Recently moved down here and looking for some sort of consensus on a good bank and/or credit union. I'd be immediately setting up a new checking account, so free gifts are always fun. In time, I would be looking for a good consolidation loan as well, so lower rates are often more seen at credit unions.

As far as what I need:
1. GOOD web banking abilities
2. decent access (more branches, 24 hour atm, etc)
3. good rates on loans, decent on checking

let a n00b to the area know your opinions on the local banks plz!

 

IF you have a military friend or roomate or someone I would definately say Navy Federal Credit Union. They are awesome to deal with and you can practically get any loan as long as you have good credit and income.

 

^^ what he said

 

NFCU, I just found out recently they allow you to withdrawal at 7-11 atms for no transaction fees, thats 24hr service/availability. I don't think you even have to have a friend or family in the military any more either.

 

I called and they told me that I needed a navy person to sponsor me to be able to get in their credit union, even though I'm USAF!

 

go with USAA banking the web site is USAA.com. they are in texas(the bank) but thats who i use. any atm is free they give u the fee back and you get cheap car insurance as well. the web banking is easy to online bill pay and transactions. everything you need. the do all branches of service i believe. im former army so i dunno bout air force but if u need someone to get you in then pm me and i will get you in.

 

wachovia has free checking and free online banking with billpay also, theres tons of branches in the region, loans are about the same as other banks

 

Wachovia has done wodnerful for me

 

As for a bank, Id recommend not getting an account at Bank of America. They have good online banking, but the actual people at the banks are horrible and Ive had troubles cashing paychecks in the past, now I just electronically deposit the checks.

 

Newport News Shipyard Credit Union works pretty well for me.