Another year is coming to an end and as we look forward to all of the exciting things ahead next year, we would be remiss if we didn’t take a moment and reflect on how we got here. First, we know we wouldn’t be here without our amazing customers. Whether you have chosen Colonial as your mortgage lender or have been on-boarded as a Mortgage Services customer, we are truly privileged to have you as a customer.
This year saw a number of firsts, the continuation of Colonial’s giving spirit and a few industry accolades, to boot. Below are the highlights of 2019.
New Initiatives
Colonial hasn’t been in business for more than 67 years by staying the same. While we pride ourselves in being a traditional lender known as “safe, sound and solid,” that shouldn’t suggest that we aren’t innovative and dynamic. We launched a number of new initiatives this year that we know have improved the customer experience, and we will continue to do so for years to come.
New Servicing Website
On February 5, Colonial’s Mortgage Services launched a new-and-improved payment system website, making it easier than ever for customers to access and submit mortgage loan payments online. The new payment system and website is loaded with enhancements including a modern and mobile-friendly design, automatic and one-time payment features, the ability to view multiple loans from one login and so much more.
Spanish Home Loan Portal
In the spring, Colonial was thrilled to introduce our Spanish Language Home Loan Portal. The Spanish Language Home Loan Portal continues the theme that GoColonial.com set forth when it launched in April 2016 – education and information. Current and potential customers alike can find information on all of Colonial’s home loan products and are encouraged to contact one of our knowledgeable Spanish-speaking Loan Officers that will assist them in all phases of the mortgage process – all in one place.
In April, Colonial expanded our Social Media presence by launching our Instagram page. That’s right, we are officially “Doin’ it for the gram.” You can follow us @GoColonial for all the latest ongoings around Colonial, tips including banking, finance and homeownership, customer testimonials and more.
Dedicated Construction Lending
Colonial launched a dedicated Construction Lending Department to help streamline our construction loan processes. Colonial has long been known as a go-to lender for construction loans in Colorado and Texas, as customers and builders-alike can take advantage of Colonial’s Single Close Construction Loan.
Centralized Disclosure Desk
The Centralized Disclosure Desk serves as a second set of eyes for accurately disclosing fees to the borrower before the file reaches the Closing Department. In addition to fee accuracy, the Centralized Disclosure Desk also delivers disclosure packages in an effort to free up the branches, allowing for a more streamlined loan process.
Colonial in the Community
Colonial has been a community leader in philanthropy and volunteerism for decades and 2019 was no different. We believe that as a financial institution, we have the unique opportunity to help our customers reach a number of financial milestones. Whether it be buying a home, starting a business, saving for college or something else, we are proud to provide meaningful products and services. When we have the opportunity to give back to the community, we hit the ground running.
Inaugural Employee Volunteer Challenge
Colonial was very excited to launch our inaugural Employee Volunteer Challenge. From October 1 – December 31, Colonial employees will engage in a friendly competition to get out in their communities and give back through volunteer efforts.
The theme of the inaugural Employee Volunteer Challenge is, “One Colonial One Community,” and was picked by Colonial’s Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Steering Committee, which is made up of members from various departments across the company. The theme was chosen to reflect Colonial’s ongoing efforts to support our local communities through volunteer work, donations and other means of support.
Donations Exceeding $165,000 and More than 1,000 Volunteer Hours
The Colonial Savings Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Colonial. We are well known in the Fort Worth community and beyond for our support of non-profit organizations. This year we donated more than $165,000 to more than two dozen organizations that range from programs designed to help students learn financial literacy to organizations that help families receive support for housing and other positive changes.
Although we know that funds are necessary to support our non-profits partners, volunteer hours can be equally useful. This year alone Colonial employees volunteered more than 1,000 hours to dozens of organizations in the communities we serve. We are very proud to reach the 1,000-hour milestone.
Industry News
Top 25 Mortgage Company
Colonial Savings, F.A. has been named to the list of Top 25 Mortgage Lenders and Servicers to work for in the Mortgage Industry by MReport, a leading source of breaking news and up-to-date information for the housing and mortgage industry.
The companies awarded were broken down into five categories – Law Firms, Lenders/Servicers, Minority/ Women-Owned or Operated, Service Providers and Tech Providers. Colonial was recognized as a top place to work in the Lenders/Servicers category.
Colonial received this honor based on our employee benefits packages, philanthropic contributions in the community, our commitment to Diversity and Inclusion, other industry awards and distinctions received among a number of other factors.
Fannie Mae STAR™ Performer in General Servicing
Colonial was again named a Fannie Mae Servicer Total Achievement and Rewards™ (STAR™) Performer in General Servicing for the 2018 year. Fannie Mae’s STAR™ Program recognizes those who have demonstrated best practices in a number of servicing categories including a review of relevant strategies to lead people, processes and performance in applicable metrics.
See you in 2020!
Wow, what a great year it was! In a year that saw a lot of firsts, one thing stayed true and that’s Colonial’s commitment to our customers. Thank you again for being with us this last year. We wish you and yours nothing but the best in 2020 and beyond. See you next year!
