasingly common in our market. No longer limited to bigger cities, these people are targeting individuals right here in our community. As a financial institution, it is our job to educate consumers...
How to Build Good Credit
The Importance of Credit Whether you are new to credit or trying to build better credit, it's important to understand what exactly it is, the different types and best practices. Building good credit doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time - typically at least six...
Saving: How to Create a Plan and Build Financial Stability
Build Financial Stability by Saving No matter what you’re saving for – an emergency, college tuition, vacation or retirement - putting money away money each month is crucial in building financial stability and peace of mind. However, more than half of Americans (63...
Saving for Retirement: Types of Accounts and How To Start
Importance of Saving for Retirement Saving for retirement, especially for millennials, is not always a priority. Reducing credit card and student loan debt take precedence while future living expenses (30 plus years down the road) take a back seat. The reality is that...
Charitable Donations: Deduction Tips at Tax Time
How to Properly Deduct Your Charitable Donations Aside from it being a good deed, making charitable donations is also a great way to lower your tax strain for the year. It is important to follow all the guidelines to successfully deduct donations. Eligible Charities...
Home Equity Loans and Lines of Credit: What You Should Know
Home Equity and How It Works Understanding what home equity loans are requires knowledge about equity itself. Equity is the difference between a home’s fair market value and the current balance of the loan. Your home is one of your biggest investments, and its equity...
Benefits of a Personal Loan and Why It May Be a Good Fit for You
What is a Personal Loan and How It May Benefit You A personal loan is a type of installment loan with a fixed repayment term and usually a fixed interest rate. Types of Personal Loans While the basic principle of a personal loan is the same - quick access to cash –...