Business Briefs: March 24, 2023

Credit union sees increase in local financial scams

Freedom Credit Union’s employees are seeing an increase in financial scams, a problem that is on the rise across the country.

In January of this year alone, staff helped prevent more than $100,000 in fraud losses. The credit union has a variety of internal processes in place, sends its staff for ongoing training and coaching, and works with local law enforcement agencies to crack down on thieves.

Freedom Credit Union has branch locations in Springfield, Chicopee, Feeding Hills, Greenfield, Ludlow, Northampton, Turners Falls and West Springfield.

Michael Seward earns two Realtor certifications

SHELBURNE — Michael Seward, broker and owner of Michael Seward Real Estate, earned the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR) Pricing Strategy Advisor (PSA) and Home Financing Resource (HFR) certifications.

The National Association of Realtors offers the PSA certification to real estate agents, as determining property values depends on professional expertise, the best use of technology and a commitment to approach the pricing assignment from various perspectives. The HFR certification equips real estate agents with a more comprehensive understanding of the mortgage application process, the various mortgage products, improving credit scores, consumer protection and other information to better advise their clients.

“Both of these certifications and resources they include allow me to provide even more value to my buyer and seller clients,” Seward said in a statement. “Home sellers who better understand the mortgage process can make better decisions when considering offers, and home buyers who better understand how valuations are determined can make a better decision when making an offer.”

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