From 1985 through 1988, when home prices in New York were rising, Dime Savings began to lend heavily, making $11 billion of mortgage loans.

All had "Dime Savings" printed on them.

Dime Savings and Fleet Bank in Connecticut both cut their certificate rates by 16 basis points.

Dime Savings announced two deals that could help it end its troubles with bad real estate loans and low capital.

And at Dime Savings profits were up fivefold.

Only Dime Savings, which reopened a branch in February 1996, says it is running behind projections.

Dime Savings of Wallingford, a strong lender to builders, has benefited from soaring property values in its area.

"I just walked into the Dime Savings around the corner."

Dime Savings is developing a mortgage to ease the burden on parents who want to help their children clear the down-payment hurdle.

A spokesman for Dime Savings could not be reached for comment last week.