First Bancorp to open Charlotte loan production office

Southern Pines-based First Bancorp says it plans to open a loan production office in Charlotte by the end of the year.

I've seen a First Bank sign on a building on Kennilworth Avenue just before it turns in Stonewall Street, but the bank has not confirmed whether that's the location for this office. The nearest First Bank branches are in Mooresville, Kannapolis or Polkton.

The bank made $6.1 million in the third quarter, up 65 percent from the same time period a year ago.

UPDATE NOV. 25: Yes, that office at 1301 Harding Place is, in fact, where the loan production office is opening up. Chief Retail Banking Officer Dorson White says they're targeting a Dec. 2 launch. The office will primarily originate commercial loans, but the bank is considering putting a mortgage originator there as well.

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