What does five generations of banking experience bring to Northwest Arkansas real estate investors? Find out as Chris Harlin, Chairman and CEO of Century Bank of the Ozarks, opens up about his family's remarkable 131-year banking journey and how their community-focused approach creates unique advantages for today's investors.

Dating back to 1894 when board meetings were scheduled "on the Monday after the first full moon," Century Bank has evolved while maintaining its core values. Chris shares the fascinating origin story, from his great-grandfather's role in bringing electricity and dams to the Ozarks to their modern expansion into Northwest Arkansas. The iconic mill wheel in their logo represents not just the historic grist mills of the region, but a banking philosophy that has stood the test of time.

While the American banking landscape has contracted from 12,000 banks in 1990 to roughly 5,000 today, Century Bank has thrived by combining the best of both worlds: cutting-edge technology with the personal relationships only possible at a community bank. "That 50 billion dollar bank cannot do what we're talking about," Chris explains, highlighting how their ability to make lending decisions in minutes rather than weeks provides a crucial edge for investors working in competitive markets.

For real estate investors, Chris offers invaluable perspective on the value of banking relationships versus rate shopping. Beyond interest rates, factors like closing speed, flexible terms, and having a lending partner who keeps all loans in-house creates sustainable advantages that can make or break investment opportunities. As Northwest Arkansas continues its explosive growth, having a banking partner with deep roots, local decision-making authority, and a genuine interest in your success might be your most valuable asset.

Connect with Century Bank at their locations in Fayetteville and Mountain Home, Arkansas, and discover what five generations of banking wisdom can do for your investment strategy.