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Dana Williams, a mortgage originator with Colony Bank in Valdosta, says her job is that of a cheerleader\u2014someone who encourages her customers through the home buying process.<\/p>\n
\u201cI love my job and want to help people with the whole home buying experience,\u201d Williams says. \u201cThere is a lot of satisfaction and sense of accomplishment in helping a family purchase a home\u2014not just a house.\u201d<\/p>\n
Williams has helped hundreds of people achieve the American Dream of becoming homeowners. However, she says the process can be challenging.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe advice I give my clients is to prepare early,\u201d says Williams, who has more than 30 years of local banking experience and 20 years working directly with home mortgages. \u201cBudgeting and saving money is important, but the most important part is preparing your credit score.\u201d<\/p>\n
Williams explains that in today\u2019s market, having a strong credit score is often the deciding factor in securing a home loan.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe higher the credit score\u2014average is 680\u2014the better,\u201d Williams says. \u201cA young person might not have established credit. I suggest that they start by taking out a small loan\u2014it doesn\u2019t have to be a big balance, they should buy something they need and not want, and then pay it off completely.\u201d<\/p>\n
A longtime resident of Lowndes County, Williams understands the local real estate and financial markets. She has extensive experience working with first time home buyers and those who are purchasing a second or third home.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere are a lot of loan options, and the rules are changing every day. You need someone who stays up-to-date on those changes,\u201d says Williams, who is currently president of the Valdosta Mortgage Bankers Association. \u201cMy area of specialty is VA (Veteran Affairs) financing. There are great options not just for active duty, but also for retired veterans. There are benefits that many are not aware are offered when buying a house.\u201d<\/p>\n
Williams began working at Colony Bank in March of this year and has been impressed with the level of financial benefits and service the bank offers, as compared to other local lending institutions.<\/p>\n
\u201cColony Bank brings a strong financial reputation as well as high level of service to all its customers,\u201d says Williams. \u201cFrom where my office is located, I have a bird\u2019s eye view to watch customers come into the bank. The tellers know their names, and it is a friendly atmosphere.\u201d<\/p>\n
When she is not helping customers secure financing for a new home, Williams enjoys gardening and spending time with her family.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is a great community to live and work,\u201d says Williams, who serves on the Home Builders Association of South Georgia Board and is a member of the Valdosta Board of Realtors. \u201cI love this community, and how the people work together. You can have competitors, but when it comes to what is best for the community we all pull together.\u201d<\/p>\n