Building a relationship with a local bank.

[Armando Payano]

Hi

We are looking for a local bank in the Tampa area (preferably South Tampa as we  are building a home there) that can provide help with multiple different loan products; conventional, portfolio etc. We'd like to open accounts with them now and begin developing a relationship. We own several investment properties in the area, some free and clear others have loans that originated through Wells Fargo. Our last investment property loan was a nightmare as the loan officer and branch manager almost cost us the deal through clerical errors. We almost had to purchase it with cash as to not lose our deposit. We had to ask for 2 extensions to close even though the loan was approved and were treated very poorly. It made no difference that we hold SIZABLE cash accounts with them. 

We plan on building the portfolio and thought that the best way to avoid this type of situation in the future would be to develop a relationship with a local bank that actually values our business and the profit they stand to make from our investments. A bank that does portfolio lending seems like a good candidate. 

A local bank that understands our needs and strategy as investors and can provide a bit more of a personalized service. 

Is this the best course of action? Can anyone tell me how they built relationships with lenders? 

Thanks in advance