Sterling Bank

I selected a local loan company, Sterling Bank on Grandridge Blvd. in Kennewick, because I knew that I wanted to pay a large sum on my mortgage when our old home sold, within a month or two. I was told that it was possible and easy with a $300 charge to ?recast? my loan and reduce the loan payment. I was also told by the Branch Manager that they would PROBABLY NOT SELL MY LOAN TO ANOTHER BANK. The loan was sold immediately to Fanny Mae and the managing of loan would be performed by a Sterling bank affiliate in Lake Zurich, IL. This bank has the WORST customer service that I have ever experienced. I was at a stalemate with this bank in obtaining the information I needed (such as the fact that they received my large dollar amount check but they would remove PMI from the loan without another $700 charge). The Lake Zurich branch wanted another $700 appraisal on the home when the loan was just 2 months old. So I contacted the local Sterling branch manager. in Kennewick who helped with the negotiations but to make a long story short, this process took at least 30 phone calls, a $450 charge, and the bank finally recast the loan without PMI and without another appraisal. Because of the service we received from Lake Zurich was the worst I have ever seen, we decided to pay off the mortgage. We sent the necessary funds and paper work to the Lake Zurich branch but did not hear from the bank. I had to call to request a letter from them that stated they received the funds. 3 months later, I still have not received the final paperwork that the mortgage is paid off. I do not recommend mortgages through Sterling Bank as you will never get adequate service from the Lake Zurich branch and you will consume way too much of your time trying to maintain your loan.