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First Financial Northwest, Inc. - Quarter Report: 2011 March (Form 10-Q)

q331115911.htm
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q

[X]
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2011

or

[ ]
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 
For the transition period from _____ to _____

Commission File Number: 001-33652
 
FIRST FINANCIAL NORTHWEST, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) 
                                                                                                                                                                       
 
Washington   26-0610707
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)    (I.R.S. Employer Identification Number) 
     
201 Wells Avenue South, Renton, Washington   98057
(Address of principal executive offices)    (Zip Code) 
     
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:     (425) 255-4400  

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 [ ] No [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer [ ] Accelerated filer [X] Non-accelerated filer [ ] Smaller reporting company [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes [ ] No [ X ]

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: As of May 6, 2011, 18,805,168 shares of the issuer’s common stock, $0.01 par value per share, were outstanding.

 
 

1
 







FIRST FINANCIAL NORTHWEST, INC.
FORM 10-Q
TABLE OF CONTENTS


PART 1 - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
  Page
Item 1 - Financial Statements 
   
Item 2 - Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations 26 
   
Item 3 - Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk  40 
   
Item 4 - Controls and Procedures  43 
   
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
 
   
Item 1 - Legal Proceedings  45
   
Item 1A - Risk Factors  45 
   
Item 2 - Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds  45 
   
Item 3 - Defaults upon Senior Securities  45 
   
Item 4 – [Removed and Reserved]  45 
   
Item 5 - Other Information  45 
   
Item 6 - Exhibits  45 
   
SIGNATURES 47 
 

 
 

2
 

Item 1. Financial Statements


FIRST FINANCIAL NORTHWEST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Dollars in thousands, except share data)
(Unaudited)
                   
         
March 31,
 
December 31,
       
Assets
2011
 
2010
                   
Cash on hand and in banks
$
4,869  
 
$
7,466  
Interest-bearing deposits
 
159,126  
   
90,961  
Investments available for sale, at fair value
 
148,230  
   
164,603  
Loans receivable, net of allowance of $20,250 and $22,534
 
796,354  
   
856,456  
Premises and equipment, net
 
19,585  
   
19,829  
Federal Home Loan Bank stock, at cost
 
7,413  
   
7,413  
Accrued interest receivable
 
4,339  
   
4,686  
Federal income tax receivable
 
6,346  
   
5,916  
Other real estate owned
 
31,266  
   
30,102  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
 
6,210  
   
6,226  
     
Total assets
$
1,183,738  
 
$
1,193,658  
                   
       
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
         
                   
Interest-bearing deposits
$
901,408  
 
$
911,526  
Noninterest bearing deposits
 
4,818  
   
8,700  
Advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank
 
93,066  
   
93,066  
Advance payments from borrowers for taxes and insurance
 
4,293  
   
2,256  
Accrued interest payable
 
230  
   
214  
Other liabilities
 
3,408  
   
3,418  
     
Total liabilities
 
1,007,223  
   
1,019,180  
                   
       
Commitments and contingencies
         
                   
Stockholders' Equity
         
 
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; authorized 10,000,000
         
   
shares, no shares issued or outstanding
 
—  
   
—  
 
Common stock, $0.01 par value; authorized 90,000,000
         
   
shares; issued and outstanding 18,805,168 shares at
         
   
March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010
 
188  
   
188  
 
Additional paid-in capital
 
187,707  
   
187,371  
 
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit), substantially restricted
 
1,129  
   
(305)
 
Accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax
 
469  
   
484  
 
Unearned Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) shares
 
(12,978)
   
(13,260)
     
Total stockholders' equity
 
176,515  
   
174,478  
       
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
1,183,738  
 
$
1,193,658  

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


 
 

3
 

 
FIRST FINANCIAL NORTHWEST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Consolidated Income Statements
 
(Dollars in thousands, except share data)
 
(Unaudited)
 
           
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2011
   
2010
 
Interest income
         
Loans, including fees
$ 12,428     $ 14,594  
Investments available for sale
  1,205       1,007  
Cash on hand and in banks
  76       61  
Total interest income
$ 13,709     $ 15,662  
               
Interest expense
             
 Deposits
  4,513       6,571  
   Federal Home Loan Bank advances
  576       1,023  
Total interest expense
$ 5,089     $ 7,594  
               
Net interest income
  8,620       8,068  
               
Provision for loan losses
  1,200       13,000  
               
Net interest income (loss) after provision for loan losses
$ 7,420     $ (4,932 )
               
Noninterest income
             
  Net gain on sale of investments
  511       -  
Other
  85       46  
Total noninterest income
$ 596     $ 46  
               
Noninterest expense
             
  Salaries and employee benefits
  3,289       3,189  
  Occupancy and equipment
  402       425  
  Professional fees
  480       459  
  Data processing
  209       170  
  Loss (gain) on sale of OREO property, net
  (626 )     437  
  OREO market value adjustments
  628       2,271  
  OREO related expenses, net
  850       702  
  FDIC/OTS assessments
  710       580  
  Insurance and bond premiums
  247       149  
Marketing
  61       43  
  Other general and administrative
  332       442  
Total noninterest expense
$ 6,582     $ 8,867  
Income (loss) before provision for federal income taxes
  1,434       (13,753 )
Provision for federal income taxes
  -       3,999  
Net income (loss)
$ 1,434     $ (17,752 )
Basic earnings (loss) per share
$ 0.08     $ (1.02 )
Diluted earnings (loss) per share
$ 0.08     $ (1.02 )

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.


 
 

4
 



FIRST FINANCIAL NORTHWEST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity and Comprehensive Income
For the Three Months Ended March 31, 2011
(Dollars in thousands, except share data)
(Unaudited)
 
                           
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, net of tax
           
                     
Retained
Earnings
(Accumulated
Deficit)
               
                                     
   
Shares
   
Common
   
Additional Paid-
in Capital
           
Unearned ESOP Shares
   
Total
Stockholders
Equity
                                         
Balances at December 31, 2010
18,805,168   
 
$
188   
 
$
187,371   
 
$
(305)  
 
$
484   
 
$
(13,260)  
 
$
174,478   
Comprehensive income:
                                     
 
Net income
—    
   
—    
   
—    
   
1,434   
   
—    
   
—    
   
1,434   
 
Change in fair value of investments
                                     
 
available for sale
—    
   
—    
   
—    
   
—    
   
(15)  
   
—    
   
(15)  
 
Total comprehensive income
                                   
1,419   
Compensation related to stock
                                     
 
options and restricted stock awards
—    
   
—    
   
473   
   
—    
   
—    
   
—    
   
473   
Allocation of 28,213 ESOP shares
—    
   
—    
   
(137)  
   
—    
   
—    
   
282   
   
145   
Balances at March 31, 2011
18,805,168   
 
$
188   
 
$
187,707   
 
$
1,129   
 
$
469   
 
$
(12,978)  
 
$
176,515   
 
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 
 

5
 


FIRST FINANCIAL NORTHWEST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
                   
         
Three Months Ended March 31,
           
2011
   
2010
Cash flows from operating activities:
         
 
Net income (loss)
$
1,434  
 
$
(17,752) 
 
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by
         
 
operating activities:
         
   
Provision for loan losses
 
1,200  
   
13,000  
   
OREO market value adjustments
 
628  
   
2,271  
   
Loss (gain) on sale of OREO property, net
 
(626) 
   
437  
   
Depreciation of premises and equipment
 
269  
   
254  
   
Net amortization of premiums and discounts on investments
 
691  
   
250  
   
ESOP expense
 
145  
   
186  
   
Compensation expense related to stock options and restricted stock awards
 
473  
   
497  
   
Net realized gain on investments available for sale
 
(511) 
   
—   
   
Deferred federal income taxes
 
430  
   
6,661  
   
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
         
     
Prepaid expenses and other assets
 
16  
   
(54) 
     
Federal income taxes, net
 
(430) 
   
(2,661) 
     
Accrued interest receivable
 
347  
   
164  
     
Accrued interest payable
 
16  
   
(55) 
     
Other liabilities
 
(10) 
   
(871) 
       
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
4,072  
 
$
2,327  
                   
Cash flows from investing activities:
         
   
Proceeds from sales of investments
 
9,701  
   
—   
   
Capitalized improvements in OREO
 
(88) 
   
—   
   
Proceeds from sales of OREO properties
 
9,199  
   
3,031  
   
Principal repayments on investments
 
10,350  
   
6,657  
   
Purchases of investments
 
(4,303) 
   
(18,936) 
   
Net (increase) decrease in loans receivable
 
48,625  
   
(5,000) 
   
Purchases of premises and equipment
 
(25) 
   
(1,122) 
       
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities
$
73,459  
 
$
(15,370) 
                   
       
Balance, carried forward
$
77,531  
 
$
(13,043) 

Continued

 
 
 

6
 
 


FIRST FINANCIAL NORTHWEST, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
 
(In thousands)
 
(Unaudited)
 
             
             
   
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
    2011     2010  
Balance, brought forward
  $ 77,531     $ (13,043 )
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Net increase (decrease) in deposits
    (14,000 )     23,167  
Advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank
    -       50,000  
Repayments of advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank
    -       (50,000 )
Net increase in advance payments from borrowers for taxes and insurance
    2,037       2,132  
Repurchase and retirement of common stock
    -       (106 )
Dividends paid
    -       (1,421 )
Net cash provided (used) by financing activities
  $ (11,963 )   $ 23,772  
                 
Net increase in cash
    65,568       10,729  
Cash and cash equivalents:
               
Beginning of period
    98,427       104,970  
 End of period
  $ 163,995     $ 115,699  
                 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:
               
Cash paid during the period for:
               
Interest
  $ 5,073     $ 7,649  
Noncash transactions:
               
Loans, net of deferred loan fees and allowance for loan losses transferred to OREO
  $ 10,277     $ 14,404  
                 
                 
 
 
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
 
 
 

 
 
 

7
 


Note 1 – Description of Business

First Financial Northwest, Inc. (“First Financial Northwest” or the “Company”), a Washington corporation, was formed on June 1, 2007 for the purpose of becoming the holding company for First Savings Bank Northwest (“First Savings Bank” or “the Bank”) in connection with the conversion from a mutual holding company structure to a stock holding company structure. First Financial Northwest’s business activities generally are limited to passive investment activities and oversight of its investment in First Savings Bank. Accordingly, the information presented in the consolidated financial statements and related data, relates primarily to First Savings Bank. First Financial Northwest is a savings and loan holding company and is subject to regulation by the Office of Thrift Supervision (“OTS”). First Savings Bank is regulated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”) and the Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (“DFI”).

First Savings Bank is a community-based savings bank primarily serving King and to a lesser extent, Pierce, Snohomish and Kitsap counties, Washington through our full-service banking office located in Renton, Washington. First Savings Bank’s business consists of attracting deposits from the public and utilizing these deposits to originate one-to-four family, multifamily, commercial real estate, business, consumer and to a lesser extent, construction/land development loans.

Note 2 – Regulatory Items

On April 14, 2010, in connection with the most recent examination of the holding company by the OTS, members of the Board of Directors of First Financial Northwest entered into an informal supervisory agreement or Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”). Under the terms of the MOU, the Company has agreed, among other things, to provide notice to and obtain a written non-objection from the OTS prior to the Company (a) declaring a dividend or redeeming any capital stock; and (b) incurring, issuing, renewing or repurchasing any new debt. Further, in connection with a prior examination of the Bank by the FDIC and DFI, the FDIC has notified us that we must obtain a written non-objection from the FDIC before engaging in any transaction that would materially change the balance sheet composition (including growth in total assets of five percent or more), significantly change funding sources (including brokered deposits) or declare or pay cash dividends. In addition, both the Company and the Bank must obtain prior regulatory approval before adding any new director or senior executive officer or changing the responsibilities of any current senior executive officer or pay pursuant to or by entering into certain severance and other forms of compensation agreements.

The Bank entered into a Stipulation to the Issuance of a Consent Order (“Order”) with the FDIC and the DFI which became effective on September 24, 2010. Under the terms of the Order, the Bank cannot declare dividends or repurchase stock without the prior written approval of the FDIC. Other material provisions of the Order require the Bank to:

·  
Maintain and preserve qualified management;
·  
Increase the Board of Directors’ participation in the Bank’s affairs;
·  
Obtain an independent study of management and the personnel structure of the Bank;
·  
Maintain specified Capital levels;
·  
Eliminate loans classified as “Loss” at its regulatory examination, and reduce the loans classified as “Doubtful” and “Substandard” as a percent of capital;
·  
Revise its policy with respect to the allowance for loan losses;
·  
Not extend additional credit to borrowers whose loan had been classified as “Loss” and is uncollected;
·  
Revise its lending and collection policies and practices;
·  
Develop a plan to reduce the amount of commercial real estate loans;
·  
Enhance its written funds management and liquidity policy;
·  
Develop a three-year strategic plan;
·  
Not solicit brokered deposits and comply with certain deposit rate restrictions;
·  
Eliminate and correct all violations of laws; and
 
 
 
 

8
 
 
·  
Prepare and submit progress reports to the FDIC and DFI.

The Order required that a number of items be completed over various time frames. We believe we have complied with each item set forth in the Order in advance of all required due dates and we have submitted the appropriate documentation to our regulators.

The Bank’s Tier 1 capital ratio was 12.13% and our total risk-based capital ratio was 21.30% at March 31, 2011 which exceeded the requirements of the Order of 10% and 12%, respectively.

Adversely classified assets as a percent of Tier 1 capital plus the allowance for loan losses was 128% at the beginning of 2010. The Order requires this ratio to be below 65% by March 2011 for the adversely classified assets identified during the most recent examination. As of March 31, 2011, we have achieved this target stipulated in the Order.
 
       The Order also requires that the Bank develop a written plan to systematically reduce the amount of loans to borrowers in the commercial real estate loan category. At March 31, 2010, the Bank’s commercial real estate loans represented 334% of its risk-based capital and its construction/land development loans equaled 115% of risk-based capital.  As of March 31, 2011, the Bank’s concentration in commercial real estate loans has been reduced to 265% of its risk-based capital and its construction/land development loan portfolio has been reduced to 51% of risk-based capital.

A copy of the Order is attached to the Form 8-K that we filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on September 27, 2010. The Order will remain in effect until modified or terminated by the FDIC and the DFI.

Note 3 – Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by U.S. Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“GAAP”) for complete financial statements. These unaudited consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010, as filed with the SEC. In our opinion, all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with GAAP have been included. All significant intercompany balances and transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries have been eliminated in consolidation. Operating results for the three months ended March 31, 2011 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ended December 31, 2011. In preparing the unaudited consolidated financial statements, we are required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Material estimates that are particularly susceptible to significant change relate to the allowance for loan losses, other real estate owned (“OREO”), deferred tax assets and the fair value of financial instruments.

Certain amounts in the unaudited consolidated financial statements for prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current unaudited financial statement presentation.

Note 4 – Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

In January 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-01, Deferral of the Effective Date of Disclosures about Troubled Debt Restructurings in Update No. 2010-20. This ASU temporarily delays the effective date of the disclosures about troubled debt restructurings in Update 2010-20 for public entities. The delay is intended to allow the Board time to complete its deliberations on what constitutes a troubled debt restructuring. The effective date of the new disclosures about troubled debt restructurings for public entities and the guidance for determining what constitutes a troubled debt restructuring will then be coordinated. Currently, that guidance is anticipated to be effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2011. Accordingly, the Company has not included the disclosures deferred by this ASU.

In April 2011, the FASB issued ASU No. 2011-02, A Creditor’s Determination of Whether a Restructuring is a Troubled Debt Restructuring. The Update provides additional guidance relating to when creditors should classify loan modifications as troubled debt restructurings. The ASU also ends the deferral issued in January 2010 of the disclosures about troubled debt restructurings required by ASU No. 2010-20.  The provisions of ASU No. 2011-02 and the disclosure requirements of ASU No. 2010-20 are effective for the Company’s interim reporting
 
 
 
 

9
 
 
period ending September 30, 2011. The guidance applies retrospectively to restructurings occurring on or after January 1, 2011. The adoption of this ASU is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.


Note 5 – Investments

Investment securities available for sale are summarized as follows:
 
   
March 31, 2011
 
         
Gross
   
Gross
     
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Unrealized
     
   
Cost
   
Gains
   
Losses
 
Fair Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Mortgage-backed investments:
                       
Fannie Mae
  $ 103,102     $ 1,254     $ (296 )   $ 104,060  
Freddie Mac
    31,230       430       (107 )     31,553  
Ginnie Mae
    8,871       -       (111 )     8,760  
Municipal bonds
    2,394       -       (464 )     1,930  
U.S. Government agencies
    1,805       122       -       1,927  
    $ 147,402     $ 1,806     $ (978 )   $ 148,230  
 
 
   
December 31, 2010
 
         
Gross
   
Gross
     
   
Amortized
   
Unrealized
   
Unrealized
     
   
Cost
   
Gains
   
Losses
 
Fair Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Mortgage-backed investments:
                       
Fannie Mae
  $ 109,134     $ 1,291     $ (281 )   $ 110,144  
Freddie Mac
    40,454       860       (165 )     41,149  
Ginnie Mae
    9,542       -       (98 )     9,444  
Municipal bonds
    2,395       -       (473 )     1,922  
U.S. Government agencies
    1,805       139       -       1,944  
    $ 163,330     $ 2,290     $ (1,017 )   $ 164,603  

 
 

10
 
 
The following table summarizes the aggregate fair value and gross unrealized loss by length of time those investments have been continuously in an unrealized loss position:

 
 
March 31, 2011
 
 
Less Than 12 Months
 
12 Months or Longer
 
Total
 
       
Unrealized
       
Unrealized
       
Unrealized
 
 
Fair Value
 
Loss
 
Fair Value
 
Loss
 
Fair Value
 
Loss
 
Mortgage-backed investments:
(In thousands)
 
Fannie Mae
  $ 48,959     $ (296 )   $ -     $ -     $ 48,959     $ (296 )
Freddie Mac
    11,895       (107 )     -       -       11,895       (107 )
Ginnie Mae
    8,760       (111 )     -       -       8,760       (111 )
Municipal bonds
    -       -       1,893       (464 )     1,893       (464 )
    $ 69,614     $ (514 )   $ 1,893     $ (464 )   $ 71,507     $ (978 )



   
December 31, 2010
 
 
Less Than 12 Months
   
12 Months or Longer
 
Total
 
       
Unrealized
       
Unrealized
       
Unrealized
 
   
Fair Value
 
Loss
   
Fair Value
 
Loss
   
Fair Value
 
Loss
 
Mortgage-backed investments:
(In thousands)
 
Fannie Mae
  $ 39,801     $ (281 )   $ -     $ -     $ 39,801     $ (281 )
Freddie Mac
    15,232       (165 )     -       -       15,232       (165 )
Ginnie Mae
    5,193       (98 )     -       -       5,193       (98 )
Municipal bonds
    -       -       1,885       (473 )     1,885       (473 )
    $ 60,226     $ (544 )   $ 1,885     $ (473 )   $ 62,111     $ (1,017 )

On a quarterly basis, management makes an assessment to determine whether there have been any events or economic circumstances to indicate that a security on which there is an unrealized loss is impaired on an other-than-temporary basis. We consider many factors including the severity and duration of the impairment, recent events specific to the issuer or industry, and for debt securities, external credit ratings and recent downgrades. Securities on which there is an unrealized loss that is deemed to be an other-than-temporary impairment (“OTTI”) are written down to fair value. For equity securities, the write-down is recorded as a realized loss in noninterest income on our Consolidated Income Statement. For debt securities, if we intend to sell the security or it is likely that we will be required to sell the security before recovering its cost basis, the entire impairment loss would be recognized in earnings as an OTTI. If we do not intend to sell the security and it is not likely that we will be required to sell the security but we do not expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security, only the portion of the impairment loss representing credit losses would be recognized in earnings. The credit loss on a security is measured as the difference between the amortized cost basis and the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected. Projected cash flows are discounted by the original or current effective interest rate depending on the nature of the security being measured for potential OTTI. The remaining impairment related to all other factors, the difference between the present value of the cash flows expected to be collected and fair value, is recognized as a charge to other comprehensive income (“OCI”). Impairment losses related to all other factors are presented as separate categories within OCI. For the quarter ended March 31, 2011, we did not have any OTTI losses on investments.

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of investments available for sale at March 31, 2011, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected maturities will differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or without call or prepayment penalties. Investments not due at a single maturity date, primarily mortgage-backed investments, are shown separately.
 

 
 
 

11
 
 


   
March 31, 2011
 
   
Amortized Cost
   
Fair Value
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Due within one year
  $ -     $ -  
Due after one year through five years
    501       550  
Due after five years through ten years
    503       487  
Due after ten years
    3,195       2,820  
      4,199       3,857  
Mortgage-backed investments
    143,203       144,373  
    $ 147,402     $ 148,230  

We sold $9.7 million of investments during the three months ended March 31, 2011, resulting in a gross gain of $511,000.

Note 6 - Loans Receivable

Loans receivable are summarized as follows:


    March 31, 2011     December 31, 2010  
    Amount     Percent     Amount     Percent  
    (Dollars in thousands)   
                         
One-to-four family residential (1):
                       
Permanent
  $ 375,894       45.59   $ 393,334       44.08 %
Construction
    -       -       5,356       0.60  
    $ 375,894       45.59 %   $ 398,690       44.68 %
                                 
Multifamily:
                               
Permanent
    126,120       15.30       140,762       15.77  
Construction
    3,024       0.37       4,114       0.46  
    $ 129,144       15.67 %   $ 144,876       16.23 %
                                 
Commercial real estate:
                               
Permanent
    227,202       27.56       237,708       26.64  
Construction
    26,861       3.26       28,362       3.18  
Land
    4,419       0.54       6,643       0.75  
    $ 258,482       31.36 %   $ 272,713       30.57 %
                                 
Construction/land development:
                               
One-to-four family residential
    17,643       2.14       26,848       3.01  
Multifamily
    882       0.11       1,283       0.14  
Commercial
    1,104       0.13       1,108       0.12  
Land development
    23,490       2.85       27,262       3.06  
    $ 43,119       5.23 %   $ 56,501       6.33 %
                                 
Business
    1,026       0.12       479       0.05  
Consumer
    16,767       2.03       19,127       2.14  
                                 
Total loans
  $ 824,432       100.00 %   $ 892,386       100.00 %
                                 
Less:
                               
Loans in process
    5,633               10,975          
Deferred loan fees, net
    2,195               2,421          
Allowance for loan losses
    20,250               22,534          
Loans receivable, net
  $ 796,354             $ 856,456          
_____________
(1)   Includes $166.2 million and $173.4 million of non-owner occupied loans at March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively.

At March 31, 2011, there were no loans classified as held for sale.
 
 
 
 

12
 
A summary of changes in the allowance for loan and lease losses (“ALLL”) for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 are as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Balance at the beginning of the period
  $ 22,534     $ 33,039  
Provision for loan losses
    1,200       13,000  
Charge-offs
    (3,675 )     (9,682 )
Recoveries
    191       122  
Balance at the end of the period
  $ 20,250     $ 36,479  
 
The following tables represents a summary of our ALLL and loan portfolio by loan type and impairment method at March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010.

   
March 31, 2011
 
   
One-to-Four
Family
Residential
   
Multi-
family
   
Commercial 
Real Estate
   
Construction/
Land
Development
   
Business
   
Consumer
   
Total
 
 
 
 ALLL:
 
(In thousands)
 
 Beginning balance
  $ 8,302     $ 1,893     $ 6,742     $ 5,151     $ 7     $ 439     $ 22,534  
Charge-offs
    (585 )     (26 )     (2,080 )     (926 )     -       (58 )     (3,675 )
Recoveries
    5       -       -       185       -       1       191  
Provision
    34       (121 )     2,613       (1,343 )     6       11       1,200  
 Ending balance
  $ 7,756     $ 1,746     $ 7,275     $ 3,067     $ 13     $ 393     $ 20,250  
General reserve
  $ 6,596     $ 1,684     $ 5,351     $ 1,483     $ 13     $ 298     $ 15,425  
Specific reserve
  $ 1,160     $ 62     $ 1,924     $ 1,584     $ -     $ 95     $ 4,825  
                                                         
 Loans (1):
                                                       
 Loans
  $ 375,858     $ 128,678     $ 255,532     $ 40,938     $ 1,026     $ 16,767     $ 818,799  
General reserve (2)
  $ 307,401     $ 125,470     $ 234,006     $ 17,453     $ 1,026     $ 16,552     $ 701,908  
Specific reserve (3)
  $ 68,457     $ 3,208     $ 21,526     $ 23,485     $ -     $ 215     $ 116,891  

_________                                     
(1) Net of undisbursed funds
                                   
(2) Loans collectively evaluated for impairment
                             
(3) Loans individually evaluated for impairment

   
December 31, 2010
 
   
One-to-Four
Family
Residential
   
Multi-
family
   
Commercial 
Real Estate
   
Construction/
Land
Development
   
Business
   
Consumer
   
Total
 
 
 
 ALLL:
                   
(In thousands)
                   
 Beginning balance
  $ 11,130     $ 1,896     $ 6,422     $ 13,255     $ 6     $ 330     $ 33,039  
Charge-offs
    (24,594 )     -       (8,012 )     (32,080 )     -       (790 )     (65,476 )
Recoveries
    176       -       823       778       -       94       1,871  
Provision
    21,590       (3 )     7,509       23,198       1       805       53,100  
 Ending balance
  $ 8,302     $ 1,893     $ 6,742     $ 5,151     $ 7     $ 439     $ 22,534  
General reserve
  $ 7,137     $ 1,893     $ 5,499     $ 1,819     $ 7     $ 337     $ 16,692  
Specific reserve
  $ 1,165     $ -     $ 1,243     $ 3,332     $ -     $ 102     $ 5,842  
                                                         
 Loans (1):
                                                       
 Loans
  $ 398,583     $ 143,513     $ 266,297     $ 53,412     $ 479     $ 19,127     $ 881,411  
General reserve (2)
  $ 330,651     $ 140,998     $ 248,578     $ 20,394     $ 479     $ 19,000     $ 760,100  
Specific reserve (3)
  $ 67,932     $ 2,515     $ 17,719     $ 33,018     $ -     $ 127     $ 121,311  
___________
(1) Net of undisbursed funds
(2) Loans collectively evaluated for impairment
(3) Loans individually evaluated for impairment
 

 
 

13
 
Nonperforming loans, net of undisbursed funds, were $51.1 million and $62.9 million at March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, respectively. Foregone interest on nonaccrual loans for the quarters ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 were $857,000 and $797,000, respectively.

Loans committed to be advanced in connection with impaired loans at March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010 were $311,000 and $1.1 million, respectively.

The following tables represent a summary of loans individually evaluated for impairment by the type of loan at March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010.
 
     
March 31, 2011
 
           
Unpaid
         
Average
   
Interest
 
     
Recorded
   
Principal
   
Related
   
Recorded
   
Income
 
     
Investment (1)
   
Balance (2)
   
Allowance
   
Investment
   
Recognized
 
   
(In thousands)
 
                                 
Loans with no related allowance:
                             
 
One-to-four family residential
                             
 
     Owner occupied
  $ 10,090     $ 10,486     $ -     $ 8,785     $ 116  
 
     Non-owner occupied
    47,329       47,545       -       45,700       667  
 
Multifamily
    2,508       2,508       -       2,511       42  
 
Commercial real estate
    13,117       14,039       -       12,549       164  
 
Construction/land development
    12,611       25,826       -       9,828       -  
 
Consumer
    215       257       -       167       1  
Total
  $ 85,870     $ 100,661     $ -     $ 79,540     $ 990  
                                           
Loans with an allowance:
                                       
 
One-to-four family residential
                                       
 
     Owner occupied
  $ 3,117     $ 4,082     $ 271     $ 4,317     $ -  
 
     Non-owner occupied
    7,921       11,210       889       9,393       -  
 
Multifamily
    700       726       62       350       -  
 
Commercial real estate
    8,408       12,524       1,924       7,073       -  
 
Construction/land development
    10,875       15,059       1,584       18,424       -  
 
Consumer
    -       10       95       4       -  
Total
  $ 31,021     $ 43,611     $ 4,825     $ 39,561     $ -  
                                           
Total impaired loans:
                                       
 
One-to-four family residential
                                       
 
     Owner occupied
  $ 13,207     $ 14,568     $ 271     $ 13,102     $ 116  
 
     Non-owner occupied
    55,250       58,755       889       55,093       667  
 
Multifamily
    3,208       3,234       62       2,861       42  
 
Commercial real estate
    21,525       26,563       1,924       19,622       164  
 
Construction/land development
    23,486       40,885       1,584       28,252       -  
 
Consumer
    215       267       95       171       1  
Total
  $ 116,891     $ 144,272     $ 4,825     $ 119,101     $ 990  
____________                                         
(1)
Represents the loan balance less charge-offs.
                                 
(2)
Contractual loan principal balance.
                                       

 
 

14
 


   
December 31, 2010
 
           
Unpaid
         
Interest
 
   
Recorded
   
Principal
   
Related
   
Income
 
   
Investment (1)
   
Balance (2)
   
Allowance
   
Recognized
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Loans with no related allowance:
                       
 
One-to-four family residential
                       
 
     Owner occupied
  $ 7,480     $ 7,814     $ -     $ 273  
 
     Non-owner occupied
    44,072       44,487       -       3,050  
 
Multifamily
    2,515       2,515       -       169  
 
Commercial
    11,981       12,498       -       631  
 
Construction/land development
    7,045       9,087       -       8  
 
Consumer
    118       617       -       3  
Total
  $ 73,211     $ 77,018     $ -     $ 4,134  
                                   
Loans with an allowance:
                               
 
One-to-four family residential
                               
 
     Owner occupied
  $ 5,516     $ 6,753     $ 276     $ -  
 
     Non-owner occupied
    10,864       15,182       889       -  
 
Multifamily
    -       -       -       -  
 
Commercial
    5,738       9,968       1,243       -  
 
Construction/land development
    25,973       45,546       3,332       -  
 
Consumer
    9       218       102       -  
Total
  $ 48,100     $ 77,667     $ 5,842     $ -  
                                   
Total impaired loans
                               
 
One-to-four family residential
                               
 
     Owner occupied
  $ 12,996     $ 14,567     $ 276     $ 273  
 
     Non-owner occupied
    54,936       59,669       889       3,050  
 
Multifamily
    2,515       2,515       -       169  
 
Commercial
    17,719       22,466       1,243       631  
 
Construction/land development
    33,018       54,633       3,332       8  
 
Consumer
    127       835       102       3  
Total
  $ 121,311     $ 154,685     $ 5,842     $ 4,134  
____________                                 
(1)
Represents the loan balance less charge-offs.
                         
(2)
Contractual loan principal balance.
                         

 
 

15
 
 
The following is a summary of information pertaining to impaired, nonperforming and nonaccrual loans:
 
   
March 31,
   
December 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
             
Impaired loans without a valuation allowance
  $ 85,870     $ 73,211  
Impaired loans with a valuation allowance
    31,021        48,100  
    Total impaired loans
  $ 116,891     $ 121,311  
Valuation allowance related to impaired loans
  $ 4,825     $ 5,842  
Interest income recognized on a cash basis on impaired loans
  $ 990     $ 4,134  
                 
Nonperforming assets (1):
               
    Nonaccrual loans
    39,737        46,637  
    Nonaccrual troubled debt restructured loans
  $ 11,349     $ 16,299  
Total nonperforming loans
    51,086        62,936  
                 
    Other real estate owned
    31,266        30,102  
Total nonperforming assets
  $ 82,352     $ 93,038  
                 
Performing troubled debt restructured loans
    65,805        58,375  
Nonaccrual troubled debt restructured loans
    11,349        16,299  
Total troubled debt restructured loans (2)
  $ 77,154     $ 74,674  
______________                 
(1) There were no loans 90 days or more past due and still accruing interest at March 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010.
 
(2) Troubled debt restructured loans are also considered impaired loans and are included in "Total impaired loans."
 
 
Nonacrrual and Past Due Loans. Loans are considered past due if the required principal and interest payments have not been received as of the date such payments were due. Loans are placed on nonaccrual when they are 90 days delinquent or when, in management’s opinion, the borrower is unable to meet scheduled, payment obligations.

A loan is considered impaired when we have determined that we may be unable to collect payments of principal or interest when due under the terms of the loan. In the process of identifying loans as impaired, management takes into consideration factors which include payment history and status, collateral value, financial condition of the borrower and the probability of collecting scheduled payments in the future. Minor payment delays and insignificant payment shortfalls typically do not result in a loan being classified as impaired. The significance of payment delays and shortfalls is considered by management on a case by case basis, after taking into consideration the circumstances surrounding the loans and the borrowers, including payment history and amounts of any payment shortfall, length and reason for delay and the likelihood of a return to stable performance. Impairment is measured on a loan-by-loan basis for all loans in the portfolio.


 
 

16
 
 
The following table is a summary of nonaccrual loans by loan type.

   
March 31,
   
December 31,
 
   
2011
   
2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
One-to-four family residential
  $ 15,652     $ 22,688  
Multifamily
    700       -  
Commercial real estate
    11,104       7,306  
Construction/land development
    23,485       32,885  
Consumer
    145       57  
Total nonaccrual loans
  $ 51,086     $ 62,936  
 
The following tables represent a summary of the aging of loans by type.
 
   
Loans Past Due as of March 31, 2011
             
   
30-59 Days
   
60-89 Days
   
90 Days and
Greater
   
Total
   
Current
   
Total Loans
(1) (2)
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Real estate:
                                   
One-to-four family residential:
                                   
     Owner occupied
  $ 1,239     $ 222     $ 4,021     $ 5,482     $ 204,130     $ 209,612  
     Non-owned occupied
    343       -       10,895       11,238       155,008       166,246  
Multifamily
    -       700       -       700       127,978       128,678  
Commercial real estate
    3,256       1,172       6,643       11,071       244,461       255,532  
Construction/land development
    1,104       -       22,752       23,856       17,082       40,938  
Total real estate
  $ 5,942     $ 2,094     $ 44,311     $ 52,347     $ 748,659     $ 801,006  
Business
    -       -       -       -       1,026       1,026  
Consumer
    -       -       -       -       16,767       16,767  
Total
  $ 5,942     $ 2,094     $ 44,311     $ 52,347     $ 766,452     $ 818,799  
____________                                                 
(1) There were no loans 90 days past due and still accruing interest at March 31, 2011.
 
(2) Net of loans in process.
 

   
Loans Past Due as of December 31, 2010
             
               
90 Days and
Greater
               
Total Loans
(1) (2)
 
   
30-59 Days
   
60-89 Days
   
Total
   
Current
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Real estate:
                                   
One-to-four family residential:
                                   
     Owner occupied
  $ 2,178     $ 780     $ 5,863     $ 8,821     $ 216,392     $ 225,213  
     Non-owned occupied
    800       1,996       11,801       14,597       158,773       173,370  
Multifamily
    -       -       -       -       143,513       143,513  
Commercial real estate
    2,141       836       6,948       9,925       256,372       266,297  
Construction/land development
    133       265       32,620       33,018       20,394       53,412  
Total real estate
  $ 5,252     $ 3,877     $ 57,232     $ 66,361     $ 795,444     $ 861,805  
Business
    -       -       -       -       479       479  
Consumer
    -       55       57       112       19,015       19,127  
Total
  $ 5,252     $ 3,932     $ 57,289     $ 66,473     $ 814,938     $ 881,411  
_____________                                                 
(1) There were no loans 90 days past due and still accruing interest at December 31, 2010.
(2) Net of loans in process.

 
 

17
 

Credit Quality Indicators. Assets classified as special mention have potential weaknesses that deserve management’s close attention. Special mention assets are not adversely classified and do not expose the Bank to sufficient risk to warrant adverse classification. Federal regulations provide for the classification of lower quality loans and other assets, such as debt and equity securities, as substandard, doubtful or loss. An asset is considered substandard if it is inadequately protected by the current net worth and pay capacity of the borrower or of any collateral pledged. Substandard assets include those characterized by the distinct possibility that we will sustain some loss if the deficiencies are not corrected. Assets classified as doubtful have all the weaknesses inherent in those loans classified as substandard with the added characteristic that the weaknesses present make collection or liquidation in full highly questionable and improbable, on the basis of currently existing facts, conditions, and values. Assets classified as loss are those considered uncollectible and of such little value that their continuance as assets without the establishment of a specific loss reserve is not warranted.

The following tables represent a summary of loans by type and risk category.

   
March 31, 2011
 
   
One-to-Four
Family
Residential
   
Multi -
family
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Construction/
Land
Development
   
Business
   
Consumer
   
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Grade:
                                         
Pass
  $ 347,258     $ 122,549     $ 231,047     $ 17,029     $ 1,026     $ 16,399     $ 735,308  
Special mention
    10,219       5,429       12,718       -       -       222       28,588  
Substandard
    18,381       700       11,767       23,909       -       46       54,803  
Doubtful
    -       -       -       -       -       100       100  
Total
  $ 375,858     $ 128,678     $ 255,532     $ 40,938     $ 1,026     $ 16,767     $ 818,799  
 
 
   
December 31, 2010
 
   
One-to-Four
Family
Residential
   
Multi -
family
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Construction/
Land
Development
   
Business
   
Consumer
   
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Grade:
                                         
Pass
  $ 360,239     $ 141,224     $ 249,576     $ 17,589     $ 479     $ 18,792     $ 787,899  
Special mention
    10,261       1,936       5,805       -       -       189       18,191  
Substandard
    28,083       353       10,916       35,484       -       140       74,976  
Doubtful
    -       -       -       339       -       6       345  
Total
  $ 398,583     $ 143,513     $ 266,297     $ 53,412     $ 479     $ 19,127     $ 881,411  
 
 
The following tables summarize the loan portfolio by type and payment activity.

 
 

18
 
 


 
March 31, 2011
 
   
One-to-Four
Family
Residential
   
Multi -
family
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Construction/ 
Land
Development
   
Business
   
Consumer
   
Total
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Performing (1)
  $ 360,206     $ 127,978     $ 244,428     $ 17,453     $ 1,026     $ 16,622     $ 767,713  
Nonperforming (2)
    15,652       700       11,104       23,485       -       145       51,086  
Total
  $ 375,858     $ 128,678     $ 255,532     $ 40,938     $ 1,026     $ 16,767     $ 818,799  
__________                                                         
(1) There were $205.0 million of owner-occupied one-to-four family loans and $155.2 million of non-owner occupied one-to-four family loans classified as performing.
 
(2) There were $4.7 million of owner-occupied one-to-four family loans and $11.0 million of non-owner occupied one-to-four family loans classified as nonperforming.
 

 
 
December 31, 2010
 
   
One-to-Four
Family
Residential
   
Multi -
family
   
Commercial
Real Estate
   
Construction/ 
Land
Development
   
Business
   
Consumer
   
Total
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Performing (1)
  $ 375,895     $ 143,513     $ 258,991     $ 20,527     $ 479     $ 19,070     $ 818,475  
Nonperforming (2)
    22,688       -       7,306       32,885       -       57       62,936  
Total
  $ 398,583     $ 143,513     $ 266,297     $ 53,412     $ 479     $ 19,127     $ 881,411  
___________                                                         
(1) There were $217.3 million of owner-occupied one-to-four family loans and $158.6 million of non-owner occupied one-to-four family
 
classified as performing.
                                                 
(2) There were $8.0 million of owner-occupied one-to-four family loans and $14.7 million of non-owner occupied one-to-four family loans classified as nonperforming.
 

Note 7 – Other Real Estate Owned

The following table is a summary of OREO:
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
   
March 31, 2011
   
December 31, 2010
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Beginning Balance
  $ 30,102     $ 11,835  
Loans transferred to OREO
    10,277       50,237  
Capitalized improvements
    88       767  
Dispositions of OREO
    (8,573 )     (27,113 )
Market value adjustments
    (628 )     (5,624 )
Ending Balance
  $ 31,266     $ 30,102  
 
OREO includes properties acquired by the Bank through foreclosure and deed in lieu of foreclosure. OREO at March 31, 2011, consisted of $14.4 million in one-to-four family residential homes, $12.0 million in construction/land development projects and $4.9 million in commercial real estate buildings.

Note 8 – Fair Value

Fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

We determined the fair values of our financial instruments based on the fair value hierarchy which requires an entity to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when measuring
 
 
 

19
 
 
fair values. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect our estimates for market assumptions.

Valuation inputs refer to the assumptions market participants would use in pricing a given asset or liability using one of the three valuation techniques. Inputs can be observable or unobservable. Observable inputs are those assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the particular asset or liability. These inputs are based on market data and are obtained from an independent source. Unobservable inputs are assumptions based on our own information or estimate of assumptions used by market participants in pricing the asset or liability. Unobservable inputs are based on the best and most current information available on the measurement date.

All inputs, whether observable or unobservable, are ranked in accordance with a prescribed fair value hierarchy:

·  
Level 1 – Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
·  
Level 2 – Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similarinstruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs areobservable.
·  
Level 3 – Instruments whose significant value drivers are unobservable.

The tables below present the balances of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis (there were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 recurring measurements during the periods presented):

 
Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2011
 
       
Quoted Prices in
 
Significant
       
       
Active Markets
 
Other
 
Significant
 
 
Fair Value
 
for Identical
 
Observable
 
Unobservable
 
 
Measurements
 
Assets (Level 1)
 
Inputs (Level 2)
 
Inputs (Level 3)
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Available for sale investments
                       
Mortgage-backed investments:
                       
     Fannie Mae
  $ 104,060     $ -     $ 104,060     $ -  
     Freddie Mac
    31,553       -       31,553       -  
     Ginnie Mae
    8,760       -       8,760       -  
Municipal bonds
    1,930       -       1,930       -  
U.S. Government agencies
    1,927       -       1,927       -  
    $ 148,230     $ -     $ 148,230     $ -  


 
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2010
 
         
Quoted Prices in
   
Significant
       
       
Active Markets
   
Other
   
Significant
 
 
Fair Value
   
for Identical
   
Observable
   
Unobservable
 
 
Measurements
   
Assets (Level 1)
   
Inputs (Level 2)
   
Inputs (Level 3)
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Available for sale investments
                       
Mortgage-backed investments:
                       
     Fannie Mae
  $ 110,144     $ -     $ 110,144     $ -  
     Freddie Mac
    41,149       -       41,149       -  
     Ginnie Mae
    9,444       -       9,444       -  
Municipal bonds
    1,922       -       1,922       -  
U.S. Government agencies
    1,944       -       1,944       -  
    $ 164,603     $ -     $ 164,603     $ -  
 
The estimated fair value of Level 2 investments is based on quoted prices for similar investments in active markets, identical or similar investments in markets that are not active and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable.
 
 
 
 

20
 
The tables below present the balances of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis.
 
 
Fair Value Measurements at March 31, 2011
 
       
Quoted Prices in
 
Significant
             
       
Active Markets
 
Other
 
Significant
       
 
Fair Value
 
for Identical
 
Observable
 
Unobservable
 
Total
 
 
Measurements
 
Assets (Level 1)
 
Inputs (Level 2)
 
Inputs (Level 3)
 
Losses
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Impaired loans including undisbursed but committed funds
                             
  of $311,000 (included in loans receivable, net) (1)
  $ 112,377     $ -     $ -     $ 112,377     $ 4,825  
OREO (2)
    31,266       -       -       31,266       628  
    $ 143,643     $ -     $ -     $ 143,643     $ 5,453  
_________________                                         
(1) The loss represents the specific reserve against loans that were considered impaired at March 31, 2011.
 
(2) The loss represents OREO market value adjustments for the quarter ended March 31, 2011.
 

 
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2010
 
       
Quoted Prices in
 
Significant
             
       
Active Markets
 
Other
 
Significant
       
 
Fair Value
 
for Identical
 
Observable
 
Unobservable
 
Total
 
 
Measurements
 
Assets (Level 1)
 
Inputs (Level 2)
 
Inputs (Level 3)
 
Losses
 
 
(In thousands)
 
Impaired loans including undisbursed but committed funds
                             
  of $1.1 million (included in loans receivable, net) (3)
  $ 116,543     $ -     $ -     $ 116,543     $ 5,842  
OREO (4)
    30,102       -       -       30,102       5,624  
    $ 146,645     $ -     $ -     $ 146,645     $ 11,466  
_________________                                         
(3) The loss represents the specific reserve against loans that were considered impaired at December 31, 2010.
                 
(4) The loss represents OREO market value adjustments for the year ended December 31, 2010.
                         
 
The fair value of impaired loans is calculated using the collateral value method or on a discounted cash flow basis. Inputs used in the collateral value method include appraised values, estimates of certain completion costs and closing and selling costs. Some of these inputs may not be observable in the marketplace.

OREO are measured at the lower of carrying amount or fair value, less costs to sell. Fair values are generally based on third party appraisals of the property, resulting in a Level 3 classification. In cases where the carrying amount exceeds the fair value, less costs to sell, an impairment loss is recognized.

 
 

21
 
 
The carrying amounts and estimated fair values of financial instruments were as follows:
 
     
March 31, 2011
   
December 31, 2010
 
     
Carrying
   
Estimated
   
Carrying
   
Estimated
 
     
Value
   
Fair Value
   
Value
   
Fair Value
 
     
(In thousands)
 
Assets:
                       
 
Cash on hand and in banks
  $ 4,869     $ 4,869     $ 7,466     $ 7,466  
 
Interest-bearing deposits
    159,126       159,126       90,961       90,961  
 
Investments available for sale
    148,230       148,230       164,603       164,603  
 
Loans receivable, net
    796,354       814,570       856,456       878,737  
 
Federal Home Loan Bank stock
    7,413       7,413       7,413       7,413  
 
Accrued interest receivable
    4,339       4,339       4,686       4,686  
                                 
Liabilities:
                               
  Deposits      225,778       225,778       231,527       231,527  
 
Certificates of deposit
    680,448       693,550       688,699       701,976  
 
Advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank
    93,066       95,590       93,066       95,972  
 
Accrued interest payable
    230       230       214       214  
 
Fair value estimates, methods, and assumptions are set forth below for our financial instruments.

·  
Financial instruments with book value equal to fair value: The fair value of financial instruments that are short-term or reprice frequently and that have little or no risk are considered to have a fair value equal to book value. These instruments include cash on hand and in banks, interest-bearing deposits, investments available for sale, Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) stock, accrued interest receivable and accrued interest payable. FHLB stock is not publicly-traded, however, it may be redeemed on a dollar-for-dollar basis, for any amount the Bank is not required to hold, subject to the FHLB’s discretion.

·  
Investments: The fair value of all investments excluding FHLB stock was based upon quoted market prices for similar investments in active markets, identical or similar investments in markets that are not active and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable.

·  
Loans receivable: For variable rate loans that reprice frequently and with no significant change in credit risk, fair values are based on carrying values. The fair value of fixed-rate loans is estimated using discounted cash flow analysis, utilizing interest rates that would be offered for loans with similar terms to borrowers of similar credit quality. As a result of current market conditions, cash flow estimates have been further discounted to include a credit factor. The fair value of nonperforming loans is estimated using the fair value of the underlying collateral.
 
·  
Liabilities: The fair value of deposits with no stated maturity, such as statement, NOW, and money market accounts, is equal to the amount payable on demand. The fair value of certificates of deposit is based on the discounted value of contractual cash flows using current interest rates for certificates of deposit with similar remaining maturities. The fair value of FHLB advances is estimated based on discounting the future cash flows using current interest rates for debt with similar remaining maturities.
 
·  
Off balance sheet commitments: No fair value adjustment is necessary for commitments made to extend credit, which represents commitments for loan originations or for outstanding commitments to purchase loans. These commitments are at variable rates, are for loans with terms of less than one year and have interest rates which approximate prevailing market rates, or are set at the time of loan closing.
 
 
 
 

22
 
Fair value estimates are based on existing balance sheet financial instruments without attempting to estimate the value of anticipated future business. The fair value has not been estimated for assets and liabilities that are not considered financial instruments.

Note 9 – Federal Home Loan Bank stock

At March 31, 2011, we held $7.4 million in shares of FHLB stock. FHLB stock is carried at par and does not have a readily determinable fair value. Ownership of FHLB stock is restricted to the FHLB and member institutions, and can only be purchased and redeemed at par. As a result of ongoing turmoil in the capital and mortgage markets, the FHLB of Seattle has a risk-based capital deficiency largely as a result of write-downs on its private label mortgage-backed securities portfolio.

Management evaluates FHLB stock for impairment. The determination of whether this investment is impaired is based on our assessment of the ultimate recoverability of cost rather than by recognizing temporary declines in value. The determination of whether a decline affects the ultimate recoverability of cost is influenced by criteria such as: (1) the significance of any decline in net assets of the FHLB as compared to the capital stock amount for the FHLB and the length of time this situation has persisted; (2) commitments by the FHLB to make payments required by law or regulation and the level of such payments in relation to the operating performance of the FHLB; (3) the impact of legislative and regulatory changes on institutions and, accordingly, the customer base of the FHLB; and (4) the liquidity position of the FHLB.

On October 25, 2010, the FHLB agreed to the stipulation and issuance of a Consent Order by its primary regulator the Federal Housing Finance Agency (“FHFA”). The Consent Order sets forth requirements for capital management, asset composition, and other operational and risk management improvements. Additionally, the FHFA and the FHLB have agreed to a Stabilization Period that ends upon the filing of the FHLB’s June 30, 2011 financial statement. During this period, the FHLB’s classification as undercapitalized will remain in place. Subsequently, the FHLB may begin repurchasing member stock at par and paying dividends, upon achieving and maintaining financial thresholds established by the FHFA as part of the agency’s supervisory process, subject to FHFA’s approval.

Under FHFA regulations, a Federal Home Loan Bank that fails to meet any regulatory capital requirement may not declare a dividend or redeem or repurchase capital stock in excess of what is required for members’ current loans. As such, the FHLB of Seattle will not be able to redeem, repurchase or declare dividends on stock outstanding while the risk-based capital deficiency exists. This is not expected to have a material effect on our financial position, liquidity or results of operations. We have determined there is no OTTI on the FHLB stock investment as of March 31, 2011.

Note 10 - Stock-Based Compensation

In June 2008, our shareholders approved the First Financial Northwest, Inc. 2008 Equity Incentive Plan (“Plan”). The Plan provides for the grant of stock options, awards of restricted stock and stock appreciation rights.
 
Total compensation expense for the Plan was $473,000 and $497,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, and the related income tax benefit was $166,000 and $174,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Stock Options

The Plan authorized the grant of stock options amounting to 2,285,280 shares to our directors, advisory directors, officers and employees. Option awards are granted with an exercise price equal to the market price of our common stock at the date of grant. These option awards have a vesting period of five years, with 20% vesting on the anniversary date of each grant date and a contractual life of ten years. Any unexercised stock options will expire ten years after the grant date or sooner in the event of the award recipient’s death, disability or termination of service with the Company or the Bank. We have a policy of issuing 
 
 
 
 

23
 
 
new shares from authorized but unissued common stock upon the exercise of stock options. At March 31, 2011, remaining options for 911,756 shares of common stock were available for grant under the Plan.

The fair value of each option award is estimated on the date of grant using a Black-Scholes model that uses the following assumptions. The dividend yield is based on the current quarterly dividend in effect at the time of the grant. Historical employment data is used to estimate the forfeiture rate. In previous periods, we elected to use a weighted-average of our peers’ historical stock price information in conjunction with our own stock price history due to the limited amount of history available regarding our stock price. Now that sufficient historical stock price information is available regarding our stock we will utilize the historical volatility of our stock price over a specified period of time for the expected volatility assumption. We base the risk-free interest rate on the U.S. Treasury Constant Maturity Indices in effect on the date of the grant. We elected to use the “Share-Based Payments” method permitted by the SEC to calculate the expected term. This method uses the vesting term of an option along with the contractual term, setting the expected life at a midpoint in between. There were no options granted during the first quarter ended March 31, 2011.
 
A summary of our stock option plan awards for the three months ended March 31, 2011, is as follows:

             
Weighted-Average
   
Aggregate
   
Weighted-Average
         
Weighted-Average
 
Remaining Contractual
   
Intrinsic
   
Grant Date
   
Shares
   
Exercise Price
 
Term in Years
   
Value
   
Fair Value
   
(Dollars in thousands, except share data)
Outstanding at January 1, 2011
         1,383,524
 
$
    9.52
 
             7.60
   
                -
 
 $
                        1.91
 
Granted
                       -
   
       -
 
                -
   
                -
   
                           -
 
Exercised
                       -
   
       -
 
                -
   
                -
   
                           -
 
Forfeited or expired
            (10,000)
   
    9.78
 
                -
   
                -
   
                           -
Outstanding at March 31, 2011
         1,373,524
 
$
    9.52
 
             7.35
 
 $
                83
 
 $
                        1.92
                           
Expected to vest assuming a 3% forfeiture
                       
 
rate over the vesting term
            818,782
 
$
    9.39
 
             7.39
 
 $
                80
   
                           -
                           
Exercisable at March 31, 2011
            529,410
 
$
    9.73
 
             7.28
 
 $
                -
   
                           -
                           
 
As of March 31, 2011, there was $1.2 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options granted under the Plan. The cost is expected to be recognized over the remaining weighted-average vesting period of 2.4 years.
 
Restricted Stock Awards

The Plan authorized the grant of restricted stock awards amounting to 914,112 shares to our directors, advisory directors, officers and employees. Compensation expense is recognized over the vesting period of the awards based on the fair value of the stock at the date of grant. The restricted stock awards’ fair value is equal to the value on the date of grant. Shares awarded as restricted stock vest ratably over a five-year period beginning at the grant date with 20% vesting on the anniversary date of each grant date. At March 31, 2011, remaining restricted awards for 167,078 shares were available to be issued. Shares that have been repurchased totaled 449,740 and are held in trust until they are issued in connection with the agreement.

 
 

24
 

A summary of changes in nonvested restricted stock awards for the three months ended March 31, 2011 follows: 

         
Weighted-Average
 
         
Grant-Date
 
Non-vested Shares
 
Shares
   
Fair Value Per Share
 
       
Nonvested at January 1, 2011
    456,140     $ 9.75  
Granted
    -       -  
Vested
    (6,400 )     8.35  
Forfeited
    -       -  
Nonvested at March 31, 2011
    449,740     $ 9.77  
                 
Expected to vest assuming a 3% forfeiture
               
rate over the vesting term
    436,246          
 
As of March 31, 2011, there was $3.5 million of total unrecognized compensation costs related to nonvested shares granted as restricted stock awards. The cost is expected to be recognized over the remaining weighted-average vesting period of 2.6 years. The total fair value of shares that vested during both of the quarters ended March 31, 2011 and 2010 was $53,000.

Note 11 – Federal Taxes on Income

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax basis. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. These calculations are based on many complex factors including estimates of the timing of reversals of temporary differences, the interpretation of federal income tax laws and a determination of the differences between the tax and the financial reporting basis of assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ significantly from the estimates and interpretations used in determining the current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities.

Our primary deferred tax assets relate to our allowance for loan losses, our contribution to the First Financial Northwest Foundation and an impairment charge relating to a past investment in the AMF Ultra Short Mortgage Fund.

Under GAAP, a valuation allowance is required to be recognized if it is “more likely than not” that a portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.  Our policy is to evaluate our deferred tax assets on a quarterly basis and record a valuation allowance for our deferred tax asset if we do not have sufficient positive evidence indicating that it is more likely than not that some or all of the deferred tax asset will be realized.  At March 31, 2011, we considered positive and negative evidence, which includes cumulative losses in the most recent three year period and uncertainty regarding short-term future earnings.  We further considered that GAAP places heavy emphasis on prior earnings in determining the realizable deferred tax asset.  After reviewing and weighing these various factors, in 2010 we recorded a valuation allowance for the balance of the deferred tax asset in excess of the tax carryback refund potential, resulting in no deferred tax asset at March 31, 2011.

 
 

25
 



Note 12 – Earnings/(Loss) Per Share

The following table presents a reconciliation of the components used to compute basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share.
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
 
2011
 
2010
 
 
(Dollars in thousands, except share data)
 
Net income (loss)
  $ 1,434     $ (17,752 )
Weighted-average common shares outstanding
    17,488,842       17,383,841  
Basic earnings (loss) per share
  $ 0.08     $ (1.02 )
Diluted earnings (loss) per share
  $ 0.08     $ (1.02 )
 
For the three months ended March 31, 2011, 50,000 stock options were included in calculating the dilutive earnings per share. For the same period in 2010, no stock options were included in the diluted loss per share calculation because they were antidilutive.

Note 13 – Segment Information

Our activities are considered to be a single industry segment for financial reporting purposes. We are engaged in the business of attracting deposits from the general public and originating loans for our portfolio in our primary market area. Substantially all income is derived from a diverse base of commercial and residential real estate loans, consumer lending activities and investments.


Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Forward-looking statements:

Certain matters discussed in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements relate to our financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance or business. Forward-looking statements are not statements of historical fact, are based on certain assumptions and are generally identified by use of the words “believe,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “forecasts,” “intends,” “plans,” “targets,” “potentially,” “probably,” “projects,” “outlook” or similar expressions or future or conditional verbs such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “would,” and “could.” Forward-looking statements include statements with respect to our beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, expectations, assumptions and statements about, among other things, expectations of the business environment in which we operate, projections of future performance or financial items, perceived opportunities in the market, potential future credit experience, and statements regarding our mission and vision. The forward-looking statements are based upon current management expectations and may, therefore, involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results, performance, or achievements may differ materially from those suggested, expressed, or implied by forward-looking statements as a result of a wide variety or range of factors including, but not limited to: the credit risks of lending activities, including changes in the level and trend of loan delinquencies and write-offs, and deterioration in the housing and commercial real estate markets, which may lead to increased losses and nonperforming assets in our loan portfolio, and may result in our allowance for loan losses not being adequate to cover actual losses, and require us to materially increase our reserves; changes in general economic conditions, either nationally or in our market areas; changes in the levels of general interest rates, and the relative differences between short and long term interest rates, deposit interest rates, our net interest margin and funding sources; fluctuations in the demand for loans, the number of unsold homes and other properties and fluctuations in real estate values in our market areas; results of examinations of us by the OTS and our bank subsidiary by the FDIC, the DFI or other regulatory authorities, including the possibility that any such regulatory authority may initiate additional enforcement actions against the Company or the Bank to take additional corrective action and
 
 
 
 

26
 
 
refrain from unsafe and unsound practices which also may require us, among other things, to increase our reserve for loan losses, write-down assets, change our regulatory capital position or affect our ability to borrow funds or maintain or increase deposits, which could adversely affect our liquidity and earnings; our compliance with regulatory enforcement actions; including the requirements and restrictions that have been imposed upon the Company under the memoranda of understanding with the OTS and the consent order the Bank entered into with the FDIC and the DFI and the possibility that the Company and the Bank will be unable to fully comply with these enforcement actions which could result in the imposition of additional requirements or restrictions; our ability to pay dividends on our common stock; our ability to attract and retain deposits; further increases in premiums for deposit insurance; our ability to control operating costs and expenses; the use of estimates in determining the fair values of certain of our assets, which estimates may prove to be incorrect and result in significant declines in valuation; difficulties in reducing risk associated with the loans on our balance sheet; staffing fluctuations in response to product demand or the implementation of corporate strategies that affect our work force and potential associated charges; computer systems on which we depend could fail or experience a security breach; our ability to retain key members of our senior management team; costs and effects of litigation, including settlements and judgments; our ability to implement our branch expansion strategy; our ability to successfully integrate any assets, liabilities, customers, systems, and management personnel we have acquired or may in the future acquire into our operations and our ability to realize related revenue synergies and cost savings within expected time frames and any goodwill charges related thereto; our ability to manage loan delinquency rates; increased competitive pressures among financial services companies; changes in consumer spending, borrowing and savings habits; legislative or regulatory changes that adversely affect our business including changes in regulatory policies and principles, including the interpretation of regulatory capital or other rules; the impact of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and the implementing regulations; the availability of resources to address changes in laws, rules, or regulations or to respond to regulatory actions; adverse changes in the securities markets; inability of key third-party providers to perform their obligations to us; changes in accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by the financial institution regulatory agencies or the Financial Accounting Standards Board, including additional guidance and interpretation on accounting issues and details of the implementation of new accounting methods; the economic impact of war or any terrorist activities; other economic, competitive, governmental, regulatory, and technological factors affecting our operations; pricing, products and services; and other risks detailed in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010. Any of the forward-looking statements that we make in this Form 10-Q and in the other public reports and statements we make may turn out to be wrong because of the inaccurate assumptions we might make, because of the factors illustrated above or because of other factors that we cannot foresee. Because of these and other uncertainties, our actual future results may be materially different from those expressed in any forward-looking statements made by or on our behalf. Therefore, these factors should be considered in evaluating the forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. We undertake no responsibility to update or revise any forward-looking statements.

Regulatory Items

The Bank entered into a Stipulation to the Issuance of a Consent Order (“Order”) with the FDIC and the DFI, which became effective on September 24, 2010. Under the terms of the Order, the Bank cannot declare dividends or repurchase stock without the prior written approval of the FDIC. Other material provisions of the Order require the Bank to:

·  
Maintain and preserve qualified management;
·  
Increase the Board of Directors’ participation in the Bank’s affairs;
·  
Obtain an independent study of management and the personnel structure of the Bank;
·  
Maintain specified capital levels;
·  
Eliminate loans classified as “Loss” at its regulatory examination and reduce the loans classified as “Doubtful” and “Substandard” as a percent of capital;
·  
Revise its policy with respect to the allowance for loan losses;
·  
Not extend additional credit to borrowers whose loan had been classified as “Loss” and is uncollected;
·  
Revise its lending and collection policies and practices;
 
 
 
 

27
 
 
·  
Develop a plan to reduce the amount of commercial real estate loans;
·  
Enhance its written funds management and liquidity policy;
·  
Develop a three-year strategic plan;
·  
Not solicit brokered deposits and comply with certain deposit rate restrictions;
·  
Eliminate and correct all violations of laws; and
·  
Prepare and submit progress reports to the FDIC and DFI.

The Bank has implemented a comprehensive plan to achieve full compliance with the Order. The Order contains target dates to achieve the items listed above including that the Bank’s Tier 1 capital ratio and total risk-based capital ratio be at least 10% and 12%, respectively within 30 days of the date of the Order. At March 31, 2011, the Bank’s Tier 1 capital ratio was 12.13% and the total risk-based capital ratio was 21.30%, which exceeded the Order requirements. The Order also requires assets classified as substandard as a percentage of Tier 1 capital plus the allowance for loan and lease losses (“ALLL”), at the time of the most recent examination, be below 65% by March 2011. The Bank has met this requirement and continues to reduce these adversely classified assets. The Order also requires that the Bank develop a written plan to systematically reduce the amount of loans to borrowers in the commercial real estate loan category. At March 31, 2010, the Bank’s commercial real estate loans represented 334% of its risk-based capital and its construction/land development loans equaled 115% of risk-based capital.  As of March 31, 2011, the Bank’s concentration in commercial real estate loans has been reduced to 265% of its risk-based capital and its construction/land development loan portfolio has been reduced to 51% of risk-based capital. In addition, on April 14, 2010, in connection with a prior examination by the OTS, the members of the Board of Directors of First Financial Northwest entered into an informal supervisory agreement (a memorandum of understanding, or “MOU”). Under the terms of the MOU, First Financial Northwest agreed, among other things, to provide notice to and obtain written non-objection from the OTS prior to (a) declaring a dividend or redeeming any capital stock; and (b) incurring, issuing, renewing or repurchasing any new debt. In addition, both the Company and the Bank must obtain prior regulatory approval before adding any new director or senior executive officer or changing the responsibilities of any current senior executive officer or pay pursuant to or by entering into certain severance and other forms of compensation agreements.

A copy of the Order is attached to the Form 8-K that we filed with the SEC on September 27, 2010. The Order will remain in effect until modified or terminated by the FDIC and the DFI.

Overview

First Savings Bank is a community-based savings bank primarily serving King and, to a lesser extent, Pierce, Snohomish and Kitsap counties, Washington through our full-service banking office located in Renton, Washington. First Savings Bank’s business consists of attracting deposits from the public and utilizing these funds to originate one-to-four family, multifamily, commercial real estate, business, consumer and to a lesser extent construction/land development loans.

Our primary source of revenue is net interest income. Net interest income is the difference between interest income, which is the income that we earn on our loans and investments, and interest expense, which is the interest that we pay on our deposits and borrowings. Changes in levels of interest rates affect our net interest income.

An offset to net interest income is the provision for loan losses which represents the quarterly charge to operations which is required to adequately provide for probable losses inherent in our loan portfolio.

Noninterest expense consists primarily of salaries and employee benefits, occupancy and equipment, data processing, marketing, postage and supplies, professional services, expenses associated with OREO and deposit insurance premiums. Salaries and employee benefits consist primarily of the salaries and wages paid to our employees, payroll taxes, expenses for retirement benefits, the equity incentive plan and other employee benefits. Occupancy and equipment expenses consist primarily of real estate taxes, depreciation charges, maintenance and costs of utilities. OREO expenses consist of valuation allowances related to real estate that we own as well as maintenance costs, taxes and insurance and gains/losses resulting from the sale of these properties.

Net income for the first quarter ended March 31, 2011, was $1.4 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, as compared to a net loss of $17.8 million or $1.02 per diluted share for the quarter ended March 31, 2010. The change in operating results in the first quarter of 2011 as compared to the first quarter of 2010 was primarily the result of an $11.8 million decrease in the provision for loan losses to $1.2 million, a decrease of $2.3 million in
 
 
 
 

28
 
 
noninterest expense primarily due to the decrease in OREO market value adjustments and related expenses of $2.6 million and a $4.0 million decrease in federal income tax expense.  The decrease in the provision for federal income taxes was the result of the valuation allowance related to our deferred tax assets recorded in March 2010. There was no valuation allowance recorded in the first quarter of 2011.

During the three months ended March 31, 2011, our total loan portfolio decreased $68.0 million, or 7.6% from December 31, 2010, due to a $13.4 million, or 23.7% decrease in construction/land development loans. Our one-to-four family residential loans decreased $22.8 million, or 5.7%, multifamily loans decreased $15.7 million, or 10.9% and commercial real estate loans decreased $14.2 million, or 5.2%.

The five largest borrowing relationships, as of March 31, 2011, in descending order were:

   
Aggregate Amount
 
Number
of
Borrower (1)
 
of Loans at March 31, 2011 (2)
 
Loans
         
Real estate builder
 $
              27.4 million (3)
 
117
Real estate builder
 
              27.0 million
 
104
Real estate builder
 
              22.1 million (4)
 
107
Real estate investor
 
              17.9 million
 
3
Real estate investor
 
              17.0 million
 
41
Total
 $
            111.4 million
 
372
 
_________________ 
(1)   The composition of borrowers represented in the table may change from one period to the next.
(2)   Net of undisbursed funds.
(3)   Of this amount, $26.0 million are considered impaired loans of which $13.4 million are performing
 and $12.6 million are nonperforming.
(4)   Of this amount, $21.2 million are considered impaired loans of which $13.1 million are performing
and $8.1 million are nonperforming.
 
The following table details the breakdown of the types of loans to our top five largest borrowing relationships at March 31, 2011:

 
One-to-Four Family
                     
 
Residential
 
Multifamily
 
Commercial
 
Construction/
 
Aggregate Balance
Borrower
(Rental Properties)
 
(Rental Properties)
 
(Rental Properties)
 
Land Development (1)
 
of Loans (1)
                                       
Real estate builder (2)
$
      16.3
 million
 
$
          -
   
$
        0.2
 million
 
$
      10.9
 million
 
$
      27.4
 million
Real estate builder
 
      17.3
 million
   
          -
     
        0.1
 million
   
        9.6
 million
   
      27.0
 million
Real estate builder (3)
 
      18.8
 million
   
          -
     
        1.1
 million
   
        2.2
 million
   
      22.1
 million
Real estate investor
 
          -
     
          -
     
      17.9
 million
   
          -
     
      17.9
 million
Real estate investor
 
      11.0
 million
   
        5.1
 million
   
        0.9
 million
   
          -
     
      17.0
 million
Total
$
      63.4
 million
 
$
        5.1
 million
 
$
      20.2
 million
 
$
      22.7
 million
 
$
     111.4
 million
_______________
(1)   Net of undisbursed funds.
(2)  Of the $26.0 million loans considered impaired, $14.9 million are one-to-four family residential loans, $10.9 million are
        construction/land development loans and $256,000 are commercial loans.
(3)  Of the $21.2 million loans considered impaired, $17.9 million are one-to-four family residential loans, $2.2 million are
        construction/land development loans and $1.1 million are commercial loans.
 
Some of the builders listed in the above tables, as part of their previous business strategy, retained a certain percentage of their finished homes in their own inventory of permanent investment properties (i.e. one-to-four family rental properties). In the past, these properties were used to enhance the builders’ liquidity through rental income and improve their long-term equity position through the appreciation in market value of the properties. Due to the continued, prolonged depressed housing market and the challenging local economy, this business strategy was not sustainable for these builders. As a result, we have incurred losses related to these builders and have significantly reduced our exposure to these builders over the past year by $38.4 million as compared to March 31,
 
 
 
 

29
 
 
2010. We are continuing to work with these builders to further reduce our exposure through a workout plan established in 2010. For the three builders included in the previous table, the total one-to-four family rental properties decreased $2.3 million, or 4.2% to $52.4 million at March 31, 2011 from $54.7 million at December 31, 2010, principally as a result of payoffs during the three months ended March 31, 2011.

The following table includes construction/land development loans, net of undisbursed funds, by the five counties that contain our largest loan concentrations at March 31, 2011.

County
 
Loan
Balance (1)
   
Percent of
Loan Balance (1)
   
Nonperforming
Loans
   
Nonperforming
Loans as a
Percent of Loan Balance (2)
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
King
  $ 12,760       31.2 %   $ 4,958       38.9 %
Pierce
    10,574       25.8       7,026       66.4  
Thurston
    5,577       13.6       2,071       37.1  
Whatcom
    4,381       10.7       4,381       100.0  
Kitsap
    3,831       9.4       3,420       89.3  
All other counties
    3,815       9.3       1,630       42.7  
     Total
  $ 40,938       100.0 %   $ 23,486       57.4 %
_____________                                 
(1) Net of undisbursed funds.
                               
(2) Represents the percent of the loan balance by county that is nonperforming.
                 

Critical Accounting Policies

Critical accounting policies are those that involve significant judgments and assumptions by management and that have, or could have, a material impact on our income or the carrying value of our assets. The following are our critical accounting policies.
 
Allowance for Loan Losses (“ALLL”). Management recognizes that loan losses may occur over the life of a loan and that the ALLL must be maintained at a level necessary to absorb specific losses on impaired loans and probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio. Our methodology for analyzing the ALLL consists of two components: general and specific allowances. The general allowance is determined by applying factors to our various groups of loans. Management considers factors such as charge-off history, the prevailing economy, borrower’s ability to repay, the regulatory environment, competition, geographic and loan type concentrations, policy and underwriting standards, nature and volume of the loan portfolio, management’s experience level, our loan review and grading systems, the value of underlying collateral and the level of problem loans in assessing the ALLL. The specific allowance component is created when management believes that the collectability of a specific loan has been impaired and a loss is probable. The specific reserves are computed using current appraisals, listed sales prices and other available information less costs to complete (if any) and costs to sell the property. This evaluation is inherently subjective as it requires estimates that are susceptible to significant revision as more information becomes available or as future events differ from predictions.

Our Board of Directors approves the provision for loan losses on a quarterly basis. The allowance is increased by the provision for loan losses, which is charged against current period earnings and decreased by the amount of actual loan charge-offs, net of recoveries.

We believe that the accounting estimate related to the ALLL is a critical accounting estimate because it is highly susceptible to change from period-to-period requiring management to make assumptions about probable losses inherent in the loan portfolio. The impact of a sudden large loss could deplete the allowance and potentially require increased provisions to replenish the allowance, which would negatively affect earnings. In addition, various regulatory agencies, as an integral part of their examination process, periodically review a financial institution’s ALLL and carrying amounts of OREO. Such agencies may require the financial institution to
 
 
 
 

30
 
 
recognize additions to the allowance based on their judgment and information available to them at the time of their examination. For additional information see  Item 1A-Risk Factors: “Our provision for loan losses has increased substantially and we may be required to make further increases in our provision for loan losses and to charge-off additional loans in the future, which could adversely affect our results of operations,” in our 2010 Form 10-K.

Valuation of OREO and Foreclosed Assets. Real estate properties acquired through foreclosure or by deed-in-lieu of foreclosure are recorded at the lower of cost or fair value less estimated costs to sell. Fair value is generally determined by management based on a number of factors, including third-party appraisals of fair value in an orderly sale. Accordingly the valuation of OREO is subject to significant external and internal judgment. Any differences between management’s assessment of fair value, less estimated costs to sell, and the carrying value of the loan at the date a particular property is transferred into OREO are charged to the allowance for loan losses. Management periodically reviews OREO values to determine whether the property continues to be carried at the lower of its recorded book value or fair value, net of estimated costs to sell. Any further decreases in the value of OREO are considered valuation adjustments and trigger a corresponding charge to noninterest expense in the Consolidated Income Statement. Expenses from the maintenance and operations and any gains or losses from the sales of OREO are included in noninterest expense.

Deferred Taxes. Deferred taxes arise from a variety of sources, the most significant being: a) expenses, such as our charitable contribution to the First Financial Northwest Foundation, that can be carried forward to be utilized against profits in future years; b) expenses recognized in our financial statements but disallowed in our tax return until the associated cash flow occurs; and c) write-downs in the value of assets for financial statement purposes that are not deductible for tax purposes until the asset is sold or deemed worthless.

We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets to the amount which can be recognized in line with the relevant accounting standards. The level of deferred tax asset recognition is influenced by management’s assessment of our historic and future profitability profile. At each balance sheet date, existing assessments are reviewed and, if necessary, revised to reflect changed circumstances. In a situation where income is less than projected or recent losses have been incurred, the relevant accounting standards require convincing evidence that there will be sufficient future tax capacity.

Other-Than-Temporary Impairments In the Market Value of Investments. Declines in the fair value of any available for sale or held to maturity investment below their cost that is deemed to be other-than-temporary results in a reduction in the carrying amount of the investment to that of fair value. A charge to earnings and an establishment of a new cost basis for the investment is made. Unrealized investment losses are evaluated at least quarterly to determine whether such declines should be considered other-than-temporary and therefore be subject to immediate loss recognition. Although these evaluations involve significant judgment, an unrealized loss in the fair value of a debt security is generally deemed to be temporary when the fair value of the investment security is below the carrying value primarily due to changes in interest rates and there has not been significant deterioration in the financial condition of the issuer. An unrealized loss in the value of an equity security is generally considered temporary when the fair value of the security is below the carrying value primarily due to current market conditions and not deterioration in the financial condition of the issuer. Other factors that may be considered in determining whether a decline in the value of either a debt or an equity security is other-than-temporary include ratings by recognized rating agencies; the extent and duration of an unrealized loss position; actions of commercial banks or other lenders relative to the continued extension of credit facilities to the issuer of the security; the financial condition, capital strength and near-term prospects of the issuer and recommendations of investment advisors or market analysts. Therefore continued deterioration of market conditions could result in additional impairment losses recognized within the investment portfolio.

 
 

31
 

Comparison of Financial Condition at March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010

General. Total assets were $1.2 billion at both March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010. Increases in interest-bearing deposits of $68.2 million and $1.2 million in OREO were offset by decreases in net loans receivable of $60.1 million and investment securities of $16.4 million. Total liabilities were $1.0 billion at March 31, 2011, a decrease of $12.0 million or 1.2% from December 31, 2010. The decrease in total liabilities was the result of a $10.1 million decrease in interest-bearing deposits. Stockholders’ equity increased $2.0 million, primarily due to the first quarter net income of $1.4 million.

Assets. Total assets remained relatively unchanged at $1.2 billion at March 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010. The following table details the changes in the composition of our assets.
 
         
Increase/(Decrease)
       
   
Balance at
   
from
   
Percentage
 
   
March 31, 2011
   
December 31, 2010
   
Increase/(Decrease)
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
                   
Cash on hand and in banks
  $ 4,869     $ (2,597 )     (34.8 ) %
Interest-bearing deposits
    159,126       68,165       74.9  
Investments available for sale, at fair value
    148,230       (16,373 )     (9.9 )
Loans receivable, net
    796,354       (60,102 )     (7.0 )
Premises and equipment, net
    19,585       (244 )     (1.2 )
FHLB stock, at cost
    7,413       -       -  
Accrued interest receivable
    4,339       (347 )     (7.4 )
Federal income tax receivable
    6,346       430       7.3  
OREO
    31,266       1,164       3.9  
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    6,210       (16 )     (0.3 )
    Total assets
  $ 1,183,738     $ (9,920 )     (0.8 ) %

      Interest-bearing deposits increased $68.2 million to $159.1 million at March 31, 2011 from $91.0 million at December 31, 2010, as a result of $8.6 million in OREO dispositions and $59.8 million in loan repayments. Investments available for sale decreased $16.4 million, or 10.0% to $148.2 million at March 31, 2011 from $164.6 million at December 31, 2010. During the three months ended March 31, 2011, we sold $9.7 million of investments primarily in mortgage-backed securities issued by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae to recognize the gains on these securities to support the Bank’s profitability in this low rate environment. Net loans receivable decreased $60.1 million or 7.0% to $796.4 million at March 31, 2011 from $856.5 million at December 31, 2010. This decrease in net loans was primarily the result of a $22.8 million decrease in one-to-four family residential loans, a $15.7 million decrease in multifamily loans, a $14.2 million decrease in commercial real estate loans and a $13.4 million decrease in construction/land development loans. These decreases resulted from loan repayments, our efforts to reduce nonperforming loans and charge-offs of $3.7 million during the three months ended March 31, 2011.  OREO increased $1.2 million, or 3.9% to $31.3 million at March 31, 2011 from $30.1 million at December 31, 2010.

Loan originations for the three months ended March 31, 2011, totaled $5.8 million and included: $1.2 million in one-to-four family residential loans; $1.3 million in multifamily, $1.5 million in consumer, $955,000 in business and $895,000 in construction/land development loans. During the first quarter of 2011 there were no one-to-four family residential loan originations for permanent loans where the builders have financed homes that are being rented by third parties. Origination activity for the first three months of 2011 was offset by repayments during the same period of $59.8 million, transfers to OREO of $10.3 million and charge-offs of $3.7 million.

Deposits. During the first three months of 2011, deposits decreased $14.0 million to $906.2 million at March 31, 2011. All of our deposit categories decreased except for statement savings as compared to December 31,
 
 
 
 

32
 
 
2010. The decreases in certificates of deposit of $8.3 million and noninterest-bearing deposit accounts of $3.9 million comprised the majority of the decrease. The decrease in certificates of deposit was primarily the result of our strategic plan to reduce our higher cost public funds. We did not have any brokered deposits at March 31, 2011 or December 31, 2010. A breakdown of our deposits by type is as follows:

 
 
March 31,
 
December 31,
   
Three Month
   
Percent Change
 
2011
 
2010
   
Increase (Decrease)
   
 
(In thousands)
Noninterest bearing
$
4,818  
 
$
8,700  
 
$
(3,882)
   
(44.6)
%
NOW
 
13,264  
   
13,458  
   
(194)
   
(1.4)
 
Statement savings
 
16,658  
   
15,387  
   
1,271
   
8.3
 
Money market
 
191,038  
   
193,982  
   
(2,944)
   
(1.5)
 
Certificates of deposit
 
680,448  
   
688,699  
   
(8,251)
   
(1.2)
 
 
$
          906,226  
 
$
920,226  
 
$
(14,000)
   
(1.5)
%
 
Advances. Total FHLB advances were $93.1 million at March 31, 2011, unchanged from December 31, 2010.

Stockholders’ Equity. Total stockholders’ equity increased $2.0 million, or 1.2%, to $176.5 million at March 31, 2011 from $174.5 million at December 31, 2010. The increase was primarily the result of our net income for the three months ended March 31, 2011 of $1.4 million.

Comparison of Operating Results for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2011 and 2010.

General. Net income was $1.4 million for the first quarter of 2011, an increase of $19.2 million from the $17.8 million loss in the comparable quarter in the prior year. Net interest income was $8.6 million and noninterest income was $596,000 for the first quarter of 2011, offset by the provision for loan losses of $1.2 million and noninterest expense of $6.6  million.

Net Interest Income. Our net interest income for the quarter ended March 31, 2011, increased $552,000 to $8.6 million, as compared to $8.1 million for the same quarter in the prior year. The reason for this increase was a decrease of $2.5 million in interest expense partially offset by a decrease of $2.0 million in interest income. Average interest-earning assets decreased $127.9 million to $1.1 billion for the three months ended March 31, 2011, compared to the same quarter in 2010. Average total interest-bearing liabilities decreased $80.4 million to $1.0 billion for the first quarter of 2011 compared to the first quarter of 2010. During the same period our yield on interest-earning assets decreased 13 basis points while our cost of funds decreased 78 basis points. Our interest rate spread for the quarter ended March 31, 2011, increased 65 basis points to 2.88% from 2.23% during the same quarter in 2010. Our net interest margin for the first quarter of 2011 increased 50 basis points to 3.09% from 2.59% for the same quarter last year.



 
 

33
 
 
The following table sets forth the effects of changes in rates and volumes on our net interest income.

   
Three Months Ended March 31, 2011
 
   
Compared to March 31, 2010 Increase (Decrease)
 
   
Rate
   
Volume
   
Total
 
   
(In thousands)
 
Interest-earning assets:
                 
   Loans receivable, net
  $ 788     $ (2,954 )   $ (2,166 )
   Investments available for sale
    (370 )     568       198  
   Interest-bearing deposits
                       
     with banks
    -       15       15  
                         
Total net change in income on
                       
   interest-earning assets
    418       (2,371 )     (1,953 )
                         
Interest-bearing liabilities:
                       
   NOW accounts
    (8 )     -       (8 )
   Statement savings accounts
    (26 )     2       (24 )
   Money market accounts
    (367 )     (8 )     (375 )
   Certificates of deposit
    (1,390 )     (261 )     (1,651 )
   Advances from the FHLB
    (103 )     (344 )     (447 )
                         
Total net change in expense on
                       
   interest-bearing liabilities
    (1,894 )     (611 )     (2,505 )
                         
Net change in net interest income
  $ 2,312     $ (1,760 )   $ 552  
 
Interest Income. Total interest income for the first quarter of 2011 decreased $2.0 million, or 12.5%, to $13.7 million from $15.7 million as compared to the first quarter of 2010.

The following table compares detailed average interest-earning asset balances, associated yields and resulting changes in interest income for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010:

                             
Increase/
 
 
Three Months Ended March 31,
 
(Decrease) in
 
  2011   2010    Interest and  
 
Average
         
Average
         
Dividend
 
 
Balance
   
Yield
 
Balance
   
Yield
 
Income
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
                                   
Loans receivable, net
  $ 826,918       6.01 %     $ 1,036,148       5.63 %     $ (2,166 )
Investments available for sale
    158,367       3.04         101,414       3.97         198  
Interest-bearing deposits with banks
    123,164       0.25         98,795       0.25         15  
FHLB stock
    7,413       -         7,413       -         -  
Total interest-earning assets
  $ 1,115,862       4.91 %     $ 1,243,770       5.04 %     $ (1,953 )
 
Interest income from loans decreased $2.2 million during the first quarter of 2011 as compared to the same quarter in 2010. The decrease in loan interest income was primarily the result of a decrease in the average loan balance of $209.2 million resulting in a $3.0 million decrease in interest income for the quarter as compared to the first quarter of 2010. This decrease was partially offset by an increase in the average yield of the loan portfolio of 38 basis points, resulting in an increase of $788,000 in interest income. The decrease in the average loan portfolio was due to charge-offs recorded in the first quarter of 2011, loan repayments, short sales and transfers to OREO. Interest income on investments available for sale increased $198,000 to $1.2 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2011, compared to $1.0 million for the comparable quarter in 2010. The primary reason for the increase in interest income from investments available for sale was due to the increase in the average balance of investments available for sale of $57.0 million, resulting in an increase of $568,000 in interest income. In addition, the yield
 
 
 
 

34
 
 
earned declined to 3.04% during the first quarter of 2011 from 3.97% for the same quarter in 2010, resulting in a $370,000 decrease in interest income.

Interest Expense. Total interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2011 was $5.1 million, a decrease of $2.5 million compared to $7.6 million for the first quarter of 2010.

The following table details average balances, cost of funds and the resulting decrease in interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2011 and 2010:

 
Three Months Ended March 31,
       
 
2011
 
2010
 
Increase/
 
                             
(Decrease) in
 
 
Average
         
Average
         
Interest
 
 
Balance
   
Cost
 
Balance
   
Cost
 
Expense
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
                                   
NOW accounts
  $ 13,080       0.21 %     $ 12,895       0.47 %     $ (8 )
Statement savings accounts
    15,872       0.55         15,120       1.22         (24 )
Money market accounts
    191,839       0.76         193,823       1.52         (375 )
Certificates of deposit
    686,485       2.40         718,999       3.21         (1,651 )
Advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank
    93,066       2.48         139,900       2.92         (447 )
Total interest-bearing liabilities
  $ 1,000,342       2.03 %     $ 1,080,737       2.81 %     $ (2,505 )
 
Interest expense on our money market accounts decreased $375,000, primarily as a result of a decrease in the average cost of these funds of 76 basis points or $367,000 to 0.76% from 1.52% for the first quarter of 2011 compared to the same quarter in 2010. The average cost of our certificates of deposit decreased 81 basis points as compared to the first quarter of 2010 primarily due to maturing certificates repricing to lower rates which equates to a decline in interest expense of $1.4 million. The decline in interest expense was also the result of a decrease in the average balance of certificates of deposit of $32.5 million, which resulted in a $261,000 reduction of interest expense. Interest expense related to our average FHLB advances decreased $447,000 primarily as a result of the decrease in the cost of funds of 44 basis points to 2.48% from 2.92% for the first quarter of 2011 compared to the same quarter in 2010.

Provision for Loan Losses. We establish the provision for loan losses at a level we believe is necessary to absorb known and inherent losses that are both probable and reasonably estimable at the date of the financial statements. Our methodology in assessing the allowance for loan losses places greater emphasis on factors such as charge-off history, the economy, the regulatory environment, competition, geographic and loan type concentrations, policy and underwriting standards, nature and volume of the loan portfolio, management experience levels, our loan review and grading system and the value of underlying collateral. This evaluation is inherently subjective, as it requires estimates that are susceptible to significant revision as more information becomes available or as future events differ from predictions.

During the quarter ended March 31, 2011, management continued to evaluate the adequacy of the ALLL and concluded that a provision of $1.2 million was required for the quarter. The continued deterioration of the underlying collateral values of nonperforming loans was the primary reason for the provision. The effect of the $1.2 million provision for loan losses combined with net charge-offs of $3.5 million decreased the ALLL to $20.3 million at March 31, 2011 from $22.5 million at December 31, 2010. The ALLL as a percent of nonperforming loans improved to 39.64% at March 31, 2011 compared to 35.80% at December 31, 2010 and 25.00% at March 31, 2010.


 
 

35
 
 
The following table presents a breakdown of our nonperforming assets:
 
 
March 31, 2011
 
December 31, 2010
 
March 31, 2010
 
Three Month
Increase
(Decrease)
   
One Year
Increase
(Decrease)
 
(In thousands)
     One-to-four family residential (1)
$
              15,652
 
$
                    22,688
 
$
              48,035
 
$
        (7,036)
 
$
           (32,383)
  Multifamily
 
                   700
   
                              -
   
                       -
   
             700
   
                 700
     Commercial real estate
 
              11,104
   
                      7,306
   
              14,108
   
          3,798
   
             (3,004)
     Construction/land development
 
              23,485
   
                    32,885
   
              83,016
   
        (9,400)
   
           (59,531)
     Consumer
 
                   145
   
                           57
   
                   759
   
               88
   
                (614)
Total nonperforming loans
$
              51,086
 
$
                    62,936
 
$
            145,918
 
$
      (11,850)
 
$
           (94,832)
                             
Other real estate owned
 
              31,266
   
                    30,102
   
              20,500
   
          1,164
   
            10,766
                             
Total nonperforming assets
$
              82,352
 
$
                    93,038
 
$
            166,418
 
$
      (10,686)
 
$
           (84,066)
_______________                             
(1) The majority of these loans are related to our merchant builders rental properties.
 
Nonperforming loans include loans to borrowers who are experiencing deteriorating financial conditions and there is doubt as to the ultimate recoverability of the full principal and interest due the Bank in accordance with the terms of the loan agreement. Nonperforming loans decreased $11.8 million to $51.1 million at March 31, 2011, from $62.9 million at December 31, 2010. This decrease was achieved primarily by the transfer of nonperforming loans to OREO.

Nonperforming assets continued to decrease for the second quarter in a row. Nonperforming assets decreased $10.7 million, or 11.5% from the fourth quarter of 2010 to the first quarter of 2011. Nonperforming assets as a percent of total assets was 6.96%, 7.79% and 12.60% for the quarters ended March 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and March 31, 2010, respectively.

The three largest nonperforming loans in the commercial real estate portfolio at March 31, 2011, consisted of a $1.7 million loan secured by an office building in Pierce County, a $1.7 million loan secured by four individual rooming/dormitory houses, consisting of a total of 65 rental rooms located in Snohomish County and a $1.4 million loan secured by a retail building located in King County.

The three largest nonperforming, construction/land development loans include a $4.4 million loan on a 34-acre, 251-unit development in Whatcom County. The project consists of 77 detached condominium lots (single-family residences) and 174 attached units (multifamily). The second largest nonperforming, construction/land development loan is a $1.8 million loan on 71 finished lots for residential development, of which, 26 lots have been sold, located in Pierce County. The third largest nonperforming construction/land development loan is a $1.5 million loan on 55 finished lots for residential development, of which, 15 lots have been sold, located in Thurston County.

The following table presents a breakdown of our troubled debt restructured loans ("TDR's"):

 
March 31,
2011 
 
December 31,
2010 
 
September 30,
2010 
 
June 30,
2010 
 
March 31,
2010
  (In thousands0 
Performing troubled debt restructured loans (1)
$
      65,805
 
$
          58,375
 
$
                   42,891
 
$
       46,575
 
$
       22,948
Nonaccrual troubled debt restructured loans
 
      11,349
   
          16,299
   
                   28,387
   
       33,208
   
       37,783
     Troubled debt restructured loans
$
      77,154
 
$
          74,674
 
$
                   71,278
 
$
       79,783
 
$
       60,731
___________                             
(1)  Balances represent loans, net of undisbursed funds.
 
Our troubled debt restructured loans increased $2.5 million, or 3.3% to $77.2 million at March 31, 2011 as compared to $74.7 million at December 31, 2010. During the first quarter we added $7.4 million of new performing TDR’s and transferred $3.3 million of nonperforming TDR’s to OREO, $769,000 of nonperforming TDR’s were transferred to performing TDR’s and $592,000 nonperforming TDR’s were paid off. As we work with our borrowers to help
 
 
 

36
 
 
them through this difficult economic cycle, we explore all options available to us to minimize our risk of loss. At times, the best option for our customers and the Bank is to modify the loan for a period of time, usually one year or less. These modifications have included lowering the interest rate on the loan for a period of time and/or extending the maturity date of the loan or allowing interest only payments for a period of time. These modifications are granted only when there is a reasonable and attainable workout plan that has been agreed to by the borrower and is in the Bank’s best interest. Of the $77.2 million in troubled debt restructured loans at March 31, 2011, $65.8 million were classified as performing and $11.4 million were not performing according to their restructured terms. Of the $65.8 million of performing TDR’s, $34.1 million were related to an “A” note as a result of an “A” and “B” note workout strategy.

The largest TDR loan relationship was $17.8 million (which included both construction/land development loans as well as one-to-four family residential rental properties located in King, Kitsap, Pierce and Thurston counties). At March 31, 2011, the amount of undisbursed funds to that builder in connection with the restructured and impaired loans totaled $266,000.

The following table presents a breakdown of our OREO at March 31, 2011:
 
 
 King
County
 
 Pierce
County
 
 Kitsap
County
 
 Snohomish
County
 
 All other
counties
 
Total Other
Real Estate
Owned
 
Percent of
Total Other
Real Estate
Owned
 
 (Dollars in thousands)
One-to-four family residential
$
     3,771
 
$
     6,544
 
$
          1,904
 
$
             1,674
 
$
                475
 
$
              14,368
 
45.95
%
Commercial
 
        563
   
     2,600
   
          1,292
   
                    -
   
                450
   
                4,905
 
15.69
 
Construction/land development
 
     5,906
   
             -
   
          3,522
   
                    -
   
             2,565
   
              11,993
 
38.36
 
Total other real estate owned
$
   10,240
 
$
     9,144
 
$
          6,718
 
$
             1,674
 
$
             3,490
 
$
              31,266
 
100.00
%
 
OREO increased $1.2 million, or 3.9%, to $31.3 million at March 31, 2011 from $30.1 million at December 31, 2010. We sold $8.6 million of OREO during the first quarter of 2011 and generated a net gain of $626,000. We evaluate the market of our OREO inventory quarterly. As a result of the evaluation of our OREO properties, we expensed $628,000 related to the decline in the market value of our OREO during the quarter ended March 31, 2011.  Additional expenses related to OREO were $850,000 for the first quarter of 2011.

The three largest OREO properties in terms of market value at March 31, 2011, were a residential development with 40 completed lots valued at $1.7 million located in Kitsap County, a building valued at $1.3 million located in Pierce County and a residential development planned for 105 lots valued at $1.1 million located in Kitsap County.

During the remainder of 2011 we will continue to focus our efforts on converting our nonperforming loans to OREO through foreclosure or deeds in lieu of foreclosure and selling the properties. These properties consist primarily of non-owner occupied and completed one-to-four family residential homes. By taking ownership of these properties, it will allow us to convert these nonearning assets to earning assets on a more timely basis.

We believe that the ALLL as of March 31, 2011, was adequate to absorb the probable and inherent risks of loss in the loan portfolio at that date. While we believe the estimates and assumptions used in our determination of the adequacy of the allowance are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such estimates and assumptions will not be proven incorrect in the future, or that the actual amount of future provisions will not exceed the amount of past provisions or that any increased provisions that may be required will not adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations. Future additions to the allowance may become necessary based upon changing economic conditions, increased loan balances or changes in the underlying collateral of the loan portfolio. In addition, the determination of the amount of our ALLL is subject to review by the Bank’s regulators as part of the routine examination process, which may result in the establishment of additional reserves or charge-offs, based upon their judgment of information available to them at the time of their examination.
 
 
 

37
 
 

 
At or For the Three Months Ended March 31,
 
2011
 
2010
 
(Dollars in thousands)
               
Provision for loan losses
$
           1,200
   
$
          13,000
 
Charge-offs
$
           3,675
   
$
            9,682
 
Recoveries
$
              191
   
$
               122
 
Allowance for loan losses
$
         20,250
   
$
          36,479
 
Allowance for loan losses as a percent of total loans outstanding
             
   at the end of the period, net of undisbursed funds
 
2.47
 %
   
              3.45
  %
Allowance for loan losses as a percent of nonperforming loans
             
   at the end of the period, net of undisbursed funds
 
39.64
 %
   
            25.00
 %
Total nonaccrual and 90 days or more past due loans, net of undisbursed funds
$
         51,086
   
$
        145,918
 
Nonaccrual and 90 days or more past due loans as a
             
   percent of total loans, net of undisbursed funds
 
6.24
 %
   
            13.81
 %
Total loans receivable, net of undisbursed funds
$
       818,799
   
$
     1,056,321
 
Total loans originated, net of undisbursed funds
$
           5,772
   
$
          29,159
 
 
Noninterest Income. Noninterest income increased $550,000 to $596,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2011 from $46,000 in the comparable quarter in 2010. This increase was primarily due to a $511,000 net gain on sale of investments during the first quarter of 2011 with no comparable sales in the first quarter of 2010.

Noninterest Expense. Noninterest expense decreased $2.3 million during the quarter ended March 31, 2011 to $6.6 million as compared to $8.9 million for the same quarter in 2010.

The following table provides the detail of the changes in noninterest expense:
 
   
Three Months
   
Increase/(Decrease)
       
   
Ended
   
from
   
Percentage
 
   
March 31, 2011
   
March 31, 2010
   
Increase/(Decrease)
 
   
(Dollars in thousands)
 
                   
Compensation and benefits
  $ 3,289     $ 100       3.1 %
Occupancy and equipment
    402       (23 )     (5.4 )
Professional fees
    480       21       4.6  
Data processing
    209       39       22.9  
Gain on sale of OREO property, net
    (626 )     (1,063 )     (243.3 )
OREO valuation expense
    628       (1,643 )     (72.4 )
OREO related expenses, net
    850       148       21.1  
FDIC/OTS assessments
    710       130       22.4  
Insurance/bond premiums
    247       98       65.8  
Marketing
    61       18       41.9  
Other
    332       (110 )     (24.9 )
Total noninterest expense
  $ 6,582     $ (2,285 )     25.8 %
 
The decrease in noninterest expense for the first quarter of 2011 as compared to the same period in 2010 was primarily a result of the decrease in OREO related expenses incurred during the first quarter of 2011, which were $852,000 (net of gain on sales of OREO) as compared to $3.4 million in the comparable period in 2010. In addition, FDIC/OTS assessments increased $130,000 which was predominately related to the increase in our FDIC insurance deposit rates.

 
 

38
 
 

Federal Income Tax Expense. We did not record any federal income tax expense for the first quarter of 2011 as we utilized our tax loss carryforward.

Liquidity

We are required to have enough cash flow in order to maintain sufficient liquidity to ensure a safe and sound operation. We maintained cash balances above the minimum level believed to be adequate to meet the requirements of normal operations, including potential deposit outflows. On a daily basis, we review and update cash flow projections to ensure that adequate liquidity is maintained.

Our primary sources of funds are from customer deposits, loan repayments, maturing investment securities and advances from the FHLB. These funds, together with equity, are used to make loans, acquire investment securities and other assets and fund continuing operations. While maturities and the scheduled amortization of loans are a predictable source of funds, deposit flows and loan prepayments are greatly influenced by the level of interest rates, economic conditions and competition. At March 31, 2011, certificates of deposit scheduled to mature in one year or less totaled $359.0 million. Historically, we have been able to retain a significant amount of the deposits as they mature. We believe that our current liquidity position and our forecasted operating results are sufficient to fund all of our existing commitments.

While our primary source of funds is our deposits, when deposits are not available to provide the funds for our assets, we use alternative funding sources. These sources include, but are not limited to: advances from the FHLB, wholesale funding, federal funds purchased, dealer repurchase agreements and other short-term alternatives as permissible by regulation. At March 31, 2011, the Bank maintained credit facilities with the FHLB totaling $118.3 million with an outstanding balance of $93.1 million. For additional information see the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in Item 1 of this Form 10-Q.

Commitments and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We are a party to financial instruments with off-balance sheet risk in the normal course of business to meet the financing needs of our customers. These financial instruments include commitments to extend credit and the unused portions of lines of credit. These instruments involve, to varying degrees, elements of credit and interest rate risk in excess of the amount recognized in the consolidated financial statements. Commitments to extend credit and lines of credit are not recorded as an asset or liability until the instrument is exercised. At March 31, 2011, we had no commitments to originate loans for sale.

Commitments to extend credit are agreements to lend to a customer as long as there is no violation of any condition established in the loan agreement. Commitments generally have fixed expiration dates or other termination clauses and may require payment of a fee. Since many of the commitments are expected to expire without being drawn upon, the total commitment amounts do not necessarily represent future cash requirements. We evaluate each customer’s creditworthiness on a case-by-case basis. The amount of the collateral obtained, if deemed necessary by us upon extension of credit, is based on our credit evaluation of the customer. The amount and type of collateral required varies, but may include real estate and income-producing commercial properties.

The following table summarizes our outstanding commitments to originate loans, to advance additional amounts pursuant to outstanding lines of credit and to disburse funds related to our construction loans at March 31, 2011.


 
 

39
 
 

       
Amount of Commitment Expiration - Per Period
             
After
 
After
     
             
One
 
Three
     
 
Total
       
Through
 
Through
 
After
 
Amounts
 
Through
 
Three
 
Five
 
Five
 
Committed
 
One Year
 
Years
 
Years
 
Years
 
(In thousands)
                             
Commitments to originate loans
$
                284
 
$
            284
 
$
                 -
 
$
                 -
 
$
                 -
Unused portion of lines of credit
 
             9,543
   
            410
   
            897
   
         2,669
   
         5,567
Undisbursed portion of construction loans
 
             5,633
   
         3,651
   
         1,552
   
            430
   
                 -
       Total commitments
$
           15,460
 
$
         4,345
 
$
         2,449
 
$
         3,099
 
$
         5,567
 
We are from time to time involved in various claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. There are currently no matters that in the opinion of management would have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Among our contingent liabilities are exposures to limited recourse arrangements with respect to sales of whole loans and participation interests.

We anticipate that we will continue to have sufficient funds and alternative funding sources to meet our current commitments.

Capital

At March 31, 2011, stockholders’ equity totaled $176.5 million, or 14.9% of total assets. Our book value per share of common stock was $9.39 as of March 31, 2011, as compared to $9.28 as of December 31, 2010. Consistent with our goal to operate a sound and profitable financial organization, we actively seek to maintain a “well-capitalized” institution in accordance with regulatory standards. As of March 31, 2011, the Bank exceeded all regulatory capital requirements. Regulatory capital ratios for the Bank only were as follows at March 31, 2011: Tier 1 leverage capital 12.13% (as compared to 10% required under the Order); Tier 1 risk-based capital 20.03%; and Total risk-based capital 21.30% (as compared to 12% required under the Order). The regulatory capital requirements to be considered well capitalized are 10%, 6% and 5%, respectively. The Bank met the financial ratios for “well-capitalized” status at March 31, 2011, however, based on financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States and the general percentages in the regulatory guidelines, the Bank is no longer regarded as “well-capitalized” for federal regulatory purposes as a result of the deficiencies cited in the Order. In addition, at March 31, 2011, First Financial Northwest, the parent company of the Bank, had approximately $17.9 million of available cash to increase its investment in the Bank.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Market risk is defined as the sensitivity of income and capital to changes in interest rates and other relevant market rates or prices. Our profitability is largely dependent on our net interest income. Consequently, our primary exposure to market risk arises from the interest rate risk inherent in our lending, deposit and borrowing activities. Interest rate risk is the risk to earnings and capital resulting from adverse movements in interest rates. We actively monitor and manage our exposure to interest rate risk.

A number of measures are utilized to monitor and manage interest rate risk, including net interest income and economic value of equity simulation models. We prepare these models on a quarterly basis for review by our Asset Liability Committee (“ALCO”), senior management and Board of Directors. The use of these models requires us to formulate and apply assumptions to various balance sheet items. Assumptions regarding interest rate risk are inherent in all financial institutions and may include, but are not limited to, prepayment speeds on loans and mortgage-backed securities, cash flows and maturities of financial instruments held for purposes other than trading,
 
 
 
 

40
 
 
changes in market conditions, loan volumes and pricing, deposit sensitivities, consumer preferences and management’s capital plans. We believe that the data and assumptions used for our models are reasonable representations of our portfolio and possible outcomes under the various interest rate scenarios. Nonetheless, these assumptions are inherently uncertain; therefore, the models cannot precisely estimate net interest income or predict the impact of higher or lower interest rates on net interest income. Actual results may differ significantly from simulated results due to timing, magnitude and frequency of interest rate changes and changes in market conditions and specific strategies, among other factors.
 
Our primary objective in managing interest rate risk is to minimize the adverse impact of changes in interest rates on our net interest income and capital, while structuring the asset and liability components to maximize net interest margin, utilize capital effectively and provide adequate liquidity. We rely primarily on our asset/liability structure to control interest rate risk. We assume a high level of interest rate risk as a result of our business model which calls for us to originate and hold fixed-rate, single-family loans, which by their nature are longer-term than the short-term liabilities of customer deposits and borrowed funds.

Net Interest Income

Our primary source of income is net interest income, which is the difference between interest earned on loans and investments and the interest paid on deposits and borrowings. Like other financial institutions, we are subject to interest rate risk and expect periodic imbalances in the interest rate sensitivities of our assets and liabilities. Over any defined period of time, our interest-earning assets may be more sensitive to changes in market interest rates than our interest-bearing liabilities or vice versa. We principally manage interest rate risk by managing the volume and mix of our interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities.

Our income simulation model examines changes in net interest income in which interest rates are assumed to remain at their base level, gradually increase by 100, 200 and 300 basis points over a 12-month period, or decline assuming a gradual 100 basis point reduction in rates. Reductions of rates by 200 and 300 basis points were not reported due to the very low current rate environment and the unlikely nature of rates declining further. Based on information as of March 31, 2011, our model indicated that net interest income over the next 12 months is projected to grow in the increasing rate scenarios of 100, 200 and 300 basis points while decreasing if rates decline 100 basis points.

Our net interest income increases in all three rising rate scenarios. Interest income increases due to our current level of liquidity, which is represented by our short-term investments in interest-bearing deposits in other banks. As interest rates rise these investments reprice to reflect higher yields and higher interest income. Our loan portfolio is comprised predominately of fixed-rate products so changing interest rates have minimal affect on the change in interest income earned from our loan portfolio. Interest expense in the rising rate scenario decreases primarily due to higher costing certificates of deposits continuing to reprice to lower rates. If rates were to gradually increase 100 basis points over the next 12 months the weighted-average cost for renewed certificates of deposit would be approximately 1.95%. The current cost of these maturing certificates of deposit is 2.16%. We also receive a benefit from the sensitivity of our interest-bearing deposit liabilities, as the cost of these products does not increase at the same rate that prevailing interest rates increase.

In a declining interest rate environment of 100 basis points, net interest income decreases as reductions in interest income outweigh declines in interest expense. In this rate environment our interest-bearing deposits in other banks reprice to lower yields from the current yield of 25 basis points and interest earned on our investment portfolio declines due to prepayments. Interest income from our loan portfolio does not change significantly because of its fixed-rate nature. Our interest expense declines as core deposits and maturing certificates of deposits reprice downwards. The weighted-average cost for renewed certificates of deposit declines to approximately 0.77%, a decrease of 139 basis points over the current cost of 2.16%.


 
 

41
 
 

 
March 31, 2011
 
Net Interest Income Change
 
Basis Point
Change in Rates
 
% Change
 
+300
 
                         5.94  %
 
 
+200
 
                   5.39
 
 
+100
 
                   4.66
 
 
Base
 
                   2.70
 
 
(100)
 
                 (0.28)
 
(1)
(200)
 
                 N/A
 
(1)
(300)
 
                 N/A
 
 
____________
(1)
The current federal funds rate is 0.25%
 
making a 200 and 300 basis point drop
 
 
impossible.
     
 
The changes indicated by the simulation model represent anticipated changes in net interest income over a 12 month period if rates were to gradually increase or decrease by the specified amount. The simulation assumes that the size of the balance sheet remains stable over the forecasted timeframe, with no growth or contraction regardless of interest rate movements. Additionally, the tendency for loan and investment prepayments to accelerate in falling interest rate scenarios and slow when interest rates rise are incorporated in the model assumptions. Included in the assumptions are increased investment purchases and loan originations at lower interest rate levels to offset accelerated prepayments and, conversely, reduced investment purchases and loan originations when rates increase and prepayments slow.

The rising and falling interest rate scenarios indicate that, if customer loan and deposit preferences do not change in response to further movements of the yield curve, a parallel 300, 200 or 100 basis point increase in rates over a 12-month period will result in a positive change in our net interest income while a 100 basis point decline in rates will decrease net interest income.

Economic Value of Equity (EVE) Simulation Model Results

The following table illustrates the change in the net portfolio value at March 31, 2011 that would occur in the event of an immediate change in interest rates equally across all maturities. The simulation model results are reported quarterly and are predicated upon a stable balance sheet, with no growth or change in asset or liability mix. Although the net portfolio value measurement provides an indication of our interest rate risk exposure at a particular point in time, such measurement is not intended to and does not provide, a precise forecast.

The EVE analysis goes beyond simulating net interest income for a specified period to estimating the present value of all financial instruments in our portfolio and analyzing how the economic value of the portfolio would be affected by various alternative interest rate scenarios. The portfolio’s economic value is calculated by generating principal and interest cash flows for the entire life of all assets and liabilities and discounting these cash flows back to their present values. The assumed discount rate used for each projected cash flow is based on a current market rate, such as a FHLB or Treasury curve and from alternative instruments of comparable risk and duration.
 
 
 
 

42
 
 

March 31, 2011
                     
Net Portfolio as % of
     
Basis Point
 
Net Portfolio Value (2)
 
Portfolio Value of Assets
 
Market Value
Change in Rates
   
Amount
 
$ Change
 
% Change
 
NPV Ratio (3)
 
% Change (4)
 
of Assets (5)
(Dollars in thousands)
+300
 
$
          128,941
 
$
     (57,564)
 
       (30.86)
%
        11.67
%
         (4.76)
%
 
$
         1,105,171
+200
   
          147,136
   
     (39,369)
 
       (21.11)
   
        12.93
   
         (3.26)
     
         1,138,114
+100
   
          167,130
   
     (19,375)
 
       (10.39)
   
        14.24
   
         (1.60)
     
         1,173,319
Base
   
          186,505
   
                -
 
              -
   
        15.43
   
              -
     
         1,208,394
(100)
   
          197,218
   
      10,713
 
          5.74
   
        16.01
   
          0.89
     
         1,232,063
(200)
(1)
 
          N/A
   
      N/A
 
        N/A
   
         N/A
   
         N/A
     
N/A
(300)
(1)
 
          N/A
   
      N/A
 
        N/A
   
         N/A
   
         N/A
     
N/A
 
(1)  
The current federal funds rate is 0.25%, making a 200 or 300 basis point decrease in rates impossible.
(2)  
The difference between the present value of discounted cash flows for assets and liabilities represents the net portfolio value or the market value of equity.
(3)  
Net portfolio value divided by the market value of assets.
(4)  
The increase or decrease in the net portfolio value divided by the market value of assets (base case).
(5)  
Calculated based on the present value of the discounted cash flows from assets.

In the simulated upward rate shift of the yield curve, the discount rates used to calculate the present value of assets and liabilities will increase, causing the present values of fixed-rate assets to decline and fixed-rate liabilities to increase. Our EVE simulation model results as of March 31, 2011 indicated that if rates increased 100, 200 or 300 basis points the market value of our assets would decrease. This decrease is largely because of the fixed-rate nature of our loan and investment portfolios. The fair value of our equity would also decrease under all three rising rate shift scenarios. The opposite occurs if rates were to decline. The discount rates used to calculate the present value of assets and liabilities will decrease, causing the present value of fixed-rate assets to increase and fixed-rate liabilities to decrease. If rates were to decrease by 100 basis points, the market value of our assets would increase and the fair value of equity would increase.

If interest rates change in the designated amounts, there can be no assurance that our assets and liabilities would perform as set forth previously. Changes in U.S. Treasury rates in the designated amounts accompanied by changes in the shape of the Treasury yield curve could cause changes to the net portfolio value and net interest income other than those indicated previously.

At March 31, 2011, we had no derivative financial instruments, we did not maintain a trading account for any class of financial instruments, nor have we engaged in hedging activities or purchased off-balance sheet derivative instruments. Interest rate risk continues to be our primary risk as other types of risks, such as foreign currency exchange risk and commodity pricing risk do not arise in the normal course of our business activities and operations.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

The management of First Financial Northwest, Inc. is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (“Exchange Act”). A control procedure, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that its objectives are met. Also, because of the inherent limitations in all control procedures, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the Company have been detected. As a result of these inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Further, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

(a)  
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures: An evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Exchange Act) was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial
 
 
 
 

43
 

 
Accounting Officer) and several other members of our senior management as of the end of the period covered by this report. Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of March 31, 2011, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective in ensuring that the information required to be disclosed by us in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is (i) accumulated and communicated to our management (including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer) in a timely manner and (ii) recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.
 
(b)  
Changes in Internal Controls: In the quarter ended March 31, 2011, there was no change in our internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.


 
 

44
 

PART II

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

From time to time, we are engaged in legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business, none of which are currently considered to have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

There have been no material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2010.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

There were no repurchases of equity securities in the first quarter of 2011.

On February 18, 2009, the Board of Directors approved a second stock repurchase plan for the purchase of up to 2,056,752 shares, or approximately 10% of our outstanding shares of common stock. There are 294,400 shares remaining to be repurchased under this plan at March 31, 2011. Any future repurchases of stock would require regulatory approval as required by the Order and the MOU.

Under the terms of the MOU entered with the OTS on April 14, 2010, the Company agreed, among other things, to provide notice to and obtain a written non-objection from the OTS prior to the Company declaring a dividend or redeeming any capital stock.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

Not applicable.

Item 4. [Removed and Reserved]

Item 5. Other Information

Not applicable.

Item 6. Exhibits
 

 
  3.1  Articles of Incorporation of First Financial Northwest (1) 
  3.2  Bylaws of First Financial Northwest (1) 
  Form of stock certificate of First Financial Northwest (1) 
  10.1  Form of Employment Agreement for President and Chief Executive Officer (1) 
  10.2  Form of Change in Control Severance Agreement for Executive Officers (1) 
  10.3  Form of First Savings Bank Employee Severance Compensation Plan (1) 
  10.4 
Form of Supplemental Executive Retirement Agreement entered into by First Savings Bank with Victor Karpiak, Harry A. Blencoe and Robert H. Gagnier (1)
  10.5 Form of Financial Institutions Retirement Fund (1) 
  10.6  Form of 401(k) Retirement Plan (2) 
  10.7  2008 Equity Incentive Plan (3) 
  10.8 Forms of incentive and non-qualified stock option award agreements (4) 
  10.9  Form of restricted stock award agreement (4) 
  14  Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (5) 
  21  Subsidiaries of the Registrant 
  31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act 
  31.2  Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act 
 
 
 
 

45
 
 
  32.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
  32.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
________________________________________
(1)  Filed as an exhibit to First Financial Northwest’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (333-143549). 
(2)
Filed as an exhibit to First Financial Northwest’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2007 and incorporated herein by reference.
(3)  Filed as Appendix A to First Financial Northwest’s definitive proxy statement dated April 15, 2008. 
(4)  Filed as an exhibit to First Financial Northwest’s Current Report on Form 8-K dated July 1, 2008. 
(5)
Registrant elects to satisfy Regulation S-K §229.406 (c) by posting its code of ethics on its website at www.fsbnw.com.
 
 
           

 
 

46
 

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
First Financial Northwest, Inc.
   
   
   
   
Date: May 9, 2011   /s/ Victor Karpiak                    
  Victor Karpiak
  Chairman of the Board, President and 
  Chief Executive Officer 
 
(Principal Executive Officer)
   
   
   
Date: May 9, 2011  /s/ Kari Stenslie                         
  Kari Stenslie
  Chief Financial Officer 
  (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
   
   
                                                       

 
 

47
 
 
EXHIBIT INDEX

31.1
Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
31.2
Certification of Chief Financial Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
32
Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act

 
 

 

48