First, I am NOT talking about setting up overseas accounts etc. I'm inquiring about domestic banks.
Do you have one in particular that you like? What are the fees like? Can you receive and send international wire transfers relatively easy?
What else?
Thanks in advance.
I've been happy with Chase, but the reason is because I'm able to walk into my local branch, get to know everyone there from the tellers to the bank manager, and form personal relationships with them. That is a very underlooked aspect of choosing a bank because like anything else, if the employees see you come in a lot, and if you're fun and personable to them (and keep a decent bank balance) they'll help you out if there's any issue good or bad. I've had fees waived for wire transfers and other things, help with foreign currency conversion that cost me nothing and all kinds of other things I wouldn't have gotten if they didn't know me or if I was an ass to the staff.
While you certainly want to look at the financial aspects of banking, the most important thing for me has been whether their employees are accessible or not and whether you can get to know them. I make it a point to drop by at least once a week, either to get cash or make a deposit, things I could do electronically. The reason I choose not to is to foster and maintain personal relationships-- if they like you and feel they know you, they are more likely to help you and dispense valuable advice when you need it.