With the ups and downs of the real estate market over the last few years, home buyers want some assurance that their lender will be with them, through thick and thin.
That’s what Ozarks Federal Savings and Loan offers its clients, said Ryan Vangilder, vice president and senior loan officer at the Festus branch, 643 N. Creek Drive, Festus.
Ozarks Federal, founded in 1930, also has locations in Farmington, Ironton, Potosi and Fredericktown.
“During COVID, interest rates were low but because of supply chain issues, the cost of materials to build a home were high,” Vangilder said. “Now, that (material costs) is not so much an issue, but the rates are up. Home buyers should know that these market conditions tend to even themselves out over time.”
Vangilder said those seeking to buy a home, build a home or just buy a piece of land are well served by dealing with a local institution that has the experience to help guide the process.
“All of our loans, we service in-house,” Vangilder said. “We keep your loan here. You can make your payment here. There will be no 1-800 numbers to call. I spoke with someone who told me their loan was sold three times in a year. That won’t happen here.”
Vangilder said Ozarks Federal is staying on top of innovations in the industry, and started online loan applications shortly before COVID.
“Some people don’t want to come into the office to fill out an application,” he said. “They’d rather do that from home.”
In addition to the traditional menu of real estate loans, Ozarks Federal also offers programs for medical professionals, first responders and active and former military members that require lower down payments.
“Those (programs) are fairly new,” Vangilder said.
The bank’s website is ofsl.bank.
