Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
In a world where the dream of homeownership often remains just that—a dream—for many, Lone Star National Bank (LSNB) is stepping up and offering a special program. Julian Alvarez, the bank’s Executive Vice President for Community Relations, shares information about LSNB’s initiative, the Home Buyer Equity Leverage Program (HELP), in partnership with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas.
During a recent press conference, Alvarez stressed the significance of HELP, a program designed to alleviate the financial burdens faced by first-time homebuyers. “We’re very fortunate at Lone Star National Bank to provide this $20,000 down payment assistance program. It’s an opportunity to serve not just the Rio Grande Valley but communities across Texas, including Houston, San Antonio, and Bernie,” Alvarez stated.
HELP’s reach extends beyond geographic boundaries, offering a lifeline to residents of cities like McAllen and Edinburg, among others. Alvarez detailed the bank’s efforts to engage with local organizations and educational institutions, saying, “We’re partnering up…to serve anyone, not only in the rural county in the valley but anywhere in Texas.” This approach ensures that HELP is accessible to many aspiring homeowners.
With the program’s kickoff already generating significant interest, Alvarez shared LSNB’s proactive outreach strategy. “We’ve already had heavy interest. Last night, I reached out to Dr. Ricardo Solis President of South Texas College, highlighting the immediate and enthusiastic response from the community and potential beneficiaries.
HELP is distinguished by its flexibility. It offers up to $20,000 for down payments, tailored to each applicant’s needs. “The good thing about it is it’s an incentive. We’re very excited and humbled to roll this out,” Alvarez stated, emphasizing the program’s adaptability.
Alvarez stated that the program’s visibility owes much to the efforts of individuals like Matthew Dang, Senior vice president of the Mortgage Division, whose research and dedication have been essential. “Thanks to people like Matthew…we’re offering HELP to Houston, the Valley, San Antonio, and all Texas, which are good places to do mortgage loans,” Alvarez remarked, acknowledging the role of strategic planning in HELP’s reach and impact.
Alvarez expressed gratitude for the team behind HELP and optimism for its future contributions. “We’re just very fortunate that we have a good team…and we’re growing and servicing our customers,” he concluded. This sentiment reflects LSNB’s bigger mission to support community development and financial empowerment.
For more information or to apply for the program, potential applicants are encouraged to contact Lone Star National Bank directly at (956) 661-0899, where a team of seasoned mortgage professionals is ready to assist.
