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Understanding a HELOC and How To Use It: A Guide For Shenandoah Valley Homeowners

July 29, 2021/in Bank Products and Services, Mortgage

Your home is an investment in many ways, and once you accrue equity in your home, you have it at your disposal for financial uses. If you’ve been wondering why apply for a HELOC, we’ll walk you through what a HELOC is, all the things you can use it for, and how to make the most out of your HELOC. Whether you’ve built home equity from paying down your mortgage and/or the appreciating value of your house within the market, you can benefit from your ownership of the home to finance projects and consolidate debt.

What is a HELOC?

A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) is a revolving credit account, similar to a credit card, that provides a credit limit for a certain amount of time (the draw period). You only draw funds from the account when you need to, make payments on what you borrowed, and use the credit line again until the end of the draw period.

While a HELOC is similar to a credit card account, the primary difference between the two is what kind of interest rate you can get. Because HELOCs are secured by your home equity, you can get a much lower rate than you would with a credit card. So, financing home renovations and other large expenses with a HELOC is usually more affordable than using a credit card or personal loan. Depending on how much equity you have in your home, you may also be able to get a higher credit limit with your HELOC than with a credit card or personal loan.

The other attractive benefit of a HELOC is its flexibility. Unlike a Home Equity Loan, you don’t receive a lump sum that you have to use right away. In fact, some people use the HELOC as an emergency account. You can open it now and won’t owe anything until you first draw funds. Then you can use your HELOC as many times as you want to (up to the credit limit) through the draw period.

Using a HELOC for Home Renovation

Have you been dreaming of a brand new kitchen? Need to add an addition to your home to create office space or room for a new baby? A Home Equity Line of Credit is a convenient way to finance your home renovation.

Benefits

Lower interest rates
Option to make interest-only payments
Possible tax deduction for interest paid on HELOC if the funds are used to buy, build or substantially improve your residence. Please consult your tax advisor regarding your particular situation.
Potential ROI when you sell your home from renovations financed through your HELOC
Variety of uses such as updating your home to meet your needs, improve energy efficiency, and more.
Great option for when you’re looking to sell your home but want to increase its value first

Using a HELOC For Debt Consolidation

Are you drowning in credit card debt? Do you have so many different monthly debt payments, it’s hard to keep track?

Debt consolidation means taking out a new loan to pay off multiple debt accounts, such as credit card balances, personal loans, student loans, and more. Consolidating your debt with a HELOC could help you save money on interest and reduce the number of monthly bills you need to keep track of. And since HELOCs are so flexible, you may still have some credit left over to use on other things, or you can pay off your HELOC balance before using it again.

Using a HELOC For a Second Home or Investment Property

Whether you’re looking to purchase a vacation home or an investment property, you can use your HELOC to come up with a down payment on your second property and/or to make improvements and repairs to a second property you already own.

Financing Education Expenses

Whether you’re a parent with a child approaching college age, or an adult homeowner looking to return to school, a HELOC can also be used to pay for tuition and associated expenses with higher education, as well as private schools. Pay as you go and make interest-only payments if you need to keep your costs down while in school.

Paying Off Medical Debt

Whether you just got hit with a high medical bill, or you know an expensive surgery or treatment is coming up, you can use your HELOC as an emergency fund or to pay off medical debt. As mentioned earlier, HELOCs offer lower rates than credit cards, so it could be a more affordable way to pay your medical bills or any other large, unexpected expense that comes up. Preserve retirement savings and use your HELOC instead.

Tips For Getting The Most Out of Your HELOC

While there are many advantages to having a HELOC, you can get the most of your new Home Equity Line of Credit by following these tips:

Make on-time payments to avoid a late fee.
Pay more than just the interest due if possible.
Know when your HELOC draw period ends.
Review the terms of your HELOC and be mindful of fees.
Understand the closing costs associated with your HELOC.
Best used for smaller projects and expenses.
Try to use your HELOC, pay off what you borrow, and then use it again instead of maxing out your credit limit.

Apply for a HELOC From F&M Bank!

Looking for a HELOC lender in the Shenandoah valley? F&M Mortgage is a true local mortgage company that has served the community since 1999. Contact us to learn more or start the process of applying for a Home Equity Line of Credit. You can also apply online whenever you like, or visit your local branch office in Staunton, Harrisonburg, Winchester, or one of our locations in Augusta, Page, Rockingham, Frederick, or Shenandoah county to speak with a loan officer about your options.

Owning vs. Leasing Commercial Real Estate in Virginia

July 6, 2021/in Bank Products and Services

After finding the right property for your business, how do you decide whether to buy or lease it? There are pros and cons with both options, including the opportunity to build equity and profit off the future resale of your commercial real estate property. Keep reading for a complete guide to owning vs. leasing commercial real estate so you can make the best decision for your business. As always, our business banking team is here to help if you have questions!

Pros and Cons of Renting Commercial Real Estate

Let’s start with the benefits of renting a space for your business:

No down payment, just need a security deposit and first month’s rent
Usually cheaper on a month-to-month basis, including fewer expenses for upkeep
Flexibility to move after lease is up if you outgrow the space or want to be in a newer building
Get the most desirable location possible, even if it’s not for sale
Easier accounting since your rented space is just a monthly expense, not an asset or liability

On the other hand, you need to consider these potential drawbacks:

You won’t build equity or benefit from capital appreciation if the property value rises
Rent is a monthly expense forever, whereas a commercial mortgage can eventually be paid off
You may be responsible for certain upkeep expenses on some leases
Rent may increase annually or with each new lease
No opportunity to earn passive income by renting out part of your space to others

Buying Commercial Real Estate: Pros and Cons

Thinking that buying might be the way to go? Here are the benefits you stand to reap:

Equity increases over time and the asset value appreciates
Potential tax benefits and breaks for interest, depreciation, and other expenses
More control over the property and design or renovation decisions
Potential for renting out to other businesses
Improvements to the building and property add value for your business as the owner
Fixed mortgage payments as opposed to your rent potentially changing

On the other hand, owning may come with more expenses and responsibility:

Need enough cash upfront for a down payment, closing costs, and other fees
Can be hard to qualify for commercial real estate financing
Have to budget for the ongoing costs of upkeep
Less flexibility since you’re tied down to the location
Liability

Tips for buying commercial property

If you’ve only purchased residential property before, you’ll want to work with an experienced commercial real estate agent and ask questions throughout the process. Commercial real estate is a different animal from buying a home to live in, but once you understand how it works and the different terminology, you’ll be an expert in no time.

Some of the best commercial properties are not necessarily listed, which is why working with an experienced commercial real estate agent is so important.
Talk to your real estate agent at the beginning to be sure you understand how the buying process works and what information you’ll need to provide along the way.
When you’re ready to start the buying process, also talk to us about financing for your commercial real estate property. We can walk you through the steps and paperwork required to apply for a commercial real estate loan.
As you look at different properties, consider zoning, closing costs, tax issues, and environmental conditions.
If the building already has tenants, you’ll need to negotiate with the current owner/landlord over assignments of existing leases and delivery of current rents due. You’ll also want to obtain copies of the rent rolls and existing leases to make sure that neither the tenant nor seller is in default and that there is no past-due rent.
Negotiating with commercial landlords can be challenging. They can look to keep some legal tricks hidden from you.

Contact us with all your CRE needs and questions!

Wherever your business is headed, F&M wants to help you get there. As a trusted community bank, we understand local business like no one else and believe that one business’s success contributes to the success of the entire business community. For more help with the buying process, F&M Bank is here to be your local commercial real estate expert in Virginia. Real estate is a local business, so when you’re looking for a commercial land loan or other type of commercial real estate loan in Augusta County, you want to work with a local bank who knows the market. Call us today to discuss your business goals and we’ll help you reach them with flexible financing options.

Cash Management 101

January 5, 2021/in Bank Products and Services

For small businesses getting back on their feet in 2021, it’s a good time to review the basics of cash management 101. Need help improving your cash flow? We can help! Keep reading for treasury management tips and your best options for cash management help.

What is Cash Management?

In business, cash management is a key component of a company’s financial stability. Through the process of collecting and managing cash flows, your ultimate goal is to maximize liquidity and minimize the cost of funds.

So, how does cash management work? The two main steps are to monitor your business’ incoming and outgoing payments so you always know where your cash flow stands.

If your cash flow is projected to fall short, having a business line of credit can help. With careful cash management and access to a flexible credit line, you can spot shortages before they trip up your operation and transfer funds from your credit line to cover the gap until more money comes in.

Understanding the Cash Flow Statement

Now that you know cash management is the process of managing cash inflows and outflows, let’s look at the cash flow statement, which records cash inflows and outflows with a bottom line that shows how much cash is available at a given time. It is broken into three parts: operating, investing, and financing. Since cash is the primary asset your business uses to pay obligations, it must be managed accordingly to maximize earnings. The cash flow statement is a central component of cash flow management for businesses.

Why is Cash Management important to my business?

Good cash management will impact future growth for the company. If done improperly, your business may suffer problems such as:

Poor understanding of the cash flow cycle
Uncertainty of the difference between profit vs. cash
Lack of cash management skills
Bad capital investments

Cash Management vs. Treasury Management

Though these terms are used interchangeably, the scope of Treasury Management is much larger and includes a company’s funding and investment activities. In contrast, Cash Management usually refers to wire transfers, sweep accounts, merchant services, and business credit options.

What is Cash Flow?

Cash flow is the net amount of cash and cash-equivalents transferred into and out of your business.

What is cash flow used for?

A positive cash flow shows that your business’s liquid assets are growing, which can help you pay off debts, reinvest in the business, and more. The greater flexibility you have with your cash flow, the stronger your overall business will be to both take advantage of boom times as well as weather downturns.

What is Working Capital?

A company’s working capital is the result of its current assets minus liabilities. Working capital balances are an important part of cash flow management because they show the amount of assets a company has on hand to cover its liabilities.

Current assets: cash, accounts receivable within one year, inventory
Current liabilities: all accounts payable due within one-year, short-term debt payments due within one year

What is ACH?

The automated clearing house (ACH) is an electronic funds-transfer system that facilitates payments in the U.S. Recent rule changes mean most credit and debit transactions made through the ACH will clear on the same business day.

Where can I get help with cash management?

As your community bank in the Shenandoah Valley, F&M Bank offers everything your business needs to manage cash flow. With online cash management to streamline your processes, you’ll enjoy 24/7 access to current transactions and old bank statements, funds transfers, bill and loan payments, and more. Simplify your payroll and enjoy local support with all your Merchant Services needs.

Learn more about cash management services from F&M Bank!

Since 1908, F&M Bank has been offering personal and business banking services in the Shenandoah Valley and beyond. Our local team guides you to the accounts and services you need to do business in the Valley. Personal service from people you know and trust lets you develop relationships with your banker. Contact a member of our team to learn more about our cash management services!

Online and Mobile Banking User’s Guide

November 20, 2020/in Bank Products and Services

Online Check Orders

October 1, 2020/in Bank Products and Services

F&M Bank has partnered with a new vendor to manage and process our check orders. You will notice a few minor changes when placing your next online order.

The new check order portal can be accessed through our website, or your online banking account. The look has changed, but you can expect the same functionality! Check orders will be conveniently delivered directly to your address on file.

You may order the standard F&M Bank checks, or shop our vendor’s catalog for custom design options. Those can also be found on our website prior to placing your order.

The online portal is an easy to use option designed for your convenience, however you may still continue to order checks through your local branch if preferred. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

CARES Act Resources

April 2, 2020/in Bank Products and Services, Personal Finance

Your account statements have a new look!

November 25, 2019/in Bank Products and Services

New Account Statement Formats

To make it easier to track your finances, we’re introducing a new, fresh statement format for a more user-friendly experience. Watch your mail (or email if you receive e-statements) for our updated personal and business statements and envelopes. For questions, please contact your local branch. Location details may be found here.

Preview a sample checking statement [pdf].

MyCardRules App Migration Notice

May 31, 2019/in Bank Products and Services

On Monday, June 17^th, F&M Bank will be migrating to a new MyCardRules administrative platform. To help ensure you are operating on the latest version of the MyCardRules app and your username is not duplicated, on migration day, please log out of your account, and then log back in with your username and password.

Following the migration, you will not need to re-register your cards. Your control and alert settings will remain the same. The 30-day transaction history in the MyCardRules mobile app will not be migrated, but history will begin again starting with the first transaction after the migration.

If you experience any issues on June 17^th, or following the MyCardRules conversion, please access this best practices guide, or call our customer support center at 540-896-8941.

What’s a money market and who should open one?

August 22, 2018/in Bank Products and Services

We all have savings goals – purchasing a new puppy, finding a dream home, taking a tropical vacation. But, how do you make those goals achievable?

Consider opening a money market account to help boost your savings.

But first, what is a money market account and how does it work?

If you’ve run across the term at your bank, you’ve probably wondered what it means. Put simply, a money market (MMA) is very similar to a savings account, but it’s more desirable as interest rates and terms are typically far superior. MMAs are also FDIC insured up to federal limits and have a limited number of withdrawals or outgoing payments during each statement cycle.

Who should open a money market?

A money market account is worth considering if you’re looking for a low-risk way to grow your savings.

It’s also a great fit if:

You want an account more liquid than a saver but earns higher interest than a checking.
You aren’t willing to part with your money for the period of time a CD would require.
You want some check writing ability.
You want quick access to funds in case of an unforeseen expense.

While MMAs are typically associated with big balances, at F&M Bank, you don’t need a huge deposit to get our attention. You can bank like a millionaire (without being one) by taking advantage of our competitive rates!

If you think a money market account is a good fit for your finances, be sure to contact us and book an appointment with one of our branch representatives! We’d love to help you set up an account so you can start earning today!

Best Apps for Money Management

January 30, 2018/in Bank Products and Services, Personal Finance, Technology

With the proper tools, it’s never been easier to build your financial literacy, monitor daily transactions, and grow your accounts to meet short and long-term savings goals.

Do you like to use technology to problem solve and create more efficiency in your life? If you said yes, then “fintech,” a term that describes the merging of tech and finance, is a good match for you. With an ever-growing number of money management apps, access to everything from personal accounts to global markets is at our fingertips. People of all ages from kids to retirees, as well as business owners, can not only get a detailed overview of their financial situation but have fun tracking every dollar and cent. With the proper tools, it’s never been easier to build your financial literacy, monitor daily transactions, and grow your accounts to meet short and long-term savings goals.

Whether it’s creating a budget, organizing your personal finances, saving for vacations and retirement, or managing your small business’ spending, all aspects of your money can be managed directly from your smartphone. We’ve identified some of the best personal finance, investment, business, and kids’ apps to streamline your time and resources. All are free to download and use unless otherwise noted.

Best Personal Finance Apps

From credit cards to bank and retirement accounts, our financial lives are complicated. Understanding what you have and how to make it work for you is critical. Whether you’re trying to improve your credit score before making your first home purchase, or you want to save for a vacation or big purchase, these apps can help you take those specific steps as well as basic ones like creating a budget.

Know Your Credit Score

As your credit score is the backbone of your financial life, consider downloading Credit Karma. It gives you a free copy of your credit report as well as advice on steps you can take to get your score where you want it to be. In this age of online security threats, Credit Karma also provides you with notifications to alert you to new activity reflected on your report.

Banking Apps

Your bank account is at the heart of all you do, from paying bills to buying lunch on the go. A sound banking app, such as F&M Bank’s Mobile Banking app will make you the master of your domain from the convenience of your phone or tablet. Your account is kept safe via passcode or touch ID entry to the app, where you can view transactions, pay bills, deposit checks through mobile deposit, and transfer funds between F&M bank accounts. Using the F&M mobile app will not save any sensitive information to your phone.

Best Apps for Business Owners

Companies with a business checking account can also use their bank’s mobile app to keep track of daily transactions and cash flow.

Beyond you’re a business banking app, inDinero is a tax compliance and accounting app that compiles information from all of your business bank accounts and credit cards to present a clear, comprehensive view of your company’s spending. Discover where your money goes and when, and obtain forecasts of future spending based on current trends. inDinero allows you to gain insight into the total picture of your business’ finances. Plans start at $295/month.

To take the pain out of small business accounting, consider adding Freshbooks to your life. This software makes your billing process seamless and straightforward, creating attractive, professional invoices in seconds. You can track your time on projects and follow-up with clients directly from Freshbooks, freeing you from cumbersome paperwork and administrative tasks. Freshbooks allows you to track your expenses and, because it’s cloud-based, you can have a snapshot of all of your business expenses anytime, anywhere. After a 30 day free trial, Freshbooks offers monthly plans starting at $10.

Best Money Apps for Kids

F&M Bank Treehouse Club makes saving fun. Kids can access their savings account as well as play games designed to increase their financial literacy. The app makes earning and learning can be exciting for little ones.

PiggyBot is a virtual piggy bank to make savings a more hands-on experience for kids. They can feature photos of the items they are saving for in PiggyBot for additional incentive to keep adding to their bank, combining the popularity of picture-based platforms into the app.

How will you use “Fintech” to manage your money?

Whatever your current financial situation and future goals, the range of quality personal finance and business apps can make the path to a sound financial future easier and more manageable than ever. With just a few apps added to your tablet or mobile device, you can understand your money in new ways and, more importantly, make it work for you. F&M Bank customers, and those who would like to open an F&M Bank account, can take advantage of our free Personal Financial Management Tool, Squirrel. It’s just another way we fulfill our mission as a community bank to meet the needs of our customers and community by offering the best financial products.

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