We recently held a financial education workshop aimed at equipping Charlotte community members with the tools and insights necessary for achieving personal and professional financial goals. The event welcomed local residents, aspiring homeowners, and small business owners, offering sessions on navigating the home buying process and preparing for business funding.
The workshop was developed to demystify financial processes and to provide accessible steps for building a secure future. Experts from Peoples Bank addressed common questions and challenges faced by individuals and entrepreneurs in the community, ensuring discussions were approachable and informative.
Erica Batts, Community Lending Manager, emphasized the importance of preparation and confidence on the journey to homeownership, noting that understanding budgeting, maintaining good credit, and knowing the mortgage process are the foundations for success. She shared that building a strong financial base should begin well before searching for a home, making the milestone of homeownership more accessible.
Frank Ramirez, Charlotte Business Center Manager, focused on business readiness and responsible financial practices, highlighting that lenders value applicants who demonstrate clear planning and disciplined money management. He explained that being organized−having key documents in place and a strategic approach to asset protection−gives business owners the confidence to seek capital for growth.
Throughout the event, practical advice was shared on topics such as the significance of mortgage pre-qualification, strategies for budgeting and credit improvement, an overview of different mortgage options, and ways to avoid pitfalls that could impact loan approval. For entrepreneurs, discussions centered on what banks look for in funding applications, the importance of organized financial documents and effective cash flow management.
Attendees left the workshop with greater clarity and confidence to take their next steps, whether preparing to buy a home or seeking business expansion. The event underscored the value of financial education and connection in building a vibrant local community.
