4. Low Rate Loan Options

While you don’t have to get a loan at your primary banking institution, it can still be comforting to know that your bank offers competitive loan rates. Find out about programs related to mortgages and auto loans.

 Also, do research on the personal loans offered by prospective banks. This can help you determine whether or not the bank provides special programs and lower rates for its customers.

5. Accessible ATMs

You want access to your money from most places. Think about where you are likely to need an ATM, and try to find a financial institution that provides that access. This doesn’t mean that you have to bank with a national chain to get wide access to your money, though.

Many community banks and credit unions are part of co-ops that use a network to allow you access your money, fee-free, from ATMs in that network. See what sort of network you can tap into for ATM use.