Why Financial Advice Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

April is Financial Literacy Month, and we believe the best financial advice doesn’t come from generic information you read online. Financial literacy is much more nuanced than that. It takes into account your goals, priorities, and timing, and isn’t the same for everyone. Most people don’t struggle with a lack of information. There’s no shortage […]
5 Smart Ways Homeowners Are Using Their Tax Refunds This Year

Tax season is wrapping up, and for many homeowners, refunds are starting to hit. For some, it’s extra cash, and for others, it’s an opportunity. Here are five smart ways homeowners are putting that money to work. Paying Down High-Interest Debt A tax refund could put a significant dent in credit card debt or any […]
Spring Financial Check-In: Is Your Credit Helping or Hurting Your Mortgage Goals?

March is Credit Awareness Month and what a perfect time to evaluate your finances. Spring is a traditionally a season of renewal, and many people start looking to buy a home, refinance, or begin a home project or renovation. Whatever your next move is, your credit score can affect it in more ways than you […]
Snowball vs. Avalanche: Which Debt Payoff Strategy Is Right for You?

Paying off debt can feel overwhelming. Between keeping track of multiple balances, interest rates, and due dates, it’s not always easy to know where to start. Two of the most popular debt payoff methods are the snowball and the avalanche. If you’re picturing winter weather, don’t worry–we’re breaking down exactly what these terms mean along […]
Granite Bank Announces Partnership with RE/MAX Results

Granite Bank, headquartered in Cold Spring, MN and Champlin, MN, is proud to announce a new partnership with RE/MAX Results, one of the region’s leading real estate brokerages with 23 offices across the area. The partnership includes a marketing services agreement and desk rental arrangement. Through this partnership, Granite Bank will provide on-site access to […]
Is 2026 Your Year to Become a Homeowner? 5 Questions to Ask Yourself

Becoming a homeowner is an exciting milestone, but it requires planning. If you’re considering buying a home in 2026, now is the time to start thinking ahead. Asking the right questions early can help you get clear on where you stand today and what steps you need to take to make homeownership achievable this year. […]
Money and Relationships: 6 Practical Financial Tips for Couples

Finances may not be the most romantic thing to talk about, but they are important to shared success and happiness as a couple. Here are some practical financial tips for couples to consider so you and your partner can build a future together. Set Shared Goals (Short and Long Term) The first step to achieving […]
Granite Bank Is Now an Approved Fannie Mae Seller

Granite Bank is proud to announce that we have been approved by Fannie Mae as a direct seller. This approval represents an important milestone in the continued growth of our mortgage platform and reflects the strength of our financial position, operational infrastructure, and risk management framework. Fannie Mae seller approval is a meaningful validation, confirming […]
5 Financial Habits That Matter More Than Big Goals in 2026

It’s easy to get caught up in New Year’s resolutions and large goals at the start of a new year. While goals are important, a key to building financial success is in the small, everyday habits you do. Let’s take a look at some small habits that can help you reach your goals in 2026. […]
Should You Buy a House in the Winter? The Answer May Surprise You

Winter is here – a time to slow down, reflect, cozy up, and….buy a home? Hear us out! While it’s true that winter is traditionally the slowest month for home buying, that slowdown could actually work in your favor. If you’ve been thinking about making a move, here are a few compelling reasons why winter […]