by Joe Wilhelm Jr.
Staff Writer
The missing link has been added to VyStar Credit Union’s list of services to help home buyers.
VyStar Real Estate Services opened its doors in March and the new service works well with VyStar’s lending and title services.
“These services help save a lot of time and frustration for our customers,” said Dan Braithwaite, broker and senior vice president of VyStar Real Estate. “Our customers can get pre-approved for a loan before they start looking.”
Braithwaite said that VyStar created the new division in response to requests from its membership. The credit union is a formidable organization with over 350,000 members and assets of $3.5 billion. VyStar, formerly the Jax Navy Federal Credit Union, is the largest credit union in Florida and among the top 20 in the country.
The newest service does more than just connect home and buyer, says Braithwaite.
“We are doing some things that aren’t usually done,” he said. “We provide home inspection and title work in advance to save from any problems occurring during the process.”
The help doesn’t stop at the paperwork. VyStar also makes the legwork of shopping for a home easier. The service has agents within 15 minutes of their properties, so scheduling a viewing of a home can be accommodated on the same day in most cases.
If buyers drive by a home, they can call the number on the sign and a call center will connect them to the agent who can show the property.
“Customers get a human voice when they call about our properties,” said Braithwaite, “Not a recording.”
The service also provides education on home buying and selling through its Web site, www.vystarres.com, and seminars that it is developing.
Credit unions differ from banks because they are non-profit businesses that are owned by their members and they serve a specific clientele.
“There is a loyalty and trust built in because of their memberships,” said Braithwaite. “Customers want someone who looks out for their interests and provides a good service.”
Vystar isn’t concerned about opening a real estate service at a time when home sales are lagging.
“Activity has been very good and our agents are staying busy,” said Braithwaite. “I’d say it’s a perfect time to start.”
Non-members can also start shopping for a home with the help of VyStar Real Estate Services, as membership is not a requirement for service.
VyStar Credit Union was created in 1952 as Jax Navy Federal Credit Union to serve civil service and military employees and their families at NAS Jacksonville.
356-2466