It’s no secret that COVID-19 has altered our world. Some changes are temporary, while others may be here for the long-term. People and companies turned to the resources available to adapt to the times. Bruning Bank has always prided itself on relationship banking and personally interacting with customers, but COVID-19 has really challenged our methods for achieving this.

Home loan lending can be stressful and downright confusing! The home loan officers at Bruning Bank want to east the apprehensions of the process by meeting with customers face-to-face and having open discussion throughout the lending process. When COVID-19 reared its ugly head, doors were closed and those personal touches we strive to give each customer were harder to provide. Then to add fuel to the fire, home loan interest rates plummeted to historic lows and the refinance craze began. How in the world was the home loan department supposed to help individuals looking to refinance when we couldn’t meet with applicants in person to evaluate their request or collect documentation. We had to think outside the box.

Bruning Bank also had to become resourceful and that meant turning towards technology, the home loan department was no exception. Our software has been in place for a little over two years and has a remarkable online platform, but we really just needed a reason to use it! Then came COVID-19. Sometimes a little nudge is helpful. COVID-19 made the home loan department get its online act in gear and allow us to serve our customers and keep everyone safe. This technology allows the customer to manage and apply online on their time.

If you are anxious about a face-to-face appointment, you can check out Bruning Bank online. With just a few clicks of the mouse and an email address, Bruning Bank can help with your refinance, home upgrade and more. Please visit us anytime at www.bruningbank.com or give one of the mortgage loan officers a call to help you get the process started!

- Janice Nozicka
  Director of Mortgage Lending, Mortgage Loan Officer (NMLS#474132)