FREMONT, California - October 11, 2005 - Fremont Bank is expanding its residential lending menu. The menu now includes three new program choices: the FHA Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), the Fannie May Home Keeper Reverse Mortgage, and the Financial Freedom's Cash Account.

Many banks and financial institutions offer the same reverse mortgages, but Fremont Bank offers something different.

"The difference is the consultant," says Reverse Mortgage Consultant Rebecca Matthew. "This is a process, and I am going to be with the client from before the loan starts, through the middle of the loan and way beyond, even after the loan has closed. It's the relationship and the service Fremont Bank is going to give them."

For example, if a client learns of something that they believe may possibly impact their reverse mortgage, they can simply pick up the phone and call Matthew who can assuage their concerns.

In order to qualify for a reverse mortgage, a homeowner must be at least 62 years of age and have a substantial amount of equity in their home. There are also many misconceptions about reverse mortgages the consultant can help dispel including that a person loses their house to the reverse mortgage lender. The homeowner continues to own their home and their name remains on Title.

"These three program choices give clients the option of having a monthly income, a lump sum, a credit line, or a combination of these options" says Matthew. "The reverse mortgage lender is going to pay you out of the equity you have in your home."

When Matthew is preparing a loan, she likes to go out to the client's home to meet with them, their advisor and family members. She answers all their questions and goes over the entire program. She is also available anytime to answer questions that come up even after the loan has closed.

"Reverse Mortgages are helping seniors live a better life," Matthew says. "I don't think most seniors realize what a wonderful retirement investment they have in their home. This is just another financial tool they can use for their needs."

Fremont Bank has been serving the community for over 40 years. Among its many services it has helped young families buy their first homes and now is helping seniors maintain a better quality of life through the equity in their homes.

Group Executive - Sales & Marketing, Gary De Luca says, "For decades, Fremont Bank has had a history of being deeply involved in residential lending. Adding reverse mortgages to our product line is a natural transition that is beneficial for our existing and our future customers."

About Fremont Bank
Fremont Bank and its divisions are committed to providing its communities with high-quality, personalized banking services in convenient neighborhood locations. Fremont Bank has built a reputation as one of the most progressive community banks in California.

Fremont Bank was founded in 1964 on the cornerstone value that continues to fuel its success today: fast, friendly, honest service. Customers can still count on receiving this exceptional level of service - a rarity in today's marketplace. For more information, call (800) 743-INFO.

Press Contacts:
Laura Owen
Public Relations, Fremont Bank
Phone: (800) 743-INFO
Email: PublicRelations@fremontbank.com