Blog

Fall 2023: Community West Bank Gives Back ›

November 8th, 2023

At Community West Bank, we don't just operate in the communities we serve; we actively participate in them, striving to make them better with every passing day.
Does a Small Business Need an Employee Handbook? ›

May 16th, 2023

Employee handbooks define company policies and procedures regarding employee questions and human resource (HR) issues. Well considered policies and procedures will help your business run more smoothly.
Spring 2023: Community West Bank Gives Back ›

May 12th, 2023

At Community West Bank, we believe in the value of community. We are a truly local bank, meaning that since we first opened our doors in 1989, we have been based right here on California’s central and south coasts.
Does an Existing Business Need a Business Plan? ›

May 2nd, 2023

People often think a business plan is only needed for start-ups. In reality, a business plan may be needed at any time in an organization’s evolution.
What is the Difference Between Net Profit and Cash Flow? ›

April 1st, 2023

Every business aspires to have robust cash flow and a great net profit – but these are two separate things. The difference between cash flow and net profit can say a lot about the financial health of an organization.
Cybersecurity Tips and Tricks ›

March 31st, 2023

We need to be aware of the potential pitfalls and dangers while online, to protect ourselves from hackers and identity theft.
Building Cash Flow Projections for Small Businesses ›

March 1st, 2023

Whether you are just starting up or you’re already running a small business, it is important to have consistent and accurate financial systems. These include tracking your income and expenditures, keeping your books up to date, and building cash flow projections for your small business.
Seven tips while working remotely ›

August 9th, 2022

Working outside the office doesn’t have to mean sacrificing cybersecurity
How to Grow California Farming Operations During a Drought ›

July 8th, 2022

Droughts in California are becoming increasingly common – and more costly to the agricultural industry that contributes heavily to the state’s powerful economy. During these severe dry periods, many unprepared businesses experience unfortunate revenue declines and job cuts. However, there is still opportunity for savvy farmers to grow their operations if they are able to prepare and reposition during drought years.
Does a Drought Put California Ag Jobs at Risk? ›

July 8th, 2022

California is a state that is prone to cyclical droughts – and they seem to be happening more often than ever before. The most recent drought has impacted several major industries that shape California’s economy, including agriculture.
How Do Interest Rates Affect Manufactured Home Loans? ›

July 8th, 2022

The United States real estate market has been scorching hot for over a decade, and manufactured homes have risen in demand as people are looking for affordable housing. Between 2018 and 2020, interest rates moved to historical lows. Since then, interest rates have increased, but the demand for manufactured homes has remained constant.
The Importance of Agriculture to The Economy of California’s Central Coast ›

May 4th, 2022

The importance of agriculture to the economy of the Central Coast is significant for farmers, ranchers and consumers alike
The Importance of Agriculture to the California Economy ›

May 2nd, 2022

California is well-known for its diverse agricultural offerings; from beef to avocados to dairy, the Golden State puts a premium on producing the best.
Who is Eligible for an SBA Loan? ›

May 1st, 2022

Small Business Administration (SBA) loans are some of the most flexible and attainable financing options for small business owners. Loans made through the SBA 7(a) program can be used for many business purposes, including business acquisition, working capital, expansion, or equipment purchases.
SBA Loans Advantages and Disadvantages ›

May 1st, 2022

Small businesses are among the most important driving forces behind the United States economy and they anchor communities across the country. Among their financial tools for success is funding from the Small Business Administration (SBA).
The Importance of Agriculture to the United States Economy ›

March 30th, 2022

Agriculture has historically played a significant role in the United States economy. In today’s digital age of business, it is a sector that sometimes gets overlooked in terms of jobs, financial opportunity, and economic impact. However, the importance of agriculture to the US economy has been rising for years as we recover from a pandemic and redefine what a healthy economy looks like.
Vishing: How to Recognize – and Stop – Phone Scams ›

January 14th, 2022

In the online world, “phishing” is the term for scams that try to steal your identity or money. Similarly, “vishing” is a term coined for voice-phishing, where scammers use the phone to cheat people out of their money.
Smishing – Phishing through Text Messages ›

January 11th, 2022

How to identify an attack and how to protect yourself against it.
Multi-Factor Authentication – Widely Adopted, Effective Protection ›

January 5th, 2022

With payments fraud rising year after year, and consumers becoming more comfortable with making payments online, the importance of authentication has never been more crucial.
All About GEM Avocados ›

December 30th, 2021

GEM avocados share a unique link to California – they were named after the initials of University of California researcher Grey E. Martin, who selected the variety.
Tips for Developing and Maintaining Good Credit Habits ›

December 27th, 2021

By working with your trusted community banker to create a budget that reflects your finances and lifestyle, you can better manage your spending and savings behavior to reach your goals and avoid financial setbacks.
Why You Should Consider a Cyber Career ›

September 15th, 2021

Cybersecurity is hot, with new threats and challenges emerging each day. And with that, there is a push being undertaken by businesses and education institutions to entice individuals toward a degree and career in cyber.
Prioritizing Cybersecurity in a Hybrid Workplace ›

September 15th, 2021

Employees are more connected than ever. The hybrid workplace is here to stay, and for employees, this means relying on connected devices from their home office setups.
Fundamentals for Improving Phishing Defenses ›

September 15th, 2021

Ransomware and data breaches grab the headlines, but phishing – one of the oldest pain points in cybersecurity – continues to quietly wreak havoc, and is as big of a threat as it has ever been.
Be Cyber Smart – Get Familiar with the Basics ›

September 15th, 2021

We are more digitally connected than ever, so being “cyber smart” is important. This year, high-profile data breaches and ransomware attacks on the Colonial Pipeline and other critical infrastructure indicate that cyber attacks are becoming more sophisticated by criminals and bad actors.
The Danger with Tech Wearables ›

September 8th, 2021

Whether it’s a Fitbit, Google OS watch, an Apple Watch, or any other smart device, hackers may know much more than just your location.
Do I Qualify for a Loan on a Manufactured Home? ›

September 1st, 2021

If you are wondering how to qualify for a manufactured home loan, we have put together a handy guide on financing a manufactured home – take a look to see if you’re able to take advantage of it.
Am I Eligible for an Agricultural Loan? ›

August 31st, 2021

If you have been wondering how to get financing for your farm, or which bank to count on for an agricultural loan, we’ve put together a handy guide about some loans available for farmers and ranchers, and how to get them so you can stress less about your funding options.
Ransomware Resource: StopRansomeware.gov ›

August 18th, 2021

Ransomware attacks continue to rise around the world. Roughly $350 million in ransom was paid to malicious cyber actors in 2020 – a more than 300% increase from the previous year.
Dry Farming – Can It Work for California Farmers? ›

July 27th, 2021

Dry farming is a type of crop production that bypasses artificial irrigation and uses instead the soil's residual moisture from the rainy seasons.
Manufactured Homes: One Answer for California’s Affordable Housing Shortage ›

June 22nd, 2021

Manufactured housing may offer some relief to our affordable housing challenge.
California Drought Threatens Farmers ›

June 22nd, 2021

Drought seems to have become a perpetual state in California, and current exceptionally dry conditions are expected to put additional strain on farmers and ranchers.
Can you prevent Ransomware infections? ›

June 14th, 2021

Ransomware is a high‐alert threat to businesses. With this being a hot topic in the news (e.g., the Colonial Pipeline attack) and a threat to defend against, here’s information to help you protect your business.
Wedding Planning: Say ‘I do!’ to Cybersecurity ›

June 3rd, 2021

Congratulations, you are preparing for a great life adventure with that special person in your life! Here are some tips to keep your wedding activities cybersecure.
Be Cybersecure on Your Next Trip ›

May 24th, 2021

When making your plans, consider how – or if – you are going to stay connected digitally, and cybersecure, while away from home.
Water Year Among Driest in California ›

May 7th, 2021

According to the California Department of Water Resources, the first six months of Water Year 2021 rank among the driest on record.
Mobile Home vs. Condominium ›

May 4th, 2021

In this article, we will look into the pros and cons of two types of dwellings – mobile homes and condominiums – in an effort to help you determine which one may be better for you.
California Walnuts: How to Start and Finance Your Own Walnut Business ›

May 3rd, 2021

Today, California walnut growers produce most of the entire US commercial walnut supply, with five counties leading the way: San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tulare, Butte and Sutter.
Mushroom Farming in California ›

March 30th, 2021

While many mushrooms grow in the wild and don’t need a human touch to flourish, it is possible for many types of mushrooms to be domesticated while offering a controlled production value.
First Time Manufactured Homebuyer ›

March 30th, 2021

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, navigating this process may seem daunting at first, especially if you’re considering purchasing a manufactured home.
Tax Time is No Time for Fraud ›

March 22nd, 2021

Stay safe online while filing your taxes with these tips that you can use to help protect yourself and your money from falling victim to Identity theft
California Strawberries ›

March 18th, 2021

What makes California such a great region for growing and harvesting strawberries, and how big is the market? Let's find out!
What You Need To Know About Modern Mobile Homes ›

March 18th, 2021

If the prospect of living in a mobile home does not appeal to you at first, please make sure you’re not basing your opinion on an outdated perspective!
USDA: Mystery Seeds Were Part of 'Brushing Scam' ›

March 10th, 2021

In July 2020, reports surfaced of U.S residents receiving unsolicited packages of seeds in the mail, according to the Western Farm Press. Some people threw the seeds away, some people planted the seeds and some people reported them. Seeds were received by residents of all 50 states.
Stimulus Check Scams to Avoid ›

February 5th, 2021

U.S. Department of Justice has warned of a "new wave of COVID-19 scams" amid the stimulus payments being delivered to Americans
What are the Top Crops Grown in California? ›

February 2nd, 2021

With a warm climate and rich soil, California is a highly diverse agricultural state. California produces over a third of the US vegetables and two-thirds of the country's fruits and nuts.
Mobile Home Skirting Guide: How to Choose ›

February 2nd, 2021

Your manufactured home has been delivered, set up, and connected to all the utilities. Now it's time to choose the skirting which hides the structural elements that remain visible after the house was set up.
Raising Privacy-Savvy Kids ›

January 28th, 2021

Teaching young people easy-to-learn life lessons for online safety and privacy begins with parents leading the way.
Be Smart with Smart Doorbells ›

January 19th, 2021

“Smart doorbells” are a handy way to track who has been to your door and, in some cases, provide an extra level of security against thieves and evidence of shipping confirmations.
Grapes May Be Beneficial Against Coronavirus Research Suggests ›

January 19th, 2021

A Western Farm Press article reports that increasing levels of vitamin K — a nutrient found in grapes — may help to improve outcomes for people infected with COVID-19, a recent scientific study suggests.
Your Options for Managing Agricultural Debt ›

December 29th, 2020

Agricultural debt is common among farmers and ranchers who purchase land, buy equipment, and invest in technology and tools that allow for greater production and efficiency. But when times get tough, it can be hard to keep up with large debt payments.
The Importance of Farm Budgeting & Risk Management ›

December 23rd, 2020

By keeping a close eye on your farm’s budget and taking steps to manage risk, you can be ready for the unexpected, and ensure your operations are not affected by the volatile nature of agribusiness.
Manufactured Home Versus Mobile Home — What’s the Difference? ›

December 23rd, 2020

The terms “mobile home” and “manufactured home” are sometimes used synonymously, and you may think that they mean the same thing. But that’s not quite the case.
Energy-Efficient Manufactured Homes — Tips To Boost Efficiency In Your Home ›

December 23rd, 2020

In this guide to energy-efficient manufactured homes from Community West Bank, we’ll discuss a few steps you can take to make your home more efficient and eco-friendly while saving money on your monthly energy bills.
Monarch Butterflies Become Candidate For Endangered Species Listing ›

December 21st, 2020

After a thorough assessment of the monarch butterfly’s status, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service found that adding the monarch butterfly to the list of threatened and endangered species is warranted.
Tips for Shopping at Home — Safely and Securely ›

December 11th, 2020

It used to be a luxury to be able to sit on the couch and shop. Now it is more of a necessity. Check out the Naughty & Nice list of Online Shopping for a safe and secure shopping experience.
If You Connect, Protect It! ›

November 6th, 2020

We are connected to cyberspace more than ever before in history. The COVID-19 pandemic forced us into working from home, distanced learning, and so many other aspects of our lives are online.
10 Things You Can Do to Avoid Fraud ›

November 2nd, 2020

If you spot a fraud scam, report it — your report to the FTC and local law enforcement will help investigate scams and bring criminals to justice.
Understanding Why Honeybees Are So Important To Agriculture ›

November 2nd, 2020

You may not think about bees too much — but for farmers and those in agriculture, bees are among the most important insects in the world.
Mobile Home Remodeling — 6 Renovation Ideas for Manufactured Homes ›

November 2nd, 2020

If you own a manufactured home, you may be wondering how to make your home an even better place to live — or you may be looking for inspiration for your home remodel.
Cybersecurity Awareness: Credential Stuffing ›

October 29th, 2020

Learn what steps you should take to allow you to breathe a little easier and keep you in better control of your online identity.
Protect Your Personal Information ›

October 20th, 2020

Let’s consider ways you and your family should protect key personal information.
Water Scarcity Trends in Agriculture ›

September 28th, 2020

The scarcity of water represents a real risk for all players in the Ag market. Farmers will experience this challenge by needing to implement more water recycling, better trading and banking, smart water markets and efficient infrastructure to maintain water access.
Living the Good Life in a Manufactured Home ›

September 25th, 2020

A significant mobile home culture has developed, with residents appreciating the cost-effective comfort and security that these communities offer.
Will COVID have a lasting impact on Agribusiness? ›

September 24th, 2020

In the short run, commodity prices, specifically corn, livestock, cotton, and milk, witnessed dramatic adjustments as people's eating habits and the demand for fuel changed very rapidly.
How to Buy a Mobile Home in California ›

August 17th, 2020

Mobile homes, being the economical alternatives to traditional residential properties, are growing increasingly popular in California. Like any major investment, purchasing a manufactured home requires tons of prior research and homework. And if you’re considering buying one, you’ve probably wondered about the many factors that need to be considered before you seal the deal.
Is a Mobile Home a Good Investment? The Answer is “Yes!” ›

August 14th, 2020

If you’d like to stop renting, you may be looking at alternatives to buying a single-family home, which continue to rise in price in many areas of the country due to high demand and low interest rates.