Finding a good, local, small bank for business?

[Chris Baber]

I've recently formalized my business by creating a corporation.  I opened a business checking account with my local credit union, but I don't think they're going to offer as many solutions to real estate and business lending in general as some of the other banks in the region can.

So, I want to establish a relationship with another local bank now, to build on that for a while to help when I'm ready for more lending.  I will not do business with a Wells Fargo, BofA, or similar.

Does anyone have any good advice for finding a good bank(er) in a local market?  Good questions to ask, or things that should eliminate them from further consideration?

I'm in Asheville, NC, but I don't expect recommendations so specific (althought they are welcome), I'm just looking for advice on narrowing down/choosing a partner.

thanks.

[Dennis M.]

Look for small community banks . Don’t waste your time calling a big conglomerate lender . Get out the phone book and call every little bank in your town till you find the right one willing to do business with reasonable conditions and terms . It is not uncommon to have to call a dozen banks before you find a decent one. Don’t be discouraged about this . It is normal expect it to be a bit of a hassle . think of it as just a normal part of doing business in real estate