Real Estate Lending and Escrow Services

Despite a slowdown in the local real estate market during 1990, the Bank's Real Estate and Escrow professionals showed terrific performance. Whether customers were buying, building, remodeling or refinancing, they had their needs met at Santa Barbara Bank & Trust.

Total real estate loans outstanding (not including equity financing made through the branch offices) increased over 24% to $225 million. Interest income increased nearly 39% to over $26 million. The Real Estate Division maintained exceptional portfolio quality. There were no non-accruals, foreclosures, or real estate owned among Division loans. Safe and sound management and growth are the distinctive features of our Real Estate Division.

The Escrow Department closed over 400 escrows during 1990. Our Escrow professionals make even the toughest escrows look easy. Santa Barbara Bank & Trust enjoys a strong reputation for unsurpassed service and expertise in the areas of high value residential properties, commercial properties, business purchases, exchanges, and delayed exchanges.

It's a good marriage ...

Santa Barbara Bank & Trust and my real estate companies. When we decided to make our home in the Santa Ynez Valley I knew my real estate projects would be in and out of this area. What I needed was a local lender with whom I could do business.

In working with lenders in previous situations, you first met the loan officer, then the loan officer and the branch manager, next the loan officer, the branch manager and the regional vice president. There were meetings upon meetings with few decisions.

In working with SBB&T it's different. The lending officer I work with has a team of professionals supporting him, but I deal with one person and decisions are made promptly.

A large part of my success is a direct result of the Bank's trust in me. I see the Bank as a "people" Bank. Their people are a big part of my success.

Chip Hanly
Santa Ynez