If you have a mortgage, you’ve likely heard the term “escrow account.” It’s a common part of the homebuying process, but many homeowners aren’t entirely sure how it works, especially when it comes to paying property taxes. Understanding this process is key to managing your home finances effectively and avoiding any unwelcome surprises from your…
Life moves fast. Between work commitments, school runs, errands, and precious family time, finding a spare moment to manage your finances can feel impossible. If you’ve ever tried to follow a rigid budget only to feel overwhelmed, you are not alone. Many traditional budgeting methods seem designed for a world with more free time than…
Online shopping has transformed the way we purchase everything from groceries to gadgets. However, this convenience comes with risks. Cybercriminals have developed sophisticated methods to exploit unsuspecting shoppers, stealing personal information and hard-earned money. At Heritage Bank NA, we want to help you shop safely online. Understanding common scam tactics and implementing protective measures can…
Life events require immediate attention to financial planning to prevent costly mistakes and family disputes down the road. Whether you are getting married, welcoming a new child, or facing the loss of a loved one, these transitions demand a thorough review of your financial accounts and legal designations. For expert insights on this topic, you…
On Thursday, October 9th, there was a remarkable evening of celebration at the Awards in Philanthropy, an event that recognized individuals who make a significant difference in their communities. We are incredibly proud that two members of the Heritage Bank family, Wayne Nelson and Smitty Luschen, were honored for their outstanding contributions. Wayne Nelson Receives…
Applying for a mortgage is a significant financial milestone, but for many homebuyers, it has also been an open invitation for a flood of unwanted calls, texts, and emails. This frustrating experience is about to change. A new era of mortgage privacy is on the horizon, thanks to the Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act, which was…
Buying a home represents one of the most significant financial decisions you’ll ever make. For most people, it’s their biggest single investment, often requiring decades to pay off. Yet many buyers rush into the process without proper financial preparation, leading to costly mistakes that can impact their finances for years to come. The home-buying process…
Cybercriminals compromise millions of accounts every year, often through weak or stolen passwords. Your banking information, personal data, and financial security depend on the strength of your password protection. At Heritage Bank NA, we recognize that maintaining the security of your accounts is crucial to your financial well-being. This comprehensive guide covers proven strategies to…
How is the harvest shaping up for Minnesota farmers? With variable weather patterns and evolving market conditions, having expert guidance is more critical than ever. In a recent “Ask the Expert” segment on KWLM, Heritage Bank’s Ag Relationship Manager, Chuck Nolting, shared his professional insights on the Minnesota crop yield forecast. This post summarizes Chuck’s…
Willmar’s housing market is a hot topic, with homes selling quickly and buyers wondering how to navigate the competitive landscape. To get a clear picture of what’s happening, we are turning to the experts. This post captures the key insights from Heritage Bank’s own Jared Williamson and Chris Vraa, who recently shared their knowledge on…
Buying a home in Minnesota involves several financial decisions that can significantly impact your purchasing power and overall experience. Chris Vraa covers all these key topics in detail during the latest segment of KWLM’s ‘Ask the Expert,’ providing valuable insights to guide you through the process. Understanding your financing options before you start house hunting…
Millions of federal student loan borrowers are facing a harsh reality this summer: wage garnishment could hit their paychecks within months. As of April 2025, 31% of borrowers are 90 days past due on their payments. It is important to understand how delinquency can lead to default and wage garnishment. If you’re having trouble with…
Heritage Bank is proud to announce the addition of Jared Williamson to its mortgage team. With an extensive background in mortgage lending and a commitment to exceptional client service, Jared brings a wealth of experience and a customer-first approach that aligns perfectly with Heritage Bank’s mission to help people succeed financially. Since starting his career…
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced significant changes to FHA mortgage regulations in July 2025, marking the most substantial regulatory rollback in recent years. These FHA loan changes in July 2025 represent a pivotal shift toward making homeownership more accessible and affordable for first-time buyers. For prospective homeowners navigating an increasingly…
Ensuring access to opportunities for growth, learning, and connection is critical to building stronger communities. Heritage Bank NA, in collaboration with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines (FHLB Des Moines), recently took a significant step toward supporting this mission by awarding a $20,000 grant to the Kandiyohi County Area Family YMCA. The grant…
Navigating the Minnesota real estate market can be daunting, especially for first-time homebuyers. With increasing housing prices, limited starter home options, and economic factors influencing mortgage rates, understanding the market dynamics is critical. To shed light on these challenges and offer expert advice, KWLM sat down with Doug Frazzini, Capital Market Specialist at Heritage Bank,…
Banking security has never been more critical today, when technology plays a significant role in our daily lives. Kelly Pickle, the Director of Enterprise Risk at Heritage Bank NA, recently appeared on KWLM’s ‘Ask the Expert’ segment. She highlights how community banks, like Heritage Bank, are taking significant steps to protect their customers from cyber…
Get ready to tee up for a day of fun, community connection, and philanthropy! The 16th Annual United Way Golf Tournament is coming in June, and Heritage Bank NA is proud to sponsor this Willmar, Minnesota, event. Mark your calendars for Friday, June 20th, and join us for a tournament that brings local businesses, community…
Phishing scams are on the rise, targeting individuals and businesses alike, often leaving victims in financial ruin. For online banking users and security-conscious individuals, understanding and preventing phishing attacks is critical to protecting one’s financial future. Ruth McDonnell discusses how you can safeguard your financial future in the KWLM Ask the Expert segment. This guide…
Building a home is an exciting milestone, but if you are like many first-time builders, the construction loan process can feel overwhelming. Whether you are a future homeowner, a Willmar resident looking to build a new home, or someone planning your dream project, understanding how construction loans work is essential. Heritage Bank NA, located in…
