Timberland Bancorp Inc (TSBK) SEC Annual Report (10-K) for 2016

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities     Act.    YES     NO    X

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the     Act.   YES   NO    X    

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  YES   X       NO 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files)   YES   X     NO 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  YES   NO    X  

As of November 30, 2016, the registrant had 6,951,468 shares of common stock issued and outstanding.  The aggregate market value of the common stock held by nonaffiliates of the registrant, based on the closing sales price of the registrant's common stock as quoted on the NASDAQ Global Market on March 31, 2016, was $82.9 million (6,558,531 shares at $12.64).  For purposes of this calculation, common stock held by officers and directors of the registrant was excluded.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

1.   Portions of Definitive Proxy Statement for the 2017 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (Part III).

TIMBERLAND BANCORP, INC.

2016 ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K

TABLE OF CONTENTS

As used throughout this report, the terms "we," "our," or "us," refer to Timberland Bancorp, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiary, unless the context otherwise requires.

PART I

Item 1.  Business

General

Timberland Bancorp, Inc. ("Timberland Bancorp" or the "Company"), a Washington corporation, was organized on September 8, 1997 for the purpose of becoming the holding company for Timberland Savings Bank, SSB (the "Bank") upon the Bank's conversion from a Washington-chartered mutual savings bank to a Washington-chartered stock savings bank ("Conversion").  The Conversion was completed on January 12, 1998 through the sale and issuance of 13,225,000 shares of common stock by the Company.  At September 30, 2016 , on a consolidated basis, the Company had total assets of $891.4 million , total deposits of $ 761.5 million and total shareholders' equity of $ 96.8 million .  The Company's business activities generally are limited to passive investment activities and oversight of its investment in the Bank.  Accordingly, the information set forth in this report, including consolidated financial statements and related data, relates primarily to the Bank and its subsidiary, Timberland Service Corporation.

The Bank was established in 1915 as "Southwest Washington Savings and Loan Association."  In 1935, the Bank converted from a state-chartered mutual savings and loan association to a federally chartered mutual savings and loan association, and in 1972, changed its name to "Timberland Federal Savings and Loan Association."  In 1990, the Bank converted to a federally chartered mutual savings bank under the name "Timberland Savings Bank, FSB."  In 1991, the Bank converted to a Washington-chartered mutual savings bank and changed its name to "Timberland Savings Bank, SSB."  On December 29, 2000, the Bank changed its name to "Timberland Bank."  The Bank's deposits are insured up to applicable legal limits by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC").  The Bank has been a member of the Federal Home Loan Bank System since 1937.  The Bank is regulated by the Washington Department of Financial Institutions, Division of Banks ("Division" or "DFI") and the FDIC. The Company is regulated by the Federal Reserve Board ("Federal Reserve").

The Bank is a community-oriented bank which has traditionally offered a variety of savings products to its retail customers while concentrating its lending activities on real estate mortgage loans and commercial business loans.  Lending activities have historically been focused primarily on the origination of loans secured by real estate, including construction, one- to four-family residential, multi-family, commercial real estate and land loans.  

The Company maintains a website at www.timberlandbank.com .  The information contained on that website is not included as a part of, or incorporated by reference into, this Annual Report on Form 10-K.  Other than an investor's own internet access charges, the Company makes available free of charge through that website the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to these reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after these materials have been electronically filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC").

Corporate Overview

Preferred Stock Received in the Troubled Asset Relief Program ("TARP") Capital Purchase Program ("CPP").   On December 23, 2008, the Company received $16.64 million from the U.S. Treasury Department ("Treasury") as a part of the Treasury's CPP, which was established as part of the TARP. The Company sold 16,641 shares of Fixed Rate Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series A ("Series A Preferred Stock"), with a liquidation value of $1,000 per share and a related warrant to purchase 370,899 shares of the Company's common stock at an exercise price of $6.73 per share (subject to anti-dilution adjustments) at any time through December 23, 2018.

During the years ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the Company purchased and retired all of its outstanding Series A Preferred Stock. On June 12, 2013, the Treasury sold, to private investors, the warrant to purchase 370,899 shares of the Company's common stock. The sale of the warrant to new owners did not result in any proceeds to the Company and did not change the Company's capital position or accounting for the warrant.

Market Area

The Bank considers Grays Harbor, Pierce, Thurston, Kitsap, King and Lewis counties, Washington as its primary market areas.  The Bank conducts operations from:

For additional information, see "Item 2. Properties."

Hoquiam, with a population of approximately 8,400 , is located in Grays Harbor County which is situated along Washington State's central Pacific coast.  Hoquiam is located approximately 110 miles southwest of Seattle, Washington and 145 miles northwest of Portland, Oregon.

The Bank considers its primary market area to include six sub-markets: primarily rural Grays Harbor County with its historical dependence on the timber and fishing industries; Thurston and Kitsap counties with their dependence on state and federal government; Pierce and King counties with their broadly diversified economic bases; and Lewis County with its dependence on retail trade, manufacturing, industrial services and local government.  Each of these markets presents operating risks to the Bank.  The Bank's expansion into Pierce, Thurston, Kitsap, King and Lewis counties represents the Bank's strategy to diversify its primary market area to become less reliant on the economy of Grays Harbor County.

Grays Harbor County has a population of 71,100 according to the United States ("U.S.") Census Bureau 2015 estimates and a median family income of $55,600 according to 2016 estimates from the Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD").  The economic base in Grays Harbor County has been historically dependent on the timber and fishing industries.  Other industries that support the economic base are tourism, agriculture, shipping, transportation and technology.  According to the Washington State Employment Security Department, the unemployment rate in Grays Harbor County increased to 8.2% at September 30, 2016 from 7.8% at September 30, 2015 .  The median price of a resale home in Grays Harbor County for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 decreased 1.3% to $141,800 from $143,700 for the comparable prior year period.  The number of home sales increased 22.7% for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same quarter one year earlier.  The Bank has six branches (including its home office) located throughout the county.  

Pierce County is the second most populous county in the state and has a population of 844,000 according to the U.S. Census Bureau 2015 estimates.  The county's median family income is $72,300 according to 2016 HUD estimates.  The economy in Pierce County is diversified with the presence of military related government employment (Joint Base Lewis-McChord), transportation and shipping employment (Port of Tacoma), and aerospace related employment.  According to the Washington State Employment Security Department, the unemployment rate for the Pierce County area increased to 6.0% at September 30, 2016 from 5.7% at September 30, 2015 . The median price of a resale home in Pierce County for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 increased 3.9% to $264,200 from $254,300 for the comparable prior year period.  The number of home sales increased 18.8% for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same quarter one year earlier.  The Bank has five branches in Pierce County, and these branches have historically been responsible for a substantial portion of the Bank's construction lending activities. 

Thurston County has a population of 270,000 according to the U.S. Census Bureau 2015 estimates and a median family income of $73,600 according to 2016 HUD estimates.  Thurston County is home of Washington State's capital (Olympia), and its economic base is largely driven by state government related employment.  According to the Washington State Employment Security Department, the unemployment rate for the Thurston County area increased to 5.7% at September 30, 2016 from 5.4% at September 30, 2015 . The median price of a resale home in Thurston County for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 increased 0.2% to $257,700 from $257,100 for the same quarter one year earlier.  The number of home sales increased 26.6% for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same quarter one year earlier.  The Bank has five branches in Thurston County.  This county has historically had a stable economic base primarily attributable to the state government presence.

Kitsap County has a population of 260,000 according to the U.S. Census Bureau 2015 estimates and a median family income of $78,100 according to 2016 HUD estimates.  The Bank has two branches in Kitsap County.  The economic base of Kitsap County is largely supported by military related government employment through the U.S. Navy.  According to the Washington State Employment Security Department, the unemployment rate for the Kitsap County area increased to 5.7% at September 30, 2016 from 5.0% at September 30, 2015 .  The median price of a resale home in Kitsap County for the quarter ended September 30,

2016 decreased 0.8% to $267,100 from $269,200 for the same quarter one year earlier.  The number of home sales increased 11.5% for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same quarter one year earlier.  

King County is the most populous county in the state and has a population of 2.1 million according to the U.S. Census Bureau 2015 estimates.  The Bank has one branch in King County.  The county's median family income is $90,300 according to 2016 HUD estimates.  King County's economic base is diversified with many industries including shipping, transportation, aerospace, computer technology and biotech.  According to the Washington State Employment Security Department, the unemployment rate for the King County area increased to 4.0% at September 30, 2016 from 3.9% at September 30, 2015 . The median price of a resale home in King County for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 increased 12.5% to $552,400 from $491,000 for the same quarter one year earlier.  The number of home sales increased 14.0% for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same quarter one year earlier.  

Lewis County has a population of 76,000 according to the U.S. Census Bureau 2015 estimates and a median family income of $55,600 according to 2016 HUD estimates.  The economic base in Lewis County is supported by manufacturing, retail trade, local government and industrial services.  According to the Washington State Employment Security Department, the unemployment rate in Lewis County increased to 7.7% at September 30, 2016 from 7.1% at September 30, 2015 . The median price of a resale home in Lewis County for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 increased 12.1% to $180,200 from $160,800 for the same quarter one year earlier.  The number of home sales increased 5.0% for the quarter ended September 30, 2016 compared to the same quarter one year earlier.  The Bank currently has three branches located in Lewis County.  

Lending Activities

General.   Historically, the principal lending activity of the Bank has consisted of the origination of loans secured by first mortgages on owner-occupied, one- to four-family residences, or by commercial real estate and loans for the construction of one- to four-family residences.  The Bank's net loans receivable totaled $663.1 million at September 30, 2016 , representing 74.4% of consolidated total assets, and at that date commercial real estate, construction (including undisbursed loans in process), and land loans were $457.3 million , or 63.2% of total loans. In addition, multi-family loans totaled $62.3 million, or 8.6% of total loans at September 30, 2016.  Commercial real estate, construction, multi-family, and land loans typically have higher rates of return than one- to four-family loans; however, they also present a higher degree of risk.  

The Bank's internal loan policy limits the maximum amount of loans to one borrower to 20% of its capital plus surplus. According to the Washington Administrative Code, capital and surplus are defined as a bank's Tier 1 capital, Tier 2 capital and the balance of a bank's allowance for loan losses not included in the bank's Tier 2 capital as reported in the bank's call report. At September 30, 2016 , the maximum amount which the Bank could have lent to any one borrower and the borrower's related entities was approximately $20.1 million under this policy.  At September 30, 2016 , the largest amount outstanding to any one borrower and the borrower's related entities was $16.9 million (including $1.3 million in undisbursed loans in process), which was secured by commercial buildings located in Pierce and Kitsap counties.  These loans were all performing according to their loan repaymen t terms at September 30, 2016 .  The next largest amount outstanding to any one borrower and the borrower's related entities wa s $14.2 million (including $374,000 in undisbursed loans in process).  These loans were secured by one- to four-family properties, multi-family properties, and a multi-family construction project; all of which were located in Pierce and Lewis counties and were performing according to their loan repayment terms at September 30, 2016.

Loan Portfolio Analysis.   The following table sets forth the composition of the Bank's loan portfolio by type of loan at the dates indicated.

______________

Residential One- to Four-Family Lending .  At September 30, 2016 , $118.6 million , or 16.4% , of the Bank's loan portfolio consisted of loans secured by one- to four-family residences.  The Bank originates both fixed-rate loans and adjustable-rate loans.

Generally, one- to four-family fixed-rate loans and five and seven year balloon reset loans (which are loans that are originated with a fixed interest rate for the initial five or seven years, and thereafter incur one interest rate change in which the new rate remains in effect for the remainder of the loan term) are originated to meet the requirements for sale in the secondary market to the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("Freddie Mac").  From time to time, however, a portion of these fixed-rate loans and five and seven year balloon reset loans may be retained in the loan portfolio to meet the Bank's asset/liability management objectives. The Bank uses an automated underwriting program, which preliminarily qualifies a loan as conforming to Freddie Mac underwriting standards when the loan is originated.  At September 30, 2016 , $29.6 million, or 24.6%, of the Bank's one- to four-family loan portfolio consisted of fixed-rate and five and seven year balloon reset mortgage loans.

The Bank also offers adjustable-rate mortgage ("ARM") loans.  All of the Bank's ARM loans are retained in its loan portfolio.  The Bank offers several ARM products which adjust annually after an initial period ranging from one to five years and are typically subject to a limitation on the annual interest rate increase of 2% and an overall limitation of 6%.  These ARM products generally are priced utilizing the weekly average yield on one year U.S. Treasury securities adjusted to a constant maturity of one year plus a margin of 2.88% to 4.00%.  The Bank also offers ARM loans tied to The Wall Street Journal prime lending rate ("Prime Rate") or to the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate ("LIBOR") indices which typically do not have periodic or lifetime adjustment limits.  Loans tied to these indices normally have margins ranging up to 3.5 % .  ARM loans held in the Bank's portfolio do not permit negative amortization of principal.  Borrower demand for ARM loans versus fixed-rate mortgage loans is a function of the level of interest rates, the expectations of changes in the level of interest rates and the difference between the initial interest rates and fees charged for each type of loan.  The relative amount of fixed-rate mortgage loans and ARM loans that can be originated at any time is largely determined by the demand for each in a competitive environment.  At September 30, 2016 , $88.9 million, or 75.4%, of the Bank's one- to four- family loan portfolio consisted of ARM loans.

A portion of the Bank's ARM loans are "non-conforming", because they do not satisfy acreage limits or various other requirements imposed by Freddie Mac.  Some of these loans are also originated to meet the needs of borrowers who cannot otherwise satisfy Freddie Mac credit requirements because of personal and financial reasons (i.e., divorce, bankruptcy, length of time employed, etc.), and other aspects, which do not conform to Freddie Mac's guidelines.  Such borrowers may have higher debt-to-income ratios, or the loans are secured by unique properties in rural markets for which there are no sales of comparable properties to support the value according to secondary market requirements.  These loans are known as non-conforming loans, and the Bank may require additional collateral or lower loan-to-value ratios to reduce the risk of these loans.  The Bank believes that these loans satisfy a need in its local market area.  As a result, subject to market conditions, the Bank intends to continue to originate these types of loans.

The retention of ARM loans in the Bank's loan portfolio helps reduce the Bank's exposure to changes in interest rates.  There are, however, unquantifiable credit risks resulting from the potential of increased interest to be paid by the customer as a result of increases in interest rates.  It is possible that during periods of rising interest rates the risk of default on ARM loans may increase as a result of repricing and the increased costs to the borrower.  The Bank attempts to reduce the potential for delinquencies and defaults on ARM loans by qualifying the borrower based on the borrower's ability to repay the ARM loan assuming that the maximum interest rate that could be charged during the loan term.  Another consideration is that although ARM loans allow the Bank to increase the sensitivity of its asset base due to changes in the interest rates, the extent of this interest sensitivity is limited by the periodic and lifetime interest rate adjustment limits.  Because of these considerations, the Bank has no assurance that yield increases on ARM loans will be sufficient to offset increases in the Bank's cost of funds.

While fixed-rate, single-family residential mortgage loans are normally originated with 15 to 30 year terms to maturity, these loans typically remain outstanding for substantially shorter periods because borrowers often prepay their loans in full upon sale of the property pledged as security or upon refinancing the original loan.  In addition, substantially all mortgage loans in the Bank's loan portfolio contain due-on-sale clauses providing that the Bank may declare the unpaid amount due and payable upon the sale of the property securing the loan.  Typically, the Bank enforces these due-on-sale clauses to the extent permitted by law and as business judgment dictates.  Thus, average loan maturity is a function of, among other factors, the level of purchase and sale activity in the real estate market, prevailing interest rates and the interest rates received on outstanding loans.

The Bank requires that fire and extended coverage casualty insurance be maintained on the collateral for all of its real estate secured loans and flood insurance, if appropriate.

The Bank's lending policies generally limit the maximum loan-to-value ratio on mortgage loans secured by owner-occupied properties to 95% of the lesser of the appraised value or the purchase price.  However, the Bank usually obtains private mortgage insurance ("PMI") on the portion of the principal amount that exceeds 80% of the appraised value of the security property. The maximum loan-to-value ratio on mortgage loans secured by non-owner-occupied properties is generally 80% (90% for loans originated for sale in the secondary market to Freddie Mac).  At September 30, 2016 , seven one- to four-family loans totaling $914,000 were on non-accrual status.  See "Lending Activities - Non-performing Loans and Delinquencies."

Multi-Family Lending.   At September 30, 2016 , the Bank had $62.3 million , or 8.6% , of the Bank's total loan portfolio secured by multi-family dwelling units (more than four units) located primarily in the Bank's primary market area.  Multi-family loans are generally originated with variable rates of interest ranging from 1.00% to 3.50 % over the one-year constant maturity U.S. Treasury Bill Index, the Prime Rate or a matched term FHLB borrowing, with principal and interest payments fully amortizing over terms of up to 30 years.  At September 30, 2016 , the Bank's largest multi-family loan had an outstanding principal balance of $7.6 mil lion and was secured by an apartment building located in Thurston County. At September 30, 2016 , this loan was performing according to its repayment terms.  

The maximum loan-to-value ratio for multi-family loans is generally limited to not more than 80%.  The Bank generally requests its multi-family loan borrowers with loan balances in excess of $750,000 to submit financial statements and rent rolls on the properties securing such loans.  The Bank also inspects such properties annually.  The Bank generally imposes a minimum debt coverage ratio of approximately 1.20 for loans secured by multi-family properties.

Multi-family mortgage lending affords the Bank an opportunity to receive interest at rates higher than those generally available from one- to four- family residential lending.  However, loans secured by multi-family properties usually are greater in amount, more difficult to evaluate and monitor and, therefore, may involve a greater degree of risk than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans.  Because payments on loans secured by multi-family properties are often dependent on the successful operation and management of the properties, repayment of such loans may be affected by adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy.  The Bank seeks to minimize these risks by scrutinizing the financial condition of the borrower, the quality of the collateral and the management of the property securing the loan.  If the borrower is other than an individual, the Bank also generally obtains personal guarantees from the principals based on a review of personal financial statements. At September 30, 2016, all multi-family loans were performing according to their repayment terms. See "Lending Activities - Non-performing Loans and Delinquencies."

Commercial Real Estate Lending .  Commercial real estate loans totaled $312.5 million , or 43.2% , of the total loan portfolio at September 30, 2016 .  The Bank originates commercial real estate loans generally at variable interest rates with principal and interest payments fully amortizing over terms of up to 30 years.  These loans are secured by properties, such as office buildings, retail/wholesale facilities, mini-storage facilities, motels, nursing homes, restaurants and convenience stores, located in the Bank's primary market area.  At September 30, 2016 , the largest commercial real estate loan was secured by an office building in Grays Harbor County, had a balance of $5.7 million and was performing according to its repayment terms.  At September 30, 2016 , one commercial real estate loan with a balance of $ 612,000 was on non-accrual status.  See "Lending Activities - Non-performing Loans and Delinquencies."

The Bank typically requires appraisals of properties securing commercial real estate loans.  For loans that are less than $250,000, the Bank may use the tax assessed value and a property inspection in lieu of an appraisal.  Appraisals are performed by independent appraisers designated by the Bank.  The Bank considers the quality and location of the real estate, the credit history of the borrower, the cash flow of the project and the quality of management involved with the property when making these loans.  The Bank generally imposes a minimum debt coverage ratio of approximately 1.20 for loans secured by income producing commercial properties.  Loan-to-value ratios on commercial real estate loans are generally limited to not more than 80%.  If the borrower is other than an individual, the Bank also generally obtains personal guarantees from the principals based on a review of personal financial statements.

Commercial real estate lending affords the Bank an opportunity to receive interest at rates higher than those generally available from one- to four-family residential lending.  However, loans secured by such properties usually are greater in amount, more difficult to evaluate and monitor and, therefore, involve a greater degree of risk than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans.  Because payments on loans secured by commercial properties often depend upon the successful operation and management of the properties, repayment of these loans may be affected by adverse conditions in the real estate market or the economy.  The Bank seeks to minimize these risks by generally limiting the maximum loan-to-value ratio to 80% and scrutinizing the financial condition of the borrower, the quality of the collateral and the management of the property securing the loan.  The Bank also generally requests annual financial information and rent rolls on the subject property from the borrowers on loans over $750,000.

Construction Lending.       The Bank currently originates three types of residential construction loans:  (i) custom construction loans, (ii) owner/builder construction loans and (iii) speculative construction loans (on a limited basis).  The Bank believes that its computer tracking system has enabled it to establish processing and disbursement procedures to meet the needs of its borrowers while reducing many of the risks inherent with construction lending.  The Bank also originates construction loans for the development of multi-family and commercial properties.  The Bank's construction loans generally provide for the payment of interest only during the construction phase, which is billed monthly, although during the term of some construction loans no payment from the borrower is required since the accumulated interest is added to the principal of the loan through an interest reserve. At September 30, 2016, the Bank's construction loans totaled $123.1 million, or 17.0% of the Bank's total loan portfolio, including undisbursed loans in process of $48.6 million.

At September 30, 2016 and 2015, the composition of the Bank's construction loan portfolio was as follows:

Custom construction loans are made to home builders who, at the time of construction, have a signed contract with a home buyer who has a commitment to purchase the finished home.  Custom construction loans are generally originated for a term of six to 12 months, with fixed interest rates typically ranging from 4.25% to 6.25% and with loan-to-value ratios of 80% of the appraised estimated value of the completed property or sales price, whichever is less.

Owner/builder construction loans are originated to home owners rather than home builders and are typically converted to or refinanced into permanent loans at the completion of construction.  The construction phase of an owner/builder construction loan generally lasts up to 12 months with fixed interest rates typically ranging from 4.25% to 6.25% and with loan-to-value ratios of 80% (or up to 95% with PMI) of the appraised estimated value of the completed property.  At the completion of construction, the loan is converted to or refinanced into either a fixed-rate mortgage loan, which conforms to secondary market standards, or an ARM loan for retention in the Bank's portfolio.  At September 30, 2016, custom and owner/builder construction loans totaled $93.0 million , or 75.6% of the total construction loan portfolio.  At September 30, 2016 , the largest outstanding custom and owner/builder construction loan had an outstanding balance of $1.4 million and was performing according to its repayment terms.

Speculative one-to four-family construction loans are made to home builders and are termed "speculative" because the home builder does not have, at the time of loan origination, a signed contract with a home buyer who has a commitment for permanent financing with either the Bank or another lender for the finished home.  The home buyer may be identified either during or after the construction period, with the risk that the builder will have to debt service the speculative construction loan and finance real estate taxes and other carrying costs of the completed home for a significant time after the completion of construction until the home buyer is identified and a sale is consummated.   Rather than originating lines of credit to home builders to construct several homes at once, the Bank generally originates and underwrites a separate loan for each home.  Speculative construction loans are generally originated for a term of 12 months, with current rates generally ranging from 6.00% to 6.50%, an d with a loan-to-value ratio of no more than 80 % of the appraised estimated value of the completed property.  The Bank is currently originating speculative construction loans on a limited basis.  At September 30, 2016 , speculative construction loans totaled $8.1 million , or 6.6% , of the total construction loan portfolio.  At September 30, 2016, the largest aggregate outstanding balance to one borrower for speculative construction loans totaled $ 1.1 million (including $645,000 o f undisbursed loans in process) and was comprised of three loans that were perform ing according to their repayment terms.  

The Bank also provides construction financing for multi-family and commercial properties.  At September 30, 2016, these loans amounted to $22.0 million , or 17.8 % , of construction loans compared to $41.3 million, or 37.2%, of construction loans at September 30, 2015.  These loans are typically secured by condominiums, apartment buildings, mini-storage facilities, office buildings, hotels and retail rental space predominantly located in the Bank's primary market area.  At September 30, 2016 , the largest outstanding multi-family construction loan was secured by an apartment building project in Pierce County and had a balance of $6.8 million (including $356,000 of undisbursed construction loan proceeds) and was performing according to its repayment terms .  At September 30, 2016 , the largest outstanding commercial real estate construction loan was secured by a medical facility

project in Grays Harbor County and had a balance of $2.1 million. This loan was performing according to its repayment terms at September 30, 2016.

All construction loans must be approved by a member of one of the Bank's Loan Committees or the Bank's Board of Directors, or in the case of one- to four-family construction loans that meet Freddie Mac guidelines, by the Regional Manager of Community Lending, the Loan Department Supervisor or a Bank underwriter. See "- Lending Activities - Loan Solicitation and Processing."  Prior to preliminary approval of any construction loan application, an independent fee appraiser inspects the site and the Bank reviews the existing or proposed improvements, identifies the market for the proposed project and analyzes the pro-forma data and assumptions on the project.  In the case of a speculative or custom construction loan, the Bank reviews the experience and expertise of the builder.  After preliminary approval has been given, the application is processed, which includes obtaining credit reports, financial statements and tax returns on the borrowers and guarantors, an independent appraisal of the project, and any other expert reports necessary to evaluate the proposed project.  In the event of cost overruns, the Bank generally requires that the borrower increase the funds available for construction by depositing its own funds into a secured savings account, the proceeds of which are used to pay construction costs.

Loan disbursements during the construction period are made to the builder, materials supplier or subcontractor, based on a line item budget.  Periodic on-site inspections are made by qualified independent inspectors to document the reasonableness of draw requests.  For most builders, the Bank disburses loan funds by providing vouchers to borrowers, which when used by the borrower to purchase supplies are submitted by the supplier to the Bank for payment.

The Bank originates construction loan applications primarily through customer referrals, contacts in the business community and occasionally real estate brokers seeking financing for their clients.

Construction lending affords the Bank the opportunity to achieve higher interest rates and fees with shorter terms to maturity than does its single-family permanent mortgage lending.  Construction lending, however, is generally considered to involve a higher degree of risk than single-family permanent mortgage lending because of the inherent difficulty in estimating both a property's value at completion of the project and the estimated cost of the project.  The nature of these loans is such that they are generally more difficult to evaluate and monitor.  If the estimate of construction costs proves to be inaccurate, the Bank may be required to advance funds beyond the amount originally committed to permit completion of the project.  If the estimate of value upon completion proves to be inaccurate, the borrower may be confronted with a project whose value is insufficient to assure full repayment and the Bank may incur a loss.  Projects may also be jeopardized by disagreements between borrowers and builders and by the failure of builders to pay subcontractors.  Loans to builders to construct homes for which no purchaser has been identified carry more risk because the payoff for the loan depends on the builder's ability to sell the property prior to the time that the construction loan is due.  The Bank has sought to address these risks by adhering to strict underwriting policies, disbursement procedures, and monitoring practices.  The Bank's construction loans are primarily secured by properties in its primary market area, and changes in the local and state economies and real estate markets have adversely affected the Bank's construction loan portfolio. At September 30, 2016, a single owner/builder construction loan with a balance of $367,000 was on non-accrual status. See "Lending Activities - Non-performing Loans and Delinquencies."

The Bank historically originated loans to real estate developers with whom it had established relationships for the purpose of developing residential subdivisions (i.e . , installing roads, sewers, water and other utilities; generally with ten to 50 lots). The Bank is not currently originating any new land development loans and at September 30, 2016 , the Bank had no la nd development loans outstanding.  Although the Bank is not currently originating land development loans, it may do so in the future. Historically land development loans were secured by a lien on the property and typically were made for a period of two to five years with fixed or variable interest rates, and were made with loan-to-value ratios generally not exceeding 75%. Land development loans were generally structured so that the Bank was repaid in full upon the sale by the borrower of approximately 80% of the subdivision lots.  In addition, in the case of a corporate borrower, the Bank also generally obtained personal guarantees from corporate principals and reviewed their personal financial statements. Land development loans secured by land under development involve greater risks than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans because these loans are advanced upon the predicted future value of the developed property upon completion.  If the estimate of the future value proves to be inaccurate, in the event of default and foreclosure the Bank may be confronted with a property the value of which is insufficient to assure full repayment.  The Bank has historically attempted to minimize this risk by generally limiting the maximum loan-to-value ratio on land loans to 75% of the estimated developed value of the secured property.  

Land Lending . The Bank has historically originated loans for the acquisition of land upon which the purchaser can then build or make improvements necessary to build or to sell as improved lots.  Currently the Bank is originating land loans on a limited basis.  At September 30, 2016 , land loans totaled $21.6 million , or 3.0% , of the Bank's total loan portfolio as compared to $26.1 million , or 3.9% , of the Bank's total loan portfolio at September 30, 2015 .  Land loans originated by the Bank generally have maturities of five to ten years.  The largest land loan is secured by land in Thurston County, had an outstanding balance of

$1.5 million and was performing according to its repayment terms at September 30, 2016 .  At September 30, 2016 , six land loans totaling $548,000 were on non-accrual status.  See "Lending Activities - Non-performing Loans and Delinquencies."

Loans secured by undeveloped land or improved lots involve greater risks than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans because these loans are more difficult to evaluate.  If the estimate of value proves to be inaccurate, in the event of default and foreclosure the Bank may be confronted with a property the value of which is insufficient to assure full repayment. Land loans also pose additional risk because of the lack of income being produced by the property and potential illiquid nature of the collateral. These risks can be significantly impacted by supply and demand conditions.  The Bank attempts to minimize these risks by generally limiting the maximum loan-to-value ratio on land loans to 75%.

Consumer Lending.   Consumer loans generally have shorter terms to maturity and higher interest rates than mortgage loans.  Consumer loans include home equity lines of credit, second mortgage loans, savings account loans, automobile loans, boat loans, motorcycle loans, recreational vehicle loans and unsecured loans.  Consumer loans are made with both fixed and variable interest rates and with varying terms.  At September 30, 2016 , consumer loans amounted to $43.9 million , or 6.1% , of the Bank's total loan portfolio.

At September 30, 2016 , the largest component of the consumer loan portfolio consisted of second mortgage loans and home equity lines of credit, which totaled $39.7 million , or 5.5% , of the Bank's total loan portfolio.  Home equity lines of credit and second mortgage loans are made for purposes such as the improvement of residential properties, debt consolidation and education expenses, among others.  The majority of these loans are made to existing customers and are secured by a first or second mortgage on residential property.  The loan-to-value ratio is typically 80% or less, when taking into account both the first and second mortgage loans.  Second mortgage loans typically carry fixed interest rates with a fixed payment over a term between five and 15 years.  Home equity lines of credit are generally made at interest rates tied to the Prime Rate or the 26 week U.S. Treasury Bill.  Second mortgage loans and home equity lines of credit have greater credit risk than one- to four-family residential mortgage loans in which the Bank is in the first lien position because they are generally secured by mortgages subordinated to the existing first mortgage on the property. For those second mortgage loans and home equity lines credit which the Bank does not hold the existing first mortgage on the property, it is unlikely that the Bank will be successful in recovering all or a portion of the loan balance in the event of default unless the Bank is prepared to repay the first mortgage loan and such repayment and the costs associated with a foreclosure are justified by the value of the property.

Consumer loans entail greater risk than do residential mortgage loans, particularly in the case of consumer loans that are unsecured or secured by rapidly depreciating assets such as automobiles.  In such cases, any repossessed collateral for a defaulted consumer loan may not provide an adequate source of repayment of the outstanding loan balance as a result of the greater likelihood of damage, loss or depreciation.  The remaining deficiency often does not warrant further substantial collection efforts against the borrower beyond obtaining a deficiency judgment.  In addition, consumer loan collections are dependent on the borrower's continuing financial stability and are more likely to be adversely affected by job loss, divorce, illness or personal bankruptcy.  Furthermore, the application of various federal and state laws, including federal and state bankruptcy and insolvency laws, may limit the amount that can be recovered on such loans.  The Bank believes that these risks are not as prevalent in the case of the Bank's consumer loan portfolio because a large percentage of the portfolio consists of second mortgage loans and home equity lines of credit that are underwritten in a manner such that they result in credit risk that is substantially similar to one- to four-family residential mortgage loans.  At September 30, 2016 , seven consumer loans totaling $432,000 were on non-accrual status. See "Lending Activities - Non-performing Loans and Delinquencies."

Commercial Business Lending .  Commercial business loans totaled $41.8 million , or 5.8% , of the loan portfolio at September 30, 2016 .  Commercial business loans are generally secured by business equipment, accounts receivable, inventory and/or other property and are made at variable rates of interest equal to a negotiated margin above the Prime Rate.  The Bank also generally obtains personal guarantees from the principals based on a review of personal financial statements. The largest commercial business loan had an outstanding balance of $2.2 million at September 30, 2016 and was performing according to its repayment terms.  At September 30, 2016 , all commercial business loans were performing according to their repayment terms.  See "Lending Activities - Non-performing Loans and Delinquencies."

The Bank has recently increased commercial business loan originations made under the U.S. Small Business Administration ("SBA") 7(a) program. Loans made by the Bank under the SBA 7(a) program generally are made to small businesses to provide working capital or to provide funding for the purchase of businesses, real estate, or equipment. These loans generally are secured by a combination of assets that may include equipment, receivables, inventory, business real property, and sometimes a lien on the personal residence of the borrower. The terms of these loans vary by purpose and type of underlying collateral. The loans are primarily underwritten on the basis of the borrower's ability to service the loan from income. Under the SBA 7(a) program the loans carry a SBA guaranty up to 85% of the loan. Typical maturities for this type of loan vary up to ten years. SBA 7(a) loans are all adjustable rate loans based on the Prime Rate. Under the SBA 7(a) program, the Bank can sell in the secondary

market the guaranteed portion of its SBA 7(a) loans and retain the related unguaranteed portion of these loans, as well as the servicing on such loans, for which it is paid a fee. The loan servicing spread is generally a minimum of 1.00% on all SBA 7(a) loans. The Bank generally offers SBA 7(a) loans within a range of $50,000 to $1.0 million.

Commercial business lending generally involves greater risk than residential mortgage lending and involves risks that are different from those associated with residential and commercial real estate lending.  Real estate lending is generally considered to be collateral based lending with loan amounts based on predetermined loan to collateral values, and liquidation of the underlying real estate collateral is viewed as the primary source of repayment in the event of borrower default.  Although commercial business loans are often collateralized by equipment, inventory, accounts receivable and/or other business assets, the liquidation of collateral in the event of a borrower default is often an insufficient source of repayment because accounts receivable may be uncollectible and inventories and equipment may be obsolete or of limited use, among other things.  Accordingly, the repayment of a commercial business loan depends primarily on the creditworthiness of the borrower (and any guarantors), while liquidation of collateral is a secondary and often insufficient source of repayment.

Loan Maturity.   The following table sets forth certain information at September 30, 2016 regarding the dollar amount of loans maturing in the Bank's portfolio based on their contractual terms to maturity but does not include scheduled payments or potential prepayments.  Loans having no stated maturity and overdrafts are reported as due in one year or less.

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(1)    Includes construction/permanent loans that convert to permanent mortgage loans once construction is completed.

Scheduled contractual principal repayments of loans do not reflect the actual life of these assets.  The average life of loans is substantially less than their contractual terms because of prepayments.  In addition, due-on-sale clauses on loans generally give the Bank the right to declare loans immediately due and payable in the event, among other things, that the borrower sells the real property subject to the mortgage and the loan is not repaid.  The average life of mortgage loans tends to increase when current mortgage loan interest rates are substantially higher than interest rates on existing mortgage loans and, conversely, decrease when interest rates on existing mortgage loans are substantially higher than current mortgage loan interest rates.

Loan Solicitation and Processing.   Loan originations are obtained from a variety of sources, including walk-in customers and referrals from builders and realtors.  Upon receipt of a loan application from a prospective borrower, a credit report and other data are obtained to verify specific information relating to the loan applicant's employment, income and credit standing.  An appraisal of the real estate offered as collateral generally is undertaken by a certified appraiser retained by the Bank.

Loan applications are initiated by loan officers and are required to be approved by an authorized loan officer or Bank underwriter, one of the Bank's Loan Committees or the Bank's Board of Directors.  The Bank's Consumer Loan Committee consists of several underwriters, each of whom can approve one- to four-family mortgage loans and other consumer loans up to and including the current Freddie Mac single-family limit. Loan officers may also be granted individual approval authority for certain loans up to a maximum of $250,000. The approval authority for individual loan officers is granted on a case by case basis by the Bank's Chief Credit Administrator or President.  All construction loans must be approved by a member of one of the Bank's Loan Committees or the Bank's Board of Directors, or in the case of one- to four- family construction loans that meet Freddie Mac guidelines, by the Regional Manager of Community Lending, the Loan Department Supervisor or a Bank underwriter, subject to their individual or Loan Committee loan limit. The Bank's Commercial Loan Committee, which consists of the Bank's President, Chief Credit Administrator, Executive Vice President of Lending and Regional Manager of Community Lending, may approve commercial real estate loans and commercial business loans up to and including $1.5 million. The Bank's President, Chief Credit Administrator and Executive Vice President of Lending also have individual lending authority for loans up to and including $750,000. The Bank's Board Loan Committee, which consists of two rotating non-employee Directors and the Bank's President, may approve loans up to and including $3.0 million.  Loans in excess of $3.0 million, as well as loans of any amount granted to a single borrower whose aggregate loans exceed $3.0 million, must be approved by the Bank's Board of Directors.

Loan Originations, Purchases and Sales .  During the years ended September 30, 2016 , 2015 and 2014, the Bank's total gross loan originations were $267.4 million , $262.4 million and $184.9 million , respectively.  Periodically, the Bank purchases loan participation interests in construction, commercial real estate and multi-family loans, secured by properties generally located in Washington State, from other lenders.  These participation loans are underwritten in accordance with the Bank's underwriting guidelines and are without recourse to the seller other than for fraud.  During the years ended September 30, 2016 , 2015 and 2014, the Bank purchased loan participation interests of $898,000, $7.3 million and $1.9 million, respectively. 

Consistent with its asset/liability management strategy, the Bank's policy generally is to retain in its portfolio all ARM loans originated and to sell fixed rate one- to four-family mortgage loans in the secondary market to Freddie Mac; however, from time to time, a portion of fixed-rate loans may be retained in the Bank's portfolio to meet its asset-liability objectives. The Bank also began selling the guaranteed portion of SBA 7(a) loans in the secondary market during the year ended September 30,

2016.  Loans sold in the secondary market are generally sold on a servicing retained basis.  At September 30, 2016 , the Bank's loan servicing portfolio, which is not included in the Company's consolidated financial statements, totaled $340.3 million.

The Bank also periodically sells participation interests in construction loans, commercial real estate loans, multi-family and commercial business loans to other lenders.  These sales are usually made to avoid concentrations in a particular loan type or concentrations to a particular borrower and to generate fee income.  During the year ended September 30, 2016, the Bank sold loan participation interests of $321,000 in SBA 7(a) loans. During the year ended September 30, 2015, the Bank sold loan participation interests to other lenders of $3.6 million. The Bank did not sell any loan participation interests during the year ended September 30, 2014.

The following table shows total loans originated, purchased, sold and repaid during the periods indicated.

Loan Origination Fees .  The Bank receives loan origination fees on many of its mortgage loans and commercial business loans.  Loan fees are a percentage of the loan which are charged to the borrower for funding the loan.  The amount of fees charged by the Bank is generally up to 2.0% of the loan amount.  Accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP") require fees received and certain loan origination costs for originating loans to be deferred and amortized into interest income over the contractual life of the loan.  Net deferred fees or costs associated with loans that are prepaid are recognized as income/expense at the time of prepayment.  Unamortized deferred loan origination fees totaled $2.2 million at September 30, 2016 .

Non-performing Loans and Delinquencies.   The Bank assesses late fees or penalty charges on delinquent loans of approximately 5% of the monthly loan payment amount.  A majority of loan payments are due on the first day of the month;

however, the borrower is given a 15 day grace period to make the loan payment.  When a mortgage loan borrower fails to make a required payment when due, the Bank institutes collection procedures. A notice is mailed to the borrower 16 days after the date the payment is due.  Attempts to contact the borrower by telephone generally begin on or before the 30 th day of delinquency.  If a satisfactory response is not obtained, continuous follow-up contacts are attempted until the loan has been brought current.  Before the 90th day of delinquency, attempts are made to establish (i) the cause of the delinquency, (ii) whether the cause is temporary, (iii) the attitude of the borrower toward repaying the debt, and (iv) a mutually satisfactory arrangement for curing the default.

If the borrower is chronically delinquent and all reasonable means of obtaining payment on time have been exhausted, foreclosure is initiated according to the terms of the security instrument and applicable law.  Interest income on loans in foreclosure is reduced by the full amount of accrued and uncollected interest.

When a consumer loan borrower or commercial business borrower fails to make a required payment on a loan by the payment due date, the Bank institutes similar collection procedures as for its mortgage loan borrowers.  All loans becoming 90 days or more past due are placed on non-accrual status, with any accrued interest reversed against interest income, unless they are well secured and in the process of collection.

The Bank's Board of Directors is informed monthly as to the status of loans that are delinquent by more than 30 days and the status of all foreclosed and repossessed property owned by the Bank.

The following table sets forth information with respect to the Company's non-performing assets at the dates indicated.

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(1)    Includes non-accrual one- to four-family properties in the process of foreclosure totaling $138,000, $1.1 million,

$1.1 million, $3.8 million and $1.3 million as of September 30, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

(2)    Includes foreclosed residential real estate property totaling $1.1 million, $2.9 million, $2.9 million, $1.8

million, and $1.5 million as of September 30, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

(3)    Does not include troubled debt restructured loans on accrual status.

(4)    Does not include troubled debt restructured loans totaling $531,000, $1.2 million, $2.3 million, $4.0 million and

$10.1 million recorded as non-accrual loans at September 30, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

(5)    Loans receivable, net for this table includes the deductions for the undisbursed portion of construction loans in process

and deferred loan origination fees and does not include the deduction for the allowance for loan losses.

The Bank's non-accrual loans decreased by $3.2 million to $2.9 million at September 30, 2016 from $6.0 million at September 30, 2015 , primarily as a result of a $1.5 million decrease in one- to four-family loans, a $1.0 million decrease in land loans, a $760,000 decrease in multi-family loans, and a $404,000 decrease in commercial real estate loans on non-accrual status.  These decreases were partially offset by a $367,000 increase in construction loans on non-accrual status.  A discussion of the Bank's largest non-performing loans is set forth below under "Asset Classification."

Additional interest income which would have been recorded for the year ended September 30, 2016 had non-accruing loans been current in accordance with their original terms totaled $ 2.2 mil lion.

Other Real Estate Owned and Other Repossessed Assets.   Real estate acquired by the Bank as a result of foreclosure or by deed-in-lieu of foreclosure is classified as other real estate owned ("OREO") until sold.  When property is acquired, it is recorded at the estimated fair market value less es timat ed costs to sell.  At September 30, 2016 , the Bank had $4.1 million of OREO and other repossessed assets consisti ng of 22 individual properties and one mobile home, a decrease of $3.7 million from $7.9 million at September 30, 2015 .  T he OREO properties consisted of 14 land parcels totaling $2.3 million , five single family homes totaling $1.1 million , three commercial real estate properties totaling $648,000 , and one mobile home with a balance of $67,000.  The largest OREO property at September 30, 2016 was a land parcel with a balance of $956,000 located in Lewis County.

Restructured Loans.   Under GAAP, the Bank is required to account for certain loan modifications or restructurings as "troubled debt restructurings" or "troubled debt restructured loans."  In general, the modification or restructuring of a debt constitutes a troubled debt restructuring if the Bank for economic or legal reasons related to the borrower's financial difficulties grants a concession to the borrower that the Bank would not otherwise consider.  Debt restructuring or loan modifications for a borrower do not necessarily always constitute a troubled debt restructuring, however, and troubled debt restructurings do not necessarily result in non-accrual loans.  Troubled debt restructured loans are classified as non-performing loans unless they have been performing in accordance with modified terms for a period of at least six months. The Bank had troubled debt restructured loans at September 30, 2016 and 2015 totaling $8.2 million and $13.7 million, respectively, of which $531,000 and $1.2 million, respectively, were on non-accrual status. The allowance for loan losses allocated to troubled debt restructured loans at September 30, 2016 and 2015 was $465,000 and $310,000, respectively.

Impaired Loans. A loan is considered impaired when it is probable the Bank will be unable to collect all contractual principal and interest payments when due in accordance with the original or modified terms of the loan agreement.  To determine specific valuation allowances, impaired loans are measured based on the estimated fair value of the collateral less the estimated cost to sell if the loan is considered collateral dependent.  Impaired loans not considered to be collateral dependent are measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows.

The categories of non-accrual loans and impaired loans overlap, although they are not identical.  The Bank considers all circumstances regarding the loan and borrower on an individual basis when determining whether an impaired loan should be placed on non-accrual status, such as the financial strength of the borrower, the collateral value, reasons for delay, payment record, the amount past due and the number of days past due.  At September 30, 2016 , the Bank had $16.2 m illion in impaired loans.  For additional information on impaired loans, see Note 4 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Other Loans of Concern.   Loans not reflected in the table above as non-performing, but where known information about possible credit problems of borrowers causes management to have doubts as to the ability of the borrower to comply with present repayment terms and that may result in disclosure of such loans as non-performing assets in the future, are commonly referred to as "other loans of concern" or "potential problem loans."  The amount included in potential problem loans results from an evaluation, on a loan-by-loan basis, of loans classified as "substandard" and "special mention," as those terms are defined under "Asset Classification" below.  The amount of potential problem loans (not included in the table above as non-performing) was $17.1

million at September 30, 2016 . The vast majority of these loans are collateralized by real estate.  See "Asset Classification" below for additional information regarding the Bank's problem loans.

Asset Classification.   Applicable regulations require that each insured institution review and classify its assets on a regular basis.  In addition, in connection with examinations of insured institutions, regulatory examiners have authority to identify problem assets and, if appropriate, require them to be classified.  There are three classifications for problem assets:  substandard, doubtful and loss.  Substandard loans are classified as those loans that are inadequately protected by the current net worth and paying capacity of the obligor, or of the collateral pledged.  Assets classified as substandard have a well-defined weakness or weaknesses that jeopardize the repayment of the debt.  If the weakness or weaknesses are not corrected there is the distinct possibility that some loss will be sustained.  Doubtful assets have the weaknesses of substandard assets with the additional characteristic that the weaknesses make collection or liquidation in full on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions and values questionable, and there is a high possibility of loss.  An asset classified as loss is considered uncollectible and of such little value that continuance as an asset of the Bank is not warranted.  When the Bank classifies problem assets as either substandard or doubtful, it is required to establish allowances for loan losses in an amount deemed prudent by management.  These allowances represent loss allowances which have been established to recognize the inherent risk associated with lending activities and the risks associated with particular problem assets.  When the Bank classifies problem assets as loss, it charges off the balance of the asset against the allowance for loan losses.  Assets which do not currently expose the Bank to sufficient risk to warrant classification in one of the aforementioned categories but possess weaknesses are designated by the Bank as special mention.  Special mention loans are defined as those credits deemed by management to have some potential weakness that deserve management's close attention.  If left uncorrected, these potential weaknesses may result in the deterioration of the payment prospects of the loan.  Assets in this category are not adversely classified and currently do not expose the Bank to sufficient risk to warrant a substandard classification. The Bank's determination of the classification of its assets and the amount of its valuation allowances is subject to review by the FDIC and the Division which can require a different classification and the establishment of additional loss allowances.

The aggregate amounts of the Bank's classified and special mention loans (as determined by the Bank), and of the Bank's  allowances for loan losses at the dates indicated, were as follows:

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Loans classified as substandard decreas ed by $7.7 million to $5.0 million at September 30, 2016 from $12.7 million at September 30, 2015 .  At September 30, 2016 , 34 lo ans were classified as substandard compared to 53 loans at September 30, 2015 . Of the $5.0 million in loans classified as substandard at September 30, 2016 , $2.9 million were on non-accrual status.  The largest loan classified as substandard at September 30, 2016 had a balance of $644,000 and was secured by a single family home in Pierce County. This loan was performing according to its restructured payment terms at September 30, 2016 .  The next largest loan classified as substandard at September 30, 2016 had a balance of $612,000 and was secured by a commercial building in Pierce County. This loan was on non-accrual status at September 30, 2016 .

Loans classified as special mention decreased by $1.9 million to $15.1 million at September 30, 2016 from $17.0 million at September 30, 2015 , primarily as a result of loans being upgraded to an improved risk grade category and loans being paid off during the year ended September 30, 2016 . At September 30, 2016, 22 loans were classified as special mention. The largest loan classified as special mention at September 30, 2016 had a balance of $3.9 million and was secured by a mini-storage facility in Pierce County. This loan was performing according to its payment terms at September 30, 2016. The next largest loan classified

as special mention at September 30, 2016 had a balance of $2.3 million and was secured by a mini-storage facility in King County. This loan was performing according to its restructured payment terms at September 30, 2016.

Allowance for Loan Losses.   The allowance for loan losses is maintained to absorb probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio.  The Bank has established a comprehensive methodology for the determination of provisions for loan losses that takes into consideration the need for an overall general valuation allowance.  The Bank's methodology for assessing the adequacy of its allowance for loan losses is based on its historic loss experience for various loan segments; adjusted for changes in economic conditions, delinquency rates and other factors.  Using these loss estimate factors, management develops a range of probable loss for each loan category.  Certain individual loans for which full collectibility may not be assured are evaluated individually with loss exposure based on estimated discounted cash flows or net realizable collateral values.  The total estimated range of loss based on these two components of the analysis is compared to the loan loss allowance balance.  Based on this review, management will adjust the allowance as necessary.

In originating loans, the Bank recognizes that losses will be experienced and that the risk of loss will vary with, among other things, the type of loan being made, the creditworthiness of the borrower over the term of the loan, general economic conditions and, in the case of a secured loan, the quality of the security for the loan.  The Bank increases its allowance for loan losses by charging provisions for loan losses against the Bank's operating income.

The Board of Directors reviews the adequacy of the allowance for loan losses at least quarterly based on management's assessment of current economic conditions, past loss and collection experience, and risk characteristics of the loan portfolio.

At September 30, 2016 , the Bank's allowance for loan losses total ed $9.8 million .   The Bank's allowance for loan losses as a percentage of total loans receivable and non-performing loans wa s 1.46% and 326.66%, respectively, at September 30, 2016 and 1.62% and 160.30%, respectively, at September 30, 2015.

Management believes that the amount maintained in the allowance for loan losses is adequate to absorb probable losses inherent in the portfolio. Although management believes that it uses the best information available to make its determinations, future adjustments to the allowance for loan losses may be necessary, and results of operations could be significantly and adversely affected if circumstances differ substantially from the assumptions used in making the determinations.

While the Bank believes it has established its existing allowance for loan losses in accordance with GAAP, there can be no assurance that regulators, in reviewing the Bank's loan portfolio, will not request the Bank to increase significantly its allowance for loan losses.  In addition, because future events affecting borrowers and collateral cannot be predicted with certainty, there can be no assurance that the existing allowance for loan losses is adequate or that substantial increases will not be necessary should the quality of any loans deteriorate as a result of the factors discussed above.  Any material increase in the allowance for loan losses may adversely affect the Bank's financial condition and results of operations.

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The following table sets forth the allocation of the allowance for loan losses by loan category at the dates indicated.