SouthStar Bank, Author at SouthStar Bank, S.S.B.

by SouthStar BankJune 22, 2026

Welcome Michael Litton! New SVP of Lending & SBA Director

Michael Litton has joined SouthStar Bank as the Director of SBA Lending. Michael has worked in lending for more than three decades, developing an extensive knowledge base in mortgage and construction lending, conventional commercial loans, and an astute specialization in SBA Lending, which has been his focus for 29 years. Alongside his wealth of experience, Michael also received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin. One of Michael’s crowning career achievements is having started three SBA Lending programs at three different financial institutions, overseeing the approval and funding of more than $500 million in SBA Loans. Michael is passionate about SBA Lending because he has seen firsthand how impactful it can be in helping someone start or acquire a business and in building wealth and creating jobs within the community. In his position with SouthStar Bank, Michael looks forward to continuing to be a preeminent source of expertise in SBA Lending for his colleagues and clients and creating relationships in the communities we serve. Outside of work, Michael is involved with the Central Texas Government Guaranteed Lenders Association (CTAGGL), an organization dedicated to educating lenders and small business owners about SBA funding. When he finds time to himself, Michael enjoys hunting, fishing, shooting, and spending time with his grandson. Michael is a sixth-generation Texan with deep Texas roots, contributing to the passion he brings to his communities. Welcome to the team, Michael! NMLS# 1849881

Mortgage Lending

by SouthStar BankJune 22, 2026

Benefits of Using a Local Lender for Your Home Loan

When it comes to buying a home, choosing the right financial partner is just as important as finding the right property. Working with a local lender can provide significant advantages throughout the mortgage process! At SouthStar Bank, we believe that local expertise, personalized service, and community commitment can make a meaningful difference in your homebuying experience. Why Choose a Local Lender? As a community lender that has provided our communities with unmatched service for more than a century, we draw on local expertise to tailor a solution specific to your needs. Whether you’re purchasing your first home, upgrading to a larger property, or refinancing an existing mortgage, SouthStar Bank’s experienced teams are here to provide you with guidance tailored to your market and financial goals. Personalized Service One of the biggest benefits of working with a is the personalized attention you receive. Our lending teams focus on building long-term relationships and support you at every turn of your financial journey. SouthStar Bank’s dedicated community lenders take the time to answer questions, explain loan options, and help borrowers make informed decisions. This personalized approach is designed to reduce stress and create a smoother mortgage experience. Faster Communication and Decision-Making Communication is critical during the mortgage process. Our lending teams are dedicated to keeping you informed at every step of the process and ensuring your questions are addressed promptly and fully. Faster communication can help keep your loan on track and reduce delays before closing. Knowledge of the Local Real Estate Market Every housing market is different. SouthStar Bank lenders understand neighborhood trends, property values, and regional economic conditions that may impact your loan. This market knowledge allows them to provide more relevant guidance and help identify financing solutions that fit local buyers’ needs. Whether you’re purchasing in a growing community or a rural area, a local lender’s expertise can be invaluable. Flexible Lending Solutions Large financial institutions often rely on standardized processes and one-size-fits-all lending programs. Local lenders may offer greater flexibility when evaluating unique financial situations. If you’re self-employed, have nontraditional income sources, or need specialized financing options, SouthStar Bank’s Star Advantage Program could be a great fit for your needs! Strong Community Commitment SouthStar Bank lenders invest in the communities they serve. They support local businesses, participate in community events, and contribute to regional economic growth. When you choose a local lender like SouthStar Bank, you’re partnering with an institution that understands the importance of helping local families achieve homeownership while strengthening the communities where they live and work. Why Homebuyers Choose SouthStar Bank At SouthStar Bank, we combine the personal service of a community bank with competitive mortgage solutions designed for a variety of needs. SouthStar Bank’s experienced lending team is committed to helping borrowers navigate every step of the home financing process with confidence. From pre-qualification to closing, we focus on building relationships, providing clear communication, and delivering customized lending solutions designed around your goals. Get Started with SouthStar Bank Choosing a local lender can make the […]

General Education, Mortgage Lending

by SouthStar BankJune 10, 2026

What Is a Jumbo Mortgage Loan? A Complete Guide for Homebuyers

If you’re shopping for a high-value home, you may come across the term jumbo mortgage loan. Understanding jumbo loans can help you determine whether this financing option is right for your needs. This guide breaks down the basics of jumbo mortgages and shows how your local SouthStar Bank team can help you navigate the process with confidence. What Is a Jumbo Mortgage Loan? A jumbo mortgage loan is a type of home loan that exceeds the conforming loan limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA). These limits vary by location, but in most areas, any loan above the standard threshold (set at $832,750 for Texas in 2026) is considered a jumbo loan. Jumbo loans are not eligible for purchase by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac and are therefore considered nonconforming loans. This means lenders take on more risk, which often results in stricter qualification requirements for borrowers. Key Features of Jumbo Loans Jumbo mortgage loans share some similarities with conventional loans, but there are a few important differences: Higher Loan Amounts: Designed for luxury homes or properties in competitive real estate markets. Stricter Credit Requirements: Borrowers typically need a higher credit score, often 700 or above. Larger Down Payments: Many jumbo loans require at least 10–20% down, though options may vary. Lower Debt-to-Income Ratios: Lenders want to ensure you can comfortably manage larger monthly payments. Cash Reserves: You may need to show several months of reserves to qualify. Who Should Consider a Jumbo Loan? A jumbo mortgage loan may be a good fit if you’re: Purchasing a high-priced home Buying in a competitive or high-cost housing market Looking for financing that exceeds conforming loan limits Financially stable with strong credit and income Even if you meet these criteria, it’s important to work with a knowledgeable lender who can guide you through the unique requirements of jumbo financing. At SouthStar Bank, our lending team has the experience, knowledge, and local expertise to guide you every step of the way! Benefits of a Jumbo Mortgage Loan While jumbo loans come with stricter qualifications, they also offer several advantages: Financing for Luxury Properties: Access to higher loan amounts allows you to purchase your dream home. Choose Between a Variety of Mortgage Terms: SouthStar Bank offers a number of options including 30-year fixed rate mortgages, Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARM), and in certain cases Interest Only options. No Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac Restrictions: Because jumbo loans are nonconforming, many traditional restrictions are lifted. How SouthStar Bank Can Help At SouthStar Bank, we understand that purchasing a high-value home is a major financial decision. Our experienced mortgage team works closely with you to simplify the jumbo loan process and find a solution tailored to your needs. We offer: Personalized guidance from application to closing Competitive jumbo mortgage rates Flexible terms designed for your financial goals Local expertise you can trust Whether you’re upgrading your home or investing in a premium property, SouthStar Bank is here to help you secure the financing you need. […]

General Education

by SouthStar BankJune 2, 2026

How to Improve Your Credit: Tips for Building a Stronger Financial Future

Your credit score is a vital part of your financial viability, from qualifying for a mortgage or auto loan to securing lower interest rates and more favorable loan terms. Whether you are building credit for the first time or working to improve your current score, taking the right steps today can help create more financial opportunities tomorrow. At SouthStar Bank, we believe financial education is an important part of long-term success. Here are practical ways to improve your credit and help strengthen your financial future. Why Your Credit Score Matters Your credit score is a number that helps lenders evaluate how responsibly you manage debt. A stronger credit score may help you: Qualify for home loans, auto loans, credit cards, etc. Receive lower interest rates Help your chances of qualifying for rental properties Access better financing options Build long-term financial confidence Because credit plays such an important role in borrowing capital, maintaining healthy financial habits is essential. 1. Make Payments on Time One of the biggest factors affecting your credit score is payment history. Even a single missed payment can negatively impact your credit and remain on your report for 7 years. Use these quick and easy methods to ensure you don’t miss payments: Set up automatic payments Use payment reminders or calendar alerts Pay at least the minimum amount due each month Consistently paying bills on time demonstrates financial responsibility and can help improve your score over time. 2. Keep Credit Card Balances Low Your credit utilization ratio measures how much of your available credit you are using. The general rule of thumb recommended by experts is to keep utilization below 30%. For example, if your credit limit is $10,000, aim to keep balances below $3,000. Paying down balances can positively affect your credit score and reduce overall interest costs. 3. Avoid Applying for Too Much New Credit Every time you apply for new credit, lenders may perform a hard inquiry on your credit report. Multiple inquiries within a short timeframe can temporarily lower your score. Before opening any new accounts, consider whether additional credit is truly necessary, and review whether enquiring about new credit will result in a soft or hard pull of your credit. 4. Review Your Credit Report Regularly Monitoring your credit report can help you identify errors or fraudulent activity that may affect your score. When reviewing your report, check for: Incorrect personal information Accounts you do not recognize Inaccurate late payments Incorrect balances Correcting errors in your report may help improve your credit profile. 5. Maintain Older Credit Accounts Length of credit history is another important credit scoring factor. Older accounts help establish a longer track record of responsible borrowing. If possible, avoid closing long-standing credit accounts unless there is a compelling reason. 6. Build Healthy Financial Habits Improving your credit often starts with better overall money management. Creating a monthly budget, reducing debt, and building emergency savings can all contribute to long-term financial stability. Improving Credit Takes Time There is no instant fix […]

General Education, Savings

by SouthStar BankMay 27, 2026

How to Create a Budget While Paying Off Student Loans

Managing student loan payments while balancing everyday expenses can feel overwhelming, especially for recent graduates and young professionals. While this can be a challenge, creating a realistic budget can help you stay on top of your student loans and build healthy financial habits while still working toward your long-term goals. At SouthStar Bank, we believe financial success starts with a plan. Here’s how to create a budget while paying off student loans without sacrificing your financial future. Start by Understanding Your Monthly Income The first step in building a budget is to know exactly how much money you bring home each month after taxes and deductions. This includes: Once you know your monthly income, you can begin assigning funds to expenses and savings goals List All Monthly Expenses Next, write down your fixed and variable expenses. You can review your expenses by going through your bank statements and categorizing the expenses. Fixed Expenses These expenses stay relatively the same each month: Variable Expenses These expenses can fluctuate: Tracking your spending for a few months can help you identify areas where you may be consistently overspending. Use the 50/30/20 Budget Rule A popular budgeting method is the 50/30/20 rule: While this is a solid framework, if student loan debt is a major priority, you can adjust the percentages to dedicate more toward repayment. Prioritize Student Loan Payments Making consistent, on-time student loan payments is important for protecting your credit score and avoiding additional interest or penalties. If possible: Even small additional payments can reduce the total interest paid over the life of the loan. Build An Emergency Fund While paying off student loans is important, having emergency savings matters too. Unexpected expenses can lead to additional debt if you’re unprepared. Start with a goal of saving: Keeping emergency savings in a separate savings account can help you avoid dipping into those funds unnecessarily. Reduce Unnecessary Spending Creating a budget doesn’t mean eliminating all fun spending. Instead, focus on building intentional spending habits. Below are some examples of some quick ways to reduce spending: Small changes can free up extra money for savings or loan repayment. Use Banking Tools to Stay Organized Make sure to take advantage of tools like SecureAlerts and automatic transfers can go a long way to keeping you on track with your goals. SecureAlerts allow you to set up notifications for a number of different account activities including Debit Card Purchases, Balance Alerts, ATM Withdrawals, Loan Payment Reminders, and more! Keeping this information top of mind can help ensure you don’t miss any loan payments and incur late fees or penalties. Setting up automatic transfers to savings based around pay periods or recurring income can also help to build your emergency fund or make sure you have the proper balance in an account before a payment is processed. Working with a trusted community bank like SouthStar Bank can also provide guidance as you build strong financial habits and plan for future goals. FAQ: Budgeting While Paying Off Student […]

Savings

by SouthStar BankMay 22, 2026

How “Revenge Saving” Is Shaping Household Finance And How to Use It to Boost Your Savings with SouthStar Bank

If the past few years were known for “revenge spending,” 2026 has seen a major shift: Americans are now embracing “revenge saving.”Instead of splurging after stressful seasons, people are saving more aggressively—rebuilding emergency funds, planning for homeownership, and regaining a sense of financial control. This movement is especially strong among millennials and Gen Z, who are pairing revenge saving with “loud budgeting”—openly telling friends, coworkers, and even social media: “That’s not in my budget this month.” It’s a financial trend rooted in empowerment, not deprivation. More importantly, households are looking for trusted, local banking partners to help them turn this cultural shift into real, long-term financial stability. That’s where SouthStar Bank comes in, offering high-quality savings accounts, checking options with smart automation features, competitive CDs, and flexible mortgage solutions to support every savings milestone. In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn what revenge saving is, why it’s rising in 2026, and how to use SouthStar Bank’s products to put this trend to work for your goals. What Is “Revenge Saving”? “Revenge saving” refers to the decision to save aggressively after a period of overspending, financial stress, or economic uncertainty. Instead of letting money slip through the cracks, people are taking control, using structured plans, clear goals, and better tools (like savings accounts and CDs) to push ahead. Unlike traditional saving which is slow and steady, revenge saving is: Financial analysts highlight revenge saving as one of the top behavioral money trends of 2025 and 2026, alongside mindful budgeting, income stacking, and increased financial transparency. Why 2026 Is the Perfect Time for Revenge Saving 1. Inflation Pressure Has Changed Spending Behavior Even as inflation cools, higher prices across groceries, gas, and home essentials continue to impact household budgets. Many families simply want to regain stability and prepare for future uncertainty. 2. People Want Bigger Emergency Cushions Reports show that many households still don’t have 3 months of expenses saved. Revenge saving is helping people rebuild those cushions more quickly and confidently. 3. Savings Tools Are More Accessible Than Ever Products like SouthStar Bank’s Savings Accounts, Money Market Accounts, and Certificates of Deposit (CDs) give savers more ways to grow their money safely. 4. The “Loud Budgeting” Trend Helps Reinforce Saving Gen Z popularized it and now all age groups are embracing boundaries around spending. Revenge saving thrives in environments where saying “not today” to optional purchases is socially supported. How to Turn Revenge Saving Into Real Financial Progress Below are proven strategies paired with the right SouthStar Bank products to help you make the most of this trend. 1. Start With a Two-Bucket Savings System Create a simple structure: Bucket A — Liquid Savings (Easy Access) Use a SouthStar Bank Savings Account for: Recommended accounts:Traditional Savings: https://southstarbank.com/consumer-banking/savings-accounts/savings/ All Savings Options: https://southstarbank.com/consumer-banking/savings-accounts/ Bucket B — Locked Savings (Higher Discipline + Better Growth) Use Certificates of Deposit (CDs) to protect your funds from impulse spending while earning competitive, fixed rates. CDs: https://southstarbank.com/consumer-banking/certificates-deposit-cd/ This “dual approach” ensures you stay flexible with essentials while building long-term […]

Employee News

by SouthStar BankMay 19, 2026

Welcome, Rachel Forrister! New Senior Vice President of Lending

Rachel Forrister has joined the SouthStar Bank Round Rock branch as a Senior Vice President of Lending. Rachel has more than two decades of experience in the banking industry and holds a degree in Social Sciences from Washington State University. Specializing in commercial lending, Rachel is well-versed in commercial and industrial (C&I) lending and commercial real estate (CRE). Rachel is passionate about community banking, focusing on building and maintaining strong client relationships, supporting local businesses, and building trust within her community. Rachel is dedicated to creating value for her clients, ensuring their financial strategies align with their goals. Outside of work, Rachel often attends events hosted by the Cedar Park and Leander Chambers of Commerce, allowing her to deepen her connection to her community. When she finds time to herself, Rachel can be found cheering her children on at soccer games or gymnastics meets! Rachel and her family are also avid animal lovers and often volunteer with the Texas Humane Heroes animal shelter. Welcome to the team, Rachel! NMLS #2840203

General Education, Mortgage Lending

by SouthStar BankMay 19, 2026

What to Know About a Mortgage

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and understanding how a mortgage works can help you feel more confident throughout the process. Whether you are purchasing your first home, upgrading to your dream house, or refinancing your current loan, knowing the basics of mortgages can make homeownership more manageable. At SouthStar Bank, we believe informed borrowers make stronger financial decisions, and our team of local experts are here to guide you every step of the way! What Is a Mortgage? In basic terms, a mortgage is a loan used to purchase a home or other real estate. The lender provides the funds upfront, and the borrower repays the loan over time through monthly payments. Mortgage payments typically include: If your down payment is below 20%, you will also need to pay Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI), which can affect your monthly payment. Types of Mortgage Loans There are several types of mortgage loans available, and the right option depends on your financial situation and goals. Conventional Loans Conventional loans are popular among borrowers with solid credit and stable income. They often offer competitive interest rates and flexible terms. FHA Loans Backed by the Federal Housing Administration, FHA loans are designed to help borrowers with lower credit scores or smaller down payments qualify for home financing. VA Loans VA loans are available to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and qualifying spouses. These loans often require little to no down payment. Jumbo Loans Jumbo loans are for higher-priced properties that exceed conventional loan limits. These loans may require stronger credit and larger reserves. How to Prepare for a Mortgage Taking time to prepare before applying for a mortgage can improve your approval chances and help you secure better loan terms. Here are a few important considerations when preparing for a mortgage: Working with a trusted local lender can also make the process smoother. At SouthStar Bank, our experienced mortgage professionals provide personalized, hometown, expert guidance to help borrowers navigate every step of the home financing process. Why Work With a Local Bank for Your Mortgage? Choosing a local bank means working with lenders who understand your community and can offer personalized service. Local decision-making, responsive communication, and relationship-focused banking can make a significant difference during the homebuying process. If you’re ready to explore your home financing options, reach out to your local SouthStar Bank lender today to learn how we can help make your home ownership dreams a reality! Glossary of Mortgage Terms Before applying for a mortgage, it’s important to be able to define the following terms. Mortgage Interest Rate A mortgage interest rate is the percentage a lender charges to borrow money for a home loan. Your interest rate affects your monthly mortgage payment as well as how much you’ll pay over the life of the loan. Rates can be fixed or adjustable. Mortgage Loan Term The loan term refers to the length of time you have to repay your loan. Most mortgage terms are […]

Man using mobile banking tools while reviewing modern checking account features from SouthStar Bank

Checking, General Education, Personal Banking

by SouthStar BankMay 14, 2026

Opening a Checking Account in 2026: What Features Matter Most to Customers Today?

As the economy changes, many people are re-evaluating their financial habits. And one of the most important steps you can take to keep your finances strong in 2026 is choosing the right checking account. Checking accounts have transformed dramatically over the past few years. What used to be a simple transactional account has evolved into the central hub of a person’s financial life connecting savings, bill pay, mobile wallets, budgeting apps, automated transfers, and more. With consumers expecting unprecedented convenience, transparency, and digital integration, banks must offer modern, mobile-first solutions that meet the needs of today’s customers. As we move into 2026, customers expect their checking accounts to deliver: SouthStar Bank is leading the way by offering checking accounts designed for modern customers big on convenience, built around financial control, and supported by local, Texas-based service. Whether you’re preparing for major financial goals, simplifying your finances, or choosing a bank that aligns with your digital lifestyle, this guide will help you understand what features matter most when opening a checking account in 2026—and how SouthStar Bank’s checking lineup delivers exactly what customers expect today. Explore checking options: https://southstarbank.com/consumer-banking/personal-checking/ Why Your Checking Account Choice Matters in 2026 After tax season, is the perfect time to review your financial setup. A checking account is more than somewhere to store money, it’s the foundation for: In 2026, consumers increasingly want checking accounts that are digital-first, transparent, and tailored to real-life needs. Below are the key features customers expect when opening a new checking account in 2026 and how SouthStar Bank is meeting (and exceeding) those expectations. 1. Seamless, Mobile-First Banking Features The biggest priority for customers in 2026 is mobile convenience. People want banking tools in their pocket fast, intuitive, and always accessible. SouthStar Bank’s mobile app provides: ✔ Mobile check deposit✔ Transfer options✔ Real-time alerts✔ Card controls (freeze/unfreeze)✔ Secure login with biometrics✔ Account overview This gives you complete control over your checking account from anywhere, perfect for starting a more organized financial foundation. 2. Real-Time Alerts for Better Financial Control Consumers now expect instant updates from their bank the same way they expect notifications from social apps. Real-time alerts help customers avoid fees, detect fraud, and track spending effortlessly. SouthStar Bank offers alerts for: These alerts help customers stay proactive and confident with their money. 3. Open-Finance Connectivity & Third-Party App Integration Today’s customers use multiple financial tools budgeting apps, payment platforms, digital wallets, investment apps, and more. In 2026, customers want their checking account to seamlessly integrate with: SouthStar Bank supports secure connectivity with trusted financial apps, giving customers a complete picture of their finances across all platforms. 4. Enhanced Security & Fraud Protection As digital transactions continue rising in 2026, customers place a high priority on security features like: SouthStar Bank checking accounts include industry-leading security features that help keep your money and personal information protected. Explore SouthStar checking accounts: https://southstarbank.com/consumer-banking/personal-checking/ 5. Faster Payments & Quick Access to Funds In 2026, speed is everything. Consumers want: SouthStar Bank’s checking accounts […]

General Education, SBA

by SouthStar BankMay 8, 2026

How a Business Loan Can Benefit Your Small Business

For many entrepreneurs, growth requires more than just a great idea; it takes access to capital. Whether you’re launching a startup, expanding operations, or managing seasonal fluctuations, a business loan can be a powerful financial tool. At SouthStar Bank, we specialize in helping small businesses access the funding they need to succeed in competitive markets. Why Consider a Business Loan? Access Immediate Working Capital Cash flow is the lifeblood of any small business. A business loan provides quick access to funds to cover essential expenses such as payroll, rent, inventory, and utilities. Ensuring your operations continue running smoothly, even during slower revenue periods. Support Business Growth and Expansion A business loan empowers you to act on opportunities when they arise. Whether you’re opening a new location, upgrading equipment, or investing in marketing, financing lets you scale faster without waiting to build cash reserves. Build Strong Business Credit Establishing business credit is critical for long-term financial health. By taking out a loan and making timely payments, you can strengthen your credit profile. In turn, it will make it easier to secure future funding with better rates and terms. Retain Full Ownership Unlike equity financing, a business loan allows you to maintain complete control of your company. You won’t need to give up ownership or decision-making power, so you can continue executing your vision without outside influence. Flexible Financing Options At SouthStar Bank, we offer a variety of lending solutions tailored to your needs. From term loans for large investments to lines of credit for ongoing expenses, flexibility ensures you get the right fit for your business goals. Why Work with a Local Bank? Choosing a local lender like SouthStar Bank means working with a team that understands your community and business environment. Our lenders have the expertise and experience in their communities that allow them to make decisions at the local level. For 105 years, we have provided personalized service and fast, relationship-driven lending decisions to help your business move forward with confidence. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) What is a business loan, and how does it work? A business loan is a lump-sum or line-of-credit loan provided by a lender that businesses repay over time with interest. A business loan can be used for expenses such as operations, expansion, and equipment purchases. What can a small business loan be used for? Business loans can be used for a wide range of needs. These can include working capital, hiring additional staff, purchasing inventory, upgrading equipment, marketing, or expanding to new locations. How do I qualify for a business loan? Lenders typically evaluate your credit score, time in business, annual revenue, and financial statements. Each loan is different so requirements may vary. SouthStar Bank lenders are always happy to discuss your needs and explain what is required based on your situation. Is it better to get a loan or a line of credit? Whether you choose a loan or a line of credit depends on your needs. A term loan is ideal for […]