bank and cell phone question (Orlando, Ocoee: credit, apartment complex, work)

[jessizadorable]

Hello all. I appreciate all of the help these boards have been. I have a couple of questions. I am a new transplant to the area and I need some advice on banks and cell phone stores. I currently bank with a small community bank in South Dakota (my former home) and I need to find a bank that is not far from my place of business (Orlando Reg Med Center) or my apartment complex (Villa Tuscany on Lake Sherwood near Ocoee). I want something with free checking, little to no charge for savings, a fairly low minimum acct balance and overdraft protection (I love my safety net checking/savings that I have now).

Also, I am currently a Verizon cell phone user and I love Verizon. Is there a good Verizon store/dealer around? I'd prefer one not in a "rougher" part of town. I come from the midwest where I am used to excellent service and little-to-no danger to myself when I go out shopping.

I know I'm not living in the best area of town (according to many posts), but I need something where I can work with the dealers and bankers in person.

Thanks everyone for your help in advance!

[Prichard]

For a bank, I'd suggest Wachovia. You can usually find a branch close to where you work and where you live - at least it works that way for me. Service is good. If you will be opening more than one account, make sure you discuss fees - it's not impossible to negotiate with them. I've been banking with First Union, n/k/a Wakovia for over 15 years and have had a great experience.

One thought that many people don't consider is if you intend on going into business for yourself, or if you have an established business, you might consider parking your money with one of the community banks. It's a great way to establish a relationship with a smaller bank that might be more inclined to lend you money if you bank with them. Just a thought.

[cmj_fla]

Check out Costco's in Winter Park for your cell phone. They offer everything that a Verizon Store can give you but at cheaper prices and better service IMO.

I bank with Bank of America for the past 15 years and never had problems and they offer everything that you are looking for. However, they do change a ton for overdraft fees ($35) and you do not get the personalized customer service you can get with going with a credit union (like Central Florida Credit Union) but there is a location on almost every corner.

Good luck!