METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO INC
S-2/A, 1997-05-02
INVESTORS, NEC
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<PAGE>                        Page 2


As  filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 2, 1997,
1997. Registration No.333-19755

                         Amendment No. 1 to
                                  
                              FORM S-2

                 SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                                  
                       REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                  
                                UNDER
                                  
                     THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
                                  
            METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.
            A Washington Corporation--IRS No. 91-0609840
                                  

                       929 West Sprague Avenue
                      Spokane, Washington 99204
                           (509) 838-3111

                          Agent for Service
                  C. Paul Sandifur, Jr., President
            Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc.
                       929 West Sprague Avenue
                          Spokane, WA 99204
                    Telephone No. (509) 838-3111

     Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale to the public:
As  soon as practicable after the effective date of this Registration
Statement.

     If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be
offered  on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415  under
the Securities Act of 1933 check the following box. /x/

     If the registrant elects to deliver its latest annual report  to
security  holders,  or  a  complete and  legible  facsimile  thereof,
pursuant to Item 11(a)(1) of this Form, check the following box. /  /

      If this Form is filed to register additional securities for  an
offering  pursuant  to Rule 462(b) under the Securities  Act,  please
check the following box and list the Securities Act registration
<PAGE>                        Page 3

statement number of the earlier effective registration statement  for
the same offering.    /  /.

      If  this  Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant  to
Rule  462(c)  under the Securities Act, check the following  box  and
list  the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier
effective registration statement for the same offering.  /  /.

     If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to
Rule 434, please check the following box.    /  /.

   
                   CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
<TABLE>
<S>                               <C>           <C>         <C>        <C>

Title of each                    Amount      Proposed    Proposed     Amount
of
class   of                            to  be        maximum       maximum
registration
securities to                   registered    offering   aggregate      fee
be registered                                 price per   offering
                                                unit        price
Investment Debentures,
  Series II                   $96,500,000       $  1      $96,500,000  $32,168
Installment Debentures
  Series I                    $ 3,500,000       $  1      $ 3,500,000  $ 1,702

Preferred Stock
  Series E-7 Shares               250,000       $100      $25,000,000  $ 7,576

</TABLE>
       
      The  Registrant  is  hereby proposing  to  register  Investment
Debentures,  Series  II,  in the amount of  $26,500,000,  Installment
Debentures, Series I in the amount of $500,000, and 250,000 shares of
Preferred Stock, Series E-7.  The amount of the filing fee associated
with  such  newly registered securities is $8,030, $667,  and  $7,576
respectively.  The Registrant is hereby amending Registration No. 333-
335  pursuant  to  Rule  429  of which approximately  $70,000,000  of
Investment   Debentures,   Series  II,  $3,000,000   of   Installment
Debentures,  Series I remain unsold.  The amount of  the  filing  fee
associated with such previously registered securities, which fee  was
previously  paid with prior Registration Statements, was $24,138  and
$1,035  respectively (which fee was based upon the prior  filing  fee
amount).The  amount  of  the registration  fee  shown  above  is  the
combined fee for the previously registered securities (based on prior
filing fees) and the fee for the newly registered securities.
    

<PAGE>                        Page 4


     The Registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such
date  or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date  until
the  Registrant  shall  file a further amendment  which  specifically
states  that  this  Registration Statement  shall  thereafter  become
effective  in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities  Act  of
1933,  as amended, or until this Registration Statement shall  become
effective  on  such date as the Commission acting  pursuant  to  said
Section 8(a) may determine.

                                  
<PAGE>                        Page 5
                                  
                               PART I
                                  
            METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.
                                  
                                  
                        Cross Reference Sheet
         Showing Location in Prospectus of Items of the Form
Item

   
1.  Forepart of the Registration Statement and
    Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus........  Outside Front
                                                    Cover Page
2.  Inside Front and Outside Back Cover Pages of
      Prospectus..........................             Inside   Front
Cover
                                                    Page
3.  Summary Information, Risk Factors and Ratio
    of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock
    Dividends.....................................  Prospectus
                                                    Summary;
                                                    Summary
                                                    Consolidated
                                                    Financial Data;
                                                    Risk Factors
4.  Use of Proceeds...............................  Use of Proceeds
5.  Determination of Offering Price...............  *
6.  Dilution......................................  *
7.  Selling Security Holders......................  *
8.  Plan of Distribution..........................  Plan of
                                                    Distribution
9.  Description of Securities to be Registered....  Description of
                                                    Securities;
                                                    Description
                                                    of Debentures;
                                                    Summary of
                                                    Capital Stock
                                                    Description of
                                                    Common Stock;
                                                    Description of
                                                    Preferred Stock
10. Interest of Named Experts and Counsel.......    Legal Matters;
                                                    Experts
11. Information with Respect to the Registrant..    Front Cover Page;
                                                    Prospectus
                                                    Summary;
                                                    Capitalization;

<PAGE>                        Page 6

                                                  Selected
                                                    Consolidated
                                                    Financial Data;
                                                    Management's
                                                    Discussion and
                                                    Analysis
                                                    of Financial
                                                    Condition
                                                    and Results of
                                                    Operations;
                                                    Business;
                                                    Management;
                                                    Principal
                                                    Shareholders;
                                                    Certain
                                                  Relationships and
                                                              Related
Transactions;
                                                    Financial
                                                    Statements

12.                                                Incorporation   of
Certain Information
   by Reference..................................   Available
                                                    Information
                                                    Incorporation of
                                                    Certain Documents
                                                    By Reference

13.                                                  Disclosure    of
Commission Position on Indem-
   nification for Securities Act Liabilities.....   Indemnification
    

*Not applicable or negative.

<PAGE>                        Page 7



              SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED May 2, 1997

                             PROSPECTUS

                METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.
       $96,500,000    Investment Debentures, Series II
       $ 3,500,000    Installment Debentures, Series I
   
           250,000    Shares Variable Rate Cumulative Preferred
                      Stock, Series E-7 ($100 Per Share Offering
                      Price and Liquidation Preference)
    
        
     The Investment Debentures, Series II and Installment Debentures,
Series  I (collectively, Debentures) and the shares of Variable  Rate
Cumulative  Preferred Stock, Series E-7 (Preferred Stock)  are  being
offered   separately  and  not  as  units.  A  holder  of  Investment
Debentures,  Series  II  may  elect  to  receive  interest   monthly,
quarterly, semi-annually or annually without compounding, or  at  the
election  of  the  holder  of Investment  Debentures,  Series  II  if
interest  is  left with Metropolitan it  will compound  semi-annually
until  maturity.  Installment Debentures  Series  I  will  pay  equal
monthly   installments  of  principal  and  interest  until  maturity
according  to  an amortization schedule selected by  the  owner.  The
Debentures  are unsecured debt instruments, senior in liquidation  to
outstanding equity securities, subordinate to collateralized debt, on
parity with unsecured accounts payable and accrued liabilities and on
parity  with  all previously issued and outstanding  debentures.   At
September   30,   1996,  the  Consolidated  Group  had  approximately
$1,033,190,000  of  debt senior to and approximately  $10,952,000  of
debt  in  parity  with the approximately $192,174,000 of  outstanding
debentures.   The Debentures will be issued in fully registered  form
in  fractional denominations of $0.01 or multiples thereof at 100% of
the  principal  amount paid. Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities  Co.,
Inc.  (Metropolitan) reserves the right to change  prospectively,  by
way   of  a  supplement  to  this  Prospectus,  the  interest  rates,
maturities, and minimum investment amounts on unsold Debentures.  The
current   provisions  are  set  forth  below.  See  "DESCRIPTION   OF
DEBENTURES".    
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
      MINIMUM                      TERM TO                      ANNUAL
    INVESTMENT                    MATURITY                  INTEREST RATE
    _______________           ________________              _____________
                   INVESTMENT DEBENTURES, SERIES II

<PAGE>                        Page 8

<S>                      <C>                          <C>
       $
       $
       $
       $
<CAPTION>
                     INSTALLMENT DEBENTURES, SERIES I

        $
</TABLE>


   
                           PREFERRED STOCK, SERIES E-7
    
  PRICE                DISTRIBUTION FORMULA
  PER SHARE           (Applicable Rate)

$100               The greater per annum rate of
                            the Three-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Rate, or
                            the Ten Year Constant Maturity Rate, or
                            the Twenty Year Constant Maturity Rate,
                      plus .5% (Minimum 6%/Maximum 14%)
   
   The  Preferred Stock offered hereunder will be sold  in  whole  or
fractional  units.  Preferred Stock distributions are cumulative  and
are  to  be  declared and paid monthly. See "DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED
STOCK-Distributions".  Preferred Stock may be redeemed, in  whole  or
in  part, at the option of Metropolitan at the redemption prices  set
forth  herein.  Under  certain limited circumstances,  the  Board  of
Directors  may, in its sole discretion and without any obligation  to
do  so,  redeem shares tendered for redemption by stockholders.   See
"DESCRIPTION   OF   PREFERRED  STOCK-Redemption   of   Shares".    In
liquidation,  Preferred  Stock  is  subordinate  to  all   debts   of
Metropolitan  including  Metropolitan's  Investment  and  Installment
Debentures, Series II and I, and on parity with other preferred stock
and  senior  to  Metropolitan's common stock.   See  "DESCRIPTION  OF
PREFERRED STOCK-Liquidation Rights".
    

      There  is no trading market for the Debentures or the Preferred
Stock  and  none is expected to be established in the future.  See  "
RISK  FACTORS".  A  list  of  persons willing  to  sell  or  purchase
Metropolitan's issued and outstanding shares of preferred  stock  has
been maintained by Metropolitan Investment Securities, Inc. (MIS)  as
a  convenience  to  holders of Metropolitan's preferred  stock.   See
"DESCRIPTION OF
<PAGE>                        Page 9

PREFERRED  STOCK-Redemption of Shares".  This offering of  Debentures
and  Preferred  Stock  is subject to withdrawal  or  cancellation  by
Metropolitan without notice.       

       FOR  A  DISCUSSION  OF  MATERIAL  RISKS  ASSOCIATED  WITH  THE
DEBENTURES  AND  PREFERRED STOCK OFFERED HEREBY SEE RISK  FACTORS  ON
PAGE ___ OF THIS PROSPECTUS.    

  THESE  SECURITIES  HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED  OR  DISAPPROVED  BY  THE
SECURITIES   AND   EXCHANGE  COMMISSION  OR  ANY   STATE   SECURITIES
COMMISSION,  NOR  HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION  OR  ANY
STATE  SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY  OF
THIS PROSPECTUS OR ANY PRICING SUPPLEMENT THERETO. ANY REPRESENTATION
TO  THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   
                          UNDERWRITING DISCOUNTS        PROCEEDS TO
               PRICE            AND                  ISSUER OR OTHER
              TO PUBLIC     COMMISSIONS (1)              PERSONS(2)
<S>            <C>           <C>                  <C>
Per
Debenture         100%      0% to 6%              100% to 94%
Total:       $100,000,000   None - $6,000,000     $100,000,000-$94,000,000
Per
Preferred
Share            $100       0% to 6%              100% to 94%

Total:       $25,000,000    None - $1,500,000     $25,000,000-$23,500,000

</TABLE>
    

         (1)   There  is  no  direct sales charge  to  the  investor.
Debentures  earn  interest,  and Preferred  Stock  distributions  are
calculated   on  their  full  respective  offering  prices,   without
deduction.    Metropolitan  will  reimburse  its  underwriters,   for
commissions paid to licensed securities sales representatives.  Sales
commission rates on the sale of Debentures depend upon the  terms  of
the  sale  and  upon  whether  the sales  are  reinvestments  or  new
purchases. See "PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION".    

     (2)  Before deducting other expenses estimated at $190,000.

        The Debentures and Preferred Stock are being offered for sale
on a continuous, best efforts basis.  There are no minimum amounts of
<PAGE>                        Page 10

securities that must be sold.  See "PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION" &  "CERTAIN
RELATIONSHIPS  &  RELATED TRANSACTIONS".  No offering  will  be  made
pursuant  to  this  prospectus subsequent to January  31,  1998.  The
offering  is  subject to NASD Rule 2720 (formerly  Schedule  E).  See
"PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION".    

     The date of this Prospectus is ____________________.

<PAGE>                        Page 11

               INSIDE FRONT COVER PAGE OF PROSPECTUS

<PAGE>                        Page 12

     No person has been authorized to give any information or to make
any  representations not contained or incorporated  by  reference  in
this Prospectus and any Pricing Supplement.  Neither the delivery  of
this  Prospectus  and  any  Pricing  Supplement  nor  any  sale  made
thereunder  shall,  under any circumstances, create  any  implication
that the information therein is correct at any time subsequent to the
date  thereof.  This Prospectus and any Pricing Supplement shall  not
constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy  any
of  the Debentures or Preferred Stock offered hereby by anyone in any
jurisdiction in which such offer or solicitation is not authorized or
in  which  the  person  making  such offer  or  solicitation  is  not
qualified  to do so or to any person to whom it is unlawful  to  make
such offer or solicitation.

                        AVAILABLE INFORMATION

     Metropolitan is subject to the informational requirements of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the "Exchange Act")and,
in accordance therewith, files periodic reports and other information
with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission").  Such
reports  and  other  information  filed  by  Metropolitan  with   the
Commission  can  be  inspected and copied  at  the  public  reference
facilities  maintained by the Commission in Washington, D.C.  at  450
Fifth  Street,  N.W.,  Washington, DC 20549 and  at  certain  of  its
regional  offices which are located in the New York Regional  Office,
Seven  World  Trade Center, Suite 1300, New York, NY 10048,  and  the
Chicago  Regional Office, CitiCorp Center, 500 West  Madison  Street,
Suite  1400,  Chicago,  IL 60661-2511.  In addition,  the  Commission
maintains  a  World  Wide  Web  site  that  contains  reports,  proxy
statements  and other information regarding registrants such  as  the
Issuer,  that  filed  electronically  with  the  Commission  at   the
following address: (http:\\www.sec.gov).

       Metropolitan  has  filed  with  the  Securities  and  Exchange
Commission in Washington, D.C., a Registration Statement on Form  S-2
under  the  Securities Act of 1933, as amended, with respect  to  the
Debentures  and Preferred Stock offered hereby. This Prospectus  does
not  contain  all  of the information set forth in  the  Registration
Statement,  as  permitted  by  the  rules  and  regulations  of   the
Commission.
                                  
           INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE

       The   following  documents  filed  with  the  Commission   are
incorporated herein by reference in this Prospectus:


<PAGE>                        Page 13

(a)   Annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended  September
30, 1996 (filed January 13, 1997);

(b)   Quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the three month period  ended
December 31, 1996 (filed February 19, 1997).

    
         Any statement contained in a document incorporated or deemed
to be incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed to be modified
or  superseded for purposes of this Prospectus to the extent  that  a
statement  contained  herein modifies or supersedes  such  statement.
Any  such  statement so modified or superseded shall not  be  deemed,
except  as  so modified or superseded, to constitute a part  of  this
Prospectus.    

      Metropolitan  will  provide  without  charge  to  each  person,
including  to  whom a Prospectus is delivered, upon written  or  oral
request  of  such  person, a copy of any and all of the   information
that  has  been referenced in this Prospectus other than exhibits  to
such  documents.   Requests for such copies  should  be  directed  to
Corporate Secretary, Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc., PO
Box 2162, Spokane, WA 99210-2162, telephone number (509) 838-3111.

<PAGE>                        Page 14

                                TABLE           OF           CONTENTS
PAGE
   
Available Information.........................................

Incorporation of Certain Documents by Reference...............

Prospectus Summary............................................
Summary  Consolidated Financial Data..........................
Risk Factors..................................................

Description of Securities.....................................
  Description of Debentures...................................
  Summary of Capital Stock....................................
  Description of Preferred Stock..............................
  Description of Common Stock.................................

Legal Matters.................................................
  Legal Opinion...............................................
  Legal Proceedings...........................................
Experts.......................................................

Plan of Distribution..........................................

Use of Proceeds...............................................

Capitalization................................................

Selected Consolidated Financial Data..........................

Management's Discussion and Analysis of
  Financial Condition and Results of Operations...............

Business......................................................
  Overview....................................................
  Receivable Investments......................................
  Real Estate Development.....................................
  Life Insurance and Annuity Operations.......................
  Method of Financing.........................................
  Competition.................................................
  Regulation..................................................

Management....................................................
  Executive Compensation......................................

Indemnification...............................................


<PAGE>                        Page 15

Management Ownership of Company Securities....................

Principal Shareholders........................................

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

Index to Consolidated Financial Statements....................
    
                                  
<PAGE>                        Page 16
                                  
                         PROSPECTUS SUMMARY


         This  summary is qualified in its entirety by reference  to,
and  should be read in conjunction with the detailed information  and
financial  statements appearing elsewhere in this  Prospectus.   This
offering  involves  certain considerations to  prospective  investors
which   are  set  forth  in  "DESCRIPTION  OF  SECURITIES"   &  "RISK
FACTORS".    

          THE METROPOLITAN CONSOLIDATED GROUP OF COMPANIES

      Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc. (Metropolitan) was
established  and incorporated in the State of Washington in  January,
1953.   Its  principal  executive offices are  located  at  929  West
Sprague  Avenue, Spokane, WA.  Its mailing address is P.O. Box  2162,
Spokane,  WA  99210-2162 and its telephone number is (509)  838-3111.
Where  reference herein is intended to include Metropolitan  and  its
subsidiaries,  they  are  jointly referred to  as  the  "Consolidated
Group".  Where reference herein is intended to refer to Metropolitan,
(e.g.  the  parent  company)  it  is  referred  to  individually   as
"Metropolitan".

      The  Consolidated Group is engaged, nationwide, in the business
of acquiring, holding, selling, originating and servicing receivables
(hereinafter  Receivables).  These Receivables  include  real  estate
contracts,  and  promissory notes collateralized  by  first  position
liens  on  residential  real  estate.  The  Consolidated  Group  also
invests  in  Receivables  consisting of  real  estate  contracts  and
promissory  notes collateralized by second and lower position  liens,
structured   settlements,  annuities,  lottery  prizes,   and   other
investments.   The  Receivables collateralized  by  real  estate  are
typically non conventional in that they were originated as the result
of seller financing, or they were originated by institutional lenders
who  specialize  in  borrowers with impaired credit  histories.   See
"Business-Receivable Investments".  In addition to  Receivables,  the
Consolidated  Group  invests in U.S. Treasury obligations,  corporate
bonds and other securities.  See "Business-Securities Investments".

         The  Consolidated Group invests in Receivables  using  funds
generated from Receivable cash flows, the sale of annuities, the sale
and  securitization  of  Receivables,  the  sale  of  debentures  and
preferred  stock, collateralized borrowing, sale of real  estate  and
securities  portfolio earnings.  See "Business-Method of  Financing".
Metropolitan provides Receivable acquisition services, for a fee,  to
its insurance subsidiary, Western United Life Assurance Company
<PAGE>                        Page 17

(Western United).  Metwest Mortgage Services, Inc. (Metwest) services
the  Receivables  for Metropolitan and Western United.   Metropolitan
and  Metwest  also  provide  Receivable acquisition,  management  and
collection  services, for a fee to Summit Securities, Inc.  (Summit),
Old  Standard  Life Insurance Company (Old Standard) and  to  Arizona
Life  Insurance  Co. (Arizona Life).  See "BUSINESS-  Management  and
Receivable Acquisition Services" & "CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS  &  RELATED
TRANSACTIONS".     

      The Consolidated Group also owns various other repossessed  and
other  properties, all of which are held for sale and/or development,
including  a  timeshare condominium resort in Hawaii. See  "BUSINESS-
Real Estate Development."

     At September 30, 1996, the Consolidated Group had  393 full time
equivalent  employees.   No personnel are represented  by  any  labor
organization and the Consolidated Group considers relations with  its
employees to be satisfactory.

      Metropolitan's principal office and its subsidiaries' principal
offices,  are  located in commercial buildings in  downtown  Spokane,
Washington  on property owned by Metropolitan consisting  of  a  full
city  block  with an aggregate rentable area of approximately  50,000
square feet.

Terms:

For ease of reading, the following is a compilation of several of the
defined terms which appear regularly within this document.  Also, See
"Business".

Consolidated  Group:   This term refers to  the  combined  businesses
consisting of Metropolitan and all of its subsidiaries.

Debentures:    Where  this  term is capitalized,  it  refers  to  the
Installment  and Investment Debentures being offered  herein.   Where
not capitalized, it refers to debentures of Metropolitan generally.

Metropolitan:   This term refers to the parent company,  Metropolitan
Mortgage & Securities, Co., Inc., exclusive of its subsidiaries.

Metwest:     Metwest  Mortgage  Services,  Inc.,  a   subsidiary   of
Metropolitan.

Preferred Stock:   Where this term is capitalized, it refers  to  the
Series  E-7  Preferred Stock being offered herein. Where  it  is  not
capitalized, it refers to preferred stock of Metropolitan generally.

<PAGE>                        Page 18


Receivables:    Investments in cash flows, consisting of  obligations
collateralized   by  real  estate  (both  pre  existing   obligations
purchased  in  the  secondary market, and obligations  originated  by
Metwest), structured settlements, annuities, lottery prizes and other
investments.

Western United:   Western United Life Assurance Company, a subsidiary
of Metropolitan.

Affiliated  Companies:   The following companies are affiliated  with
Metropolitan  through  the common control of C.  Paul  Sandifur,  Jr.
Metropolitan and its subsidiaries provide services to these companies
for  a  fee  and engage in various business transactions  with  these
companies:

Arizona Life:   Arizona Life Insurance Company

Summit:   Summit Securities, Inc.

MIS:   Metropolitan Investment Securities, Inc.

Summit PD:   Summit Property Development, Inc.

Old Standard:   Old Standard Life Insurance Company.

                        ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
            METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.
                      (as of December 31, 1996)
____________________________________|______________________________
          |                          |             |
         100%                        |            96.5%*
       Metwest                       |          Consumers
      Mortgage                       |            Group
     Services, Inc.                  |           Holding
                                     |          Co., Inc.
                                     |             |
                                     |             |
                                     |            100%
                                     |      Consumers Insurance
                                     |           Co., Inc.
                                     |             |
                                     |           75.5%
                                   24.5% ->   Western United
                                              Life Assurance
                                                  Company

<PAGE>                        Page 19


Metropolitan  Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc. - Parent  organization,
  invests  in  Receivables  and  other  investments,  including  real
  estate  development, with proceeds from investments and  securities
  offerings.
Consumers  Group  Holding  Co., Inc. - A holding  company,  its  sole
  business  activity  currently  being  that  of  a  shareholder   of
  Consumers Insurance Co., Inc.
Consumers  Insurance Co., Inc. -  Property and casualty insurer,  its
  principal  business activity currently being that of a  shareholder
  of Western United Life Assurance Company.
Western  United  Life  Assurance  Company  -  Metropolitan's  largest
  subsidiary  and largest company within the Consolidated  Group,  is
  engaged   in   investing  in  Receivables  and  other   investments
  principally  funded by life insurance policy and  annuity  contract
  sales. Western United is domiciled in the State of Washington.
Metwest   Mortgage  Services,  Inc.  -  Performs  loan   origination,
  collection  and  servicing functions and  is  an  FHA/HUD  licensed
  servicer and lender.

Metropolitan  is  the  sole owner of several additional  subsidiaries
  which   own   certain  individual  development   properties.    See
  "Business - Real Estate Development".
   
* The remaining 3.5% of Consumers Group Holding Co., Inc. is owned by
Summit. See "CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS & RELATED TRANSACTIONS"
    
                                  
<PAGE>                        Page 20
                                  
                            THE OFFERING

DEBENTURES:

   The  Offering  .  .  .  .  This  Debenture  offering  consists  of
$3,500,000  in  principal  of Installment Debentures,  Series  I  and
$96,500,000 in principal of Investment Debentures, Series  II  issued
at  minimum  investment amounts, terms, and rates set  forth  on  the
cover  page  of  this  Prospectus.  There is  no  minimum  amount  of
Debentures  which  must  be  sold. Debentures  are  issued  in  fully
negotiable certificated form.  See "DESCRIPTION OF DEBENTURES".     

The  Debentures . . . . The Debentures are unsecured indebtedness  of
Metropolitan.   At September 30, 1996, Metropolitan  had  outstanding
approximately  $192,174,000  (principal and  compounded  and  accrued
interest)  of   debenture  debt, $38,601,000 (principal  and  accrued
interest) of collateralized debt and similar obligations and  had  an
obligation to purchase securities previously sold, but not owned,  in
an amount of $132,652,000 (market value). See "CAPITALIZATION".

   Use  of  Proceeds . . . . The proceeds of this Debenture  offering
will  provide funds (in descending order of priority) for  Receivable
investments,   other  investments (which may include  investments  in
existing  subsidiaries, the commencement of new business ventures  or
the   acquisition   of  other  companies),  or,   retiring   maturing
debentures, preferred stock dividends, property development, and  for
general corporate purposes.  See "USE OF PROCEEDS" & "BUSINESS".    

   Principal  and  Interest Payments . . . .  Holders  of  Investment
Debentures,  Series  II  may  elect  to  receive  interest   monthly,
quarterly, semi-annually or annually (without compounding) or at  the
election  of  the  Holder  of Investment Debentures,  Series  II,  if
interest  is  left with Metropolitan it  will compound  semi-annually
until  maturity.  Holders of Installment Debentures,  Series  I,  are
paid equal monthly installments of principal and interest pursuant to
an  amortization  schedule  selected  by  the  holder.   The  minimum
investment  amounts, terms and interest rates on unissued  Debentures
offered  hereby may be changed from time to time by Metropolitan,  by
way  of  a supplement to this Prospectus.  Any such change shall  not
affect  the  rate of interest of any Debentures issued prior  to  the
change.  See  "DESCRIPTION  OF DEBENTURES-Payment  of  Principal  and
Interest".    

PREFERRED STOCK:

   

<PAGE>                        Page 21

Offering  .  . . . The Preferred Stock offering consists  of  250,000
shares  of Variable Rate Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series E-7  (the
Preferred  Stock), offered at $100 per share, and sold in  whole  and
fractional  shares.   There is no minimum amount of  Preferred  Stock
which must be sold.  Preferred stock is issued in book entry form.
    
Distributions  . . . . Distributions on the Preferred  Stock  offered
hereunder are cumulative from the date of issuance, and, when and  as
declared,  are payable monthly at the rates described  on  the  cover
page  of  this Prospectus based on the price of $100 per share.   All
preferred  stock  of Metropolitan including this Preferred  Stock  is
entitled   to   receive  distributions  on  the  same   basis.    See
"DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED STOCK-Distributions".

Liquidation   Rights  .  .  .  .  In  the  event  of  liquidation  of
Metropolitan,  the Preferred Stock liquidation rights  are  $100  per
share  of  Preferred Stock, plus declared and unpaid dividends.   The
liquidation rights of the Preferred Stock is senior to those  of  the
common  stock of Metropolitan, on parity with the liquidation  rights
of  all  other previously issued and outstanding preferred stock  and
junior   to  all  debts  of  Metropolitan,  including  Metropolitan's
previously issued debentures and the Debentures offered herein.   See
"DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED STOCK-Liquidation Rights".

Redemption:  Upon Call by Metropolitan . . . The shares of  Preferred
Stock  are  redeemable,  in  whole or  in  part,  at  the  option  of
Metropolitan, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days' notice  by
mail, at a redemption price of $100 per share plus, in each case, any
declared but unpaid dividends to the date fixed for redemption.   See
"DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED STOCK-Redemption of Shares".

   Redemption:  Upon  Request of Holder .  .  .  Subject  to  certain
limitations, Metropolitan may, in its sole discretion and without any
obligation  to  do  so,  accept  share(s)  of  Preferred  Stock   for
redemption  upon  the  receipt of unsolicited  written  requests  for
redemption  of  share(s) from any holder. Redemption prices  in  such
event  will  be  established by the Board of Director,  in  its  sole
discretion, plus any declared but unpaid dividends.  Metropolitan may
not  redeem  share(s) at the holder's request during the first  three
years  after the initial sale of such share(s) except in those  cases
involving  the death or major medical emergency of the  holder  (  as
demonstrated to the satisfaction of Metropolitan's management) or any
joint holder.  Any such discretionary redemptions will also depend on
Metropolitan's financial condition, including its liquidity position.
See   "DESCRIPTION   OF   PREFERRED  STOCK-Redemption   of   Shares".
Metropolitan,  through  MIS,  intends to  use  its  best  efforts  to
maintain a trading
<PAGE>                        Page 22

list  for  holders of Preferred Stock.  See "DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED
STOCK-Redemption of Shares" & " RISK FACTORS".    

Voting  Rights . . . . The holders of Preferred Stock have no  voting
rights  except (i) as expressly granted by the laws of the  State  of
Washington  and (ii) in the event distributions payable on  Preferred
Stock  are in arrears in an amount equal to twenty-four or more  full
monthly distributions, per share. See "DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED STOCK-
Voting Rights".

   Use  of  Proceeds  .  . . . The proceeds of this  Preferred  Stock
offering  will  provide funds (in descending order of  priority)  for
Receivable   investments,  other  investments  (which   may   include
investments  in  existing  subsidiaries,   the  commencement  of  new
business  ventures  or the acquisition of other  companies)  retiring
maturing debentures, preferred stock dividends, property development,
and  for  general  corporate  purposes.   See  "USE  OF  PROCEEDS"  &
"BUSINESS".    

Federal   Income  Tax  Considerations.  .  .  .  In  the  event   the
Consolidated  Group has earnings and profits for federal  income  tax
purposes  in  any  future year, the distributions paid  on  Preferred
Stock  in that year will constitute taxable income, as dividends,  to
the recipient to the extent of such earnings and profits.  Management
is  unable  to  predict  the future character of  its  distributions.
Purchasers are advised to consult their own tax advisors with respect
to  the  federal  income  tax treatment of distributions  made.   See
"DESCRIPTION  OF  PREFERRED STOCK-Federal Income Tax Consequences  of
Distributions".
                                        
<PAGE>                        Page 23
                                        
                       SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

      The  consolidated financial data shown below as of September 30, 1996  and
1995 and for the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995, and 1994 (other than  the
Ratio  of  Earnings  to Fixed Charges and preferred stock dividends)  have  been
derived   from,   and  should  be  read  in  conjunction  with,   Metropolitan's
consolidated  financial  statements, related notes, and Management's  Discussion
and  Analysis  of  Financial  Condition  and  Results  of  Operations  appearing
elsewhere  herein.  The consolidated financial data shown as  of  September  30,
1994,  1993  and 1992 and for the years ended September 30, 1993 and  1992  have
been  derived  from  audited  financial  statements  not  included  herein.  The
consolidated  financial statements as of and for the years ended  September  30,
1996,  1995,  1994 and 1993 have been audited by Coopers & Lybrand  L.L.P.   The
consolidated  financial statements as of and for the year  ended  September  30,
1992 has been audited by BDO Seidman.
   
                         Three Months Ended                           
                            December 31,                              
                            (Unaudited)                   Year Ended September 30,
                        --------  ---------   -----------------------------------------------
                                              ----------
                          1996       1995       1996      1995      1994      1993      1992
                                                (Dollars in Thousands
                                              Except Per Share Amounts)
<S>                     <C>       <C>         <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
CONSOLIDATED                                                                          
STATEMENTS OF INCOME
DATE
Revenues                 $40,585     $34,057   $156,672  $138,107  $138,186  $133,113  $121,22
                                                                                             1
                         =======     =======   ========  ========  ========  ========  =======
                                                                                             =
Income before minority                                                                        
interest,                                                                                     
extraordinary item and                                                                        
cumulative effect of                                                                          
change in accounting      $3,916        $312   $  8,146  $  6,376  $  5,702  $  8,558        $
principle                                                                                3,290
Income allocated to                                                                           
minority interests          (35)         (9)      (108)      (73)     (224)     (255)    (363)
                        --------    --------   --------  --------  --------  --------  -------
                                                                                             -
Income before                                                                                 
extraordinary item and                                                                        
cumulative effect of                                                                          
change in accounting                                                                          
for income taxes                         303      8,038     6,303     5,478     8,303    2,927
                        <PAGE>
                        Page 24
                                
                           3,881
Extraordinary item (1)        --          --         --        --        --        --      651
Cumulative effect of                                                                          
change in accounting                                                                          
for income taxes (2)          --          --         --        --        --   (4,300)       --
                        --------    --------   --------  --------  --------  --------  -------
                                                                                             -
Net income                 3,881         303      8,038     6,303     5,478     4,003    3,578

Preferred stock          (1,024)       (923)    (3,868)   (4,038)   (3,423)   (3,313)  (3,399)
dividends               --------    --------   --------  --------  --------  --------  -------
                                                                                             -

Income (loss)                                                                                 
applicable to common      $2,857      $(620)     $4,170    $2,265    $2,055   $   690        $
stockholders            ========     =======   ========  ========  ========  ========      179
                                                                                       =======
                                                                                             =
                                                                                              
Ratio of Earnings to                                                                          
Fixed Charges               1.98                   1.46      1.35      1.29      1.43     1.21
Ratio of Earnings to                                                                          
Fixed Charges and                                                                    
Preferred Stock             1.57                   1.14      1.03      1.04      1.17
Dividends (4)                                                                        
PER COMMON SHARE DATA                                                                         
(3):
Income (loss) before                                                                          
extraordinary item and                                                                        
cumulative effect of                                                                          
change in accounting     $21,981    $(4,770)    $32,073  $ 17,288  $ 14,996  $ 37,239  $(3,579
principle                                                                                    )
Extraordinary items           --          --         --        --        --        --    4,932
(1)
Cumulative effect of                                                                          
change in accounting                                                                          
principle (2)                 --          --         --        --        --  (32,089)       --
                        --------    --------   --------  --------  --------  --------  -------
                                                                                             -
Income (loss)                                                                                 
applicable to common     $21,981    $(4,770)    $32,073  $ 17,288   $14,996   $ 5,150        $
stockholders (5)        ========    ========   ========  ========  ========  ========    1,353
                                                                                       =======
                                                                                             =
Weighted Average                                                                              
Number of Common             130         130        130       131       137       134      132
Shares Outstanding(3)   ========    ========   ========  ========  ========  ========  =======
                                                                                             =
                                                                                              
                                                                                      <PAGE>
                                                                                      Page 25
                                                                                              
                                                                                              
Cash Dividends Per                                                                            
Common Share                 $--         $--        $--  $  3,800   $   675   $   675      $--
                        ========    ========   ========  ========  ========  ========  =======
                                                                                             =
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE                                                                          
SHEET DATA:

Total Assets            $1,142,2  $1,084,743  $1,282,65  $1,078,4  $1,063,2  $1,031,9  $982,25
                              22                      9        68        90        58        9
Debt Securities, Other                                                                        
Debt Payable and                                                                              
Securities Sold, Not     209,005     215,968    363,427   226,864   261,500   234,497  230,814
Owned
Stockholders' Equity      50,476      40,498     46,343    40,570    32,625    32,781   28,260
    


<PAGE>                        Page 26

</TABLE>

       (1)    Benefit   from   utilization   of   net   operating   loss   carry
forwards.

       (2)      Change  in  accounting  principles  reflects  the  adoption   of
Statement   of  Financial  Accounting  Standards  No.  109  -  "Accounting   for
Income Taxes."

       (3)      All  information  retroactively  reflects  the  reverse   common
stock   split   of  2,250:1  which  occurred  during  the  fiscal   year   ended
September 30, 1994.

       (4)    The   consolidated  ratio  of  earnings  to  fixed   charges   and
preferred  dividends  was  1.14,  1.03,  1.04  and  1.17  for  the  years  ended
September   30,  1996,  1995,  1994  and  1993,  respectively.   Earnings   were
insufficient   to   meet  fixed  charges  and  preferred   dividends   for   the
year ended September 30, 1992, by approximately $783,000.

       Assuming   no  benefit  from  the  earnings  of  its  subsidiaries   with
the   exception  of  direct  dividend  payments,  the  ratio  of   earnings   to
fixed   charges   and   preferred   dividends   for   Metropolitan   alone   was
1.11,   1.05,   1.34  and  1.06  for  the  years  ended  September   30,   1996,
1995,   1994  and  1993,  respectively.  Earnings  were  insufficient  to   meet
fixed   charges   and   preferred  dividends  for  the  year   ended   September
30, 1992, by approximately $13,012,000.

       The   consolidated   ratio  of  earnings  to  fixed   charges   excluding
preferred    stock   dividends   was   as   follows   for   the   years    ended
September  30,  1996  -  1.46;  1995 - 1.35; 1994  -  1.29;  1993  -  1.43;  and
1992   -   1.21.    The   ratio   of  earnings  to   fixed   charges   excluding
preferred   stock   dividends  for  Metropolitan,  assuming  no   benefit   from
the    earnings   of   its   subsidiaries   with   the   exception   of   direct
dividend   payments  was  1.48,  1.40,  1.36  and  1.31  for  the  years   ended
September   30,   1996,  1995,  1994  and  1993,  respectively.   Such   "parent
only"    earnings   of   Metropolitan   were   insufficient   to   meet    fixed
charges   for   the   year   ended   September   30,   1992   by   approximately
$7,701,000.

        (5)    Earnings   per   common   share   are   computed   by   deducting
preferred   stock  dividends  from  net  income  and  dividing  the  result   by
the   weighted   average   number  of  shares  of  common   stock   outstanding.
There    were   no   common   stock   equivalents   or   potentially    dilutive
securities outstanding during any year presented.
                                  
                                  
<PAGE>                        Page 27
                                  
                            RISK FACTORS    

          Investment   in   the   Debentures   and   Preferred   Stock   offered
hereby   involves   a   certain   degree   of   risk.    In   the   opinion   of
Metropolitan    all    material    risks    are    discussed    below.      Each
prospective   investor   should   carefully   consider   the   following    risk
factors   inherent   in   and  affecting  the  business  of   the   Consolidated
Group   and   this   offering  before  making  an  investment  decision.    This
Prospectus    contains   forward-looking   statements   which   involve    risks
and     uncertainties.     Discussions    containing    such     forward-looking
statements   may  be  found  in  the  materials  set  forth  under   "Prospectus
Summary,"   "Risk   Factors,"   "Management's   Discussion   and   Analysis   of
Financial  Condition  and  Results  of  Operations"  and  "Business"   as   well
as   in   the  Prospectus  generally.   Actual  events  or  results  may  differ
as   a   result   of   various  factors,  including  without   limitation,   the
risk   factors   set   forth   below  and  the  matters   set   forth   in   the
Prospectus generally.    

General

   
       1.            Risk   of  Fluctuation  in  Interest  Rates:   During   the
twelve    month   period   ending   September   30,   1997,    more    of    the
Consolidated   Group's   financial  liabilities,   principally   annuities   and
debentures,  are  scheduled  to  reprice  or  mature  than  are  its   financial
assets,     principally    Receivables    and    fixed    income    investments.
Consequently,   in   a   falling  interest  rate   environment   such   as   has
recently  been  experienced,  the  current  level  of  profitability   and   the
fair   value   of  the  Consolidated  Group's  equity  would  be   expected   to
increase    as    the   spread   between   interest   revenues    and    expense
improves.   Conversely,  in  a  rising  interest  rate  environment,   the   net
interest   income   and   the  fair  value  of  equity  for   the   Consolidated
Group  would  likely  decline.   The  fair  value  of  equity  (as  opposed   to
book   value)is   the  difference  between  the  fair  value   of   all   assets
less  the  fair  value   of  all  liabilities.   The  impact  of  a  change   in
rates  will  be  reflected  to  the  greatest  extent  in  the  fair  value   of
assets  and  liabilities  having  the  longest  maturities  or  time  to   their
scheduled   repricing   date.    Additionally,   borrowers   tend    to    repay
Receivable  loans  when  interest  rates  decline  and  they  may  be  able   to
refinance  such  loans  at  lower  rates  of  interest.   This  factor   reduces
the  amount  of  interest  to  be  received  over  time  as  loans  with  higher
rates   of   interest   are  prepaid  more  rapidly.   The  Consolidated   Group
purchases   the   majority   of   its   Receivables   collateralized   by   real
estate   at   a   discount.   The  yield  on  these  Receivables   is   improved
when   recognition   of  the  discount   is  accelerated  through   prepayments.
See   "MANAGEMENT'S   DISCUSSION  AND  ANALYSIS  OF  FINANCIAL   CONDITION   AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS-Asset/Liability Management". While interest
<PAGE>                        Page 28

rates   evidenced   a   fairly  stable  trend   as   of   the   date   of   this
prospectus,   management  is  unable  to  forecast  with   any   certainty   the
fluctuations in interest rates in the future.    

        2.       Dependence   Upon   Securitization   and   Direct   Sales    of
Receivables:     Metropolitan    and    Western    United    sold    pools    of
Receivables   through   direct  sales  in  increased   volumes   during   fiscal
1996   compared   to  prior  years.   Also,  Metropolitan  and  Western   United
sold   Receivables   through  a  securitization  for  the  first   time   during
1996.     The    Consolidated   Group's   profits   for   fiscal    1996    were
substantially    benefited    by   these   sales.    See    "BUSINESS-Receivable
Sales".    The   Consolidated  Group's  future  profits  may  be   substantially
impacted  by  its  ability  to  sell  Receivables.   Adverse  changes   in   the
markets   for   the   Consolidated  Group's  Receivables,  including   but   not
limited   to   fluctuations  in  interest  rates,  increased   competition   and
regulatory   changes  could  impair  its  ability  to  sell  Receivables.    Any
such   impairment   could   have   a   material   adverse   effect   upon    the
Consolidated   Group's   results   of  operations   and   financial   condition,
including its profitability and liquidity position.    

       As   a   result   of   securitizations,  the   Consolidated   Group   has
acquired   residual   interests  in  the  securitized  loan  pools   aggregating
approximately   $3.5   million   at  September   30,   1996.    These   residual
interests   are   valued  by  the  Consolidated  Group,  and  accrue   interest,
based    upon   assumptions   regarding   anticipated   prepayments,    defaults
and    losses    on   the   securitized   Receivables.    Although    management
believes   that   it   has  made  reasonable  assumptions,   actual   experience
may  vary  from  its  estimates.   The  value  of  the  residual  interests  and
the    amount    of   interest   accrued   will   have   been   overstated    if
prepayments   or   losses   are  greater  than  anticipated.    See   "BUSINESS-
Receivable Sales"

        
       3.            EDependence   Upon   Insurance  Subsidiary   Earnings   and
Restrictions   on  Subsidiary  Dividends:  At  September  30,   1996,   88%   of
the   Consolidated   Group's   assets  were  invested   in   insurance   related
assets.     Metropolitan   is   dependent   upon   its   ability   to    receive
dividends   and  charge  fees  for  services  to  subsidiaries  and   affiliated
companies   in   order   to   pay   interest,   retire   debentures   and    pay
preferred     stock     distributions.     Insurance     company     regulations
restrict  transfers  of  assets  and  the  amount  of  dividends  that   Western
United   may   pay.    Accordingly,  to  the  extent   of   such   restrictions,
assets    and    earnings   of   Western   United   are   not    available    to
Metropolitan     without    special    permission     from     the     insurance
commissioner.      This     restriction    on     dividends     could     affect
Metropolitan's   ability   to   pay  interest,   retire   debentures   and   pay
preferred    stock    distributions.    The   total    unrestricted    statutory
surplus of Western United was approximately
<PAGE>                        Page 29

$5,567,000   as   of   September   30,  1996.    See   "BUSINESS-Regulation"   &
"CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS & RELATED TRANSACTIONS".    

       Metropolitan   and   its   subsidiaries   charge   Western   United   for
facilities   rental,  general  office  services,  and  for  their  services   in
acquiring   and   servicing  Receivables.   Services   are   provided   pursuant
to   agreements   that  are  subject  to  approval  by   the   Office   of   the
Insurance   Commissioner   of   the  State  of  Washington.    To   the   extent
that   such   fees  could  be  restricted  by  the  Office  of   the   Insurance
Commissioner,   Metropolitan's  ability  to  meet  its  obligations   could   be
adversely    affected.     See    "BUSINESS-Life    Insurance    and     Annuity
Operations".

        
       4.            Dependence  Upon  Leverage  Financing  and  the  Need   for
Additional   Financing:    The   Consolidated   Group's   primary   sources   of
new   financing   for   its  operations  are  sales  of  annuities,   sale   and
securitization   of   Receivables,   sales   of   debentures    and    preferred
stock,    and    collateralized    borrowing.     See    "BUSINESS-Method     of
Financing"    &    "MANAGEMENT'S   DISCUSSION   &    ANALYSIS    OF    FINANCIAL
CONDITION    AND    RESULTS   OF   OPERATIONS".    The   Consolidated    Group's
principal   sources   of  cash  flow  include  Receivable   payments,   proceeds
from    the    sale    of   annuities,   the   sale   and   securitization    of
Receivables,     the     sale    of    debentures    and    preferred     stock,
collateralized    borrowing,    sale   of   real    estate,    and    securities
portfolio   earnings.  To  the  extent  the  Consolidated  Group's   cash   flow
is   insufficient   or  unavailable  for  the  repayment  of  debentures   which
mature  during  the  period  ending  January  31,  1998,  portions  of  the  net
proceeds   of  this  Debenture  and  Preferred  Stock  offering  may   be   used
for   such   purpose.   See  "USE  OF  PROCEEDS".   Approximately    $47,142,000
in   principal   amount   of  debentures  will  mature   between   February   1,
1997  and  January  31,  1998.   Historically,  approximately  40%  to  60%   of
maturing   debentures   are   reinvested,  although  reinvestment   levels   for
1996  were  approximately  30%,  due  in  part  to  the  limitation  imposed  by
the   state   of  Washington  on  total  outstanding  Debentures  and  Preferred
Stock.    See   "Business-Regulation".    Metropolitan's   ability   to    repay
its   other   outstanding   obligations,  including   those   created   by   the
sale   of   the  securities  described  herein,  may  be  contingent  upon   the
success   of  future  public  offerings  of  debentures  and  preferred   stock.
The   amount  of  Debentures  and  Preferred  Stock  that  may  be  issued   and
outstanding  may  be  limited  by  the  State  of  Washington   See   "BUSINESS-
Regulation".    

       The   following   table   summarizes   anticipated    cash   requirements
for   principal   and   interest   obligations  of   Metropolitan's   debentures
and   other   debts   payable;  and  anticipated  cash   dividend   requirements
on   its  preferred  stock  for  the  five-year  period  ending  September   30,
2001
<PAGE>                        Page 30

based   on   amounts  outstanding  at  September  30,  1996  and   assuming   no
reinvestment of maturing debentures:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          OTHER    PREFERRED
    Fiscal Year Ending    DEBENTURE        DEBT     STOCK
       September 30,        BONDS         PAYABLE   DIVIDENDS       TOTAL
   ___________________    _________       _______   _________      ______
                                        (Dollars in Thousands)
<S>                        <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>
             1997          $ 56,377     $37,246      $3,880      $ 97,503
             1998            59,267         820       3,880        63,967
             1999            49,874         303       3,880        54,057
             2000            50,063         181       3,880        54,124
             2001             6,874         221       3,880        10,975
                           --------     -------     -------       --------
                           $222,455     $38,771     $19,400       $280,626
                           ========     =======     =======       ========

</TABLE>
        
      5.           Risk of Fluctuation in Life Insurance and  Annuity
Termination  Rates:  An increase in the number of life insurance  and
annuity  policy  terminations  will tend  to  negatively  impact  the
insurance subsidiary's earnings (and in turn the Consolidated Group's
earnings)  by  requiring the expensing of unamortized deferred  costs
related to policy surrenders.  At September 30, 1996, deferred policy
acquisition  costs on annuities were approximately  7.7%  of  annuity
reserves.   Surrender  charges typically do  not  exceed  9%  of  the
annuity  contract  balance at the annuity contract's  inception,  and
such  surrender  charges decline annually from  that  rate.   Annuity
termination rates, adjusted for internal rollovers, for the  calendar
years 1995, 1994 and 1993 were 18.9%, 21.5%, and 15.3%, respectively.
Deferred  policy  acquisition costs on life insurance  products  were
approximately  13%  of  life reserves at September  30,  1996.   Life
insurance  termination rates were 7.7%, 9.8% and 8.0%,  respectively,
in  calendar  1995, 1994, and 1993. See "MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION  AND
ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS" & Note 13,
Consolidated Financial Statements.    
   
     6.     Risks Related to Investments in Receivables:

      Receivables Collateralized by Real Estate, Risk of  Fluctuation
in  Collateral Value and Economic Conditions: The Consolidated  Group
is  engaged  in  the purchase of Receivables and the  origination  of
loans   collateralized  by  real  estate.   See  "BUSINESS-Receivable
Investments".
<PAGE>                        Page 31

All  such  Receivable investments are subject to a  risk  of  payment
default  and loss in the event of foreclosure.  The risk  of  default
and  loss  can  be affected by changes in local economic  conditions,
property values, changes in zoning, land use, environmental laws  and
other  legal  restrictions,  including  restrictions  on  timing  and
methods of foreclosure.  There is no assurance that these Receivables
will  be paid according to their terms, or that property values  will
be  adequate  to  preclude  loss  in  the  event  of  a  foreclosure.
Metropolitan's  investment underwriting procedure includes  a  review
of  demographics,  market trends, property value,  economy,  and  the
buyer's   credit.   The  Consolidated  Group  purchases   Receivables
nationwide,  allowing it to diversify its investments geographically.
Management   believes  that these procedures  minimize  the  risk  of
default  or loss in the event of foreclosure.  However, there  is  no
assurance  that these procedures will be effective.    

         Investments  in  Other Receivables, Risks  of  Default:   In
addition  to  the  purchase  of Receivables  collateralized  by  real
estate,  the Consolidated Group is engaged nationwide in the purchase
of  other  types of Receivables including the purchase  of  annuities
issued  in  the  settlement of disputes, other  types  of  annuities,
lottery  prizes,  and  other investments.  All such  Receivables  are
subject  to the risk of default by the payor (generally an  unrelated
insurance  company,  or  a  state  government).   Unlike  Receivables
collateralized  by real estate, these Receivables are  generally  not
collateralized  by  a  specific asset.   Metropolitan's  underwriting
procedures vary with the type of investment and generally  include  a
review  of the credit rating of the payor, and other relevant factors
designed   to   evaluate  the  risk  of  the  particular  investment.
Management  believes  that its underwriting procedures  minimize  the
risk  of default and loss in the event of a default.  However,  there
is  no  assurance that these procedures will be effective to minimize
the  occurrence of any default, or loss in the event  of  a  default.
See "Business-Receivable Investments".    

      As  of  September 30, 1996, the Consolidated Group's Receivable
investments consisted of the following:

  86%    Receivables collateralized by real estate
   1%    Annuities
  13%    Lotteries and loans collateralized by lotteries

      The following table demonstrates the relative concentration  of
the  Consolidated  Group's Receivable investments  collateralized  by
real estate and other investments as a percentage of total assets.
<TABLE><CAPTION>
                                                    September 30,
                                        -------------------------------------

<PAGE>                        Page 32

                                         1996         1995          1994
                                         ----         ----          ---
                                              (Dollars in Thousands)
                                      (Percentage of Total Assets)
<S>                                    <C>         >C>          <C>
Carrying Value of Real Estate
     Held For Sale and/or
     Development                       $84,333    $   91,105   $   76,765
                                             7%            8%           7%
Face Value of Real Estate
     Receivables*                     $681,178    $  617,513   $  606,324
                                            53%           57%          57%

Other Receivable Investments          $107,494    $   41,591            -
                                             8%            4%           -
Face Value of
     Receivables in Arrears
     for Three Months or More          $26,500    $   17,500   $   19,000
                                             2%            2%           2%

Carrying value of
Securities
     Available for sale
     and Held to
     maturity                         $163,303    $  219,904   $  289,251
                                            13%           20%          27%

TOTAL ASSETS                        $1,282,659    $1,078,468   $1,063,290
                                           100%          100%         100%
</TABLE>
      As of September 30, 1996, 99% of the Receivables collateralized
by  real  estate were collateralized by first position liens on  real
estate and approximately 83% of the Receivables were non-conventional
in   the   sense  that  they  were  not  originated  by  a  financial
institution.

          7.     Risks   Related  to  Environmental  Conditions   and
Regulations:  In  the course of its business, the Consolidated  Group
acquires  properties, generally through foreclosure.   Various  state
and  federal laws and regulations impose liability upon the owner and
previous  owner  of  property  on  account  of  hazardous  waste   or
substances  released onto or disposed of on property.  As  a  result,
the  owner or former owner may be liable to the government or a third
party   for   the  clean  up  costs.   The  costs  of  investigation,
remediation  and removal can be substantial.  While the  Consolidated
Group endeavors to avoid the acquisition of Receivables or properties
which may be contaminated, there can be no assurance that significant
losses could
<PAGE>                        Page 33

not be incurred due to environmental contamination.    

         8.   Conflicts of Interest:  Metropolitan and various of its
subsidiaries  and  affiliates engage in similar  business  activities
which  include investing in Receivables and other related activities.
As a result, certain conflicts of interest may arise between or among
these companies.  A common management group directs the activities of
all  of  the  companies  in  the  Consolidated  Group.   Metropolitan
provides  general management and Receivable acquisition  services  to
Western United.  Metwest provides receivable servicing and collection
services  to  Metropolitan  and  Western  United.   Metropolitan  and
Metwest  also  provide these services to Summit,  Old  Standard,  and
Arizona  Life.   Summit  is  controlled  by  C.  Paul  Sandifur  Jr.,
President  of  Metropolitan and President of most  of  the  companies
within the Consolidated Group.  On January 31, 1995, Summit purchased
MIS   from  Metropolitan,  and  acquired  the  Metropolitan  property
development  division.  Also on May 31, 1995, Metropolitan  sold  Old
Standard  to one of Summit's subsidiaries. See "CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS
&   RELATED   TRANSACTIONS".   As  a  result  of   these   affiliated
relationships, certain conflicts of interest may now  exist  and  may
arise  between or among the Consolidated Group, Summit, Old  Standard
and  Arizona Life.  Investors in Metropolitan's securities must  rely
on  the integrity and corporate responsibilities of Metropolitan  and
its subsidiaries' officers and directors in making business decisions
and  directing  the operations of Metropolitan and its  subsidiaries.
See "BUSINESS-Competition".    

        
       9.           Reliance  on  Management:   The  success  of  the
Consolidated  Group's operations depends to a  large  degree  on  the
business  skills  of  its senior management (C. Paul  Sandifur,  Jr.,
President,  CEO;  Bruce J. Blohowiak, Executive Vice President,  COO;
Michael  Kirk, Senior Vice President-Production; Steven Crooks,  Vice
President   Controller,   Acting  CFO)  in,   among   other   things,
underwriting, servicing and selling Receivables.  If for some  reason
significant members of senior management were unable to perform their
functions, or left the Consolidated Group's employ, there can  be  no
assurance   that   the  Consolidated  Group  could   locate   capable
replacement(s)  in  a  timely fashion.  Currently,  the  Consolidated
Group  does  not  carry  key-man  insurance  coverage,  or  have  any
employment  agreements  with  any  of  the  above  identified  senior
management.    

       10.       Government  Regulations:  The  Consolidated  Group's
business  activities  are subject to extensive regulation,  including
regulation  of its Receivable origination, acquisition and  servicing
activities.   Metropolitan's sale of debentures is regulated  by  the
State  of  Washington pursuant to the Debenture Company Act.   During
the   securities   offering   which   expired   January   31,   1997,
Metropolitan's
<PAGE>                        Page 34

ability  to sell securities was restricted by the state of Washington
to  an aggregate outstanding amount of $251,300,000.  This limitation
restricted  Metropolitan's ability to sell debentures  and  preferred
stock during the twelve month period ending January 31, 1997.  Due in
part  to  the  small  volume of Debentures that matured  during  this
period,  Metropolitan's  cash position, and Metropolitan's  borrowing
ability,   this  restriction did not materially impair Metropolitan's
liquidity  position.  However, management is unable to  predict  with
any  degree of certainty whether the state of Washington will  impose
similar  or  additional restrictions during this offering  or  future
securities  offerings or whether any such restrictions  would  impact
the  financial  condition, including the liquidity, of  Metropolitan.
See "BUSINESS-Regulation".

Relative to Debentures

        
      1.           Term Investment; Absence of a Trading Market, Lack
of  Liquidity:  The  Debentures offered hereby  will  be  issued  for
specified terms and should not be considered liquid investments.  See
"DESCRIPTION OF DEBENTURES." Investors should be prepared to hold the
Debentures until maturity. The Debentures are not traded on any stock
exchange  and  there  is  no  independent  public  market   for   the
Debentures. At present, management does not anticipate applying for a
listing for such public trading.    

        
      2.          Lack of Indenture Restrictions and Ability to Incur
Additional  Indebtedness: The Debentures are issued  pursuant  to  an
Indenture  which  does not restrict Metropolitan's ability  to  issue
additional debentures or to incur other debt. The Indenture does  not
require  Metropolitan  to  maintain any specified  financial  ratios,
minimum  net  worth  or  minimum working capital.  Debenture  holders
should not rely on the terms of the Indenture for protection of their
investments,  but  should  look rather  to  the  creditworthiness  of
Metropolitan and its ability to satisfy its obligations.   Debentures
will  not be guaranteed or insured by any governmental agency.  There
is no sinking fund for the retirement of Debentures. On September 30,
1996,   Metropolitan   had  outstanding  approximately   $192,174,000
(principal  and  compounded  and  accrued  interest)  of  debentures,
$38,601,000  (principal and accrued interest) of collateralized  debt
and  had an obligation to purchase securities previously sold but not
owned in an amount of $132,652,000 (market value). See Notes 1, 9 and
10  to  the  Consolidated Financial Statements.  The  Debentures  are
senior  in  liquidation  to  all  outstanding  equity  securities  of
Metropolitan.   Debentures are subordinate  in  liquidation  only  to
Metropolitan's collateralized debt and Metropolitan's obligation to
<PAGE>                        Page 35

purchase  securities  previously sold, but not owned,  as  set  forth
above  and  are  on  parity  with all other  outstanding  debentures,
unsecured  accounts payable and unsecured accrued   liabilities.   In
the event of liquidation of the Consolidated Group, the policyholders
and  creditors of Metropolitan's subsidiaries would be paid prior  to
Debentureholders   to  the  extent  of  the   net   assets   of   the
subsidiaries.    

Relative to Preferred Stock

        
      1.          Subordination and Liquidation Rights:  The offering
price and liquidation preference of Preferred Stock offered herein is
$100  per  share.   In  the  event  of liquidation  of  Metropolitan,
outstanding shares of Preferred Stock, including shares of additional
sub-series  which  may subsequently be authorized and  sold,  are  on
parity  with  the  liquidation preference of  all  other  outstanding
series of preferred stock of Metropolitan, and are subordinate to all
outstanding  debt of Metropolitan including its Debentures.   In  the
event  of  liquidation  of  Metropolitan,  the  policy  holders   and
creditors of Metropolitan's subsidiaries would be paid in priority to
all  preferred shareholders (including holders of the Preferred Stock
offered  herein)  to  the extent of the unencumbered  assets  of  the
subsidiaries.   Preferred  Stock  is  preferred  in  liquidation   to
Metropolitan's common stock.  As of September 30, 1996, total  assets
of  the Consolidated Group were approximately $1,282,659,000 and  the
total  liabilities  of  the  Consolidated  Group  ranking  senior  in
liquidation   preference  to  Preferred  Stock   were   approximately
$1,236,316,000.  The total liquidation preference of the  outstanding
shares of previously issued series of preferred stock as of September
30,   1996,   was   approximately  $49,496,000.   Consequently,   the
liquidation  rights of the outstanding preferred  stock  had  a  book
value of $.94 for each $1.00 of outstanding liquidation rights as  of
September 30, 1996.  As a result of unaudited first quarter earnings,
during  fiscal  1997,  the  liquidation rights  of  each  outstanding
preferred  stock  had  a  book  value of  $1.00  for  each  $1.00  of
outstanding  liquidation  rights.  There can  be  no  assurance  that
future  performance will be sufficient to maintain  such  $1.00  book
value for the preferred stock liquidation preference.    

       The  preference  in  liquidation  would  not  necessarily   be
applicable  to terms afforded Preferred Stock in the event  of  other
extraordinary corporate events such as the sale of substantially  all
its   assets,  capital  restructuring,  merger,  reorganization   and
bankruptcy.  The  outcomes thereof could be  subject  to  negotiation
among all interested parties and/or court determinations and are  not
presently determinable.  In such circumstances, Preferred Stock would
not
<PAGE>                        Page 36

necessarily  enjoy  any  preference over terms  available  to  common
stock, or even be as favorable.

        
      2.           Prior  Years'  Net  Income Insufficient  to  Cover
Preferred Stock Distributions and Fixed Charges: Net income in  1996,
1995,  1994 and 1993 was sufficient to cover fixed charges  including
preferred  stock dividend requirements, in contrast to shortfalls  in
1992  and  prior years.  After considering the effects of potentially
non-recurring  income  items such as the  gains  from  the  sale  and
securitization of Receivables and the sales of investments  and  real
estate,  the 1996 income would have been insufficient to cover  fixed
charges by approximately $9.7 million.  Additionally, the elimination
of similar items in 1994 and 1993 would have resulted in insufficient
earnings  to  cover fixed charges by approximately $6.8  million  and
$4.2,  respectively.   SEE  "RISK FACTORS" &  "SELECTED  CONSOLIDATED
FINANCIAL DATA". Net income for the years 1984 through 1992  was  not
sufficient to meet preferred stock distribution requirements.  During
1996, net income was approximately $8.0 million, from which preferred
stock  dividends  of  approximately $3.9  million  were  paid,  which
resulted  in $8.7 million of retained earnings at September 30,  1996
compared  to  $4.6 million, $2.7 million, $778,000, and  $179,000  of
retained  earnings  at  September 30,  1995,  1994,  1993  and  1992,
respectively.  See  "SELECTED  CONSOLIDATED  FINANCIAL   DATA",   and
"MANAGEMENT'S  DISCUSSION  AND ANALYSIS OF  FINANCIAL  CONDITION  AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS"    

      The  ratios  of  earnings to fixed charges and preferred  stock
dividends for the Consolidated Group were as follows for the  periods
indicated:    1996:1.14,   1995:1.03,   1994:1.04   and    1993:1.17.
Accordingly,  adjusted  earnings (income before  extraordinary  items
plus  interest  expense and income tax expense)  were  sufficient  to
cover fixed charges in 1996, 1995, 1994 and 1993 and insufficient  to
cover  fixed charges (primarily interest and preferred stock dividend
requirements)  in  1992  by approximately  $783,000.   See  "SELECTED
CONSOLIDATED  FINANCIAL  DATA."   No  assurance  can  be  given  that
earnings  will  be  sufficient  to  cover  preferred  stock  dividend
requirements in the future.

        
      3.           Federal Income Tax Considerations:  To the  extent
that  the  Consolidated Group has no current or accumulated  earnings
and profits as computed for federal income tax purposes, Metropolitan
believes  that  distributions made with respect  to  Preferred  Stock
would  be  characterized as tax free returns of capital  for  federal
income tax purposes.  Metropolitan believes that distributions on its
outstanding common and preferred stock in 1984 through 1992 and  1994
were tax free returns of capital, but were taxable in 1993, 1995  and
1996.  Prior
<PAGE>                        Page 37

years'  tax treatment should not be considered indicative  of  future
years'  tax  treatment.  Management is unable to predict  the  future
character  of  its  preferred  stock distributions  but  will  report
annually  to  shareholders regarding the tax character of  the  prior
years  distributions.   In addition, as each Preferred  Shareholders'
individual  tax  circumstance is unique, Preferred  Shareholders  are
advised to consult their own tax advisors with respect to the federal
income  tax  treatment of distributions made.   See  "DESCRIPTION  OF
PREFERRED     STOCK-Federal    Income     Tax     Consequences     of
Distributions."    

        
      4.           Risk  Relating  to Lack of Liquidity  and  Limited
Marketability of Shares:  The Preferred Stock is not expected  to  be
traded  on any National or Regional Stock Exchange and no independent
public  market  for  Preferred  Stock is  anticipated.   At  present,
management does not anticipate applying for a listing for such public
trading.   In order to provide shareholders with some liquidity,  MIS
has  operated a trading list to match buyers and sellers of preferred
stock.   With  limited  exceptions, Metropolitan  has  established  a
policy  that all preferred shareholders must place their  shares  for
sale  on  the  MIS  trading  list  for  60  consecutive  days  before
Metropolitan  will entertain a request for redemption. During  fiscal
1996, the average waiting time for a Metropolitan shareholder wishing
to sell Metropolitan preferred shares on this trading list was twenty-
five  days.  However, there can be no assurance that the shares  will
be  sold  within  similar time periods in the future.   There  is  no
assurance that Metropolitan will redeem the shares if they  have  not
sold  within the 60 day period. There can be no assurance  that  this
system  will continue to operate, nor that it will provide  liquidity
comparable to securities traded on recognized public stock exchanges.
See "DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED STOCK-Redemption of Shares".    

        
      5.           Control  by  Common  Stockholders/Lack  of  Voting
Rights:  The Class A Common Stock is the only class of Metropolitan's
stock  carrying voting rights.  Class A Common stockholders now hold,
and upon completion of this offering will continue to hold, effective
control of Metropolitan except as described below.  C. Paul Sandifur,
Jr.,  effectively controls Metropolitan through ownership and  voting
control.   See  "OWNERSHIP  OF  MANAGEMENT."   The  Board  resolution
authorizing   the  Preferred  Stock  provides  that  in   the   event
distributions payable on any shares of preferred stock (including the
Preferred Stock offered herein) are in arrears in an amount equal  to
twenty-four  or  more  full monthly dividends  per  share,  then  the
holders of Preferred Stock and all other outstanding preferred  stock
shall  be  entitled to elect a majority of the Board of Directors  of
Metropolitan.  Preferred Stock shareholders may also become  entitled
to
<PAGE>                        Page 38

certain  other voting rights as required by law. See "DESCRIPTION  OF
PREFERRED STOCK-Voting Rights".    

        
      6.           Possible  Redemption/Call of Preferred  Shares  by
Metropolitan:  The Preferred Stock is redeemable by Metropolitan,  in
its  sole  discretion, at any time at a price of $100 per share  plus
any  declared  and  unpaid  dividends.  If  fewer  than  all  of  the
outstanding  shares  are  redeemed, Metropolitan  may  determine  the
Shares  to  redeem  in  its  sole discretion.   See  "Description  of
Preferred Stock-Redemption of Shares."    

        
       7.        Limitations   on  Redemption  and  Restrictions   on
Distributions:  Preferred Stock is designed as a long term investment
in   the  equity  of  Metropolitan,  not  as  a  short  term,  liquid
investment.  The Preferred Stock is redeemable solely at  the  option
of  Metropolitan,  and with limited exceptions  is  specifically  not
redeemable  for  three  years following its purchase.   In  addition,
Metropolitan  may  not purchase or acquire any  shares  of  Preferred
Stock  in  the event that cumulative dividends thereon have not  been
paid in full except pursuant to a purchase or exchange offer made  on
the  same  terms to all holders of Preferred Stock.  See "DESCRIPTION
OF  PREFERRED STOCK-Redemption of Shares". Metropolitan is restricted
from  making distributions on Preferred Stock in the event  that  any
distributions to which the holders of other series of preferred stock
are  entitled  to have not been paid. See "DESCRIPTION  OF  PREFERRED
STOCK-Distributions".    
                                  
                      DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES

DESCRIPTION OF DEBENTURES

      The  Debentures will be issued under an Indenture dated  as  of
July  6,  1979  and supplements thereto dated as of October  3,  1980
(with  respect to Investment Debentures, Series II) and November  12,
1984  (with  respect  to  Installment  Debentures,  Series  I).   The
following statements relating to the Debentures and the Indenture are
summaries  and  do  not purport to be complete.  Such  summaries  are
subject to the detailed provisions of the Indenture and are qualified
in  their entirety by reference to the Indenture, a copy of which  is
filed  as  an  exhibit  to the Registration  Statement  and  is  also
available for inspection at the office of the Trustee.

General

         The  Debentures will represent unsecured general obligations
of Metropolitan and will be issued in fully negotiable form without
<PAGE>                        Page 39

coupons, in fractional denominations of $0.01 or more subject to  the
stated minimum investment amount requirements. The Debentures will be
sold  at  100% of the principal amount. The Debentures will have  the
minimum  investment amounts, maturities and interest rates set  forth
on  the  cover  page of this Prospectus. The stated  interest  rates,
maturities, and minimum investment amounts may be changed at any time
by  Metropolitan by way of a supplement to this Prospectus. Any  such
change  will  have  no  effect on the terms of  the  previously  sold
Debentures.    

      Debentures may be transferred or exchanged for other Debentures
of  the  same series of a like aggregate principal amount subject  to
the  limitations set forth in the Indenture.  No service charge  will
be made for any transfer or exchange of Debentures.  Metropolitan may
require  payment  of taxes or other governmental charges  imposed  in
connection with any such transfer or exchange.  Interest will  accrue
at  the  stated  rate  from the date of issue  until  maturity.   The
Debentures are not convertible into capital stock or other securities
of Metropolitan.

      The Debentures are not subject to redemption prior to maturity,
but  may  be  prepaid pursuant to the prepayment on  death  provision
described  below.   Also,  in  limited  circumstances  involving   an
investor's  demonstrated financial hardship,  subject  to  regulatory
restrictions affecting redemptions and exchanges of securities during
an  offering, Metropolitan may, in its sole discretion,  entertain  a
request for an early payout of a Debenture upon terms mutually agreed
to by the holder of the Debenture and Metropolitan. Such early payout
requests, when received, are reviewed in the order received.

Payment of Principal and Interest

         Investment Debentures, Series II: Interest will be  paid  to
holders  under one of several plans. The purchaser may elect to  have
interest  paid on a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or annual  basis,
without compounding, or may elect to leave the accrued interest  with
Metropolitan  in  which case it will compound  semi-annually  at  the
stated  interest  rate.  Debentureholders  may  change  the  interest
payment  election  at  any  time by written notice  to  Metropolitan.
Under  the  compounding option, upon written notice to  Metropolitan,
the  Debentureholder(s) may withdraw the interest accumulated  during
the  last two completed semiannual compounding periods as well as the
interest accrued from the end of the last compounding period  to  the
date  Metropolitan receives the notice.  Amounts compounded prior  to
the last two compounding periods are available only at maturity.    


<PAGE>                        Page 40

       Installment  Debentures,  Series  I:  Holders  of  Installment
Debentures,  Series I will be paid monthly installments comprised  of
principal and interest until maturity. Payments will commence on  the
date specified by the purchaser, which date shall be no less than  30
days  from  the debenture issue date. The amount of each  installment
will  be  determined  by  the amortization  term  designated  by  the
Debentureholder at the time the Debenture is purchased.

      Debentureholders are notified in writing between 15 and 45 days
prior  to the date their Debentures will mature.  The amounts due  on
maturity  are placed in a separate bank trust account until  paid  to
the  registered owner(s). Debentures do not earn interest  after  the
maturity  date.  Metropolitan will pay the principal and  accumulated
interest due on matured Debentures to the registered owner(s) in cash
at  Metropolitan's  main office in Spokane, Washington  or  by  check
mailed to the address designated by the registered owner.

Prepayment on Death

      In  the  event  of the death of a Debentureholder,  any   party
entitled to receive some or all of the proceeds of the Debenture  may
elect to have his or her portion of the principal and any accrued but
unpaid  interest  prepaid in full in five consecutive  equal  monthly
installments.   Interest  will continue to accrue  on  the  declining
principal  balance  of  such portion.  No interest  penalty  will  be
assessed.   Any request for prepayment shall be made to  Metropolitan
in  writing  and  shall  be accompanied by evidence  satisfactory  to
Metropolitan of the death of the registered owner or joint registered
owner.  Before prepayment, Metropolitan may require the submission of
additional  documents  or  other  material  which  it  may   consider
necessary  to  determine the portion of the proceeds  the  requesting
party  is entitled to receive, or assurances which, in Metropolitan's
discretion, it considers necessary to fulfill its obligations.

Related Indebtedness

      The  Indenture pursuant to which the Debentures are issued does
not restrict Metropolitan's ability to issue additional debentures or
to  incur other debt.  The Indenture does not require Metropolitan to
maintain any specified financial ratios, minimum net worth or minimum
working capital. There is no sinking fund for the redemption  of  the
Debentures.  Debentures  will not be guaranteed  or  insured  by  any
governmental agency.  The  State of Washington regulates  the  amount
of  debt securities Metropolitan may issue, its debt to equity ratio,
certain of its investments and various other aspects of its business.
See  "BUSINESS-Regulation".   At September  30,  1996,  Metropolitan,
including obligations of subsidiaries, had outstanding approximately
<PAGE>                        Page 41

$192,174,000  (principal  and compounded  and  accrued  interest)  of
Debentures,   $38,601,000  (principal  and   accrued   interest)   of
collateralized  debt  and had an obligation  to  purchase  securities
previously sold, but not owned, in an amount of $132,652,000  (market
value).   The Debentures offered hereby are senior in liquidation  to
all   outstanding  equity  securities  of  Metropolitan.   They   are
subordinate to Metropolitan's collateralized debt as set forth  above
and  are  on  a  parity  with  all other outstanding  debentures  and
unsecured  accounts payable and accrued liabilities.   There  are  no
limitations   on   Metropolitan's   ability   to   incur   additional
collateralized debt. Debentureholders should not rely on the terms of
the  Indenture  for protection of their investment, but  should  look
rather  to  the creditworthiness of Metropolitan and its  ability  to
satisfy its obligations.

Concerning the Trustee

     Seattle First National Bank (Seafirst) was the Indenture Trustee
until  March 8, 1996 when Seafirst sold its trust activities to First
Trust  National Association which assumed all of the  duties  of  the
Trustee  pursuant  to the terms of the Trust Indenture,  as  amended.
The  Trustee  is  obligated under the Indenture to  oversee  and,  if
necessary,  to  take action to enforce fulfillment of  Metropolitan's
obligations  to Debentureholders.  The Trustee is a national  banking
association  headquartered in Seattle, with a  combined  capital  and
surplus in excess of $100 million.  Metropolitan and certain  of  its
subsidiaries may maintain deposit accounts and from time to time, may
borrow  money from the Trustee and conduct other banking transactions
with  it.   At  September  30, 1996, and  as  of  the  date  of  this
Prospectus, no loans from the Trustee were outstanding.  In the event
of default, the Indenture permits the Trustee to become a creditor of
Metropolitan and its subsidiaries, and does not preclude the  Trustee
from enforcing its rights as a creditor, including rights as a holder
of collateralized indebtedness.

Rights and Procedures in the Event of Default

      Events  of default include the failure of Metropolitan  to  pay
interest  on any Debenture for a period of 30 days after  it  becomes
due  and  payable; the failure to pay the principal or  any  required
installment thereof of any Debenture when due; the failure to perform
any  other  covenant in the Indenture for 60 days after  notice;  and
certain  events  in  bankruptcy, insolvency  or  reorganization  with
respect to Metropolitan.  Upon the occurrence of an event of default,
either  the Trustee or the holders of 25% or more in principal amount
of  Debentures then outstanding may declare the principal of all  the
Debentures to be due and payable immediately.

<PAGE>                        Page 42


     The Trustee must give the Debentureholders notice by mail of any
default within 90 days after the occurrence of the default, unless it
has been cured or waived.  The Trustee may withhold such notice if it
determines  in  good  faith  that such withholding  is  in  the  best
interest  of the Debentureholders, except if the default consists  of
failure to pay principal or interest on any Debenture.

      Subject to certain conditions, any such default, except failure
to  pay  principal or interest when due, may be waived by the holders
of  a majority (in aggregate principal amount) of the Debentures then
outstanding.   Such holders will have the right to direct  the  time,
method  and  place  of  conducting  any  proceeding  for  any  remedy
available to the Trustee, or of exercising any power conferred on the
Trustee,  except as otherwise provided in the Indenture. The  Trustee
may  require  reasonable indemnity from holders of Debentures  before
acting at their direction.

      Within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year, Metropolitan
must  furnish  to  the  Trustee a statement of  certain  officers  of
Metropolitan  concerning  their  knowledge  as  to  whether  or   not
Metropolitan is in default under the Indenture.

Modification of the Trust Indenture

     Debentureholders' rights may be modified with the consent of the
holders   of  66  2/3%  of  the  outstanding  principal  amounts   of
Debentures,  and  66 2/3% of those series specifically  affected.  In
general,  no  adverse modification of the terms  of  payment  and  no
modifications  reducing  the percentage of  Debentures  required  for
modification is  effective against any Debentureholder without his or
her consent.

Restrictions on Consolidation, Merger, etc.

      Metropolitan may not consolidate with or merge into  any  other
corporation  or transfer substantially all its assets  unless  either
Metropolitan is the continuing corporation or the corporation  formed
by  such consolidation, or into which Metropolitan is merged, or  the
person acquiring by conveyance or transfer of such assets shall be  a
corporation  organized  and existing under the  laws  of  the  United
States  or any state thereof which assumes the performance  of  every
covenant  of  Metropolitan  under the  Indenture  and  certain  other
conditions precedent are fulfilled.

SUMMARY OF CAPITAL STOCK


<PAGE>                        Page 43

      The  authorized capital stock of Metropolitan consists  of  222
shares  of  Class A Common Stock ($2,250 par value),  222  shares  of
Class  B Common Stock ($2,250 par value), 750,000 shares of Preferred
Stock,  Series  A ($1 par value), 200,000 shares of Preferred  Stock,
Series B ($10 par value), 1,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, Series
C  ($10  par value), 1,375,000 of Preferred Stock, Series D ($10  par
value),  5,000,000  shares  of Preferred Stock,  Series  E  ($10  par
value), and 1,000,000 shares of Subordinate Preferred Stock,  no  par
value. See Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

       
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED STOCK

      This  offering  consists  of 250,000 shares  of  Variable  Rate
Cumulative  Preferred Stock, Series E-7 (hereinafter referred  to  as
"Preferred Stock").  All of the outstanding shares of preferred stock
and  the  shares  of Preferred Stock offered by Metropolitan  hereby,
when  issued  and  sold,  will  be validly  issued,  fully  paid  and
nonassessable.   The  relative rights and  preferences  of  Preferred
Stock  have  been fixed and determined by the Board of  Directors  of
Metropolitan  and  are set forth in the Preferred  Stock  Authorizing
Resolution (the Authorizing Resolution).  Preferred Stock  is  issued
in  book entry form.  Investments in Preferred Stock are evidenced by
receipts and not by negotiable stock certificates.

      The  following statements relating to the Preferred  Stock  are
summaries, do not purport to be complete and are qualified  in  their
entirety  by reference to the Authorizing Resolution a copy of  which
is  filed  with  the  Commission as an exhibit  to  the  Registration
Statement  and  is  also available for inspection  at  the  principal
office of Metropolitan.

Distributions

      Distributions on Preferred Stock are cumulative and are  to  be
declared  monthly on the first business day of the month  payable  to
the  shareholders  of  record as of the fifth calendar  day  of  each
month.   Distributions  are  to be paid  in  cash  on  the  twentieth
calendar  day of each month in an amount equal to the offering  price
of  $100  per  share multiplied by the distribution rate  divided  by
twelve.   The  distribution  rate will be the  "Applicable  Rate"  as
defined  herein subject to the authority of Metropolitan's  Board  of
Directors to authorize, by resolution, a higher rate.

      The  Applicable Rate for any monthly distribution period cannot
be  less than  6% or greater than 14% per annum. The Applicable  Rate
for
<PAGE>                        Page 44

any monthly distribution period shall be (i) the highest of the
Three-Month  U.S. Treasury Bill Rate, the Ten-Year Constant  Maturity
Rate  and the Twenty-Year Constant Maturity Rate (each as more  fully
described in the Authorizing Resolution), plus (ii) one half  of  one
percentage point.  Each of the above rates shall be calculated as the
arithmetic average of the two most recent weekly per annum yields  as
published  weekly  by the Federal Reserve Board during  the  Calendar
Period  immediately  prior  to  the  ten  calendar  days  immediately
preceding  the  first day of the distribution period  for  which  the
distribution rate on the Preferred Stock is being determined.  Should
Metropolitan determine in good faith that one or more of  such  rates
cannot be determined for any distribution period, then the Applicable
Rate  of  such period shall be the higher of whichever of such  rates
can  be so determined, plus one half of one percentage point.  Should
Metropolitan determine in good faith that none of such rates  can  be
determined for any distribution period, then the Applicable  Rate  in
effect  for the preceding distribution period shall be continued  for
such  distribution period.  The distribution rate  for  each  monthly
distribution period shall be calculated as promptly as practicable by
Metropolitan.   Metropolitan will cause notice  of  the  distribution
rate  to be enclosed with the next mailed distribution payment check.
In making such calculation, the Three-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Rate,
Ten-Year  Constant  Maturity Rate and Twenty-Year  Constant  Maturity
Rate  shall  each  be  rounded to the nearest five  hundredths  of  a
percentage point.

      Prior  to the effective date of this prospectus, Metropolitan's
Board  of  Directors adopted a resolution to authorize a distribution
rate  on the Preferred Stock at one percentage point higher than  the
Applicable  Rate.  Such higher distribution rate will  continue  from
month to month until the Board elects to terminate it.  The Board may
increase,  decrease or eliminate the additional percentage  point  at
any time, in its sole discretion.

Restrictions on Distributions

      Metropolitan may not declare or pay a distribution on any share
of Preferred Stock offered herein for any distribution period unless,
at  the  same time, a like distribution shall be declared or paid  on
all  shares of preferred stock previously issued and outstanding  and
entitled to receive distributions.  See "Capitalization".

      So long as any shares of the Preferred Stock offered herein are
outstanding,  and  unless the full cumulative  distributions  on  all
previously   issued  outstanding  preferred  shares,  including   the
Preferred Stock offered herein, shall have been paid or declared  and
set  apart for all past distribution periods, Metropolitan  may  not:
(i)
<PAGE>                        Page 45

declare or pay or set aside for payment any distribution (other  than
a  distribution in common stock or in any other stock ranking  junior
to Preferred Stock as to distributions and upon liquidation and other
than as provided in the foregoing paragraph); (ii) declare or pay any
other  distribution upon common stock or upon any other stock ranking
junior to or on a parity with Preferred Stock as to distributions  or
upon  liquidation;  or  (iii) redeem, purchase or  otherwise  acquire
common stock or any other stock of Metropolitan ranking junior to  or
on  a  parity  with  Preferred  Stock as  to  distributions  or  upon
liquidation for any consideration (or pay or make available any funds
for  a  sinking  fund for the redemption of any shares  of  any  such
stock)   except  by  conversion  into  or  exchange  for   stock   of
Metropolitan  ranking junior to Preferred Stock as  to  distributions
and upon liquidation.

      Metropolitan  may make distributions ratably on the  shares  of
Preferred Stock and shares of any stock of Metropolitan ranking on  a
parity  therewith  with regard to the payment  of  distributions,  in
accordance with the sums which would be payable on such shares if all
distributions,  including accumulations, if any,  were  declared  and
paid   in  full.   As  of  the  date  hereof,  no  distributions   on
Metropolitan's preferred stock are in arrears.  No interest  will  be
paid for or on account of any unpaid distributions.

Liquidation Rights

         In  the  event of any voluntary or involuntary  liquidation,
dissolution or winding up of Metropolitan, the holders of  shares  of
Preferred  Stock  will be entitled to receive out of  the  assets  of
Metropolitan available for distribution to stockholders,  before  any
distribution  of  assets is made to holders of common  stock  or  any
stock  of Metropolitan ranking, upon liquidation, junior to Preferred
Stock, liquidating distributions in the amount of $100 per share plus
declared  and unpaid regular monthly distributions.  Preferred  Stock
is  junior in liquidation to outstanding debt of Metropolitan and  on
parity  with all other issued and outstanding preferred stock to  the
extent  of  its  liquidation preference of $100  per  share.   As  of
September   30,   1996,   the  total  liabilities   of   Metropolitan
(consolidated) ranking senior in liquidation preference to  Preferred
Stock  were approximately $1,236,315,000.  Obligations ranking  on  a
parity  with  Preferred  Stock  upon  liquidation  (i.e.  the   total
liquidation  preference  of the outstanding shares  of  all  previous
series   of   preferred  stock)  as  of  September  30,   1996   were
approximately  $49,496,000.   The  amount  of  additional   unsecured
indebtedness  that Metropolitan may incur is regulated by  Washington
state  law.  See "BUSINESS Regulation".  There are no limitations  on
Metropolitan's
<PAGE>                        Page 46

ability    to    incur   additional   secured   indebtedness.     See
"Capitalization" & "Risk Factors".    

      The  Preferred  Stock  Authorizing  Resolution  provides  that,
without limitation, the voluntary sale, lease or conveyance of all or
substantially  all of Metropolitan's property or assets  to,  or  its
consolidation  or  merger  with any other corporation  shall  not  be
deemed   to   be  a  liquidation,  dissolution  or  winding   up   of
Metropolitan.   If  upon  any voluntary or  involuntary  liquidation,
dissolution  or winding up of Metropolitan, the aggregate liquidation
preference  payable  with respect to Preferred Stock  and  any  other
shares  of  stock of Metropolitan ranking as to any such distribution
on a parity with Preferred Stock are not paid in full, the holders of
Preferred  Stock and of such other shares will share ratably  in  any
such distribution of assets of Metropolitan in proportion to the full
respective  preferential amounts to which they are  entitled.   After
payment  of the full amount of the liquidating distribution to  which
they are entitled, the holders of shares of Preferred Stock will  not
be  entitled  to  any  further participation in any  distribution  of
assets by Metropolitan.

Redemption of Shares

      Upon  call  by Metropolitan: Subject to regulatory restrictions
affecting  redemptions during an offering, the  shares  of  Preferred
Stock  are  redeemable, in whole or in part, only at  the  option  of
Metropolitan  at a redemption price of $100 per share  plus  declared
and  unpaid dividends to the date fixed for redemption. In the  event
that fewer than all of the outstanding shares of Preferred Stock  are
to  be  redeemed,  the  number of shares  to  be  redeemed  shall  be
determined  by  Metropolitan and the shares to be redeemed  shall  be
determined  by  such  method as Metropolitan in its  sole  discretion
deems to be equitable.

   
      Discretionary Redemption Upon Request of the Holder:  Preferred
Stock  is  not redeemable at the option of the holder.  If,  however,
Metropolitan  receives an unsolicited written request for  redemption
of  shares from any holder, Metropolitan may, in its sole discretion,
subject  to regulatory restrictions affecting redemptions  during  an
offering,  and  subject to the limitations described below,  consider
such shares for redemption.  Such redemption requests, when received,
are  reviewed  in the order received.  Any shares so tendered,  which
Metropolitan  in  its  discretion allows  for  redemption,  shall  be
redeemed by Metropolitan directly, (and not from or through a  broker
dealer), at a price established by the Board of Directors, from  time
to time, in its sole discretion.
    


<PAGE>                        Page 47

       There  can  be  no  assurance  that  Metropolitan's  financial
condition  will allow it to exercise its discretion  to  accept   any
particular  request for redemption of Preferred Stock.   Metropolitan
will  not redeem any such shares tendered for redemption if to do  so
would,  in  the opinion of Metropolitan's management,  be  unsafe  or
unsound in light of Metropolitan's financial condition (including its
liquidity  position);  if payment of interest  or  principal  on  any
outstanding  instrument of indebtedness is in arrears or in  default;
or  if  payment of any dividend on Preferred Stock or  share  of  any
stock  of Metropolitan ranking at least on a parity therewith  is  in
arrears  as to dividends.  In the event that cumulative dividends  on
Preferred  Stock  have  not been paid in full, Metropolitan  may  not
purchase  or  acquire any shares  of Preferred Stock  otherwise  than
pursuant  to  a purchase or exchange offer made on the same terms  to
all holders of Preferred Stock.

   
     As provided in the Preferred Stock Authorizing Resolution, for a
period of three years from the date of initial sale of each share  of
Preferred Stock, any redemption of such share, at the sole discretion
of  Metropolitan,  shall occur only upon the death or  major  medical
emergency,  (as  demonstrated to the satisfaction  of  Metropolitan's
management) of the holder or any joint holder of the share  requested
to  be  redeemed.  As further provided in the Authorizing Resolution,
any  optional  redemption of a share in any calendar year  after  the
third  year from the date of sale of the share, not arising from  the
death  or  medical emergency of the holder or any joint holder  shall
occur  only when the sum of all optional redemptions (including those
arising  out of the death or medical emergency of the holder  or  any
joint holder) of shares of Preferred Stock during that calendar  year
shall  not  exceed ten percent of the number of shares  of  Preferred
Stock outstanding at the end of the preceding calendar year.  In  the
event the ten percent limit is reached in any calendar year, the only
redemptions which may  be considered during that calendar year  shall
be those arising from the death or medical emergency of the holder or
any  joint  holder; provided, however, that to the extent that  total
optional  redemptions  in any calendar year  do  not  reach  the  ten
percent  limit,  the amount by which such optional redemptions  shall
fall  short of the ten percent limit may be carried over into ensuing
years;  and provided further that to the extent that all redemptions,
including  those  involving the death or  medical  emergency  of  the
holder or any joint holder, exceed the ten percent limit in any year,
the  amount  by  which such redemptions exceed the ten percent  limit
shall   reduce  the  limit  in  the  succeeding  year  for   limiting
redemptions not involving the death or medical emergency of a  holder
or any joint holder.  In no event, shall such optional redemptions of
all types in any single
<PAGE>                        Page 48

calendar  year exceed 20% of the number of shares of Preferred  Stock
outstanding at the end of the preceding calendar year.
    

         The  Preferred Stock is not expected to  be  traded  on  any
National or Regional Stock Exchange and no independent public  market
for  Preferred Stock is anticipated.  Management does not  anticipate
applying for a listing for such public trading.  In order to  provide
shareholders  with  some liquidity, MIS operates a  trading  list  to
match   buyers   and  sellers  of  Metropolitan's  preferred   stock.
Metropolitan does not participate as a buyer or seller on the trading
list.  With limited exceptions, Metropolitan has established a policy
that  all  preferred shareholders (including holders of the Preferred
Shares  offered hereunder) must place their shares for  sale  on  the
trading  list  for  60  consecutive  days  before  Metropolitan  will
entertain a request for redemption. During 1996, the average  waiting
time  for  a  Metropolitan shareholder wishing to  sell  Metropolitan
preferred  shares on this trading list was 25 days.   However,  there
can  be no assurance that the shares will be sold within similar time
periods in the future.  There is no assurance that the shares will be
sold   within  the  60  day  period.  There  is  no  assurance   that
Metropolitan will redeem the shares if they have not sold within  the
60  day  period.  There  can be no assurance that  this  system  will
continue to operate nor that it will provide liquidity comparable  to
securities  traded  on recognized public stock exchanges.  See  "RISK
FACTORS".    

Voting Rights

      The Preferred Stock has no voting rights except as provided  in
the Authorizing Resolution and except as required by Washington State
law  regarding amendments to Metropolitan's Articles of Incorporation
which  adversely   affect  holders of such  shares  as  a  class  and
requires  approval of 66 2/3% of the outstanding shares  entitled  to
vote.

      The  Authorizing Resolution provides that holders of  Preferred
Stock,  together with the holders of Metropolitan's other outstanding
preferred  stock and any other preferred stock thereafter authorized,
voting separately and as a single class, shall be entitled to elect a
majority of the Board of Directors of Metropolitan in the event  that
distributions payable on any shares of Preferred Stock  shall  be  in
arrears  in  an  amount  equal to twenty-four or  more  full  monthly
dividends per share. Such right will continue until all distributions
in arrears have been paid in full.

Federal Income Tax Consequences of Distributions


<PAGE>                        Page 49

      The following discussion of the federal income tax consequences
of  distributions is based upon the Internal Revenue Code of 1986  as
amended   (the   "Code"),  existing  Treasury  regulations,   current
published  administrative positions of the Internal  Revenue  Service
(the "Service") contained in revenue rulings, revenue procedures  and
notes  and  existing judicial decisions.  No assurance can  be  given
that legislative or administrative changes or court decisions may not
be forthcoming that could significantly modify the statements in this
discussion.  Any  such  changes may or may not  be  retroactive  with
respect to transactions effected prior to the date of such changes.

     Distributions made to the holders of Preferred Stock will either
be taxable or not depending, in part, on the extent to which they are
made   out  of  current  or  accumulated  earnings  and  profits   of
Metropolitan as calculated for federal income tax purposes.   To  the
extent,  if  any,  that  distributions made by  Metropolitan  to  the
holders  of  Preferred Stock exceed current and accumulated  earnings
and profits of Metropolitan, such distributions will be treated first
as  a  tax-free  return of capital, reducing the  holder's  basis  in
Preferred  Stock (not below zero), and thereafter, as  capital  gains
(or  ordinary gains if the Preferred Stock is not held by the  holder
as a capital asset).

   
       Metropolitan  believes  that  distributions  with  respect  to
Metropolitan's  preferred stock paid during the calendar  years  1984
through 1992 and 1994 were a return of capital under Section  301  of
the   Code.    Metropolitan  has  filed  a   Report   of   Nontaxable
Distributions  for  the years 1984 through 1992  and  1994  with  the
Service.  Metropolitan believes that distributions paid during  1993,
1995  and  1996  were taxable.  Metropolitan is currently  unable  to
predict  the character of its distribution for future years,  but  as
required  by the Code, will report annually to shareholders regarding
the tax character of the prior years distributions.
    

   
      Each  Preferred  shareholder's individual tax circumstances  is
unique;  accordingly, Preferred shareholders  are advised to  consult
their own tax advisor with respect to the income tax treatment or any
distribution made with respect to the Preferred Stock.
    

      Distributions  paid  with respect to Preferred  Stock,  whether
deemed  to  be  dividends, return of capital, or  capital  gains  for
federal  income tax purposes, will result in the same federal  income
tax  consequences  to  Metropolitan as other payments  of  dividends.
These  distributions are not deductible by Metropolitan under current
tax
<PAGE>                        Page 50

law.  Additionally, distributions to foreign taxpayers are subject to
special rules not discussed herein.

Summary of Preferred Stock Attributes
   
       The   following  table  sets  forth  several  of  the  primary
differences  and relative rights of the various series of outstanding
preferred  stock  of Metropolitan as of the date of  this  prospectus
including the Preferred Stock, Series E-7 offered herein:
<TABLE>
<S>        <C>       <C>          <C>         <C>
SERIES    OFFERING   LIQUIDATION  REDEMPTION  DIVIDEND
          PRICE      PREFERENCE   PRICE (1)   RATE (4)

C          $10       $10         $9.90        APPLICABLE RATE
D          $10       $10         $9.90        APPLICABLE RATE
E-1        $10       $10         $9.90        APPLICABLE RATE
E-2        $100      $10 (2)     $99          APPLICABLE RATE
                                                PLUS .5 PERCENT
E-3        $100      $10 (2)     $99          APPLICABLE RATE
                                                PLUS .5 PERCENT
E-4        $100      $100        $99 (3)      APPLICABLE RATE
                                                PLUS .5 PERCENT
E-5        $100      $100        $99 (3)      APPLICABLE RATE
                                                PLUS .5 PERCENT
E-6        $100      $100            (3)      APPLICABLE RATE
                                                PLUS .5 PERCENT
E-7        $100      $100            (5)      APPLICABLE RATE
                                                PLUS .5 PERCENT
    
</TABLE>
   
(1)   The  Redemption Price shown, is for redemption's at the request
of  the  shareholder.   Redemption of such  shares  is  at  the  sole
discretion  of  Metropolitan.  In the event of a  redemption  at  the
request   of  Metropolitan,  the  redemption  price  per  share   for
authorized shares of Series C, D, and E-1 preferred stock is $10  and
for Series E-2 through E-6 preferred stock is $100.
    

(2)    The liquidation preference for classes E-2 and E-3 is $10.  In
addition,  Metropolitan's  Articles  of  Incorporation,  as  amended,
provide  that  the E-2 and E-3 shareholders will receive  liquidation
distributions of up to $90 per share prior to any distribution to the
common shareholders.
   

<PAGE>                        Page 51

(3)     E-4,  E-5,  E-6 and E-7 stock are not redeemable  during  the
first  three  years  after  their  respective  issuance  except   for
instances  of  death  or  medical  emergency.   See  "Description  of
Preferred  Stock-Redemption Rights".  If redeemed  during  the  first
year  after  initial  issuance,  the redemption  price  is  $97,  and
thereafter it is $99.
    
(4)     The  Board  has  authorized,  for  an  indefinite  period,  a
distribution  payment  on  all  series  of  Preferred  Stock  of   an
additional one percentage point above the Applicable Rate.  The Board
may  at its sole discretion eliminate the additional percentage point
above the Applicable Rate.

   
(5)    Redemption at the request of a shareholder, and the redemption
price   upon   such  a  request,  are  at  the  sole  discretion   of
Metropolitan.  In the event of redemption at Metropolitan's  request,
the price is $102 until December 31, 1997 and $100 thereafter.
    
   DESCRIPTION OF COMMON STOCK

      Holders of shares of Class A Common Stock are entitled  to  one
vote  per  share  on all matters to be voted on by the  shareholders.
Subject  to the rights of holders of outstanding shares of  preferred
stock,  if any, and the Preferred Stock sold hereunder, if  any,  the
holders  of  Common Stock are entitled to receive such dividends,  as
may  be  declared from time to time by the Board of Directors in  its
discretion  from  funds legally available, and  upon  liquidation  or
dissolution  of  Metropolitan  are entitled  to  receive  all  assets
available for distribution to shareholders. The Common Stock  has  no
preemptive  or other subscription rights, and there are no conversion
rights or redemption or sinking fund provisions with respect to  such
shares.  Certain  Class  A and B Common Shares,  which  are  held  by
certain  officers and board members of Metropolitan, are  subject  to
resale restrictions and subject to Metropolitan's right to repurchase
in  the event of termination of employment. All outstanding shares of
Common Stock are fully paid and nonassessable.

      There  is  no redemption provision for either series of  common
stock.   Each  series  of  common stock receives  dividends  in  such
amounts  as  may  be  declared from time to  time  by  the  Board  of
Directors.   The liquidation preference of Common Stock Series  A  is
$2,250  per share.  It is junior in liquidation preference to  Series
B.  The liquidation preference of Common Stock Series B is the amount
originally  paid  for  the shares.  All series of  Common  Stock  are
subordinate  in  liquidation  to  all  series  of  preferred   stock,
including the Preferred Stock offered herein.    


<PAGE>                        Page 52

Transfer Agent and Registrar

        Metropolitan acts as its own transfer agent and registrar  of
Metropolitan's capital stock.
                                  
                            LEGAL MATTERS

                           LEGAL OPINION

      The  legality  of  the Debentures and Preferred  Stock  offered
hereby is being passed upon for Metropolitan by Susan A. Thomson, who
is  employed  by Metropolitan as its Assistant Corporate Counsel  and
Vice  President.   She  is  also  Assistant  Corporate  Counsel   for
Metropolitan's subsidiaries.  In addition, she is Assistant Corporate
Counsel for Summit and its subsidiaries.

                         LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

      There  are no material legal proceedings or actions pending  or
threatened against any of the companies within the Consolidated Group
or to which its property is subject.

                               EXPERTS

       The  consolidated  balance  sheets  of  Metropolitan  and  its
subsidiaries  as of September 30, 1996 and 1995 and the  consolidated
statements of income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of
the  three  years in the period ended September 30, 1996 included  in
this Prospectus, have been included herein in reliance on the report,
which  includes  an explanatory paragraph describing changes  in  the
method of accounting for impaired loans in fiscal 1996, of Coopers  &
Lybrand  L.L.P., independent accountants, given on the  authority  of
that firm as experts in accounting and auditing.

                        PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

         The  Debentures and Preferred Stock are offered directly  to
the  public on a continuing best efforts basis through MIS, which  is
affiliated  with Metropolitan through the common control of  C.  Paul
Sandifur  Jr. See "CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS  ".
Accordingly,  the  offering has not received the independent  selling
agent  review  customarily  made when an unaffiliated  selling  agent
offers  securities.  No commission or other expense of  the  offering
will  be paid by the purchasers of the Debentures or Preferred Stock.
A commission will, however, be paid by Metropolitan on most Debenture
purchases up to a maximum amount of 6% of the Debenture price,
<PAGE>                        Page 53

depending  on  the  term  of the Debenture and  whether  or  not  the
transaction is a reinvestment or new purchase.  A commission  in  the
maximum  amount  of 6% of the offering price will  also  be  paid  by
Metropolitan  on  most  Preferred  Stock  purchases.  Debentures  are
offered  only  for  cash  or cash equivalents.   Preferred  Stock  is
offered  for  cash  or  other consideration (tangible  or  intangible
property) which is acceptable to Metropolitan as determined  in  good
faith  by  the Board of Directors.  MIS will transmit such  funds  or
other  consideration directly to Metropolitan by  noon  of  the  next
business day after receipt.  Metropolitan will also pay certain other
expenses  in  connection with the offering (not  expected  to  exceed
$50,000).   During the three fiscal years ended September  30,  1996,
MIS has received commissions of $2,954,117 from Metropolitan on sales
of   approximately  $117,260,000  of  Metropolitan's  debentures  and
preferred stock.    

      MIS  is  a  member  of the National Association  of  Securities
Dealer's, Inc. (NASD).  As such, NASD Rule 2720 (formerly Schedule E)
applies   and   requires,  in  part,  that  a  qualified  independent
underwriter be engaged to render an opinion regarding the fairness of
the  interest rates to be paid on the Debentures and the fairness  of
the  pricing  of the Preferred Stock offered through this Prospectus.
Accordingly, MIS has obtained an opinion from Welco Securities, Inc.,
an  NASD  member, ("Welco") that the interest rates on the Debentures
using a formula tied to corresponding interest rates paid by the U.S.
Treasury  and  regional financial institutions  meets  this  fairness
objective  based on conditions and circumstances existing as  of  the
date  of  the  Prospectus.  A similar opinion has been obtained  from
Welco,  which  states that the offering price of the Preferred  Stock
meets  the  fairness objective based on conditions and circumstances,
existing  as of the date of the Prospectus.  Metropolitan  undertakes
to  maintain  the  interest rates on Debentures no lower  than  those
recommended by Welco based on the formula. Accordingly, the yield  at
which  the Debentures will be distributed will be no lower than  that
recommended  by  Welco and the price offered for the Preferred  Stock
will  be  no  higher than Welco would have independently recommended.
Welco  has  assumed the responsibilities of acting as  the  qualified
independent  underwriter in pricing the offering and  conducting  due
diligence.   For performing its functions as a qualified  independent
underwriter  with  respect  to  the Debentures  and  Preferred  Stock
offered hereunder, Welco is to be paid $44,000 in fees and $15,000 in
non-accountable expenses plus its accountable expenses, which are not
expected to exceed $2,500.

        The Registrant has agreed to indemnify Welco against, or make
contributions to Welco with respect to certain liabilities under  the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended and the Securities Exchange Act of
1934, as amended.    

<PAGE>                        Page 54


         There is not now and Metropolitan does not expect that there
will be a public trading market for the Debentures or Preferred Stock
in  the  future.   MIS  does not intend to  make  a  market  for  the
Debentures  or Preferred Stock. Metropolitan, through MIS, undertakes
to  maintain  a list of holders of preferred stock who wish  to  sell
their  preferred  stock  and buyers who wish to  purchase  previously
issued  and outstanding shares of preferred stock. See "Risk Factors-
Risk  Related  to  Lack  of Liquidity and  Limited  Marketability  of
Shares & Description of Preferred Stock-Redemption of Shares."    

      MIS  may enter into selected dealer agreements with and reallow
to  certain dealers, who are members of the NASD, and certain foreign
dealers who are not eligible for membership in the NASD, a commission
of up to 6% of the principal amount of Debentures and Preferred Stock
sold  by  such  dealers.  After the commencement of the offering  the
commissions and reallowances, if any, may be lowered.

                          USE OF PROCEEDS

      Debenture  Proceeds . . . .  If all the Debentures offered  are
sold,  Metropolitan expects net proceeds from this Debenture offering
of  $100,000,000  to  $94,000,000  before  deducting  other  expenses
estimated  at  $190,000  (combined  total  for  both  Debentures  and
Preferred  Stock)  and  after sales commissions.   There  can  be  no
assurance,  however, that any of the Debentures can  be  sold.  Sales
commissions  will range up to a maximum of $6,000,000 (6%)  depending
on  maturities of Debentures sold and whether sales are reinvestments
or new purchases.  See "BUSINESS - Method of Financing."

      Preferred  Stock  Proceeds . . . .If all  the  Preferred  Stock
offered  is  sold,  Metropolitan  expects  net  proceeds  from   this
Preferred  Stock  offering  of  $25,000,000  to  $23,500,000   before
deducting  other expenses estimated at $190,000 (combined  total  for
both  Debentures and Preferred Stock) and after sales commissions  of
up  to $1,500,000 (6%).  There can be no assurance, however, that any
of  the  Preferred  Stock  can  be  sold.   See  "BUSINESS-Method  of
Financing."

         In  conjunction with the other funds available to it through
operations and/or borrowings, Metropolitan will utilize the  proceeds
of  the  Debenture and Preferred Stock  offerings for  the  following
purposes,  shown  in  their descending order  of  priority:   Funding
investments  in Receivables and other investments, which may  include
investments  in  existing  subsidiaries,  the  commencement  of   new
business  ventures;  or  the  acquisition  of  other  companies,  and
development  of real estate now held or which may be  acquired.   The
Consolidated Group
<PAGE>                        Page 55

continues  to  evaluate  possible acquisition candidates.   Presently
there are no commitments or agreements for material acquisitions.  To
the extent internally generated funds are insufficient or unavailable
for  the retirement of maturing debentures through the period  ending
January  31, 1998, proceeds of this offering may be used for retiring
maturing  debentures,  preferred  stock  dividends  and  for  general
corporate   purposes  (debt  service  and  other  general   operating
expenses.)  Approximately $47.1 million in principal amount  of  debt
securities will mature between February 1, 1997 and January 31,  1998
with  interest  rates  ranging from 5.75%  to  10.25%  and  averaging
approximately  8.1%  per  annum. See  Note  10  to  the  Consolidated
Financial Statements & "RISK FACTORS".    

      Management  anticipates  that some  of  the  proceeds  of  this
offering  will  be  invested in money market funds,  bank  repurchase
agreements,  commercial  paper,  U.S.  Treasury  Bills  and   similar
securities  investments while awaiting use as  described  above.  See
"BUSINESS-Securities  Investments".  Due to Metropolitan's  inability
to  accurately forecast the total amount of Debentures  or  Preferred
Stock to be sold pursuant to this offering, no specific amounts  have
been allocated for any of the foregoing purposes.

        In the event substantially less than the maximum proceeds are
obtained,  Metropolitan does not anticipate any material  changes  to
its planned use of proceeds from those described above.    

                           CAPITALIZATION


       The   following   table  sets  forth  the  capitalization   of
Metropolitan and its consolidated subsidiaries at September 30, 1996.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>                                                     Amount
          Class                                             Outstanding
                                                        (Dollars in thousands)
<S>                                                         <C>
Debt Payable
     Reverse repurchase agreements with various
        securities brokers;
        interest at 5% to 5.8% per annum due and
        repaid on October 1, 1996..................         $ 16,835
     Reverse repurchase agreements with Paine Webber,
        interest at 5.38% per annum; due and
        repaid on October 4, 1996..................           18,650
     Securities sold, not owned, at market(1).....           132,652
     Real estate contracts and mortgage notes
        payable, interest rates ranging from 3%

<PAGE>                        Page 56

        to 10.9% per annum, due through 2016........           2,965
                                                            --------
            Total Debt Payable.......................        171,102
                                                            --------
Debenture Bonds
     Investment Debentures, Series II, maturing
        1996 to 2001, at 5% to 11%..................         162,438
     Investment Debentures Series I, maturing
        in 1996 to 2005 at 7.5% to 10.25%........                596
     Compound and accrued interest.................           29,140
                                                            --------
            Total Debenture Bonds..................          192,174
                                                            --------
Stockholders' Equity
     Preferred Stock...............................           21,518
     Common Stock..................................              293
     Additional paid-in capital....................           16,792
     Net unrealized losses on investments..........             (991)
     Retained earnings.............................            8,731
                                                       --------
     Total Stockholders' Equity....................           46,343
                                                            --------
Total Capitalization............................            $409,619
                                                            ========
(1) U.S. Treasury Securities were acquired in November, 1996 to satisfy
this obligation.

<PAGE>                        Page 57

</TABLE>
                                        
                      SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>      The  consolidated financial data shown below as of September  30,
1996  and 1995 and for the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995, and 1994 (other
than  the Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and preferred stock dividends) have
been  derived  from,  and  should  be read in conjunction  with,  Metropolitan's
consolidated  financial  statements, related notes, and Management's  Discussion
and  Analysis  of  Financial  Condition  and  Results  of  Operations  appearing
elsewhere  herein.  The consolidated financial data shown as  of  September  30,
1994,  1993  and 1992 and for the years ended September 30, 1993 and  1992  have
been  derived  from  audited  financial  statements  not  included  herein.  The
consolidated  financial statements as of and for the years ended  September  30,
1996,  1995,  1994 and 1993 have been audited by Coopers & Lybrand  L.L.P.   The
consolidated  financial statements as of and for the year  ended  September  30,
1992 has been audited by BDO Seidman.
   
                         Three Months Ended                           
                            December 31,                              
                            (Unaudited)                   Year Ended September 30,
                        --------  ---------   -----------------------------------------------
                                              ----------
                          1996       1995       1996      1995      1994      1993      1992
                                                (Dollars in Thousands
                                              Except Per Share Amounts)
<S>                     <C>       <C>         <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
CONSOLIDATED                                                                          
STATEMENTS OF INCOME
DATE
Revenues                 $40,585     $34,057   $156,672  $138,107  $138,186  $133,113  $121,22
                                                                                             1
                         =======     =======   ========  ========  ========  ========  =======
                                                                                             =
Income before minority                                                                        
interest,                                                                                     
extraordinary item and                                                                        
cumulative effect of                                                                          
change in accounting      $3,916        $312   $  8,146  $  6,376  $  5,702  $  8,558        $
<PAGE>                                                                                   3,290
Page 58

principle
Income allocated to                                                                           
minority interests          (35)         (9)      (108)      (73)     (224)     (255)    (363)
                        --------    --------   --------  --------  --------  --------  -------
                                                                                             -
Income before                                                                                 
extraordinary item and                                                                        
cumulative effect of                                                                          
change in accounting                                                                          
for income taxes           3,881         303      8,038     6,303     5,478     8,303    2,927
Extraordinary item (1)        --          --         --        --        --        --      651
Cumulative effect of                                                                          
change in accounting                                                                          
for income taxes (2)          --          --         --        --        --   (4,300)       --
                        --------    --------   --------  --------  --------  --------  -------
                                                                                             -
Net income                 3,881         303      8,038     6,303     5,478     4,003    3,578

Preferred stock          (1,024)       (923)    (3,868)   (4,038)   (3,423)   (3,313)  (3,399)
dividends               --------    --------   --------  --------  --------  --------  -------
                                                                                             -

Income (loss)                                                                                 
applicable to common      $2,857      $(620)     $4,170    $2,265    $2,055   $   690        $
stockholders            ========     =======   ========  ========  ========  ========      179
                                                                                       =======
                                                                                             =
                                                                                              
Ratio of Earnings to                                                                          
Fixed Charges               1.98                   1.46      1.35      1.29      1.43     1.21
Ratio of Earnings to                                                                          
Fixed Charges and                                                                    
Preferred Stock             1.57                   1.14      1.03      1.04      1.17
Dividends (4)                                                                        
PER COMMON SHARE DATA                                                                         
(3):
Income (loss) before                                                                          
extraordinary item and                                                                        
cumulative effect of                                                                          
change in accounting     $21,981    $(4,770)    $32,073  $ 17,288  $ 14,996  $ 37,239  $(3,579
principle                                                                                    )
Extraordinary items           --          --         --        --        --        --    4,932
(1)
                                                                                              
<PAGE>                                                                                        
Page 59                       --          --         --        --        --  (32,089)       --
                        --------    --------   --------  --------  --------  --------  -------
Cumulative effect of                                                                         -
change in accounting
principle (2)
Income (loss)                                                                                 
applicable to common     $21,981    $(4,770)    $32,073  $ 17,288   $14,996   $ 5,150        $
stockholders (5)        ========    ========   ========  ========  ========  ========    1,353
                                                                                       =======
                                                                                             =
Weighted Average                                                                              
Number of Common             130         130        130       131       137       134      132
Shares Outstanding(3)   ========    ========   ========  ========  ========  ========  =======
                                                                                             =
                                                                                              
Cash Dividends Per                                                                            
Common Share                 $--         $--        $--  $  3,800   $   675   $   675      $--
                        ========    ========   ========  ========  ========  ========  =======
                                                                                             =
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE                                                                          
SHEET DATA:

Total Assets            $1,142,2  $1,084,743  $1,282,65  $1,078,4  $1,063,2  $1,031,9  $982,25
                              22                      9        68        90        58        9
Debt Securities, Other                                                                        
Debt Payable and                                                                              
Securities Sold, Not     209,005     215,968    363,427   226,864   261,500   234,497  230,814
Owned
Stockholders' Equity      50,476      40,498     46,343    40,570    32,625    32,781   28,260
                                                                                              
                                                                                              
                                                                                              
    
</TABLE>

<PAGE>                        Page 60


      (1)   Benefit from utilization of net operating loss  carry
forwards.

     (2)    Change in accounting principles reflects the adoption
of  Statement  of  Financial  Accounting  Standards  No.  109   -
"Accounting for Income Taxes."

      (3)     All information retroactively reflects the  reverse
common  stock split of 2,250:1 which occurred during  the  fiscal
year ended September 30, 1994.

     (4)  The consolidated ratio of earnings to fixed charges and
preferred  dividends was 1.14, 1.03, 1.04 and 1.17 for the  years
ended  September  30,  1996, 1995, 1994 and  1993,  respectively.
Earnings  were  insufficient to meet fixed charges and  preferred
dividends for the year ended September 30, 1992, by approximately
$783,000.

      Assuming  no  benefit from the earnings of its subsidiaries
with  the  exception of direct dividend payments,  the  ratio  of
earnings   to   fixed   charges  and  preferred   dividends   for
Metropolitan  alone was 1.11, 1.05, 1.34 and 1.06 for  the  years
ended  September  30,  1996, 1995, 1994 and  1993,  respectively.
Earnings  were  insufficient to meet fixed charges and  preferred
dividends for the year ended September 30, 1992, by approximately
$13,012,000.

       The  consolidated  ratio  of  earnings  to  fixed  charges
excluding preferred stock dividends was as follows for the  years
ended September 30, 1996 - 1.46; 1995 - 1.35; 1994 - 1.29; 1993 -
1.43;  and 1992 - 1.21.  The ratio of earnings to fixed  charges,
excluding  preferred stock dividends, for Metropolitan,  assuming
no  benefit  from  the  earnings of  its  subsidiaries  with  the
exception  of direct dividend payments was 1.48, 1.40,  1.36  and
1.31 for the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995, 1994 and 1993,
respectively.  Such "parent only" earnings of  Metropolitan  were
insufficient  to meet fixed charges for the year ended  September
30, 1992 by approximately $7,701,000.

      (5)  Earnings  per common share are computed  by  deducting
preferred stock dividends from net income and dividing the result
by  the  weighted  average  number  of  shares  of  common  stock
outstanding.  There were no common stock equivalents or
<PAGE>                        Page 61

potentially  dilutive  securities  outstanding  during  any  year
presented.

   MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
                    AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
                                
Introduction
   

    
         Consolidated  Group net income after  income  taxes  and
minority  interest was approximately $8.0 million for the  fiscal
year ended September 30, 1996 as compared to $6.3 million for the
comparable  1995 period and $5.5 million for the comparable  1994
period.    The   increase  in  1996  over  1995   was   primarily
attributable to a net increase of $7.4 million in realized  gains
from  the  sales of investments and Receivables, an  increase  of
$1.3  million in net interest sensitive income and expense, being
offset  by  a  $1.2  million decrease in gains from  real  estate
sales,  a decrease of $1.5 million in fees, commissions,  service
and  other  income, an increase of $2.2 million in the  provision
for losses on real estate assets, a $.8 million increase in other
operating  expenses, including salaries and benefits, commissions
to  agents, general operating expenses and capitalized costs, net
of  amortization and an increase of $1.2 million in income  taxes
and  income allocated to minority stockholders.  The increase  in
1995  over  1994 was primarily attributable to a net increase  of
$1.4  million in net gains from real estate sales, a decrease  of
$1.4  million in the provision for losses on real estate  assets,
an  increase of $1.3 million in realized net gains from the sales
of  investments and Receivables, an increase of $1.6  million  in
expenses capitalized as deferred costs, net of amortization,  and
an  improvement of $.8 million in fees, commissions, service  and
other  income, all which were partially offset by  a  decline  of
$1.6 million in net interest sensitive income and expense and  an
increase of $4.2 million in commissions to agents.

      The  Company  implements  its primary  investment  goal  to
maximize  its risk adjusted rate of return by investing  in  non-
conventional    real   estate   Receivables.     Non-conventional
Receivables  are  typically  Receivables  not  originated  by   a
regulated financial institution and not underwritten to  FNMA  or
FHA  underwriting guidelines.   Normally, either the borrower  or
the collateral will not meet sufficient FNMA or FHA underwriting
<PAGE>                        Page 62

guidelines  to qualify for conventional financing and the  seller
will  be required to provide the financing to complete the  sale.
These   "seller   financed  Receivables"  or  "seller   take-back
Receivables"  are  the  types  of  non-conventional   Receivables
normally  acquired  by the Company.  Because  borrowers  in  this
market  generally  have blemished credit records,  the  Company's
underwriting  practices  focus more strongly  on  the  collateral
value as the ultimate source for repayment.  In conjunction  with
its  investment  in  non-conventional Receivables,  while  higher
delinquency rates are expected, the Company believes this risk is
generally  offset by the value of the underlying  collateral  and
the superior yields over conventional financing.    

      During the three year period ended September 30, 1996,  the
Consolidated Group operated in an environment of somewhat  narrow
fluctuations  in interest rate levels with rates trending  up  in
1996 after declining in late 1995 and with a generally increasing
trend  in  late  1994.  Over the three year period,  the  general
decrease in interest rate levels positively impacted earnings and
increased the fair value of the portfolio of predominantly  fixed
rate  investments.  A portion of this improvement  in  value  was
recognized  with  the  realization of  gains  from  the  sale  of
investment  securities  and Receivables of  $11.9  million,  $4.4
million  and  $3.1 million in 1996, 1995 and 1994,  respectively.
The net effect of the sales was to recognize the present value of
future  income  from the Receivables sold and  to  reduce  future
income  to the extent that the proceeds from sales were  invested
at lower rates of return.  For further information concerning the
investment  portfolio, See "BUSINESS-Life Insurance  and  Annuity
Operations" & "BUSINESS-Securities Investments".  The  Receivable
portfolio also experienced higher than normal prepayments  during
the  periods  of  declining  rates  which  increased  income   by
triggering  the  recognition  of  unamortized  discounts  at   an
accelerated rate.

      Although  the  national  economy has  experienced  moderate
growth  over  the  past  three years,  the  Consolidated  Group's
financial results were not adversely impacted in any material way
because   of:   (1)  the  wide  geographic  dispersion   of   its
Receivables;  (2)  the  relatively small  average  size  of  each
Receivable;  (3)  the  primary concentration  of  investments  in
residential Receivables where market values have been more stable
than in commercial properties; and (4) a continuing strong demand
for tax-advantaged products, such as annuities.

<PAGE>                        Page 63


         During  1995, the Consolidated Group  sold  two  of  its
subsidiary  operating  companies and  discontinued  its  property
development  division.  In January 1995, the  Consolidated  Group
sold   its   broker/dealer  subsidiary,  MIS,   to   Summit   and
discontinued  its property development activities.  Old  Standard
was  sold to Summit in May, 1995.  The financial results of these
transactions were not material to the Consolidated Group.   Also,
See "CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS".    

      During  1996, construction on a major timeshare development
project   in   Kauai,  Hawaii  was  completed.   At   completion,
approximately $21.4 million had been invested.  The  sales  price
of  each timeshare week is projected to range between $14,000 and
$18,000  with  an expected sellout in approximately  early  1998.
See "Business-Real Estate Development-Lawai Beach Resort".

        Net income in 1996, 1995, 1994 and 1993 was sufficient to
cover   fixed   charges   including  preferred   stock   dividend
requirements, in contrast to shortfalls in 1992 and prior  years.
After considering the effects of potentially non-recurring income
items such as gains from insurance settlements and the gains from
sales  of  investments,  Receivables and real  estate,  the  1996
income  would  have been insufficient to cover fixed  charges  by
approximately  $9.7  million.  Additionally, the  elimination  of
similar   items  in  1995  and  1994  would  have   resulted   in
insufficient  earnings  to cover fixed charges  by  approximately
$6.8  million and $4.2 million, respectively.  See "RISK FACTORS"
& "SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA".     

Revenues and Expenses

      Revenue  for the Consolidated Group of $156.7  million  for
1996  showed  a  substantial increase  from  the  $138.1  million
reported in the prior year.  Revenues of $138.1 million  for  the
fiscal  year  ended  September 30, 1995 was relatively  unchanged
from the $138.2 million reported for the same period in 1994. The
$18.6  million increase in 1996 was primarily attributable to  an
increase of $6.5 million from interest related revenues,  a  $6.3
million increase in real estate sales and a $8.3 million increase
in  realized gains on sales of Receivables. The modest decline in
1995  included  a  reduction of $1.7 million in other  investment
interest and a decrease of $1.1 million in realized net gains  on
sales of
<PAGE>                        Page 64

investments, offset by an increase of $2.4 million in  net  gains
from the sale of Receivables.

     Expenses of operation for the Consolidated Group were $144.3
million, $128.6 million and $129.5 million for fiscal years ended
September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.  The increase in
expenses  in 1996 over 1995 included an increase of $2.8  million
in the cost of insurance policy and annuity benefits, an increase
of  $2.4 million in interest expense, an increase of $2.2 million
in  the  provision  for losses on real estate assets  and  a  $.8
million  increase in other operating expenses, including salaries
and  benefits, commissions to agents, general operating  expenses
and  capitalized costs, net of amortization.  The slight  decline
in  expenses in 1995 as compared to 1994 included an increase  of
$3.6 million in the cost of insurance policy and annuity benefits
and  an  increase  of $4.2 million in recognized  commissions  to
agents due to an increase in volume.  These increases were offset
by  a  $3.5 million decrease in interest expense, a $2.0  million
decrease in the cost of real estate sold, a $1.4 million decrease
in  the  provision for losses on real estate, and an increase  of
$1.6  million in the amount of expenses capitalized  as  deferred
costs, net of amortization.

Interest Sensitive Income and Expense

     Management monitors interest sensitive income and expense as
it  manages  objectives for the financial results of  operations.
Interest  sensitive income consists of interest  on  Receivables,
earned  discount  on  Receivables, insurance revenues  and  other
investment  interest.   Interest sensitive  expense  consists  of
interest  expense  on  borrowed money and  insurance  policy  and
annuity benefits.

         The  Consolidated  Group is in a  "liability  sensitive"
position  in that its interest sensitive liabilities  reprice  or
mature  more  quickly  than  do its  interest  sensitive  assets.
Consequently,  in  a  rising interest rate environment,  the  net
return  from interest sensitive assets and liabilities will  tend
to decrease.  Conversely, in a falling interest rate environment,
the  net  return  from interest sensitive assets and  liabilities
will  tend  to  improve. As with the impact  on  operations  from
changes  in  interest rates, the Company's NPV (the  Net  Present
Value)  of  financial  assets  and  liabilities  is  subject   to
fluctuations in interest rates.  The Company continually monitors
the sensitivity
<PAGE>                        Page 65

of  net income and NPV of its financial assets and liabilities to
changes in interest rates.      


<PAGE>                        Page 66

   
      The  following table presents, as of September 30, 1996, the  Consolidated
Group's estimate of the change in its NPV of financial assets and liabilities if
interest  rate  levels  generally were to increase or decrease  by  1%  and  2%,
respectively.   These calculations, which are highly subjective  and  technical,
may differ from actual results.  See "Asset/ Liability Management".
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

    
   

                                                                 Interest Rate Change
                            Carrying    Fair Value   Decrease   Decrease   Increase 1%   Increase
                            Amounts                     1%         2%                       2%
                                                    (Dollars in Thousands)
<S>                         <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>         <C>          <C>
Financial Assets:                                                                       
Cash and cash equivalents     $167,879    $167,879    $167,879    $167,879    $167,879    $167,879
Investments                    163,303     157,755     170,612     178,393     156,442     149,990
Real estate contracts                                                                             
 and mortgage notes            642,571     668,373     691,541     716,159     646,543     625,954
Other receivable               107,494     109,258     114,885     120,916     104,077      99,232
 investments                ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
                            $1,081,247  $1,103,265  $1,144,917  $1,183,347  $1,074,941  $1,043,055
                            ==========  ==========  ==========  ==========  ==========  ==========
                                                                                                  
Financial Liabilities:                                                                            
Annuity reserves              $837,366    $837,366    $865,487    $894,936    $810,506    $784,842
Debentures payable             189,321     191,631     193,584     195,566     189,703     187,803
Debt payable                    38,450      38,486      39,822      41,266      37,141      35,895
Securities sold-not owned      132,652     132,652     137,386     142,363     128,135     123,836
                            ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------
                            $1,197,789  $1,200,135  $1,236,279  $1,274,131  $1,165,485  $1,132,376
                            ==========  ==========  ==========  ==========  ==========  ==========
    

<PAGE>                        Page 67


      Net  interest  sensitive income was $27.8 million  for  the
fiscal  year  ended September, 30, 1996.  The comparable  results
for   1995  and  1994  were  $26.5  million  and  $28.1  million,
respectively.  Interest rates in 1996 remained relatively  stable
with  slightly  increasing  rates  as  the  fiscal  year  closed.
Interest  rates  were  generally  increasing  over  1995   before
declining later in the year which contributed to the decrease  of
$1.6  million in net interest sensitive income. Also contributing
to   the  changes  in  net  interest  sensitive  income  was  the
capitalization  of approximately $2.5 million, $2.7  million  and
$2.2 million for the years 1996, 1995, and 1994, respectively, of
interest associated with various real estate development projects
owned by the Consolidated Group.[/R]

Real Estate Sales

      The  Consolidated  Group is in the real estate  market  due
primarily  to its repossession of properties following Receivable
defaults  and  its  investment in a major  timeshare  development
project   in   Kauai,   Hawaii.    See   "BUSINESS-Real    Estate
Development."

      At  September  30,  1996, excluding  timeshare  development
property,  approximately  80%  of  real  estate  owned   by   the
Consolidated  Group is located in the Pacific Northwest  (Alaska,
Washington,  Oregon,  Idaho, Montana), which  has  experienced  a
stronger more stable economy than many areas of the nation in the
past  several years. Consequently, management believes  that  the
sale   of  these  assets  will  be  largely  dependent   on   the
attractiveness  of  the  Pacific Northwest  marketplace.  Of  the
property  owned  in  the  Pacific  Northwest,  approximately  $13
million is invested in commercial developments with approximately
$35 million in undeveloped land.

      The  Consolidated  Group is engaged in the  development  of
various  properties  acquired in the course of  business  through
repossession  and  as investment property.   The  development  or
improvement  of  properties  is undertaken  for  the  purpose  of
enhancing  values to increase salability and to  maximize  profit
potential.

      Real  estate  sales exceeded cost of those  sales  by  $1.7
million in 1996, $2.9 million in 1995, and $1.5 million in  1994.
Included in these results are sales of timeshare units with a net
<PAGE>                        Page 68

loss   of  $.7  million  and  $.3  million  in  1996  and   1994,
respectively,  and a net gain of $.9 million 1995.   Metropolitan
has  engaged an affiliate of the Shell Group, Chicago,  Illinois,
Shell-Lawai  ("Shell") to provide management  services  and  sell
timeshare  units  at  Lawai  Beach.   See  "BUSINESS-Real  Estate
Development-Lawai Beach Resort".   This agreement provides for  a
fixed  fee to Shell plus an incentive fee based upon future sales
after  a  base amount of cash flow is generated by the  property.
Sales   of   timeshare  units  in  1996,  1995  and   1994   were
approximately  $22.8 million, $23.6 million  and  $17.6  million,
respectively.

      Real  estate sales, including timeshare unit sales, totaled
$45.6  million for 1996, $39.4 million for 1995 and $40.0 million
for  1994.   Sales of repossessed properties have more than  kept
pace  with  yearly additions resulting in a total  investment  in
repossessed real estate of $36.2 million at September  30,  1996,
$38.0  million  at  September  30,  1995  and  $39.0  million  at
September 30, 1994.  The aggregate investment in real estate held
for  sale and development decreased to $84.3 million at September
30,  1996,  from  $91.1  million at  September  30,  1995,  which
increased from $76.8 million at September 30, 1994.  The decrease
from 1995 to 1996 is attributable to the final completion of  the
timeshare project in Kauai, Hawaii in October 1995 and  the  sale
of  several  large  commercial properties throughout  1996.   The
increase  of  $14.3  million  in  1995  over  1994  is  primarily
attributable  to  the  continuing development  of  the  timeshare
project  and the development of a factory outlet mall  in  Pasco,
Washington.    In  addition to timeshare  unit  development,  the
Consolidated  Group  is in the general business  of  holding  and
developing  property for sale.  The largest investments  in  such
activities at September 30, 1996 were a $11.6 million development
located  in  downtown  Spokane adjacent to the  central  business
district  and  a  $10.5 million factory outlet  mall  development
located  in  Pasco, Washington.  See "BUSINESS-Other  Development
Properties".

      Gains  or  losses on real estate sold (excluding  timeshare
units)   are   a   function  of  several  factors.   Management's
experience with the most significant of these factors during  the
last three fiscal years is set forth below:


</TABLE>
<TABLE>
                                    For the Fiscal Year Ended
                                           September 30,
                                       1996       1995     1994

<PAGE>                        Page 69

                                      (Dollars in Thousands)
<S>                                   <C>        <C>      <C>
  Amount of delinquencies over
    three months at fiscal year end   $26,500    $17,500 $19,000

  Amount of foreclosures during
    the fiscal year                   $14,271    $13,834 $19,117

  Amount of foreclosed real estate
    held for sale at fiscal year end  $36,158    $38,004 $39,037

  Gain (loss) on sale of the property
    during the fiscal year             $2,469    $1,992  $ 1,793
</TABLE>

     The principal amount of Receivables in arrears for more than
ninety  days  as of September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994  was  3.9%,
2.8%  and 3.1%, respectively, stated as a percentage of the total
outstanding principal amount of Receivables.  See Note 2  to  the
Consolidated  Financial Statements.  Improving  the  Consolidated
Group's   collection  procedures,  reducing   delinquencies   and
reducing  real  estate  held for sale and development,  including
repossessed property, continue to be ongoing goals of management.

      The increase in three month delinquencies from 1995 to 1996
of  approximately  $9  million was primarily  the  result  of  an
increase  in  the outstanding principal amount of Receivables,  a
higher  delinquency rate on timeshare Receivable and  an  overall
increase  in  the  general delinquency rate for all  Receivables.
Additionally, as only current Receivables could be  sold  in  the
securitizations, the Consolidated Group focused more  closely  on
the Receivables to be included in the Receivable securitizations.
Subsequent to the second securitization, which closed in November
1996,   the  Consolidated  Group  has  renewed  its  efforts   on
controlling the delinquency in its Receivables portfolio.   Also,
effective  February 1997, the Consolidated Group will  bring  in-
house   the   servicing  of  timeshare  Receivables  which   were
previously serviced by a third party in Hawaii.  The Consolidated
Group  believes  the increased delinquency rates were  adequately
reserved  as  the Consolidated Group has increased the  allowance
for  loss on real states assets associated with Receivables  from
$6.3 million in 1995 to $7.9 million 1996.


<PAGE>                        Page 70

Provision for Losses on Real Estate Assets

      During  the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and  1994,
the  Consolidated Group provided $6.4 million, $4.2  million  and
$5.5 million, respectively, for losses on real estate assets.  At
September  30,  1996, 1995 and 1994, the Consolidated  Group  had
aggregate  allowances for losses on real estate assets  of  $10.2
million,  $8.1  million and $9.1 million, respectively,  on  real
estate  assets  of $735 million, $679 million and  $644  million,
respectively.   See  Notes 3 and 6 to the Consolidated  Financial
Statements.

Non-Interest Income and Expense

       Non-interest  income,  composed  of  "Fees,   Commissions,
Services,  and  Other Income" on the income statement,  was  $4.3
million  for  the  fiscal  year ended September  30,  1996,  $5.8
million  for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1995,  and  $5.0
million  for  the  comparable period  in  1994.   Income  sources
include  service  fees  and  late  charges  in  connection   with
Receivables,  charges  for  loan  servicing  and  other  services
provided  to outside affiliated companies, and rents, commissions
and  other  revenues primarily associated with  the  Lawai  Beach
Resort, Kauai, Hawaii.  The decrease of $1.5 million in 1996 from
1995  was  primarily the result of ceasing the  operations  of  a
restaurant  at Lawai Beach Resort and converting it to  a  leased
operation,  thereby reducing both revenues and related  expenses,
while the increase of $.8 million in 1995 over 1994 was primarily
attributable  to  charges for services rendered to  three  former
subsidiary companies which were sold in September of 1994, and in
January and May of 1995.

      Non-interest expense consists of all non-interest  expenses
except  the cost of real estate sold and the provision for losses
on  real  estate assets.  Non-interest expense was $26.9  million
for  the  year ended September 30, 1996 compared to $26.1 million
for  the  fiscal year ended September 30, 1995 and $23.6  million
for  the comparable period in 1994.  The increase in cost of  $.8
million  in  1996  over  1995 was primarily  attributable  to  an
increase  of $1.4 million in salaries and benefits and a decrease
of  $1.9 million in capitalized costs, net of amortization  being
only  partially offset by a $2.0 million reduction in commissions
to agents and a $.5 million decrease in other operating expenses.
The  increase  in  cost of $2.5 million in  1995  over  1994  was
primarily attributable to an
<PAGE>                        Page 71

increase  of $4.2 million in the recognition of commissions  paid
to  insurance  agents  and other agents which  were  offset  only
partially  by an increase in the amount capitalized  as  deferred
costs,  net  of  amortization.  See Note 13 to  the  Consolidated
Financial Statements.

Realized   Net  Gains  (Losses)  on  Sales  of  Investments   and
Receivables

          The  Consolidated  Group  invests  in  securities   and
Receivables  as  well as real estate investment properties.   The
Consolidated Group adopted SFAS No. 115 on September 30, 1993 and
since that time has classified its investments in debt and equity
securities as either "trading", "available-for-sale" or "held-to-
maturity".  From time to time, gains or losses are recognized  on
trading  positions  and securities classified as  "available-for-
sale" may be sold at a gain or a loss.  Net losses from the  sale
of  investments was $.8 million in 1996 with net  gains  of  $.03
million and $1.1 million for the fiscal years ended September 30,
1995    and   1994,   respectively.    See   "BUSINESS-Securities
Investments".    The  Consolidated  Group  purchases  Receivables
collateralized   by   real  estate,  lottery  prizes   structured
settlements,    and    annuities.     See    "BUSINESS-Receivable
Investments"  and  Notes  2 and 4 to the  Consolidated  Financial
Statements.    Such  assets  are generated  through  the  ongoing
production  operations  of  the Consolidated  Group.   At  times,
Receivables  which  have  increased in value,  primarily  from  a
decreasing  interest rate environment, or which  exceed  internal
demand,  may  be remarketed either through whole  loan  sales  or
securitizations.   See  "BUSINESS-Receivable  Sales"  and   "RISK
FACTORS".   Net  gains  from the sale of Receivables  were  $12.7
million, $4.4 million and $2.0 million for the fiscal years ended
September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.    

Asset/Liability Management

         The Consolidated Group is subject to interest rate  risk
because  most  of  its assets and liabilities  are  financial  in
nature.   Generally,  the Consolidated Group's  financial  assets
(primarily  cash  and  cash equivalents,  Receivables  and  fixed
income  investments)  reprice more slowly than  the  Consolidated
Group's  financial  liabilities (primarily securities  sold,  not
owned,  debentures and annuities).  In a rising rate environment,
this  mismatch will tend to reduce earnings, while in  a  falling
rate
<PAGE>                        Page 72

environment,  earnings  will tend to  increase.    During  fiscal
1997, approximately $256 million of interest sensitive assets are
expected   to  reprice  or  mature.   These  assets  consist   of
approximately  $42 million of Receivables, $46 million  of  fixed
income investments and $168 million of cash and cash equivalents.
For  liabilities,  most  of the balance  of  life  insurance  and
annuity  contracts  may  be  repriced  during  1997.   Management
estimates   this   amount   at  $628   million.    In   addition,
approximately  $50 million of debentures, $37  million  of  other
debt  and $133 million of securities sold, not owned, will mature
or  reprice  during that period.  At September  30,  1996,  these
estimates  result in interest sensitive liabilities in excess  of
interest  sensitive assets of approximately $592  million,  or  a
ratio   of   interest  sensitive  assets  to  interest  sensitive
liabilities of approximately 330%.    

         The  Consolidated Group is able to manage this liability
to  asset  mismatch  of  approximately 3.3:1  by  the  fact  that
approximately 74% of the interest sensitive liabilities are  life
insurance  and annuity contracts which are subject  to  surrender
charges.   These contracts have maturities which  extend  for  as
long  as  nine years with surrender charges of decreasing amounts
during  their  term.   At the option of the  Consolidated  Group,
these  contracts are subject to annual repricing.  In periods  of
declining interest rates, this feature is beneficial as it allows
the Consolidated Group to reprice its liabilities at lower market
rates of interest.  In periods of increasing interest rates, such
liabilities  were protected by surrender charges of approximately
$20  million  at September 30, 1996.  Depending on the  remaining
surrender  charges,  the Consolidated Group  has  the  option  to
extend  any  interest  rate increase over a  two  to  three  year
period,  thereby  making  it  not  generally  economical  for  an
annuitant to pay the surrender charge in order to receive payment
in  lieu  of  accepting a rate of interest  that  is  lower  than
current  market rates of interest.  As a result, the Consolidated
Group  may  respond more slowly to increases in  market  interest
rate  levels  thereby  diminishing  the  impact  of  the  current
mismatch   in  the  interest  sensitivity  ratio.   Additionally,
through  Receivable securitizations, the Consolidated  Group  has
increased its ability to raise necessary liquidity to manage  the
liability to asset mismatch.  If necessary, the proceeds from the
securitization could be used to payoff maturing liabilities.    

Effect of Inflation

<PAGE>                        Page 73


      During  the  three  year period ended September  30,  1996,
inflation has had a generally positive impact on the Consolidated
Group's  operations.  This impact has primarily been indirect  in
that  the  level of inflation tends to impact interest  rates  on
both  the  Consolidated  Group's  assets  and  liabilities.   See
"Interest Sensitive Income and Expense".  However, both  interest
rate  levels in general and the cost of the Consolidated  Group's
funds  and  the  return  on  its investments  are  influenced  by
additional  factors  such as the level of economic  activity  and
competitive or strategic product pricing issues.  The net  effect
of the combined factors on the earnings of the Consolidated Group
has  been a slight improvement over the three year period in  the
positive  spread  between the rate of return on interest  earning
assets  less the cost of interest paying liabilities.   Inflation
has  not  had  a  material  effect on  the  Consolidated  Group's
operating   expenses.   Increases  in  operating  expenses   have
resulted  principally  from increased product  volumes  or  other
business considerations.

      Revenues  from real estate sold are influenced in  part  by
inflation,  as, historically, real estate values have  fluctuated
with  the  rate of inflation.  However, management is  unable  to
quantify the effect of inflation in this respect with any  degree
of accuracy.

New Accounting Rules

      In  May,  1993, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
No. 114 (SFAS No. 114) "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of
a  Loan"  was issued. SFAS No. 114 requires that certain impaired
loans  be measured based on the present value of expected  future
cash  flows discounted at the loans' effective interest  rate  or
the fair value of the collateral.  The Consolidated Group adopted
this  new  standard on October 1, 1995. The adoption of SFAS  No.
114  did not have a material effect on the consolidated financial
statements.  See Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

      In  March 1995, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
No.  121 (SFAS No. 121), "Accounting for the Impairment of  Long-
Lived  Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed  of,"  was
issued.  SFAS No. 121 requires certain long-lived assets, such as
the  Consolidated  Group's real estate assets,  be  reviewed  for
impairment  in  value  whenever events or circumstances  indicate
that
<PAGE>                        Page 74

the  carrying  value  of  an asset may not  be  recoverable.   In
performing the review, if expected future undiscounted cash flows
from  the use of the asset or the fair value, less selling costs,
from  the  disposition  of the asset is less  than  its  carrying
value,  an impairment loss is to be recognized.  The Consolidated
Group  is required to adopt this new standard on October 1, 1996.
The  Consolidated Group does not anticipate that the adoption  of
SFAS  No.  121  will have a material effect on  the  consolidated
financial statements.

        In June 1996, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
No.  125  (SFAS 125), "Accounting for Transfers and Servicing  of
Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities" was  issued.
SFAS  125 provides accounting and reporting standards based on  a
consistent  application of a financial components  approach  that
focuses  on  control.  Under this approach, after a  transfer  of
financial   assets,  an  entity  recognizes  the  financial   and
servicing assets it controls and the liabilities it has incurred,
derecognizes  financial asset when control has  been  surrendered
and  derecognizes liabilities when extinguished.  This  statement
provides  consistent  standards for distinguishing  transfers  of
financial  assets that are sales from transfers that are  secured
borrowings.  SFAS 125 is effective for transfers and servicing of
financial  assets  and  extinguishments of liabilities  occurring
after  December 31, 1996.  The Company does not expect  that  the
application  of the provisions of SFAS 125 will have  a  material
effect   on   the  Company's  financial  condition,  results   of
operations or cash flows.    

Liquidity and Capital Resources

      The  Consolidated Group's sources of liquidity are tied  to
its  ability to renew, maintain or obtain existing and additional
sources  of  cash.   The Consolidated Group has successfully  met
these  requirements during the past three years and has continued
to  invest  funds generated by operations, financing  activities,
Receivables and investments.

      Cash  provided from operating activities was $185.9 million
in  1996,  $40.8 million in 1995 and $46.0 million in 1994.  Cash
utilized  by  the Consolidated Group in its investing  activities
was  $54.1  million  in 1996, $43.6 million in  1995  and  $106.8
million in 1994. Cash provided to the Consolidated Group from its
financing  activities was $3.3 million in 1996, $6.3  million  in
1995 and
<PAGE>                        Page 75

$17.2 million in 1994. These cash flows have resulted in year end
cash  and  cash  equivalent balances of $167.9 million  in  1996,
$32.8 million in 1995 and $29.3 million in 1994.  The increase in
cash and cash equalivents of $137.1 million in 1996 over 1995 was
almost  entirely  the result of the proceeds  from  the  sale  of
securities,  not owned of $132.7 million.  These securities  were
sold  "short" as an economic hedge to protect the profits in  the
Receivable  securitization which closed  in  November  1996.   In
1996, Receivable acquisitions of $382.1 million and $28.5 million
in  acquisition  and costs associated with real estate  held  for
sale  and  development were financed by proceeds from  Receivable
sales,  securitizations and principal payments of $245.9 million,
$55.5  million  in  proceeds  from  maturities  and  sales   less
purchases of investments and other cash proceeds of $53.2 million
from  operating  activities.  Proceeds from operating  activities
were  primarily from net income of $8.0 million and $45.8 million
from  increases  in  life  insurance and  annuity  reserves.   At
September  30,  1996,  management considers  its  cash  and  cash
equivalent funds combined with its other sources of funds  to  be
adequate  to  finance  any required debt retirements  or  planned
asset additions.

                  The  State  of Washington  is  responsible  for
regulating  the  total amount of debentures and  preferred  stock
that  Metropolitan can have outstanding.  During 1994,  1995  and
through  September 30, 1996, Metropolitan was authorized to  have
no  more  than an aggregate total of approximately $202.3 million
in   outstanding  debentures  (including  accrued  and   compound
interest)  and  aggregate outstanding preferred stock  (based  on
original   sales   price)   of   approximately   $49.5   million.
Outstanding preferred stock was limited to the amount outstanding
as  of  June  30, 1996 ($49.0 million) plus reinvested  dividends
($.5   million)  after  that  date.   At  September   30,   1996,
Metropolitan  had  total outstanding debentures of  approximately
$192.2   million  and  total  outstanding  preferred   stock   of
approximately  $49.5 million.  These regulatory  limitations  did
not  cause  the Company to incur any material adverse  impact  on
liquidity  during  1993 through 1996, however,  the  Company  did
forgo various investment opportunities which could have been made
if  able  to be funded by the additional sales of debentures  and
preferred stock.    

      During  1997, anticipated principal, interest and  dividend
payments  on  outstanding  debentures, other  debt  payments  and
preferred stock distributions are expected to be approximately
<PAGE>                        Page 76

$97.5  million.   During  1996,  the  principal  portion  of  the
payments  received  on the Consolidated Group's  Receivables  and
proceeds  from  sales of real estate and Receivables  was  $302.5
million.   A decrease in the prepayment rate on these Receivables
or  the  ability to sell or securitize Receivables  would  reduce
future cash flows from Receivables and might adversely affect the
Consolidated Group's ability to meet its principal, interest  and
dividend payments.

      The  Consolidated Group expects to maintain high levels  of
liquidity in the  foreseeable future by continuing its securities
offerings,  annuity  sales  and the sale  and  securitization  of
Receivables. At September 30, 1996, cash or cash equivalents were
$168  million, or 13.1% of assets.  Of the $168 million  of  cash
and  cash  equivalents, approximately $131 million was restricted
from general use by the Consolidated Group until such time as the
obligation   for  securities  sold,  not  owned,  was  satisfied.
Including  securities that are available for sale  and  excluding
restricted cash equivalents, total liquidity was $75 million, $65
million and $118 million as of September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994,
respectively,   or  5.9%,  6.0%  and  11.1%  of   total   assets,
respectively.

       Access   to   new  "capital  markets"  through  Receivable
securitizations  has  allowed  the  Consolidated  Group  to  both
increase  liquidity  and accelerate earnings  through  the  gains
recorded on the securitizations.  The increased ability to  raise
liquidity  will  enable the Consolidated Group to accept  certain
asset/liability   mismatches   which   have   historically   been
beneficial to the Consolidated Group   when they have  been  able
to  finance higher earning longer term assets with lower cost  of
funds associated with shorter term liabilities.

      For  statutory purposes, Western United performs cash  flow
testing  under  seven different rate scenarios.  The  results  of
these tests are filed annually with the Insurance Commissioner of
the  State of Washington.  At the end of calendar year 1995,  the
results of this cash flow testing process were satisfactory.

      Metropolitan alone generated approximately $20.8 million in
cash  from  operations in 1996.  Net cash of approximately  $23.5
million  was  used in investing activities.  Funds used  included
$32.2 million for the purchase of Receivables, $11.7 million  for
the  purchase  of investments and $17.2 million in  additions  to
real
<PAGE>                        Page 77

estate held.  An additional $16.3 million was used for investment
in  and  advances to subsidiaries.  Funds provided from investing
activities included $24.3 from the sale of Receivables and  $12.5
million  of  principal payments on such Receivables.   Additional
funds  of $9.2 million from proceeds on sales of real estate  and
$9.1  million  from the sale and maturities of  investments  were
received.  Net cash used in financing activities in 1996 of  $8.4
million  included $22.9 million repayment of debentures and  $3.9
million in preferred dividend payments, which were offset by  new
debenture sales of $9.1 million, issuance of preferred stock, net
of redemption, of $1.8 million.

      Metropolitan alone generated approximately $2.4 million  in
cash  from  operations  in 1995. Net cash of  approximately  $3.9
million  was  used in investing activities.  Funds used  included
$18.4  million, $12.1 million, and $12.5 million for the purchase
of  Receivables, investments, and additions to real estate  held,
respectively.  An additional $9.6 million was used for investment
in  and  advances to subsidiaries.  Funds provided from investing
activities  included $34.9 million from the sale  of  Receivables
collateralized  by  real  estate and $5.1  million  of  principal
payments  on such Receivables.  Additional funds of $1.9  million
and  $7.6  were  provided  from  the  sale  of  real  estate  and
investments, respectively. Net cash of $8.0 million provided from
financing  activities in 1995 included $53.1 million in  proceeds
from  the sale of debentures which was partially offset by  $49.0
million  in repayment of debentures.  Additionally, $4.5  million
was  obtained  from  the  issuance of preferred  stock  and  $4.2
million  was  obtained in net borrowings while $4.5  million  was
distributed in cash dividends.

      Metropolitan alone generated approximately $1.8 million  in
cash  from  operations  in  1994.   Investing  activities,  which
provided   approximately  $4.8  million,  were   primarily:   (1)
investments  in and advances to subsidiaries which provided  $6.3
million;  (2)  changes  in  investments  and  Receivables,  which
provided $4.0 million; less (3) capital expenditures and the  net
change  in  real  estate  held of $5.5  million.   Cash  used  in
financing  activities of $11.0 million were primarily  used  for:
(1)  net  redemption  of debenture bonds  of  $5.2  million;  (2)
repayment  of  borrowings from banks and others of $3.3  million;
(3)  cash dividends of $3.5 million: which were offset by (4) net
issuance  of  preferred stock less redemption and  retirement  of
common   stock   of  approximately  $1.0  million.    For   1994,
Metropolitan had a
<PAGE>                        Page 78

decrease  in  cash  and  cash equivalents of  approximately  $4.4
million  resulting  in a year end balance of  approximately  $9.4
million.

         At  September  30, 1996, Metropolitan had  approximately
$1.6 million in construction commitments associated with its real
estate  development projects.  Additionally, Metropolitan had  no
knowledge of any environmental liabilities associated with any of
its  real  estate  asset  investments.  Metropolitan  anticipates
other capital expenditures in the normal course of business of up
to   $1.5  million  including  a  new  telephone  system  costing
approximately  $.6  million.   Metropolitan  anticipates  funding
these  commitments through cash provided by operating  activities
or  cash  provided  by  financing activities including  potential
leasing contracts.

    The Company will be required to make further enhancements  to
its computer software operating systems to enable recognition  of
the  new century.  The program codes within the operating systems
currently store only a two digit character for the year in  which
transactions occur.  The modification of these program  codes  to
store  four digit years will occur in the near term.  The Company
expects  that  the  costs  of  these modifications  will  not  be
material  and  all  changes will be made  by  existing  personnel
during routine program maintenance.  All expenses will be charged
to operations as incurred.    

   
      Management  believes  that cash  flow  generated  from  the
Consolidated   Group's   operating   activities   and   financing
activities  will be sufficient to conduct its business  and  meet
its anticipated obligations as they mature during the next fiscal
year.   Included   in   the  anticipated  obligations   for   the
Consolidated  Group during the next fiscal year is the  repayment
of  approximately $133 million in debt associated with the  short
sale of securities.  With approximately $131 million in cash  and
cash  equivalents at September 30, 1996 being held and restricted
from  general  corporate use, the Consolidated Group  expects  no
material  effect  on  corporate liquidity from  this  obligation.
Metropolitan has never defaulted on any of its obligations  since
its founding in 1953.
    

         Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
                                
<PAGE>                        Page 79
                                
               Condition and Results of Operations
                                
    For the Interim Periods Ended December 31, 1996 and 1995
                                
Significant Transactions:

      In  November 1996, Metropolitan and its subsidiary  Western
participated  as  two  of  the four co-sellers  in  a  receivable
securitization sponsored by Metropolitan Asset Funding, Inc.,  an
affiliated company.  Approximately $126.7 million of receivables,
with  $115.5 million provided by Metropolitian and Western,  were
sold  in a securitization transaction with proceeds, after costs,
of   approximately  $121.1  million,  which  $110.4  million  was
allocated   to  Metropolitan  and  Western.   With  an  amortized
carrying value of approximately $101.5 million in the receivables
sold  in  the securitization, Metropolitan and Western   recorded
approximately $8.9 million in pre-tax gains from their portion of
the  sale.   Metropolitan Asset Funding, Inc. sold  approximately
$113.4  million  in  varying  classes  of  mortgage  pass-through
certificates.   In  addition  to the  certificates  sold  to  the
public,   approximately  $13.3  million  in   subordinate   class
certificates and residual class certificates were returned to the
various   co-sellers   of  the  receivables   included   in   the
securitization.  Metropolitan and Western received  approximately
$101.6 million, after costs, from the securitization and received
approximately $12.0 million (estimated fair value) in subordinate
class and residual class certificates.  As an economic hedge  for
this  receivable securitization sale, the Consolidated Group  had
previously sold short approximately $128 million of U.S. Treasury
securities of varying maturities.  Concurrent with the completion
of   the  securitization  transaction,  the  Consolidated   Group
purchased   and   delivered   the   borrowed   securities.    The
Consolidated Group lost approximately $2.5 million on this  short
sale. Thereby from an economic standpoint, the Consolidated Group
realized  an  approximate $6.4 million in pre-tax  gains  on  the
securitization sale.

Financial Condition and Liquidity:

      As of December 31, 1996, the Consolidated Group had cash or
cash equivalents of $63.2 million and liquid investments (trading
or  available-for-sale securities) of $56.7 million  compared  to
$167.9 million in cash and cash equivalents and $38.6 million in
<PAGE>                        Page 80

liquid  investments  at  September  30,  1996.   The  significant
transaction causing the decrease in cash and cash equivalents was
the approximately $128 million used by the Consolidated Group  to
close  its  short  sale  at  the  completion  of  its  receivable
securitization in November 1996.  Management believes that  cash,
cash equivalents and liquidity provided by other investments  are
adequate  to  meet planned asset additions, debt  retirements  or
other  business operational requirements during the  next  twelve
months.   At   December  31, 1996, total  cash  and  investments,
including  held-to-maturity securities, were  $246.5  million  as
compared  to  $332.7 million at September 30, 1996.   During  the
three  month  period  ended December 31, 1996,  the  Consolidated
Group   used  approximately  $116.9  million  in  its   operating
activities including $128 million to close a short sale  of  U.S.
Treasury  securities.  Funds provided by investing activities  of
$46.0   million  resulted  primarily  from  sale   proceeds   and
collections  of  receivables  of $148.6  million  and  investment
maturities  of  $6.6  million  being  offset  by  new  receivable
acquisitions  of  $79.6  million, purchase of  available-for-sale
securities of $23.7 million and addition to real estate  held  of
$6.4  million.   Funds  used  in financing  activities  of  $33.8
million, including a $2.0 million net cash inflow from debentures
sales  less  maturities, were used primarily to payoff short-term
borrowings of $30.3 million, finance a net cash outflow  of  $5.0
million  in  life and annuity products and payment  of  preferred
stock dividends of $1.0 million.

      The receivable portfolio totaled $703.2 million at December
31,  1996  compared  to  $758.4 million at  September  30,  1996.
During  the  three months ended December 31, 1996,  the  decrease
primarily  resulted from the acquisition of receivables  totaling
$79.6  million  plus  an  additional $6.1  million  in  loans  to
facilitate  the  sale  of  real estate being  totally  offset  by
principal  collections on receivables of $29.4 million, reduction
for  the  cost  basis of receivables sold of $109.1  million  and
reductions  due  to foreclosed receivables of approximately  $2.7
million.

     Real estate held for sale and development decreased to $84.2
million at December 31, 1996 from $84.3 million at September  30,
1996.   For the three months ended December 31, 1996, real estate
additions  of  $9.5 million, including $2.7 million of foreclosed
receivables, were offset by costs of real estate sold of $7.4
<PAGE>                        Page 81

million,  depreciation of $1.5  million and  charge-offs  to  the
allowance for losses of $.7 million.

      Life  insurance and annuity policy reserves increased  $6.7
million  during  the  three months ended  December  31,  1996  to
approximately $844.1 million from $837.4 million at September 30,
1996.   This  increase resulted from credited earnings  of  $11.8
million offset by a $5.1 million of cash outflow as receipts from
sales  of  new  life and annuity products of $20.3  million  were
exceeded  by withdrawals of $25.4 million from existing policies.
Net  debenture  bonds outstanding increased by  $3.9  million  to
$196.1  million  at  December 31, 1996  from  $192.2  million  at
September   30,  1996.   Net  cash  inflow  from  issuance   less
maturities of debentures was approximately $2.0 million  plus  an
additional  $1.9  million  increase in  credited  interest  held.
Additionally,  the  Consolidated Group  had  cash  flow,  net  of
redemptions, of approximately $550,000 from the sale of preferred
stock  and  reinvestment of preferred stock dividends during  the
three  months  ended December 31, 1996.  During the  three  month
period  ended December 31, 1996, the Consolidated Group decreased
the  portion of its other debt payable represented by short  term
borrowings by $30.3 million to an approximate outstanding  amount
of $5.2 million on December 31, 1996.

     Total assets decreased by $140.5 million to $1,142.2 million
at December 31, 1996 from $1,282.7 million at September 30, 1996.
During  the three month period, the Consolidated Group  primarily
used  cash  flow  from its receivable securitization  along  with
existing cash and investments to repurchase securities previously
sold  and  not  owned  and  paydown  short-term  borrowings.   At
December  31,  1996,  the Consolidated Group had  net  unrealized
losses on securities available-for-sale in the amount of $265,000
as compared to unrealized losses of $1.0 million at September 30,
1996.  Net unrealized losses on securities available-for-sale  is
presented as a separate component of stockholders' equity.

Results of Operations:

      The Consolidated Group recorded net income before preferred
dividends  for  the  three  months ended  December  31,  1996  of
$3,881,000  compared  to  $303,000 in the  prior  year's  period.
Comparing  the current year's three month period with  the  prior
year's   similar  period,  increases  in  gains  from  sales   of
receivables, increases in other fees and commission revenues  and
a reduction in the provision for losses on real estate assets
<PAGE>                        Page 82

were  only  partially offset by a reduction in the  net  interest
spread,  increased losses from the sale of real estate, increased
losses  from  the sale of investment securities, an  increase  in
operating expenses and related provision for income taxes.

      For  the  three month period ended December 31,  1996,  the
Consolidated  Group reported a positive spread  on  its  interest
sensitive  assets and liabilities of $6.0 million as compared  to
$6.8  million  in  the prior year's period.   The  reduction  was
primarily  the result of a reduction in the receivable  portfolio
due to the securitization sale in November 1996.  While there has
been  some contraction in portfolio investment earnings rates  in
the  current  year's  period,  the Consolidated  Group  has  also
experienced reduced renewal rates on some of its life and annuity
policies.  Currently, the Consolidated Group continues to control
life  and annuity policy surrenders by maintaining current market
credited  rates.   Normally, the Consolidated Group's  investment
earnings  rates are not as sensitive to market conditions  as  is
its  life and annuity policy rates and thus a sustained  rise  in
interest  rates could have a negative impact on its net  interest
spread as its liabilities reprice faster than its assets.

      During  the  three  months ended  December  31,  1996,  the
Consolidated  Group  realized  net  losses  from  the   sale   of
investments  of $2.2 million compared to net gains of  $2,800  in
the  prior  year's period.  The current period loss was primarily
the  result  of  a  short sale of U.S. Treasury securities.   The
short  sale  was  used by the Consolidated Group as  an  economic
hedge   of  its  receivable  securitization  in  November   1996.
Additionally,  in  the  current year's period,  the  Consolidated
Group   realized  gains  of  $9.8  million  from  the   sale   of
approximately $109.4 million of receivable investments, while  in
the prior year, sales of approximately $2.3 million of receivable
investments produced realized gains of $84,000.  The Consolidated
Group  realized  losses of $593,000 on sales of $6.8  million  of
real estate in the current year's period compared to net gains of
$141,000  on sales of  $10.6 million in the prior year.   It  has
been the policy of management to actively sell its real estate in
order  to return the investment to an earning asset.  In addition
to  returning  these assets to earning status,  the  Consolidated
Group has been able to reduce other operating expenses associated
with  its real estate, such as insurance, taxes, maintenance  and
amenities.


<PAGE>                        Page 83

       In   the  three  months  ended  December  31,  1996,   the
Consolidated Group recorded other fees and commission revenues of
$1.2  million  as  compared to $700,000 in the prior  year.   The
increase  in  the  current year is primarily the  result  of  net
servicing revenues related to the receivable securitizations.

       In   the  three  months  ended  December  31,  1996,   the
Consolidated Group made provisions for losses on receivables  and
real  estate  assets  of approximately $586,000  as  compared  to
$935,000 in the prior year's period.  The decreased provision  is
the  result of the decrease in the receivable portfolio  and  the
real   estate  asset  portfolio.   The  Consolidated  Group   has
experienced  a  slight increase in receivable delinquency  rates,
however, a stable to improving real estate market has offset  the
effects of the delinquency rate increases.

New Accounting Rules Issued Subsequent to September 30, 1996:

In  February,  1997, Statement of Financial Accounting  Standards
No.  128  (SFAS 128), "Earnings per Share" was issued.  SFAS  128
establishes  standards for computing and presenting earnings  per
share (EPS) and simplifies the existing standards.  This standard
replaces  the presentation of primary EPS with a presentation  of
basic  EPS.  It also requires the dual presentation of basic  and
diluted  EPS on the face of the income statement for all entities
with complex capital structures and requires a reconciliation  of
the numerator and denominator of the basic EPS computation to the
numerator  and denominator of the diluted EPS computation.   SFAS
128  is  effective  for financial statements issued  for  periods
ending  after  December 15, 1997, including interim  periods  and
requires restatement of all prior-period EPS data presented.  The
Consolidated  Group  does  not believe the  application  of  this
standard will have a material effect on the presentation  of  its
earning per share disclosures.    

                            BUSINESS

OVERVIEW

      Metropolitan was established in 1953.  Through  growth  and
acquisitions,  it  has developed into a diversified  institution,
with assets exceeding one billion dollars.  Its subsidiaries
<PAGE>                        Page 84

include  an  annuity and life insurance company, Western  United,
and a Receivable servicer and loan originator, Metwest.

      The  Consolidated  Group's principal business  activity  is
investing  in Receivables.  The Receivables primarily consist  of
real  estate  contracts  and promissory notes  collateralized  by
liens  on  real  estate.  The  Consolidated  Group  predominantly
invests in Receivables where the borrower or the collateral  does
not  qualify for conventional financing.  This market is commonly
referred  to  as  the non conventional or "B/C" market.   Because
borrowers in this market generally have blemished credit records,
underwriting  practices  focus more strongly  on  the  collateral
value  as  the ultimate source for repayment.  This contrasts  to
the  conventional or "A" credit market which focuses on borrowers
with   stronger   credit   records.    See   "BUSINESS-Receivable
Investments.   In addition to investing in existing  Receivables,
the  Consolidated Group began originating "B/C" loans during late
fiscal 1996 through Metwest. See "BUSINESS-Receivable Investments-
Loan  Originations".   Metropolitan  and  its  subsidiaries  also
acquire other types of Receivables, including but not limited  to
lottery  prizes,  structured  settlements  and  annuities.    See
"BUSINESS-Receivable      Investments-Lotteries,       Structured
Settlements & Annuities"

      All  Receivables  are  purchased at  prices  calculated  to
provide  a desired yield.  Often, in order to obtain the  desired
yield, the Receivables will be purchased at a discount from their
face  amount,  or  at a discount from their present  value.   See
"BUSINESS-Yield and Discount Considerations ".  The  Consolidated
Group   strives  to  achieve  a  positive  spread   between   its
investments and its cost of funds.

       In   addition  to  the  Consolidated  Group's   Receivable
investments,  Western United and to a lesser extent  Metropolitan
invest  funds  in  securities  which  predominantly  consist   of
investment  grade corporate bonds, U.S. Treasury, and  government
agency   obligations,  mortgage  backed  securities,  and   other
securities  including  security  hedging  investments,  and   the
subordinate  certificate  and  residual  interests  created   out
Receivable     securitizations.      See     "BUSINESS-SECURITIES
INVESTMENTS" & "BUSINESS-Receivable Sales and Securitizations."

       The  Consolidated  group  has  developed  several  funding
sources.  These sources include Receivable investment income; the
issuance  of  annuity and life insurance policies;  the  sale  of
assets
<PAGE>                        Page 85

including  sales through securitizations; the sale of debentures,
and  preferred stock; collateralized borrowing; the sale of  real
estate  and  securities portfolio earnings.  See "BUSINESS-Method
of Financing".

      Metropolitan also sells and develops real estate  primarily
as  the  result  of repossessions of Receivables.   In  addition,
Metropolitan is the developer of a timeshare resort, Lawai  Beach
Resort,  located  on  Kauai, Hawaii.  See  "BUSINESS-REAL  ESTATE
DEVELOPMENT".

RECEIVABLE INVESTMENTS

Introduction

         Metropolitan has been investing in Receivables  for  its
own  account  for over forty years.  Metropolitan  also  provides
Receivable   acquisition  and  underwriting   services   to   its
subsidiary,  Western  United, and to  Old  Standard,  Summit  and
Arizona Life.  See "BUSINESS-Receivable Investments-Management  &
Acquisition   Services"  &  "CERTAIN  RELATIONSHIPS   &   RELATED
TRANSACTIONS".  The  evaluation,  underwriting,  and  closing  is
performed  at Metropolitan's headquarters in Spokane, Washington.
The  following  information describes  the  Consolidated  Group's
Receivable acquisition and underwriting procedures as of the date
of this prospectus.  These practices may be amended, supplemented
and  changed  at  any time at the discretion of the  Consolidated
Group.    

     Types of Receivables:

     The Consolidated Group's Receivable acquisitions include two
principal  types of Receivables: 1)Receivables collateralized  by
real  estate  (both  the acquisition of existing  loans  and  the
origination  of  loans), and 2)lotteries, structured  settlements
and  annuities.  The majority of the real estate Receivables  are
collateralized   by  first  position  liens  on   single   family
residences,  including land with mobile homes, and  condominiums.
To  a  lesser extent, the Consolidated Group acquires Receivables
collateralized  by  commercial real estate and undeveloped  land.
In addition, it acquires Receivables collateralized by second and
lower lien positions.

     Secondary Mortgage Markets:

<PAGE>                        Page 86


      The  market  for  the acquisition of existing  real  estate
Receivables  is  commonly referred to as the  secondary  mortgage
market.   The  private  secondary  mortgage  market  consists  of
individual  Receivables or small pools of Receivables  which  are
held  and  sold  by individual investors.  These Receivables  are
typically  the  result of seller financed sales of  real  estate.
The  institutional secondary mortgage market consists of the sale
and resale of Receivables which were originated or acquired by  a
financial  institution  and which are sold  in  groups,  commonly
called   pools.   The  Consolidated  Group  acquires  Receivables
through both the private and the institutional secondary mortgage
markets.

     Loan Originations:

       During   late   1996,  Metwest  began  originating   loans
collateralized   by   real   estate.   See   "BUSINESS-Receivable
Investments-loan originations".

     Receivable servicing and collections:

        Metwest performs all Receivable servicing and collections
for  itself,  Metropolitan,  Western United,  the  aforementioned
affiliates and for others.  See "BUSINESS-Receivable Investments-
Servicing  &  Collection"  &  "CERTAIN  RELATIONSHIPS  &  RELATED
TRANSACTIONS".    

     Receivable Acquisition Volume:
     
     Metropolitan's  Receivable  acquisition  activities   (total
activities  for  itself and for others), grew from  approximately
$142.5  million  in 1994, and $259.8 million in 1995,  to  $382.1
million  in  1996.  During 1996, the average monthly  acquisition
volume  was  approximately  $31.8 million.   At  the  same  time,
Metropolitan's median closing time has improved  to  20  days  in
1996,  in  comparison to 23 days in 1995, and 24  days  in  1994.
Management considers closing time to be an important factor in  a
seller's decision to sell a Receivable to Metropolitan.
     
Receivables Acquisitions: Sources, Strategies and Underwriting

     Metropolitan has developed marketing techniques and sources,
and underwriting practices for each of the different types of
<PAGE>                        Page 87

Receivables.  In general, the real estate Receivables acquired or
originated by the Consolidated Group consist of non conventional,
"B/C"   credit   loans.   These  types  of  Receivables   possess
characteristics which differ from the conventional lending market
in that either the borrower or the property would not qualify for
"A" credit grade lending.  This type of lending requires that the
lender focus not only on the borrowers' ability to pay, but  also
the  quality  of the collateral as the ultimate recourse  in  the
event of the borrower's default.

Private Secondary Mortgage Market Sources

       Currently,  the  majority  of  the  Consolidated   Group's
Receivables  are acquired through the private secondary  mortgage
market.   See  "BUSINESS-Current Mix  of  Receivable  Investment"
This  market principally consists of loans which were  originated
through  the  seller  of  a  property financing  the  purchaser's
acquisition.  Metropolitan's principal source for private  market
Receivables are independent brokers located throughout the United
States.   These independent brokers typically deal directly  with
private individuals or organizations who own and wish to  sell  a
Receivable.

Private Market Acquisition Strategies

     Metropolitan's private secondary market acquisition strategy
is   designed   to  provide  flexible  structuring  and   pricing
alternatives  to the Receivable seller, and quick closing  times.
Metropolitan  believes  these are key factors  to  Metropolitan's
ability to attract and purchase quality Receivables.  In order to
enhance its position in this market, Metropolitan is implementing
the  following acquisition strategies: 1)centralizing acquisition
activities,  2)  expanding  the use of Metropolitan's  Receivable
submission  software,  BrokerNet, 3) designing  and  implementing
flexible Receivable acquisition pricing options, 4) designing and
implementing   fast  closing  programs,  and  5)  designing   and
implementing broker incentive programs.

     1)   Centralization of acquisition activities:
     
          Currently,  the  Receivable  brokers  contact  one   of
Metropolitan's  branch  offices  to  submit  the  Receivable  for
evaluation.   During  the  first two  quarters  of  fiscal  1997,
Metropolitan plans to close all of its branch offices and in turn
<PAGE>                        Page 88

plans  to  expand the Receivable acquisition staff  at  its  home
office  in Spokane Washington, which will be called the  Contract
Negotiation  Center.   This  change is  being  made  to  decrease
contract  acquisition  costs, as branch  offices  are  no  longer
necessary for identification of appropriate contracts to  acquire
due  to  existing contracts with brokers; to increase the closing
speed due to the ability to centralize the acquisition decisions,
and  to  further decrease acquisitions costs through, the use  of
technological  advances including the newly  developed  BrokerNet
software.    

     2) BrokerNet software:

      BrokerNet  was  developed by Metropolitan  to  enhance  its
position  in  the private secondary mortgage market,  principally
through  streamlining submissions, underwriting and  the  closing
process.   It  is  a menu driven software program  which  assists
brokers   in   preparing   accurate   and   complete   Receivable
submissions.   It  is designed to meet Metropolitan's  submission
requirements.  In addition, the program assists in analyzing  the
characteristics  of the Receivable, and provides online  purchase
price  quotes  based  upon the Receivable's  characteristics  and
Metropolitan's yield requirements.

     This  software was first available for online use by brokers
in March 1996.  Current plans for enhancing the software include:
preparing  the  legal  documents used to purchase  a  Receivable,
providing  internet  compatibility, providing  submission  status
tracking   (expected  to  be  available  mid  1997),  assist   in
monitoring  the closing of a Receivable purchase and  ultimately,
transfer   the  Receivable  data  directly  into  the  Receivable
servicing and collection system.
     
     Currently,  approximately  35% of  the  privately  purchased
Receivables are submitted to Metropolitan through BrokerNet.   It
is  currently  used  by approximately 15% of  the  Metropolitan's
brokers.   Management  believes that this  system  is  more  cost
effective   than  paper  submissions.   Metropolitan   plans   to
encourage  broker  use  of  BrokerNet through  various  financial
incentive  programs.  The current goal is  to  have  50%  of  the
brokers submitting through BrokerNet by the end of fiscal 1997.

     3)   Development of flexible sales options:
     

<PAGE>                        Page 89

     Occasionally, a Receivable seller desires a flexible pricing
structure,  does not wish to sell the entire Receivable,  or  the
purchase   of   the  entire  Receivable  exceeds   Metropolitan's
investment to collateral value underwriting standards.  In  these
circumstances,   Metropolitan  has  developed  several   options.
Currently,    the    principal   options   include    1)"partial"
acquisitions,  2) multiple stage payouts, and 3) the  short  life
yield programs.

      Partial  purchases are purchases of the right to receive  a
portion  of the Receivable's balance where the seller's right  to
the  unsold  portion  of the Receivable is  subordinated  to  the
interest  of  Metropolitan or the company for which  Metropolitan
negotiated  the purchase.  Partials include the purchase  of  the
next  series of payments (an immediate partial), the purchase  of
future  payments or a balloon payment (a reverse partial) or  the
purchase  of  a  portion  of each payment  (a  split).   Partials
generally   result   in  a  reduced  level  of   investment   and
commensurate reduction in the risk to the purchaser than  if  the
entire Receivable cash flow is purchased.

      The multiple stage payout and short yield life programs are
pricing programs designed to satisfy variations in seller  needs.
The  Multiple stage payout involves the payment of the Receivable
purchase price through installment payments over time.  The short
life   yield   program  is  available  for  "A"  credit   quality
Receivables  collateralized  by  owner  occupied  single   family
residences.  This program prices Metropolitan's yield requirement
assuming  that  the loan will balloon with a full payoff  in  ten
years.

     4) Development of faster closing programs:

     Metropolitan has developed several submission programs which
are  designed  to  reduce closing times.  The  principal  program
consists of the Fast Track submission program which requires that
the  broker  obtain  and  submit  a  Receivable  with  a  current
appraisal,   title   policy,  and   all   other   documents   and
verifications  required  to  analyze,  evaluate  and  close   the
transaction.   Metropolitan attempts to close all  accepted  Fast
Track submissions within seven days.

     5) Broker Incentive Programs:


<PAGE>                        Page 90

      In  order  to  maintain strong professional ties  with  its
independent brokers, Metropolitan held its first annual  Broker's
Convention during the summer of 1994.  The second such convention
is  currently planned for late 1997.  In addition, various  bonus
commission   and  incentive  programs  as  well  as   streamlined
Receivable submission procedures have been developed and continue
to be developed in order to reduce closing times.

       Currently,  the  principal  incentive  programs  are   the
wholesale  pricing program and the Premier Broker  Program.   The
wholesale pricing program requires that brokers pay the  cost  of
the   Receivable's  title  policy  and  appraisal.   In   return,
Metropolitan reduces its yield requirement (currently  by  .25%).
Through  the  Premier  Broker program, Metropolitan  pays  volume
brokers   a   bonus  for  every  $250,000  in  closed  Receivable
acquisitions.   For  Brokers  whose volume  exceeds  one  million
annually,  Metropolitan reduces its yield requirement  (currently
by  .25%) for all future acquisitions from the qualifying premier
broker.   Both  of  these  programs are designed  to  provide  an
incentive  to  the  volume broker to submit their  Receivable  to
Metropolitan.   Volume  brokers  are  often  efficient   in   the
Receivable packaging and submission, which can result in a  lower
acquisition processing cost.

     Private Secondary Mortgage Market Underwriting

      Because  Receivables  in the private market  are  generally
seller  financed  transactions, these Receivables  are  typically
subject  to terms and conditions which were negotiated to satisfy
the  unique  needs  of the particular private buyer  and  seller.
Therefore,  the  underwriting  of these  loans  requires  careful
evaluation  of  the loan documentation and terms.  Metropolitan's
acquisition of these Receivables should be distinguished from the
conventional    mortgage   lending   business   which    involves
standardized  documentation  and  terms,  substantial  first-hand
contact  by lenders with each borrower and the ability to  obtain
an  interior  inspection  appraisal prior  to  granting  a  loan.
Management  believes  that the underwriting  functions  that  are
employed  in  its private secondary mortgage market  acquisitions
are   as   thorough   as  reasonably  possible  considering   the
characteristics of the Receivables, and considering the volume of
Receivables submitted for review.

      When  Metropolitan  is  offered a  Receivable  through  the
private secondary mortgage market, the Receivable information is
<PAGE>                        Page 91

transmitted  to  one  of  Metropolitan's contract  buyers  either
through  an  online  BrokerNet submission or a traditional  paper
submission.   Paper submissions are input by the contract  buyers
into  the BrokerNet system.  The contract buyer makes an  initial
evaluation of the Receivable's characteristics to verify that  it
satisfies the requirements for the particular type of submission.

      If  the  Receivable appears acceptable, it is entered  into
Metropolitan's submissions tracking system, and forwarded to  the
demography department.  The demography department uses a national
computerized  database  to  identify  local  trends  in  property
values,   personal   income,  population   and   other   economic
indicators.

      The  Receivable  is  then  forwarded  to  the  Underwriting
Committee.   Metropolitan's underwriting team currently  consists
of  six  individuals  with  a combined  experience  of  90  years
evaluating seller financed Receivables.  Receivables of  $100,000
or   less  are  evaluated  by  individual  underwriters.    Loans
exceeding  that amount are reviewed by a committee  of  at  least
three underwriters.  Additionally, underwriters may obtain a team
review of any Receivable.

       The  underwriters  evaluate  the  proposed  investment  to
collateral  value,  the payor's credit and payment  history,  the
interest   rate,  the  demographics  of  the  region  where   the
collateral is located, and the potential for environmental risks.
Currently,  the ratio of the investment in a Receivable  compared
to  the value of the property which collateralizes the Receivable
generally  does  not  exceed  70%-80% (depending  upon  acquiring
company,  collateral type and collateral quality) on  Receivables
collateralized by single family residences; 30-70% on Receivables
collateralized  by  other  types of  improved  property  such  as
commercial  property;  and  55% on unimproved  land.   Management
believes  these  collateral ratio requirements generally  provide
higher  than  conventional levels of collateral  to  protect  the
purchasing  company's investment in the event of a default  on  a
Receivable.

      Receivable  investments  which the  Underwriting  Committee
identifies  for  legal review are referred to Metropolitan's  in-
house  legal department which currently includes a staff of  five
attorneys.   Receivables  which  exceed  specified  amounts   are
submitted  to an additional special risk evaluation review.   The
investment amount which gives rise to special risk evaluation  is
dependent upon the type and quality of collateral, ranging from
<PAGE>                        Page 92

$250,000  for conventionally financable residential  property  to
$100,000  for  residential property which is not owner  occupied,
and   $150,000  for  Receivables  collateralized  by   commercial
property.

      Based  upon  Metropolitan's  underwriting  guidelines,  the
underwriters may approve the acquisition or change the  terms  of
the  acquisition, such as limiting the acquisition to  a  partial
purchase  in order to decrease the acquiring company's investment
risk.   If the terms are changed, the contract buyer is notified,
who  in  turn  contacts  the broker to renegotiate  the  purchase
terms.   The  underwriters may also approve the loan  subject  to
certain  closing criteria.  If the broker and/or  seller  accepts
the  proposed  transaction, a written agreement  to  purchase  is
executed,  which  is subject to Metropolitan's full  underwriting
requirements.

      Once  the  Receivable  has been approved  in  principle,  a
current  market valuation of the collateral is obtained in  order
to  verify  the investment to collateral value.  These valuations
can  consist  of  1)a  valuation  from  a  statistical  valuation
service,  2) an appraisal by a licensed independent appraiser  or
3)   an   appraisal  by  one  of  Metropolitan's  licensed  staff
appraisers.

      Statistical  valuations are available in  the  majority  of
counties  in  the  United States.  They are based  upon  property
characteristics  and sales trends which can be  analyzed  through
computer  modeling.   The cost of statistical valuations  average
approximately $35 and are available virtually instantly, compared
to  a  cost  of  approximately $250 for standard  appraisals  and
generally  a one week processing time.  Metropolitan began  using
statistical valuations in 1996.  Metropolitan limits its  use  of
statistical valuations to properties with low investment to value
ratios  and  single  family residential  properties.   Currently,
Metropolitan  is  monitoring  the  quality  of  the   statistical
services through obtaining post closing traditional appraisals on
a minimum of 10% of the acquisitions.

     When traditional appraisals are obtained, they are generally
based  on a drive-by inspection of the collateral and comparative
sales analysis.  The appraiser generally does not have access  to
the  property  for  an  interior  inspection.   Each  statistical
valuation and independent appraisal is also subject to review  by
a staff appraiser.


<PAGE>                        Page 93

      The  approved  Receivable  is  provided  to  Metropolitan's
closing  department where the property title  is  evaluated,  the
legal  documents are reviewed and the appraisal is reviewed.   If
the  closer  discovers  any  material  discrepancies  during  the
closing  review,  or  if  the Receivable  does  not  satisfy  any
specified  closing  contingencies, then  the  Receivable  is  re-
submitted to the underwriting committee for re-evaluation.   Upon
completion  of the underwriting process and the closer's  review,
appropriate  closing and transfer documents are executed  by  the
seller  and/or broker, transfer documents are recorded,  and  the
transaction is funded.
     
     Institutional Secondary Mortgage Market Sources

       During   fiscal  1996,  approximately  $73.6  million   in
Receivables were institutional acquisitions.  These portfolios of
real estate Receivables are acquired from banks, savings and loan
organizations, the Resolution Trust Corporation and  the  Federal
Deposit Insurance Corporation and other financial institutions.

      An  institutional seller typically offers a loan  pool  for
sale in order provide liquidity, to meet regulatory requirements,
to  liquidate assets, or other business reasons.  Over the years,
Metropolitan  has  built relationships with several  brokers  and
lenders  who provide a regular flow of potential acquisitions  to
the  institutional  secondary  department.   In  addition,  other
brokers  learn  about  Metropolitan through  word  of  mouth  and
contact Metropolitan directly.  Finally, some leads on loan pools
are generated by cold calling lending institutions or brokers.

      These  acquisitions are typically negotiated through direct
contact  with  the portfolio departments at the  various  selling
institutions,  or  acquired through bidding at  an  auction.  The
closing   costs  per  loan  for  institutional  acquisitions   is
generally   lower   than   private  secondary   mortgage   market
acquisitions.   However, the investment yield is  also  generally
lower than yields available in the private market.  During fiscal
1996,  approximately  25%  of  the institutional  purchases  were
acquired  from  FSB  Mortgage Company (a  subsidiary  of  Federal
Savings Bank of Rogers, Arkansas).

     Institutional Secondary Mortgage Market Underwriting

      Receivables  acquired  through the  institutional  mortgage
market differ from those acquired in the private market in that
<PAGE>                        Page 94

these  Receivables  were  generally  originated  by  a  financial
institution,   applying  standard  underwriting   practices   and
standardized  documentation.  Generally, the seller  provides  an
initial  summary  of the pool which typically includes  the  pool
balance, the number of loans, the weighted average interest rate,
the  weighted  average  maturity, weighted average  loan-to-value
ratio,   delinquency  status,  collateral  addresses,  collateral
types,  and  lien  positions.   Receivable  pools  are  initially
reviewed   by  the  institutional  secondary  market  staff   who
determine  whether the pool yield and characteristics are  within
the current acquisition guidelines and yield requirements.

      The pool characteristics and yield are then reviewed by the
Underwriting   Committee.   If  approved  by   the   Underwriting
Committee,  a  letter of intent is executed and the institutional
secondary marketing staff perform a due diligence review  of  the
loan   pool   which  generally  includes:  1)   review   of   the
documentation  in each individual loan file, 2) determination  of
the  payment  history and delinquency pattern of  the  loans,  3)
determination  of  the individual and pool loan-to-value  ratios,
and   maturity  characteristics,  and  4)  determination  of  the
economics  and  demography  for the  geographic  area  where  the
collateral is located. If the appraisal is over one year  old,  a
new   statistical  valuation  or  traditional  appraisal  of  the
collateral  is  generally  obtained.   Any  exceptions   in   the
documentation or Receivable characteristics are noted during  the
due  diligence  review.  A summary of exceptions,  as  determined
from  the  due  diligence, is provided to the seller  to  resolve
prior  to  closing.  If the exception(s) cannot be resolved,  the
corresponding loan(s) may be removed from the pool, the terms  of
the   acquisition  renegotiated,  or  the  transaction  canceled.
Following   completion  of  its  due  diligence,  and  acceptable
resolution  of any exceptions, a purchase and sale  agreement  is
executed  and  the acquisition is funded and closed.   Generally,
these acquisitions are acquired with servicing released.

Loan Originations Sources

      During  the  last  quarter of fiscal  1996,  Metropolitan's
subsidiary,  Metwest,  began originating  residential  loans  and
small  commercial loans.  The commercial lending focuses on loans
of  $1,500,000  or smaller.  Metwest is currently licensed  as  a
lender  in  twenty  six  states.  Metwest  plans  to  expand  its
activities  throughout  the  United States  during  fiscal  1997.
Metwest
<PAGE>                        Page 95

originates  loans  through licensed mortgage brokers  who  submit
loan applications on behalf of the borrower.  Before Metwest will
enter   into  a  broker  agreement,  the  mortgage  broker   must
demonstrate  that  it  is  properly  licensed,  experienced   and
knowledgeable  in  lending.   The  volume  of  Metwest's  lending
activities  were immaterial to the Consolidated  Group  in  1996.
Actual  growth  of  this  new venture cannot  be  predicted  with
certainty; however, it is currently projected that Metwest  could
originate  as much as approximately $8-$10 million in residential
loans per month by fiscal year end, which could amount to as much
as  approximately  30%  of  the Consolidated  Group's  Receivable
investing  by  the  end  of  fiscal 1997.   Metwest's  commercial
lending  activities  are  currently in the  initial  phases,  and
management  is unable to predict with any level of certainty  the
volume  of commercial loans which may be originated during fiscal
1997.

     Loan Originations Underwriting

      Loans  originated  by  Metwest  are  underwritten  applying
criteria   which  include  the  following:  evaluation   of   the
borrower's   credit,  obtaining  a  current  appraisal   of   the
collateral, and obtaining title insurance.  The borrower's credit
determines the down payment and interest rate which Metwest  will
require.  A lower credit rating would result in a higher required
down  payment and higher interest rate.  Metwest will lend up  to
90%  of  the  collateral's value on "A" credit  borrowers,  which
decreases   to  70%  for  "D"  credit  borrowers.    Unlike   the
Receivables  purchased in the private secondary mortgage  market,
the  loans originated by Metwest have standard documentation  and
terms.    Currently,   Metwest  originates  fixed   rate   loans.
Residential  loans up to $207,000 are evaluated by an  individual
loan  underwriter.   Loans  in excess  of  $207,000  require  the
approval of two approved underwriters.

     Lotteries, Structured Settlements and Annuities Sources

      Metropolitan  also negotiates the purchase  of  Receivables
which  are  not collateralized by real estate, such as structured
settlements,  annuities and lottery prizes.  The  lottery  prizes
generally  arise  out of state operated lottery games  which  are
typically  paid in annual installments to the prize winner.   The
structured  settlements generally arise out of the settlement  of
legal  disputes where the prevailing party is awarded  a  sum  of
money,  payable  over  a  period of time, generally  through  the
creation of an annuity.  Other annuities generally consist of
<PAGE>                        Page 96

investments  which cannot be cashed in directly with the  issuing
insurance  company.  Metropolitan's source for these  investments
is  generally  private brokers who specialize in these  types  of
Receivables.

     Lottery, Structured Settlement and Annuity Underwriting

      In the case of structured settlement annuity purchases, the
underwriting  guidelines  of  Metropolitan  generally  include  a
review  of the settlement agreement.  In the case of all  annuity
purchases,   Metropolitan's  underwriting  guidelines   generally
include  a  review of the annuity policy, related documents,  the
credit  rating  of the annuity seller, the credit rating  of  the
annuity  payor (generally an insurance company), and a review  of
other  factors  relevant to the risk of purchasing  a  particular
annuity as deemed appropriate by management in each circumstance.
Typically,  Metropolitan  limits its  acquisition  of  structured
settlements  and annuities to the purchase of a  maximum  of  the
next seven year's payments.

      In  the case of lottery prizes, the underwriting guidelines
generally  include a review of the documents providing  proof  of
the  prize,  and a review of the credit rating of  the  insurance
company,  or  other  entity, making the lottery  prize  payments.
Where  the  lottery  prize  is from  a  state  run  lottery,  the
underwriting guidelines generally include a confirmation with the
respective lottery commission of the prize winner's right to sell
the  prize,  and  acknowledgment from the lottery  commission  of
their receipt of notice of the sale.  In many states, in order to
sell  a state lottery prize, the winner must obtain a court order
permitting  the sale.  In those states, Metropolitan  requires  a
certified copy of the court order.

Yield and Discount Considerations

      Metropolitan  negotiates  all  Receivable  acquisitions  at
prices calculated to provide a desired yield.  Often this results
in a purchase price less than the Receivable's unpaid balance, or
less  than  its  present value (assuming a fixed discount  rate).
The  difference between the unpaid balance and the purchase price
is  the  "discount". The amount of the discount will vary in  any
given  transaction depending upon the purchasing company's  yield
requirements at the time of the purchase. Yield requirements  are
established in light of capital costs, market conditions, the
<PAGE>                        Page 97

characteristics of particular classes or types of Receivables and
the  risk  of  default by the Receivable payor.   See  "BUSINESS-
Receivable Investments-Underwriting"

      For Receivables of all types, the discounts originating  at
the  time of purchase, net of capitalized acquisition costs,  are
amortized  using  the  level  yield (interest)  method  over  the
remaining  contractual term of the Receivable.   For  Receivables
which  were acquired after September 30, 1992, these net purchase
discounts  are amortized on an individual basis using  the  level
yield  method  over  the remaining life of the  Receivable.   For
those  Receivables  acquired before October 1,  1992,  these  net
purchase discounts were pooled by the fiscal year of purchase and
by  similar  contract types, and amortized on a pool basis  using
the  level yield method over the expected remaining life  of  the
pool.   For these Receivables, the amortization period, which  is
approximately  78  months,  is based  on  an  estimated  constant
prepayment rate of 10-12 percent per year on scheduled  payments,
which   is   consistent  with  the  Consolidated  Group's   prior
experience  with  similar  loans  and  the  Consolidated  Group's
expectations.

     Management establishes the yield requirements for Receivable
investments by assuming that all payments on the Receivables will
be paid as scheduled.

      A  greater  effective yield can also  be  achieved  through
negotiating  amendments  to  the  Receivable  agreements.   These
amendments may involve adjusting the interest rate and/or monthly
payments,  extension of financing in lieu of a  required  balloon
payment or other adjustments in cases of delinquencies where  the
payor  appears able to resolve the delinquency.  As a  result  of
these amendments, the cash flow may be maintained or accelerated,
the  latter of which increases the yield realized on a Receivable
purchased at a discount.

Current Mix of Receivable Investment Holdings

      The  Consolidated  Group's investments  in  Receivables  is
concentrated  in  Receivables collateralized by  first  liens  on
single  family  residential property.  Management  believes  that
this  concentration in residential real estate presents  a  lower
credit  risk  than would a portfolio predominantly collateralized
by  commercial property or unimproved land, and that much of  the
risk  in the portfolio is further dissipated by the large numbers
of
<PAGE>                        Page 98

relatively  small Receivables, the geographic dispersion  of  the
collateral,  and  the  collateral  value  to  investment   amount
requirements.

       At  the  time  of  acquisition,  the  face  value  of  all
Receivables collateralized by real estate generally range in size
from approximately $15,000 to $300,000.  During fiscal 1996,  the
average  Receivable  balance at the time of  acquisition  by  the
Consolidated  Group was approximately $52,000.   See  Note  2  to
Consolidated Financial Statements.

      Management  continually monitors economic  and  demographic
conditions  throughout  the country  in  an  effort  to  avoid  a
concentration  of  its  real estate Receivables  in  those  areas
experiencing economic decline, which could result in higher  than
anticipated default rates and subsequent investment losses.

     The following charts present information on the Consolidated
Group's portfolio of outstanding Receivables as of September  30,
1996  regarding  geographical distribution, type of  real  estate
collateral and lien position:

PIE  CHARTS  SHOWING BREAKDOWNS OF RECEIVABLES BY TYPE,  SECURITY
POSITION  AND  PIE  CHART SHOWING BREAKDOWN OF  THE  CONSOLIDATED
GROUPS' ASSETS

1.   This  page  contains  three pie charts  with  the  following
headings and breakdowns in the charts:

   a.   Distribution of Receivable By Collateral Type  (September
30, 1996)

Residential    69%
Commercial     19%
Farms, land
Other          12%

  b.  Distribution of Receivables (collateralized by real estate)
By Security Position (September 30, 1996)

First Lien Position       99%
Second Lien or Lower
Position                   1%


<PAGE>                        Page 99

  c. Distribution of Assets

Cash and Cash
Equivalents                    3%
Investments                   21%
Receivables Collateralized
 by real estate               54%
Other Receivables (structured
 settlements, lotteries and
 annuities)                    4%
Real Estate Held               8%
Deferred Costs                 7%
Other                          3%



<PAGE>                        Page 100

GRAPH SHOWING MAP OF THE UNITED STATES AND DISTRIBUTION OF RECEIVABL
E INVESTMENTS BY STATE:

2.   This graph contains a map of the United States and indicates
the branch and headquarter offices and identifies the percent  of
distribution  of  the principal amount of Receivable  investments
(collateralized  by  real estate) as of  September  30,  1996  by
state, for the states with 1% or more invested.

     The following amounts are shown for the following states:

Washington   17.1%
Oregon        5.4%
California   10.3%
Arizona       8.4%
Idaho              2.5%
New Mexico         3.2%
Texas             11.3%
Colorado      1.1%
Michigan      2.1%
Georgia       1.6%
Florida       5.6%
New York      3.2%
Hawaii        4.8%
Minnesota     1.1%
Nevada        1.1%

                                
<PAGE>                        Page 101
                                
   METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                      LOANS ON REAL ESTATE
                       September 30, 1996
                                
Real estate contracts and mortgage notes receivable include mortgages
collateralized  by property located throughout the  United  States.
At  September 30, 1996, the Consolidated Group held first  position
liens associated with contracts and mortgage notes receivable  with
a  face  value  of approximately $675 million (99%) and  second  or
lower   position   liens   of  approximately   $6   million   (1%).
Approximately  23% of the face value of the Company's  real  estate
contracts  and  mortgage  notes receivable  are  collateralized  by
property  located  in  the Pacific Northwest  (Washington,  Alaska,
Idaho,  Montana and Oregon), approximately 20% by property  located
in   the   Pacific  Southwest  (California,  Arizona  and  Nevada),
approximately  10%  in  the  Southeast  (Florida,  Georgia,   North
Carolina  and  South  Carolina)  , approximately  10%  in  Atlantic
Northeast  (New  York,  Pennsylvania, New Jersey,  Connecticut  and
Maryland)  and  approximately  16%  by  property  located  in   the
Southwest  (Texas  and New Mexico).  The face  value  of  the  real
estate  contracts  and mortgage notes receivable range  principally
from   $15,000   to  $300,000  with  52  receivables,   aggregating
approximately $29.4 million in excess of this range.  No individual
contract  or note is in excess of 0.4% of the total carrying  value
of  real estate contracts and mortgage notes receivables, and  less
than  3%  of the contracts are subject to variable interest  rates.
Contractual  interest rates principally range from 6%  to  13%  per
annum with approximately 91% of the face value of these receivables
within this range.  The weighted average contractual interest  rate
on  these receivables at September 30, 1996 is approximately  9.4%.
Maturity dates range from 1996 to 2026.
    


<PAGE>                        Page 102

    <TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                       Number of              Carrying     Delinquent   Non        Number of
Description            Receivable  Interest   Amount of    Principal    Accrual    Non Accrual
                       s           Rates      Receivables  Amount       Principal  Receivables
                                                                        Amount
                                                                                   
RESIDENTIAL                        Principal
                                   ly
<S>                    <C>         <C>        <C>          <C>          <C>        <C>
First Mortgage >            738       6%-13%   $108,873,69  $ 5,687,601          $         7
$100,000                                                 7               1,548,124
First Mortgage >          2,500       6%-13%   161,285,463    7,443,607         --        --
$50,000
First Mortgage <         13,568       6%-13%   261,018,755    9,129,035         --        --
$50,000
Second or Lower >             1         7.5%       243,213           --         --        --
$100,000
Second or Lower >             6       9%-10%       384,654           --         --        --
$50,000
Second or Lower <           358       6%-13%     3,487,974      191,504         --        --
$50,000
COMMERCIAL                                                                                  
First Mortgage >            248       6%-13%    52,072,095    1,248,896         --        --
$100,000
First Mortgage >            252       6%-13%    18,218,639      500,571         --        --
$50,000
First Mortgage <            447       6%-13%    11,837,475      107,111         --        --
$50,000
Second or Lower >             4     9%-10.5%     1,564,708           --         --        --
$100,000
Second or Lower>              3      8%-9.5%       204,917           --         --        --
$50,000
Second or Lower <             9       8%-11%       192,717           --         --        --
$50,000
FARM, LAND AND OTHER                                                                        
First Mortgage >             67       8%-12%    14,551,734    1,101,876  1,101,876         2
$100,000
First Mortgage >            151       6%-13%     9,697,972      220,731         --        --
$50,000
First Mortgage <          2,178       6%-13%    36,929,717      841,020         --        --
$50,000
Second or Lower >             1          14%       100,000           --         --        --
$100,000
Second or Lower>              2       9%-10%       164,743           --         --        --
$50,000
Second or Lower <            40       9%-12%       349,674       28,048         --        --
$50,000
                                                                                            
Unrealized discounts,                                     
net of unamortized                                        
acquisition costs, on                                     
receivables purchased                          (38,607,376
at a discount                                            )
                                                                                            
Accrued Interest                                 8,362,559                                  
Receivables                                    -----------  -----------  ---------  --------
                                                        --            -         --        --
CARRYING VALUE                                 $650,933,33  $26,500,000  $2,642,00 
                                                         0  ===========          0
                                               ===========               =========
                                                         =                       =

<PAGE>                        Page 103

</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
The  contractual  maturities  of the aggregate amounts  of  Receivables  (face
amount) are as follows:


                           Residential     Commercial      Farm, Land,     Total
                           Principal       Principal       Other           Principal
                                                           Principal
                           ------------    --------------  --------------  --------------
                                           ------          ----            --
<S>                        <C>             <C>             <C>             <C>
October 1996 - September     $ 43,589,264     $10,647,400     $10,083,453     $ 64,320,117
1999
October 1999 - September       50,673,223      10,160,940       8,005,953       68,840,116
2001
October 2001 - September       53,408,352       8,270,489       5,145,528       66,824,369
2003
October 2003 - September       62,945,018      15,076,814      10,890,593       88,912,425
2006
October 2006 - September      100,196,799      13,896,939      13,898,207      127,991,945
2011
October 2011 - September       72,017,732       7,719,548       6,273,944       86,011,224
2016
October 2016 - Thereafter     152,463,368      18,318,421       7,496,162      178,277,951
                              -----------      ----------      ----------      -----------
                             $535,293,756     $84,090,551     $61,793,840     $681,178,147
                             ============     ===========     ===========     ============

</TABLE>

                                
<PAGE>                        Page 104
                                
  METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                      LOANS ON REAL ESTATE
                       September 30, 1995
Real estate contracts and mortgage notes receivable include mortgages
collateralized  by property located throughout the  United  States.
At  September 30, 1995, the Consolidated Group held first  position
liens associated with contracts and mortgage notes receivable  with
a  face  value  of approximately $610 million (99%) and  second  or
lower   position   liens   of  approximately   $8   million   (1%).
Approximately  27% of the face value of the Company's  real  estate
contracts  and  mortgage  notes receivable  are  collateralized  by
property  located  in  the Pacific Northwest  (Washington,  Alaska,
Idaho,  Montana and Oregon), approximately 20% by property  located
in   the   Pacific  Southwest  (California,  Arizona  and  Nevada),
approximately 9% in the Southeast (Florida, Georgia, North Carolina
and  South  Carolina) and approximately 15% by property located  in
the  Southwest (Texas and New Mexico).  The face value of the  real
estate  contracts  and mortgage notes receivable range  principally
from   $15,000   to  $300,000  with  41  receivables,   aggregating
approximately $22.5 million in excess of this range.  No individual
contract  or note is in excess of 0.3% of the total carrying  value
of  real estate contracts and mortgage notes receivables, and  less
than  4%  of the contracts are subject to variable interest  rates.
Contractual  interest rates principally range from 7%  to  14%  per
annum with approximately 93% of the face value of these receivables
within this range.  The weighted average contractual interest  rate
on  these receivables at September 30, 1995 is approximately  9.6%.
Maturity dates range from 1995 to 2025.


<PAGE>                        Page 105

    <TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                       Number of   Interes  Maturity  Carrying     Delinquen Non        Number of
Description            Receivable  t Rates  Dates     Amount of    t         Accrual    Non
                       s                              Receivables  Principal Principal  Accrual
                                                                   Amount    Amount     Receivable
                                                                                        s
RESIDENTIAL                        Principally                                          
<S>                    <C>         <C>      <C>       <C>          <C>        <C>        <C>
First Mortgage >            582      7%-14%    1995-            $  $2,842,17   $ 642,384      3
$100,000                                        2025   87,229,481          8
First Mortgage >          2,032      7%-14%    1995-  136,531,451  3,675,440          --     --
$50,000                                         2025
First Mortgage <         13,770      7%-14%    1995-  279,102,436  7,619,058          --     --
$50,000                                         2025
Second or Lower >             3      7%-11%    2005-      686,087    339,801          --     --
$100,000                                        2018
Second or Lower >            11      8%-12%    2002-      672,012    166,846          --     --
$50,000                                         2017
Second or Lower <           313      7%-14%    1995-    4,123,093     73,302          --     --
$50,000                                         2025
COMMERCIAL                                                                                     
First Mortgage >            175      7%-14%    1995-   35,889,341    741,083          --     --
$100,000                                        2025
First Mortgage >            194      7%-14%    1995-   13,948,069    295,408          --     --
$50,000                                         2025
First Mortgage <            354      7%-14%    1995-    8,967,314    131,197          --     --
$50,000                                         2025
Second or Lower >             3       7%-9%    2010-      852,197         --          --     --
$100,000                                        2025
Second or Lower>              4       8%-9%    2000-      281,043         --          --     --
$50,000                                         2016
Second or Lower <             5      8%-10%    1997-       63,809         --          --     --
$50,000                                         2000
FARM, LAND AND OTHER                                                                           
First Mortgage >             54      7%-10%    1995-   12,173,717  1,026,615     226,116      1
$100,000                                        2025
First Mortgage >            104      8%-11%    1995-    6,865,287         --          --     --
$50,000                                         2025
First Mortgage <          1,948      7%-14%    1995-   29,093,311    554,713          --     --
$50,000                                         2025
Second or Lower >             1          6%     2009      336,544         --          --     --
$100,000
Second or Lower>              2       7%-9%    2005-      153,066         --          --     --
$50,000                                         2020
Second or Lower <            53      9%-12%    1996-      544,695     34,359          --     --
$50,000                                         2022
                                                                                               
Unrealized discounts,                                                                          
net of unamortized                                                                             
acquisition costs, on                                                                          
receivables purchased                                 (37,354,378         --          --     --
at a discount                                                   )
                                                                                                
Accrued Interest                                                                                   
Receivables                                             7,335,039         --         --      --
                                                      -----------  ---------   --------  ------
CARRYING VALUE                                        $587,493,61  $17,500,0   $868,500            
                                                                4         00   ========
                                                      ===========  =========
                                                                =          =

<PAGE>                        Page 106

</TABLE>
[/R]

<PAGE>                        Page 107

        The   following   tables   present   certain   statistical   information
about   the   Consolidated   Group's  Receivable  investment   activity   during
the three fiscal years ended September 30, 1996.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>                                        Year Ended or at September 30
                                                     -----------------
- ------------
                                                       1996
1995      1994
                                                     --------------
- ---------------
                                                           (Dollars
in thousands)
<S>                                                 <C>         <C>
<C>
DISCOUNTED REAL ESTATE RECEIVABLES
PURCHASED DURING PERIOD
         Number.....................                             4,969
4,130         2,906
    Average  Face  Amount........                      $      52      $
45      $     52
                                                    -------      ------
- -        -------
       Face     Amount...............                          $256,486
$187,305     $150,709
   Unrealized Discounts, Net of
         Acquisition    Costs.......                           (24,718)
(15,338)      (21,186)
   Underlying Obligations
         Assumed    (1).............                            (3,634)
(527)         (191)
                                                   --------     -------
- -      --------
                                                               $228,134
$171,440                                $129,332
                                                               ========
========                                ========
DISCOUNTED REAL ESTATE RECEIVABLES
   OUTSTANDING AT END OF PERIOD
    Number.....................                       13,358       13,4
36         13,994
                                                   --------     -------
- -      --------
       Face     Amount................                         $548,538
$505,441     $502,314
   Unrealized Discounts, Net
   of Unamortized Acquisition
         Costs...................                              (38,607)
(37,354)      (46,989)
                                                   --------    --------
- --------
       Net     Balance................                         $509,931
$468,087      $455,325
                                                               ========
========                                ========
TOTAL REAL ESTATE RECEIVABLES
   OUTSTANDING AT END OF PERIOD (2)
         Number.....................                             20,573
19,608        18,820
                                                   --------     -------
- -      --------
   Face Amount Discounted
           Receivables.............                            $548,538
$505,441      $502,314
   Face Amount Non-Discounted
           Receivables............                              132,641
112,072       104,011
                                                   --------     -------
- -      --------
      Total    Outstanding    Receivables                       681,179
617,513       606,325

   Unrealized Discounts, Net of
        Unamortized    Acquisition   Costs                     (38,607)
(37,354)      (46,989)
      Accrued    Interest   Receivable                            8,361
7,335         7,920
                                                    --------    -------
- -       --------
       Net     Balance................                         $650,933
$587,494      $567,256
                                                               ========
========      ========
Average Net Balance per
   Receivable (Excluding
       Accrued    Interest)                                       $31.2
$29.6                                      $29.7

<PAGE>                        Page 108


Average Annual Yield on
    Discounted Receivables (3)                           11.9%      12.
8%          13.6%
<FN>
</TABLE>

  (1)  Consisting  of pre-existing first lien position  contracts  or
mortgages which remain when the Consolidated Group invests in  second
lien position Receivables.

(2)  Approximately 19% of the portfolio at September 30, 1996, 18% of
the  portfolio  at  September 30, 1995 and 17% of  the  portfolio  at
September  30, 1994 represented financing for resales of  repossessed
properties and other non-discounted Receivables.

(3)   Yield  on  Receivables  represent  gross  interest  and  earned
discount revenues, net of amortized acquisition costs, prior  to  any
overhead  allocation and losses recorded following foreclosure.   The
reasons  for  changes in yield are (i) fluctuations in  the  rate  of
actual  prepayments;  (ii) securitization and  sale  of  Receivables;
(iii)   the  changing  mix  of  Receivable  purchases  between  those
originated from Metropolitan's network of offices and those purchased
in bulk; (iv) the amortization of the existing portfolio; and (v) the
amount of discount on Receivables purchased.

      At September 30, 1996, the average contractual interest rate on
Receivables  collateralized  by real estate  (weighted  by  principal
balances) was approximately 9.4%.

Servicing and Collection Procedures, and Delinquency Experience

      The  servicing and collection of Receivables of all types owned
by  the  Consolidated  Group is performed by Metwest.   Metwest  also
services  the Receivables of Summit, Old Standard, and Arizona  Life,
and  the  Receivables sold through securitizations.  Metwest  uses  a
flexible  computer software program, Sanchez, to monitor and  service
the  Receivables.   The Consolidated Group considers  consistent  and
timely collection activity to be critical to successful servicing and
minimization  of  foreclosure  losses, for  its  predominantly  "B/C"
Receivables portfolio.

       Fees  for  providing  servicing  and  collection  services  to
Metropolitan  and  Western United had no impact  on  the  results  of
operations  of the Consolidated Group.  Fees for providing  servicing
and collection services to Summit, Old Standard and Arizona Life were
approximately $290,000 during 1996.  These charges to parties outside
the Consolidated Group provide income to the Consolidated Group.

<PAGE>                        Page 109


      The  principal  amount  of Receivables collateralized  by  real
estate, held by the Consolidated Group (as a percentage of the  total
outstanding principal amount of Receivables) which was in arrears for
more than ninety days at the end of the following fiscal years was:

          1996  ---  3.9%
          1995  ---  2.8%
          1994  ---  3.1%


      The  real  estate collateralized Receivables purchased  by  the
Consolidated   Group  are  predominantly  "B/C"  credit  Receivables.
Accordingly,  higher delinquency rates are expected which  Management
believes  are  generally  offset  by  the  value  of  the  underlying
collateral.   In  addition,  the  Consolidated  Group  maintains   an
allowance  for  losses  on  delinquent  real  estate  Receivables  as
described  below.   As  a  result, management  believes  losses  from
resales  of  repossessed properties are generally  lower  than  might
otherwise  be expected given the delinquency rates. In addition,  the
Consolidated  Group  is  compensated for  the  risk  associated  with
delinquencies  through  Receivable  yields  that  are  greater   than
typically  available  through the conventional, "A",  credit  lending
markets.

      When  a  Receivable becomes delinquent, the payor is  initially
contacted  by  letter approximately seven days after the  delinquency
date.   If  the  delinquency is not cured, the payor is contacted  by
telephone (generally on the 17th day following the payment due date).
If the default is still not cured (generally within three to six days
after  the  initial call), additional collection activity,  including
further  written  correspondence and further  telephone  contact,  is
pursued.   If  these  collection  procedures  are  unsuccessful,  the
account  is  referred  to  a committee who  analyzes  the  basis  for
default,  the  economics  of the Receivable  and  the  potential  for
environmental risks.  When appropriate, a Phase I environmental study
is  obtained  prior  to foreclosure.  Based upon this  analysis,  the
Receivable   is   considered  for  a  workout  arrangement,   further
collection  activity,  or  foreclosure  of  any  property   providing
collateral for the Receivable.  Collection activity may also  involve
the  initiation of legal proceedings against the Receivable  obligor.
Legal  proceedings,  when necessary, are generally  initiated  within
approximately ninety days after the initial default.  If accounts are
reinstated  prior  to completion of the legal action,  then  attorney
fees,  costs, expenses and late charges are generally collected  from
the  payor,  or  added to the Receivable balance, as a  condition  of
reinstatement.


<PAGE>                        Page 110

Allowance for Losses on Real Estate Assets

      The  Consolidated Group establishes an allowance  for  expected
losses  on real estate assets (both Receivables and repossessed  real
estate).  This  allowance  is based upon a statistical  valuation  or
traditional  appraisal  of  the  Consolidated  Group's  real   estate
holdings  for  each delinquent Receivable having a principal  balance
greater   than   $100,000.   In  addition,  the  Consolidated   Group
calculates an allowance for losses on delinquent Receivables having a
principal  balance  below  the  $100,000  threshold  based  upon  its
historical  loss  experience.   The Consolidated  Group  reviews  the
results  of  its resales of repossessed real estate, both before  and
after  year  end, to identify any market trends and to  document  the
Group's historical experience on such sales.  The Consolidated  Group
adjusts  its  allowance for losses requirement as appropriate,  based
upon such observed trends in delinquencies and resales.

      The  Consolidated Group's current real estate valuation  policy
requires  annual statistical valuations or traditional appraisals  on
real  estate  and delinquent Receivables when their values  exceed  a
threshold equal to 1/2% of total assets of the Consolidated Group or,
in  the case of the insurance subsidiary, 5% of statutory capital and
surplus.  Biannual appraisals are required for all other real  estate
holdings where an investment exceeds $50,000.

     The following table outlines the Consolidated Group's changes in
the allowance for losses on real estate assets:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   1996            1995           1994
<S>                           <C>             <C>           <C>
Beginning Balance             $ 8,116,065     $9,108,383    $10,598,491
Provisions                      6,360,072      4,174,644      5,533,193
Charge-Offs                    (4,283,553)    (5,166,962)    (7,023,301)
                               ----------     ----------     ----------
Ending Balance                $10,192,584     $8,116,065    $ 9,108,383
                               ==========    ==========      ==========
Percentage of Ending
Balance of Allowances
to Outstanding
Real Estate Assets                    1.4%           1.2%           1.4%
                                     ====           ====           ====
   
Ratio of Net Charge-Offs
to Average Real Estate
Assets Outstanding

<PAGE>                        Page 111

During the Period                     0.6%           0.8%            1.1%
                                     ====           ====             ====
    
</TABLE>
Repossessions

      In  the  course  of  its  Receivable investment  activity,  the
Consolidated  Group  acquires various parcels of  real  estate  as  a
result  of  foreclosures and/or voluntary repossessions.  It  is  the
Consolidated  Group's  general  policy  to  attempt  to  resell  such
properties  at the earliest possible time following its  acquisition.
Improvements  are  made to certain properties  for  the  purposes  of
preservation  or  restoration  to maximize  the  resale  price.   The
marketing status of all properties is reviewed at least monthly by  a
committee which includes both sales personnel and management.

     The carrying value of a repossessed property is determined as of
the  date  of  repossession  of  the  property  and  is  based  on  a
statistical   valuation,  an  appraisal  by  a  licensed  independent
appraiser  or  by  one  of Metropolitan's licensed  staff  appraisers
either  at the time the Receivable was purchased or at the  time  the
property was repossessed in accordance with the Consolidated  Group's
appraisal policy.  In addition, a new appraisal is obtained not  less
frequently  than  every  two  years  on  all  real  estate   holdings
previously valued at $50,000 or more.  Internal valuation reviews  on
all  repossessed properties are performed at least annually based  on
management's knowledge of market conditions and  comparable  property
sales.

<PAGE>                        Page 112

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

      The following table presents specific information about the
Consolidated Group's repossessed properties with carrying  values
of  $100,000 or more which were held at September 30, 1996 and/or
September  30,  1995.  The carrying values of certain  properties
may   reflect  additional  costs  incurred,  such  as  taxes  and
improvements, when such costs  are estimated to be recoverable in
the sale of the repossessed property.
<S>                          <C>             <C>                  <C>
<C>        <C>
                          Carrying       Carrying              Market
Year of    Gross
Property Type/               Value         Value                Value
Fore-    Monthly
State Location              9/30/95       9/30/96             9/30/96
closure    Income



26.73 Commercial Acres  $  252,875     $  238,036           $  238,036
1983 (1)
Farm/Ranch 1,927 Acres,
   Washington              285,690        285,690              329,500
1988 (2) $3,879
50,000 sq. Ft Commercial
       Building,    Washington       850,000              Sold      A
1989
34     Acres,     Washington               3,071,006        3,145,113
3,350,000      1991 (3)
Land, California           225,360        225,360               250,400
1994
K-5 Grade School,
   California              202,500        202,500               225,000
1994
House, California          117,000         90,000               100,000
1994
Duplex,    New    Jersey            103,500               Sold      B
1994
House,     California              103,500               Sold       C
1994
House,     New    Jersey             121,500              Sold      D
1995
House,     Michigan                116,100               Sold       E
1995
House,     New    York               138,600              Sold      F
1995
House,     New    York               189,000              Sold      G
1995
House,     California              162,000               Sold       H
1995
House,     California              127,800               Sold       I
1995
House,     Arizona                  146,700               Sold      J
1995
House,     California              256,500               Sold       K
1995
House, California          130,500        110,700               123,000
1995
House, Connecticut         187,200        114,750               127,500
1995
House,     Washington              135,900               Sold       L
1995
House,     New    York               140,400              Sold      M
1995
14 Unit Apartment
  Bldg., Washington                       108,000              120,000
1996
House, Maryland                           108,000              120,000
1996
Condo, California                         137,105              152,339
1996
Multi Unit Professional
  Bldg., New Jersey                      162,000               180,000
1996
House, California                        261,000               290,000
1996
House, Washington                        126,000               140,000
1996
House, Washington                        115,885               128,761
1996
House, Florida                             120,706               134,118           1996

<PAGE>                        Page 113

House, New York                          100,800               112,000
1996
House, California                        113,207               125,786
1996
House, Massachusetts                      124,200               138,000
1996
                           ----------  ----------           ----------
- ------
                           $7,063,631 $5,889,052            $6,384,440
$3,879
                           ========== ==========            ==========
======
The sales prices of the referenced properties were as follows:


$930,000    A
  55,000    B
  90,000    C
 120,000    D
 122,500    E
 120,000    F
 210,000    G
 180,000    H
 105,000    I
 163,000    J
 270,000    K
 115,000    L
 135,000    M
- ---------
$2,615,500

The following are descriptions of the marketing status of all properties
listed  above which were acquired by the Consolidated Group prior  to
fiscal 1993:

(1) Located in Pasco, Washington, the commercial property is in the area
of a planned freeway interchange.

(2)  Located in Grant County, Washington.  A portion of the property is
currently leased. Approximately 940 acres of the property is  in  the
federal government's Crop Reduction Program.

(3)  See discussion regarding "Renton" in "Real Estate Development-Other
Development Properties".

      For  further information regarding the Consolidated Group's
activity  in  properties held for development, See  "REAL  ESTATE
DEVELOPMENT".
</TABLE>

Management & Receivable Acquisition Services

     Metropolitan provides management, and Receivable acquisition
services  for  a  fee  to its subsidiaries and  to   Summit,  Old
Standard and Arizona Life.  The Receivable acquisition fees are
<PAGE>                        Page 114

based  upon  a  yield requirement established by  the  purchasing
company.   Metropolitan  collects  as  its  fee,  the  difference
between  the  yield requirement and the yield which  Metropolitan
actually negotiates.

   
      In the case of Western United, beginning in 1994, the yield
requirement  established  by  Western  United  is  guaranteed  by
Metropolitan,  and  an  intercompany reserve  is  established  to
support  the  guarantee.   Because  of  the  guarantee,  and  the
corresponding  decrease in risk, Western  United's  stated  yield
requirement  is  relatively lower than the other companies.   The
reserve  established  in  1996 on purchases  of  $327.6  million,
including  origination  expenses, net of  purchase  discount  was
$12.54  million.  Metropolitan remains liable to  Western  United
for  any losses in excess of the reserve.   While this charge has
the  effect  of  reducing the Receivable yield of  the  insurance
subsidiary,   there  is  a  corresponding  positive   effect   on
Metropolitan.    With  the  elimination  of  these   intercompany
guarantees  and  yield adjustments in consolidation,  the  yields
recognized by the Consolidated Group are the same as though there
were no guarantee or yield adjustments.
    

         The  acquisition fees are amortized into  Metropolitan's
income,  over the same period and in the same amount as they  are
amortized  into  expenses  by the insurance  subsidiary.   During
1996, 1995 and 1994, Metropolitan charged Western United fees  of
approximately  $29.4 million, $14.6 million  and  $12.8  million,
respectively.   The 1996, 1995 and 1994 charge  was  before  loss
reserves  of  $12.54  million, $6.95 million and  $4.75  million,
respectively.  Underwriting fees charged to Summit, Old  Standard
and Arizona Life are recognized as revenues when the related fees
are charged to those companies. During 1996, Metropolitan charged
Summit,   Old  Standard  and  Arizona  Life  fees  of   $310,000,
$1,032,000  and  $22,000, respectively.  The  service  agreements
with Western United has no effect upon the consolidated financial
results  of  the Consolidated Group.  The service agreement  with
companies  outside the Consolidated Group, including Summit,  Old
Standard  and  Arizona Life provided fee income to  Metropolitan.
See "CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS"    

Receivable Sales

<PAGE>                        Page 115


      The  Consolidated Group sells pools of Receivables when  it
considers  it  profitable to do so.  Such sales  generally  occur
through  one  of two methods: (1) securitization  or  (2)  direct
sales.  Management believes that the sale of Receivables provides
a number of benefits including allowing the Consolidated Group to
diversify its funding base, provide liquidity and lower its  cost
of  funds.   In addition to providing liquidity and profits,  the
sale  of  Receivables is a source of cash which can be reinvested
into additional Receivables.  The sale of Receivables allows  the
Consolidated Group to continue to expand its investing activities
without increasing its asset size.

       During   May   1996,  Metropolitan  and   Western   United
participated  with  Old Standard and Summit  as  sellers  in  the
securitization  of approximately $ 122.9 million  in  Receivables
collateralized by real estate, principally consisting  of  seller
financed  first  lien residential Receivables.  The  second  such
securitization  of approximately $ 126.7 million  of  first  lien
residential and commercial real estate lien Receivables, of which
approximately 54% were seller financed Receivables,  occurred  in
November   1996.   Currently,  it  is  proposed  that  the   next
securitization of Receivables collateralized by real estate  will
not  occur until the second half of fiscal 1997. The Consolidated
Group   is  also  evaluating  the  market,  economic  and   legal
implications of selling  its non real estate Receivables  through
securitizations.    There   can  be  no   assurance   that   such
securitizations will be pursued, or if pursued, that they will be
profitable.

     Generally, a securitization involves the transfer of certain
specified  Receivables  to  a single purpose  trust.   The  trust
issues   certificates  which  represent  an  undivided  ownership
interest  in  the  Receivables  transferred  to  the  trust.  The
certificates consist of different classes, which include  classes
of  senior  certificates, and a residual interest  and  may  also
include  intermediate classes of subordinated certificates.   The
rights  of the senior certificate holders can be enhanced through
several methods which include subordination of the rights of  the
subordinate certificate holders to receive distributions, or  the
establishment   of   a   reserve   fund.   In   connection   with
securitizations, the senior certificates are sold to investors,
<PAGE>                        Page 116
     
     generally institutional investors.  The companies which sold
their   Receivables  to  the  trust  receive   a   cash   payment
representing their respective interest in the sales price for the
senior  certificates and any subordinate certificates sold.   The
selling  companies receive an interest in any unsold  subordinate
certificates,  and  also typically receive  an  interest  in  the
residual  interest.   Such  interests are  generally  apportioned
based  upon  the respective companies contribution of Receivables
to the pool of Receivables sold to the trust.
     
     In  the  typical  securitization structure,  the  Receivable
payments  are distributed first to the senior certificates,  next
to  the  subordinated  certificates, if  any,  and  last  to  the
residual  interests.  As a result, the residual interest  is  the
interest  first  affected by any loss due to the failure  of  the
Receivables  to  pay as scheduled.  The holders of  the  residual
interest  values  such  interest on  their  respective  financial
statements   based   upon  certain  assumptions   regarding   the
anticipated  losses  and  prepayments.   To  the  extent   actual
prepayments  and losses are greater or less than the assumptions,
the  companies holding the residual interests will  experience  a
loss or gain.
     
      In  the  securitizations which occurred in May and November
1996,  the rights of the senior certificate holders were enhanced
through  subordinating  the  rights  of  subordinate  certificate
holders  to  receive distributions with respect to  the  mortgage
loans  to such rights of senior certificate holders.  The selling
companies  retained  their  respective  residual  interests.   At
September   30,  1996,  the  residual  interests  held   by   the
Consolidated  Group  for  the May 1996 securitization  aggregated
approximately  $3.6 million.  At the close of the November  1996,
securitization  the  Consolidated Group held  residual  interests
aggregating approximately $7.1 million.

       In   addition   to  sales  through  securitizations,   the
Consolidated  Group  sells  pools  of  Receivables  directly   to
purchasers.   These sales are typically without recourse,  except
that  for  a  period  of  time the selling company  is  generally
required  to repurchase or replace any Receivables which  do  not
conform to the representations and warranties made at the time of
sale.   During  1996, the Consolidated Group sold  portfolios  of
real estate Receivables through securitizations with proceeds of
<PAGE>                        Page 117

approximately $108.4 million, and gains of $8.6 million.   During
that  same  period, the Consolidated Group sold other Receivables
with  proceeds of approximately $73.8 million and gains  of  $4.1
million.

LIFE INSURANCE AND ANNUITY OPERATIONS

Introduction

      The Consolidated Group raises the majority of its new funds
through its insurance subsidiary, Western United.  Western United
was  incorporated in Washington State in 1963.  Since  1979,  the
assets  of  the Western United have grown from $600,000  to  over
$1.1  billion and the number of policyholders and annuitants have
increased from 200 to about 45,000.  Based on its assets, Western
United  ranks  sixth  in size among the life insurance  companies
domiciled in the State of Washington.

      Western  United  markets  its annuity  and  life  insurance
products   through   approximately    1,400   independent   sales
representatives under contract.  These representatives  may  also
sell  life insurance and/or annuity products for other companies.
Western United is licensed as an insurer in the states of Alaska,
Arizona, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North  Dakota,
Oregon,  South  Dakota,  Texas, Utah,  Washington,  and  Wyoming.
During   1995,  the  most  recent  year  for  which   statistical
information  is available, Western United's annuity market  share
was  5.8%  (ranking it third in production) in the six states  in
which  approximately  81% of its annuity business  was  produced:
Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota and Utah.

      Management  intends  to expand the  operations  of  Western
United  into  other  states  as opportunities  arise,  which  may
include  the  acquisition of other existing insurance  companies.
Western  United  currently  has  insurance  license  applications
pending  in the states of Kansas, Minnesota, New Mexico, Oklahoma
and  Wisconsin.  The application process generally  extends  over
several  years.  Accordingly, Western United does  not  presently
anticipate  expanding its sales into these markets during  fiscal
1997.

      Metropolitan provides management and Receivable acquisition
services  for  a fee to Western United.  See "BUSINESS-RECEIVABLE
INVESTMENTS-Management & Receivable Acquisition Services".

<PAGE>                        Page 118


      Western United may invest up to 65% of its statutory assets
in  real  estate  related Receivables.  The  balance  of  Western
United's  investments are principally invested in  corporate  and
government  securities, but may be invested  into  a  variety  of
other areas as permitted by applicable insurance regulations. See
"BUSINESS-Securities Investments" and "BUSINESS-Regulation".

       Generally,   loans   which  are   acquired   through   the
institutional  secondary  mortgage market  qualify  as  "mortgage
related  securities"  pursuant to the Secondary  Mortgage  Market
Enhancement   Act   (SMMEA).   SMMEA  generally   provides   that
qualifying  loans  may  be  acquired  to  the  same  extent  that
obligations of which are issued by or guaranteed as to  principal
and  interest  by the United States Government, its agencies  and
instrumentalities can be acquired.  As a result,  Western  United
can  acquire qualifying Receivables in amounts which  exceed  the
above  referenced  65%  limitation.  Such acquisitions  are  also
exempt  from other state insurance regulations including loan  to
value and appraisal regulations.

Annuities

      Western  United has actively marketed single  and  flexible
premium  deferred annuities since 1980.  During  the  past  three
years, over 97% of premiums for Western United were derived  from
annuity  sales.  Management believes that annuity  balances  have
continued  to grow due to market acceptance of the products  (due
largely  to  a  competitive rate and a  reputation  for  superior
service), and changes in tax laws that removed the attractiveness
of   competing  tax-advantaged  products.   Western   United   is
currently developing several new annuity product types.   One  of
new products is an equity indexed annuity.  The interest which is
credited  on  this product will vary as a selected  equity  index
(currently expected to be the S & P 500) performs.  This  product
type is designed to meet the needs of investors who are reluctant
to  make a long term fixed interest annuity investment during the
current economic period of relatively lower interest rates.

      Western  United's annuities also qualify for use as  either
Individual  Retirement Annuities, Simplified  Employee  Pensions,
Qualified Corporate Pension Plans or Tax-Sheltered Annuities  for
teachers and certain other nonprofit organizations' retirement
<PAGE>                        Page 119

plans.  Under these qualified plans, the interest is tax deferred
and  the  principal  contributions,  within  limits  specifically
established  by the Internal Revenue Service, are tax  deductible
during  the accumulation period.  These annuities are subject  to
income  tax  only  upon  actual receipt of proceeds,  usually  at
retirement  when  an individual's tax rate is anticipated  to  be
lower.

     Western United prices its new products and renewals in order
to achieve a spread between its available Receivable investments,
while  considering current annuity market rates of  interest  and
competitive pressures. Flexible and single premium annuities  are
offered  with  surrender periods varying from  one  year  to  ten
years.

      At  September  30, 1996, deferred policy acquisition  costs
were  approximately  8.1%  of life and annuity  reserves.   Since
surrender   charges  typically  do  not  exceed  9%,   increasing
termination  rates may have an adverse impact  on  the  insurance
subsidiary  earnings,  requiring  faster  amortization  of  these
costs.   Management believes that this potentially adverse impact
is  mitigated  by  higher  annuity interest  spreads,  which  are
estimated  to  be  about 250 basis points in future  years.  This
spread analysis, net of management fees paid to Metropolitan,  is
shown  in  the following table, which applies to the  results  of
Western  United  during the past three calendar years,  based  on
insurance regulatory report filings:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                 1995            1994           1993
Three Year

Average
                                 --------         ---------       ---------
- ----------
<S>                              <C>                <C>               <C>
<C>
Net Investment
Earnings  Rate                    8.30%            8.49%            9.11%
8.63%

Average Credited
Interest  Rate                    6.06%            5.59%            6.38%
6.01%

Spread                             2.24%            2.90%             2.73%
2.62%
</TABLE>

      During 1996, 1995 and 1994, amortization of deferred policy
acquisition costs was $9.1 million, $10.3 million and $7.0
<PAGE>                        Page 120

million, respectively.  All calculations have been reviewed by an
independent actuary.

     Annuity lapse rates are calculated by dividing cash outflows
related  to  benefits and payments by average  annuity  reserves.
For  the  calendar  years 1995, 1994 and 1993, lapse  rates  were
18.9%,  21.5%, and 15.3%, respectively.  Based upon  results  for
the nine months ended September 30, 1996, lapse rates were 16.6%.

Life Insurance

        Approximately 1.8% of Western United's statutory premiums
are  derived  from  the  sale of interest  sensitive  whole  life
insurance and term life insurance policies.  As of September  30,
1996,  the  face  amount of life insurance policies  written  and
outstanding,  totaled  $295,692,000,  net  of  amounts  ceded  to
reinsurers.  As with annuities, gross profits are  determined  by
the  difference  between interest rates credited  on  outstanding
policies  and  interest  earned on investment  of  premiums.   In
addition, profitability is affected by mortality experience (i.e.
the  frequency of claims resulting from deaths of policyholders).
Although  Western  United's mortality rates  to  date  have  been
substantially lower than expected, higher credited interest rates
and  higher  issuing  expenses  combined  with  low  volume  have
resulted in lower profits than those experienced with its annuity
products.    

         The  following  table sets forth certain  key  financial
information regarding the Company's insurance subsidiaries.   The
information  includes  Western United for  all  periods  and  Old
Standard through May 31, 1995, the date on which it was sold.    
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          Year Ended at
September 30,
                                                          ----------------
- -----------
                                                     1996             1995
1994
                                                   --------         --------
- --------
                                                             (Dollars in
thousands)
 <S>                                             <C>                 <C>
<C>
Insurance In Force
        Individual   Life                               $     354,371
$373,573       $398,837
     Less Ceded to other
        Companies                                   (58,679)         (62,906)
(69,311)
                                                 ----------        -------
- -        --------
                                                      $       295,692
$310,667       $326,526
                                                           ==========
========       ========

<PAGE>                        Page 121

Life Insurance Premiums                          $    3,355         $
3,365       $  3,346
Less Ceded Premiums                                    (355)            (365)
(388)
                                                 ----------         ------
- --       --------
Net Life Insurance Premiums                      $    3,000         $
3,000       $  2,958
                                                           ==========
========       ========
Net Investment Income                            $   65,561         $
64,970       $ 65,944
                                                           ==========
========       ========
Benefits, Claim Losses and
     Settlement Expenses                         $   48,301         $
45,484       $ 41,919
                                                           ==========
========       ========
Deferred Policy Acquisition
     Costs                                       $   71,933         $
71,131       $ 71,075
                                                 ==========         ========
========
Reserves for Future Policy
     Benefits, Losses,
     Claims and Loss Expenses                    $  837,366         $781,716
$744,645
                                                 ==========         ========
========
Total Assets                                     $1,128,237         $922,556
$924,822
                                                 ==========         ========
========
Capital and Surplus                              $   81,606         $ 78,827
$ 77,142
                                                 ==========         ========
========
    
</TABLE>


   
   The life insurance subsidiaries of the Consolidated Group  are
required  to  file  statutory  financial  statements  with  state
insurance  regulatory authorities in their  states  of  domicile.
Accounting  principles used to prepare these statutory  financial
statements  differ from generally accepted accounting  principles
(GAAP).   A  reconciliation of GAAP net income to  statutory  net
income  for  the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995  and  1994,
respectively, is as follows:

                                  1996        1995       1994
[S]                            [C]         [C]        [C]
Net Income - GAAP                                     
                               $3,076,252  $2,717,89  $8,449,317
                                           3
Adjustments to reconcile:                             
  Deferred policy acquisition                         
costs                          (774,906)   (807,667)  85,324
   State  insurance  guaranty                         
fund                           257,686     105,753    (313,660)
    Annuity   reserves    and                         
benefits                       (304,688)   (5,759,00  218,975
                                           9)
   Capital  gains   and   IMR                         
amortization                   336,258     3,790,892  (4,132,940
                                                      )
 Allowance for losses                                 
                               3,046,274   1,923,161  4,368,159
 Federal income taxes                                 
                               1,587,522   1,154,586  3,930,215
 Other                                                
                               (39)        (458,943)  (61,320)
                                ---------   --------    --------
                               -           --         --
Total                                                 $12,544,07
                               $7,224,359  $2,666,66  0
                                           6          ==========
                               <PAGE>                 =
                               Page 122    =========
                                           =
                               
                               ==========

    
Reinsurance

      Reinsurance  is  the practice whereby an insurance  company
enters  into agreements (termed "treaties") with other  insurance
companies in order to assign some of its insured risk, for  which
a  premium is paid, while retaining the remaining risk.  Although
reinsurance treaties provide a contractual basis for  shifting  a
portion  of  the  insured  risk to other  insurers,  the  primary
liability  for  payment  of  claims  remains  with  the  original
insurer.  Most life insurers obtain reinsurance on a  portion  of
their  risks in the ordinary course of business.  The  amount  of
mortality  risk  that a company is willing  to  retain  is  based
primarily on considerations of the amount of insurance it has  in
force   and   upon  its  ability  to  sustain  unusual  mortality
fluctuations.

Annuity Reinsurance

      Western United has negotiated a reinsurance agreement  with
Old  Standard  whereby 75% of the risk on six  different  annuity
products will be reinsured through Old Standard.  It is presently
anticipated that this will result in reinsurance of approximately
five  million in premiums per month.  This procedure  will  allow
Western  United to continue its market presence and  relationship
with  its insurance agents, while moderating its rate of  growth.
The  agreement is pending regulatory approval and is expected  be
become effective during January 1997.

Life Policy Reinsurance

      Western United reinsured $58,679,000 of life insurance risk
at  September  30,  1996  which equaled all  risk  in  excess  of
$100,000  on  each whole life policy and all risk  in  excess  of
$50,000  on  each term life policy.  Life insurance in  force  at
that  time  was  $354,371,000.  Western  United  is  a  party  to
seventeen  separate reinsurance treaties with  seven  reinsurance
companies,  the  largest  treaty  (with  Lincoln  National   Life
Insurance   Company)   providing,   at   September   30,    1996,
approximately $30,652,000 of reinsurance coverage.  The  majority
of the remaining coverage is with Business
<PAGE>                        Page 123

Mens  Assurance Company of America and Phoenix Home  Life  Mutual
Insurance  Company.  Total reinsurance premiums paid  by  Western
United  during  the  fiscal year ended September  30,  1996  were
$354,830.

Reserves

      Western  United's  reserves for  both  annuities  and  life
insurance are actuarially determined and prescribed by its  state
of  domicile  and other states in which it does business  through
laws  which  are designed to protect annuity contract owners  and
policy  owners.  Western  United  utilizes  the  services  of   a
consulting  actuary  to review the amount of these  reserves  for
compliance with state law. These reserves are amounts  which,  at
certain  assumed rates, are calculated to be sufficient  to  meet
Western  United's future obligations under annuity  contacts  and
life insurance policies currently in force. At September 30, 1996
such  reserves were $837,366,000.  Reserves are recalculated each
year  to  reflect amounts of reinsurance in force, issue ages  of
new policy holders, duration of policies and variations in policy
terms.   Since  such reserves are based on actuarial assumptions,
no representation is made that ultimate liability will not exceed
these reserves.

SECURITIES INVESTMENTS

     At September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994, 94.3%, 96.8% and 99.3%
of  the Consolidated Group's securities investments were held  by
Western United.

      The  following table outlines the nature and carrying value
of securities investments held by Western United at September 30,
1996:

<TABLE>
<S>                                  <C>         <C>         <C>     <C>
                                            Available        Held  To
Total
                                            For Sale      Maturity
                                           Portfolio       Portfolio
                                           ----------      --------      -
- -------  --------
                                            (Dollars in Thousands)

Total  Amount                                $   31,209      $122,768
$153,997   100.0%
                                             ==========      ========
========   ======

<PAGE>                        Page 124

%Invested in:
       Fixed  Income                          $   31,205     $122,768
$153,973   100.0%
       Equities                                       4            --
4    0.0%
                                            ----------     --------      -
- -------   ------
                                             $    31,209     $122,768
$153,977   100.0%
                                             ==========      ========
========   ======
% Fixed Income:
       Taxable                                $   31,205     $122,768
$153,973   100.0%
       Non-taxable                                    -             -
- -     0.0%
                                            ----------     --------      -
- -------   ------
                                             $    31,205     $122,768
$153,973   100.0%
                                             ==========      ========
========   ======
% Taxable:
      Government/
      Agency                                $    8,480      $ 58,025     $
66,505    43.2%
       Corporate                                 22,725        64,743
87,468    56.8%
                                            ----------      --------     -
- -------   ------
                                             $   31,205      $122,768
$153,973   100.0%
                                             ==========      ========
========    =====
% Corporate Bonds:
          AAA   $                                  709      $ 39,700     $
40,409    46.2%
           AA                                     1,989         4,030
6,019     6.9%
           A                                     13,817         7,494
21,311    24.4%
           BBB                                    1,925           997
2,922     3.3%
           Below Investment Grade                 4,285        12,522
16,807    19.2%
                                            ----------      --------     -
- -------   ------
                                            $   22,725      $ 64,743     $
87,468   100.0%
                                             ==========      ========
========   ======
% Corporate:
      Mortgage-backed                       $    4,285      $ 44,688     $
48,973    56.0%
       Asset-backed                                  --         3,009
3,009     3.4%
         Finance                                      8,560           9,543
18,103    20.7%
       Industrial                                  6,913          2,514
9,427    10.8%
       Utility                                    2,967         4,989
7,956     9.1%
                                              ----------     --------
- --------    -----
                                            $   22,725      $ 64,743     $
87,468    100.0%
                                             ==========      ========
========    ======
</TABLE>

      Investments of Western United are subject to the  direction
and control of an investment committee appointed by its Board  of
Directors.   All  such  investments must comply  with  applicable
state insurance laws and regulations.  See "BUSINESS-Regulation".
Western  United's  securities  investments  are  principally   in
investment   grade  corporate,  government  agency,   or   direct
government  obligations,  in  order to  substantially  limit  the
credit risk in the portfolio.


<PAGE>                        Page 125

      Metropolitan is authorized by its Board of Directors to use
financial futures instruments for the purpose of hedging interest
rate  risk  relative  to  the securities portfolio  or  potential
trading  situations.  In both cases, the futures  transaction  is
intended to reduce the risk associated with price movements for a
balance sheet asset.  Securities are also sold "short" (the  sale
of  securities  which  are not currently  in  the  portfolio  and
therefore  must be purchased to close out the sale agreement)  as
another  means of hedging interest rate risk, to benefit from  an
anticipated movement in the financial markets.  At September  30,
1996  there were seven open short sale positions with a  carrying
value of $132,652,000.

     During the twelve month period ended September 30, 1995, the
consolidated  group engaged in hedging activities  to  protect  a
portion  of  its  held-to-maturity securities  portfolio  from  a
potential  increase  in  interest  rates.   The  portfolio  being
protected  by the hedge position generally improved in value  due
to  a  decrease in interest rates while the position in financial
futures  contracts  declined  in  value  by  approximately   $1.6
million.  This loss is being amortized using the interest  method
over  the  remaining  life  of the securities  which  were  being
covered   by   the  financial  futures  position,   a   term   of
approximately  eight  years.  There were no  significant  hedging
transactions 1994.

      The  Consolidated  Group purchases collateralized  mortgage
obligations (CMO's) for its investment portfolio.  Such purchases
have  been limited to tranches that perform in concert  with  the
underlying  mortgages,  i.e., improving  in  value  with  falling
interest rates and declining in value with rising interest rates.
The  Consolidated Group has not invested in "derivative products"
that have been structured to perform in a way that magnifies  the
normal impact of changes in interest rates or in a way dissimilar
to  the  movement  in  value  of the underlying  securities.   At
September 30, 1996, the Consolidated Group was not a party to any
derivative financial instruments.

      At  September  30,  1996, 1995 and  1994,  amounts  in  the
available  for sale portfolio on a consolidated basis were  $38.6
million,  $31.8  million, and $89.1 million,  respectively.   The
available  for  sale  portfolio  had  net  unrealized  losses  of
approximately $946,000 at September 30, 1996,  $423,000 at
<PAGE>                        Page 126

September  30,  1995  and  $3,351,000  at  September  30,   1994,
respectively.  In the held to maturity portfolio, net  unrealized
losses  were  approximately $5,548,000  at  September  30,  1996,
$6,010,000  at September 30, 1995, and $15,440,000  at  September
30,  1994,  respectively.  See Note 8 to  Consolidated  Financial
Statements.

METHOD OF FINANCING

      The Consolidated Group finances its business operations and
growth  with the proceeds of Receivable cash flows, the  sale  of
life  insurance and annuity products, the sale and securitization
of  Receivables,  the  sale of debentures  and  preferred  stock,
collateralized  borrowing,  sale of real  estate  and  securities
portfolio  earnings.   Metropolitan engages  in  a  substantially
continuous  public offering of debt securities  (debentures)  and
preferred   stock.    Western  United   markets  life   insurance
policies   and  annuities.   See  "BUSINESS-Life  Insurance   and
Annuities"

      The  following  table presents information about  the  debt
securities issued by the Consolidated Group:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                As of
September 30
                                                      1996          1995
1994
                                                   --------        -------
- -        -------
                                                             (Dollars in
Thousands)
<S>                                               <C>             <C>
<C>
Principal Amount
     Outstanding                                   $163,034        $176,815
$172,666

Compound and Accrued
     Interest                                        29,140          24,497
26,711
                                                   --------       ---------
- --------
TOTAL                                              $192,174        $201,312
$199,377
                                                   ========       =========
========
Weighted Average
     Interest Rate                                     8.18%           8.24%
8.43%
                                                   ========       =========
========
Range of Interest
     Rates                                          5% - 11%        5% - 11%
5% - 11%
                                                   ========       =========
========
     </TABLE>
      Substantially  all  of the debt securities  outstanding  at
September 30, 1996 will mature during the five-year period ending
<PAGE>                        Page 127

September  30, 2001.  Management expects to fund net  retirements
of   debentures  maturing  during  that  period  with  cash  flow
generated  by  Receivable investments, sales of real  estate  and
issuances  of  securities.  During the year ended  September  30,
1996,  approximately  30%   of  Metropolitan's  debentures   were
reinvested  at  maturity.  Principal payments received  from  the
Consolidated Group's Receivable portfolio and proceeds from sales
of  real  estate and Receivables were as follows for the  periods
indicated:

      Fiscal 1996:   $296,425,000
      Fiscal 1995:   $197,069,000
      Fiscal 1994:   $134,010,000

      Proceeds of preferred stock issuances less redemptions were
$1,765,000  in 1996, $4,250,000 in 1995 and $1,274,000  in  1994.
The  liquidation  preference of outstanding  preferred  stock  at
September  30,  1996 was $49,496,000. Preferred shareholders  are
entitled  to  monthly distributions at a variable rate  based  on
U.S. Treasury obligations.  The average monthly distribution rate
during fiscal 1996 was 7.91%.  Preferred stock distributions paid
by  Metropolitan were $3,868,000 in 1996, $4,038,000 in 1995  and
$3,423,000,  in  1994.  See Note 1 to the Consolidated  Financial
Statements.

      The  following table summarizes Metropolitan's  anticipated
annual  cash  principal and interest obligations  on  debentures,
other   debt   payable  and  anticipated  annual  cash   dividend
requirements  on preferred stock for the indicated periods  based
on  outstanding  debt  and  securities  at  September  30,  1996,
assuming no reinvestments of maturing debentures:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S>                            <C>          <C>         <C>          <C>
                                          Debenture             Other
Preferred
Fiscal Year Ending                    Bonds          Debt            Stock
September 30,                                       Payable        Dividends
Total
- ------------------                 ----------    -----------       -------
- ----    ---------
                                                     (In Thousands of
Dollars)

        1997                              $   50,030          $37,023
$4,207        $ 91,260
         1998                                52,163               710
4,207          57,080
         1999                                41,335               242
4,207          45,784
         2000                                40,408               137
4,207          44,752
         2001                                 5,877               187
4,207          10,271
                                     -------        -------         -------        --------

<PAGE>                        Page 128

                                         $189,813             $38,299
$21,035        $249,147
                                          =======             =======
=======        ========
</TABLE>

      In addition to these contractual cash flow requirements,  a
certain  amount  of  the  insurance  subsidiary's  annuities  may
reprice  annually which could cause termination of such annuities
subject to a surrender charge.  See "MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION  AND
ANALYSIS-Asset Liability Management".  Management  believes  that
cash  flows will remain adequate during the next year to  satisfy
all obligations Metropolitan owes to holders of its securities.

REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT

                       Lawai Beach Resort

Description

      Metropolitan  is  the owner and developer  of  Lawai  Beach
Resort  on  the island of Kauai, Hawaii.  Metropolitan also  owns
other   condominium  units  adjoining  the  resort  and   another
subsidiary,   the  Southshore  Corporation,  owns  a   restaurant
operating company.

      Lawai Beach Resort is located on 8.7 acres of deeded ocean-
front property on the south shore of Kauai near the area known as
Poipu Beach. It consists of three four-story buildings containing
a  total of 170 residential condominium units.  Related amenities
include  swimming pools, tennis courts, a 180 car parking garage,
modern   exercise  facilities  and  a  sewage  treatment   plant.
Construction  costs  were financed entirely  with  Metropolitan's
internally  generated funds and the property remains unencumbered
by  external  debt.   Metropolitan's total  investment  (carrying
value)  in  Lawai  Beach  Resort as of  September  30,  1996  was
$17,636,000.

      Additional properties, all of which adjoin the Lawai  Beach
Resort,  include  11  condominium  units  in  the  Prince   Kuhio
Condominiums  with an aggregate carrying value of  $1,059,000,  a
four-plex  condominium timeshare building with 4 weekly intervals
remaining  and a carrying value of approximately $21,000;  and  a
restaurant  site  with a carrying value (land  and  building)  of
approximately   $3,826,000  as  of  September  30,   1996.    The
restaurant
<PAGE>                        Page 129

is  currently  operated by Pacific Cafe.  The  restaurant  rental
income was $69,000 in fiscal 1996.

Marketing

      Metropolitan  engaged  an affiliate  of  the  Shell  Group,
Chicago,  Illinois, Shell-Lawai ("Shell"), to provide  management
services  and  sell  timeshare units at Lawai  Beach.   In  1994,
timeshare  sales totaled approximately $17.6 million for  monthly
average  sales of approximately $1.5 million.  In 1995, timeshare
sales  totaled  approximately $23.1 million for  monthly  average
sales  of  over  $1.9 million.  In 1996, timeshare sales  totaled
approximately  $22.8 million for monthly average  sales  of  $1.9
million.  Management believes that sales decreased in 1996 due to
increased competition, principally due to the addition of several
new  time share resorts within the Poipu area of Kauai.  Although
there can be no assurance that sales will continue at the present
pace, if the present pace does continue, the remaining timeshares
units would be completely sold by approximately early 1998.

Additional Information

     The tables below set forth additional historical information
about the timeshare sales and revenue of Lawai Beach Resort.   It
is  Metropolitan's intention to sell the timeshares at  favorable
prices  in  order  to convert the inventory into  cash  or  other
interest earning assets.

<PAGE>                        Page 130


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                    FOR THE YEARS
ENDED
                                                        SEPTEMBER
30,
                                 --------------------------------
- --------------
                                            1996                    1995
1994
                                    -------------        -------------
- -------------
<S>                                     <C>                   <C>
<C>
TIMESHARE SALES
   Number  of  Sales                         1,441                1,485
1,500
   Amount  of  Sales                   $22,799,107          $23,120,888
$17,642,544
   Costs                               (8,051,102)          (7,353,510)
(7,171,159)
   Expenses                           (15,480,230)         (14,996,260)
(10,737,591)
                                      ------------            -----------
- -----------
   Profit(Loss)                       $  (732,225)         $    771,118
$  (266,206)
                                     ============           ===========
===========
WHOLE-UNIT CONDOMINIUM
SALES
   Number  of  Units                              -                    1
- -
   Amount  of Sales                             -          $    500,000
- -
   Costs                                         -             (321,855)
- -
   Expenses                                     -               (1,787)
- -
                                     ------------           -----------
- -----------
   Operating  Profit                           --          $    176,358
- --
                                      ============           ===========
===========
</TABLE>

Receivable Financing

      Most  purchasers of timeshare weeks at Lawai  Beach  Resort
finance  a  portion  of the purchase price through  Metropolitan,
subject   to  approved  credit.   As  of  September   30,   1996,
Metropolitan's   outstanding   Lawai   Beach   Resort   timeshare
Receivables  balance was approximately $36.4 million.   The  loan
delinquency rate (based on the principal balances of  loans  more
than ninety days in arrears) on that date was approximately 4.6%.

                       Skier's Edge Resort

      Metropolitan, owns approximately 376 timeshare use  periods
at   Skier's   Edge,   a  timeshare  condominium   located   near
Breckenridge,  Colorado,  together  with  approximately  eighteen
acres  of  undeveloped land adjoining the resort.   The  carrying
value  at  September 30, 1996 was $972,500.  The total  timeshare
use periods
<PAGE>                        Page 131

in  the  project were approximately 1,200 at September 30,  1996.
Unsold timeshares, while being held for sale, are included  in  a
rental  pool  operated  by the resort owner's  association.   Net
rental revenue was $6,629 in 1996, $21,956 in 1995 and $31,454 in
fiscal  1994.  The market value of the property is  estimated  at
$1,100,000 at September 30, 1996 based upon Metropolitan's review
of the assessed valuation of the property for tax purposes and an
analysis of prior timeshare sales.

                  Other Development Properties

      In  addition  to  the  resort properties  described  above,
Metropolitan,  is  engaged in the development  of  various  other
properties.  These development properties were generally acquired
in  the  ordinary  course of Metropolitan's  business,  generally
through  repossessions.   In addition, Metropolitan  may  acquire
property   for  development.   These  acquisitions  may   include
properties  adjoining one already owned in order to  enhance  the
value  of  the original parcel, or the acquisition of  properties
unrelated  to existing holdings.  The development or  improvement
of properties is undertaken for the purposes of enhancing values,
to increase salability and to maximize profit potential.

      Substantially all of the Development activity is  performed
for Metropolitan by Summit Property Development, a subsidiary  of
Summit.    During   1996,  Metropolitan  paid   Summit   Property
Development fees of approximately $2.0 million.

        Significant development properties, sales activities  for
1996  and  plans for 1997 are described below.  There can  be  no
assurance  that  Metropolitan will  be  successful  in  its  1997
development and sales plans and Metropolitan may modify its plans
at its sole discretion.

* The MeadowWood Properties
      Located just east of Spokane, Washington near Liberty Lake,
this  land  was  acquired by Metropolitan between 1989  and  1991
primarily  utilizing  repossessed properties  held  for  sale  as
consideration.   During  fiscal 1996, the property  included  one
residential development parcel and two business parcels, each  of
which  is  described  more fully below.   The  area  where  these
parcels   are   located  includes  residential,  commercial   and
industrial properties including a business park.

<PAGE>                        Page 132


      MeadowWood  Business Park Phase I:  This site consisted  of
24.7  acres.   The sale of the last property in  this  phase  was
"Madsen Court".  This property consisted of a 46,351 square  foot
commercial  building which was built and leased  by  Metropolitan
and sold for $3,350,000 in March 1996.

      MeadowWood  Business  Park Phase II:   This  phase  of  the
business  park  includes 9.86 acres owned and  62.1  acres  under
option  by  Metropolitan  at $10,500  per  acre.   A  preliminary
binding  site  plan for Meadowwood Business Park - Phase  II  has
been  approved by the County of Spokane.  It is currently planned
to  finalize  engineering and proceed with the development  of  a
portion  of  this property during 1997.  At September  30,  1996,
Metropolitan's carrying value in the property was $3,641,261.

      MeadowWood Residential:  This residential parcel, The Glen,
consisted  of  37 acres of which 32 acres were sold  in  February
1996   for  $755,000.   At  September  30,  1996,  Metropolitan's
carrying value for the remaining five acres was $80,571.

* The Summit Property
     This property consists of approximately 88 acres in downtown
Spokane  adjacent to the central business district and is located
along  the north bank of the Spokane River.  It contains  several
parcels which were purchased between 1982 and 1996.  The property
is  zoned for mixed use from medium density residential to office
and  retail.   A  final  Environmental Impact  Statement  on  the
proposed  project  was published in 1993.  The  master  plan  and
Shoreline Substantial Development Use Permit were approved by the
City  of  Spokane in 1995.  There are several warehouse buildings
located  on  the  property,  which  are  vacant  and  slated  for
demolition in 1997.  At September 30, 1996, the carrying value of
the property was $11,553,466.

* Airway Business Centre
      As of September 30, 1996, this property includes a 110 acre
portion of an original tract of 440 acres which was purchased  in
1979.   It  is located in the City of Airway Heights, Washington,
approximately ten miles west of Spokane.  The property  is  zoned
commercial/industrial and fronts a four-lane highway.  Phase I of
the business park has a binding site plan, recorded in 1993, for
<PAGE>                        Page 133

thirteen lots on 47 acres.  Two lots sold in 1996 for $63,000 and
$225,000.   At  September  30,  1996,  the  carrying  value   was
$2,047,828.  The site was appraised at $2,800,000 as of September
30, 1996.

* Airway Heights Residential
      This  site is 33 acres located adjacent to Airway  Business
Centre  in  the City of Airway Heights.  This property  is  zoned
residential  and has a carrying value at September  30,  1996  of
$135,267.   During 1995, Metropolitan sold an option to  purchase
the property.  The purchase price of the property escalates at 7%
annually  from  a  base price of $250,000.  The  option  must  be
exercised in part by 1997 and in full by 1999.

* Spokane Valley Plaza
       The  property  is  located  near  the  Sullivan  Road  and
Interstate  90  freeway  interchange just  east  of  Spokane  and
consists of 33 acres of commercially zoned land.  County approval
for  a  348,000 square foot shopping center was received in 1991.
The  property was acquired in 1990 using repossessed property  as
consideration.   During  1996, Metropolitan  sold  a  12.65  acre
portion  of this parcel to Wal-Mart for $2,798,351.  As  part  of
the  consideration  for  the sale, Metropolitan  entered  into  a
codevelopment  agreement to develop on-site infrastructure  at  a
cost to Metropolitan of approximately $900,000.  At September 30,
1996, the carrying value was $7,380,000.  The appraised value  is
$7,580,000 .

* Broadmoor Park (Pasco)
      This  property,  acquired  through  repossession  in  1988,
consists of 368 acres of land, at a freeway interchange in Pasco,
Washington.  The property was zoned in 1994 for mixed residential
and  commercial use.  Water and sewer have been extended  to  the
property.    Access  to  the  property  has  been   improved   by
construction of a new interior road.

     Broadmoor Factory Outlet Mall:  The Broadmoor Factory Outlet
Mall is 24.5 acres located on the north side of the freeway.  The
Mall  is 107,000 square feet, and over 81% leased as of September
30, 1996.  The carrying value of the property as of September 30,
1996  is $10,525,471.  The appraised value was $13,325,000 as  of
December  15,  1995.   Lease payments from  the  initial  tenants
commenced August, 1995. The mall generated approximately $24,000
<PAGE>                        Page 134

of rental income in fiscal 1995 and approximately $695,000 during
fiscal 1996.

      Broadmoor Park General:  The remaining 344 acres is platted
for  development  as a business park; hotels, motels,  fast  food
restaurants,  gas  stations,  a  variety  of  stores;  land   for
development of both single and multi-family residential  housing;
and  civic  uses.  Two parcels were sold during fiscal  1996  for
$569,765.   The  carrying  value as  of  September  30,  1996  is
$3,195,813.  The appraised value was $10,800,000 as of  September
30,  1996.  The appraised value of substantially unimproved  land
is subject to a number of assumptions.  Actual results may differ
substantially from such appraisals.

* Puyallup
      This  property is approximately 20 acres of land zoned  for
commercial  and  multi-family  development  in  Puyallup,  Pierce
County,  Washington and is located adjacent to a  major  shopping
area.    Sewer  capacity  issues  are  currently  impacting   the
marketability  of  this  property.  At September  30,  1996,  the
carrying   value  was  $1,448,929.   Its  appraised   value   was
$1,740,000 as of September 30, 1996.

* Everett
      This  property  is  a  98 acre parcel  of  industrial-zoned
property  located  adjacent  to Boeing's  Paine  Field  plant  at
Everett,   Washington.   Studies  of  utility  services,   access
requirements  and  environmental  issues  are  ongoing   as   are
discussions with several parties to sell and/or jointly   develop
the  property.  At September 30, 1996, the carrying value in  the
property was $4,908,806.  The appraised value is $7,635,000 as of
September  30, 1996.  The appraised value of unimproved  land  is
subject  to  a number of assumptions.  Actual results may  differ
substantially from such appraisals.

* Renton
       This   property  is  approximately  35   acres.    It   is
characterized  by  heavily  vegetated  terrain   and   is   zoned
residential.   The  City of Renton has annexed  and  rezoned  the
property  increasing its density from just over  100  residential
units to over 200 residential units.  At September 30, 1996,  the
carrying  value  in the property was $3,145,113.   The  appraised
value was $3,425,000 as of September 30, 1996.


<PAGE>                        Page 135

       Risks   associated  with  holding  these  properties   for
development include possible adverse changes in zoning  and  land
use  regulations and local economic changes each of  which  could
preclude  development or resale. Because most of  the  properties
are  located in Washington State, which is currently experiencing
relatively  stable  economic  conditions,  a  regional   economic
downturn  could have a material negative impact on Metropolitan's
ability to timely develop and sell a significant portion of them.

      The  appraised  value of substantially unimproved  land  is
subject  to  a number of assumptions.  Actual sales  results  may
differ  substantially  from such appraisals.   There  can  be  no
assurance  that  the sales prices as indicated by the  appraisals
will be realized.

   The  total  development property sales were $9,535,068  during
fiscal 1996.

      The  following table presents additional information  about
the  Consolidated Group's investments in and sales of real estate
held for sale and development:

<PAGE>                        Page 136

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                            Year Ended or at September 30,
                                             -----------------------------
REAL ESTATE HELD FOR                         1996        1995       1994
SALE AND DEVELOPMENT                       ---------   ----------  -------
                                                 (Dollars in Thousands)
<S>                                        <C>         <C>       <C>
     Investment Property Held For
       Sale and Development                $48,175     $53,101    $37,729
     Real Estate Acquired in
       Satisfaction of Debt and
       Foreclosures in Process              36,158       38,00   4 39,037
                                          --------    --------   --------
     Net Balance                           $84,333     $91,105    $76,766
                                          ========    ========   ========
SUMMARY OF CHANGES
     Balance at Beginning of Year          $91,105     $76,766    $76,269
     Additions and Improvements:
       Condominiums                         18,795      26,276     19,563
       Repossessed & Development
         Real Estate                        21,392      24,644     19,950
       Transfer from Fixed and Other
         Assets                                 --       1,599        259
       Depreciation                         (3,048)     (1,731)      (778)
     Cost of Real Estate Sold:
       Condominium Units                   (23,531)    (22,674)   (17,909)
       Real Estate                         (20,380)    (13,775)   (20,588)
                                          --------     -------   --------
     Balance at End of Year                $84,333     $91,105    $76,766
                                          ========     =======   ========
GAIN (LOSS) ON SALE OF REAL ESTATE
     Condominiums:
       Sales                               $22,799      23,621   $17,643
       Unit Costs                           (8,051)     (7,676)   (7,171)
       Associated Selling Costs            (15,480)    (14,998)  (10,738)
                                          --------     -------  --------
     Condominium - Gain (Loss)                (732)        947      (266)
                                          --------     -------  --------
     Real Estate:
       Sales                                22,849      15,767     22,381
       Equity Basis                        (20,380)    (13,775)   (20,588)
                                          --------     -------   --------
       Real Estate - Gain                    2,469       1,992      1,793
                                          --------     -------   --------

<PAGE>                        Page 137

       Total Gain on Sale of Real Estate   $ 1,737     $ 2,939    $ 1,527
                                          ========     =======   ========
</TABLE>
COMPETITION

       The  Consolidated  Group  competes  with  other  financial
institutions including various real estate financing firms,  real
estate   brokers,   banks  and  individual  investors   for   the
Receivables  it  acquires.   In the  private  secondary  mortgage
market  the largest single competitors are subsidiaries  of  much
larger  companies while the largest number of competitors  are  a
multitude  of  individual investors.  In all areas of  Receivable
acquisitions,  the  Consolidated Group  competes  with  financial
institutions  many  of  which are larger,  have  access  to  more
resources, and greater name recognition.  The primary competitive
factors  are  the amounts offered and paid to Receivable  sellers
and  the  speed  with  which the processing and  funding  of  the
transaction can be completed.  Competitive advantages enjoyed  by
the   Consolidated   Group   includes  Metropolitan's   BrokerNet
software;  its  ability  to purchase long-term  Receivables;  its
availability of funds; its flexibility in structuring  Receivable
acquisitions; its reputation for reliability established  by  its
long  history in the business; and its in-house capabilities  for
processing   and  funding  transactions.  To  the  extent   other
competing   Receivable  investors  may  develop  faster   closing
procedures  or  more  flexible  investment  policies,  they   may
experience a competitive advantage.

      Management  is unaware of any competitors with  acquisition
networks  and  private  secondary market  Receivables  portfolios
comparable   to  the  Consolidated  Group's  and   believes   the
Consolidated  Group to be one of the largest  investors  in  such
Receivables in the United States.

      Metropolitan, Western and Metwest compete in the  secondary
market as seller's of pools of receivables (both direct sales and
sales  through  securitization).  This market is a  multi-billion
dollar  market  and includes competitors with access  to  greater
resources, greater volumes and economics of sales and better name
recognition.

      Metropolitan's  securities products  face  competition  for
investors  from other securities issuers many of which  are  much
larger, and have greater name recognition.

       The   life  insurance  and  annuity  business  is   highly
competitive.  Western United competes with other financial
<PAGE>                        Page 138

institutions  including ones with greater resources  and  greater
name  recognition.  Premium rates, annuity yields and commissions
to  agents  are  particularly sensitive  to  competitive  forces.
Western   United's  management  believes  that  it   is   in   an
advantageous  position  in this regard  because  of  its  earning
capability through investments in Receivables compared to that of
most  other life insurance companies. From June, 1986 until June,
1995,  Western United had been assigned a "B+ (Very Good)" rating
by  A.  M.  Best  Co., a nationally recognized insurance  company
rating  organization.  During June, 1995, Western  United's  Best
rating  was revised to B.  Best bases its rating on a  number  of
complex  financial ratios, the length of time a company has  been
in business, the nature, quality, and liquidity of investments in
its  portfolio,  depth and experience of management  and  various
other  factors.   Best's ratings are supplied primarily  for  the
benefit of policyholders and insurance agents.

REGULATION

      The  Consolidated Group is subject to laws of the State  of
Washington  which regulate "debenture companies" in part  because
it  obtains capital for its activities through offerings of  debt
securities to residents of the State of Washington.  These  laws,
known  as the Debenture Company Act (the "Act"), are administered
by  the  Securities Division of the State Department of Financial
Institutions (the Department).  Designed to protect the interests
of  investors,   the  Act limits the amount  of  debt  securities
Metropolitan  may issue by requiring the maintenance  of  certain
ratios of net worth to outstanding debt securities.  The required
ratio  depends  on  the  amount of debt  securities  outstanding,
declining from 20% for amounts of $1,000,000 or less, to 10%  for
amounts  between  $1,000,000  and $100,000,000,  and  to  5%  for
amounts  in  excess  of  $100,000,000.  At  September  30,  1996,
Metropolitan's   required  net  worth  for   this   purpose   was
approximately   $14,709,000   while   its   actual   net    worth
(stockholders'  equity) was approximately $46,343,000.   The  Act
requires  that 50% of the required net worth amount be maintained
in  cash  or  other liquid assets. In addition,  the  Act  limits
equity  investments  by  Metropolitan  in  a  single  project  or
subsidiary  to  the  greater  of net  worth  or  10%  of  assets;
aggregate equity investments, with certain exceptions, to 20%  of
assets;  loans  to  any single borrower to 2.5%  of  assets;  and
investments in unsecured loans to 20% of assets. Other provisions
of  the  Act prohibit Metropolitan from issuing more than 50%  of
its  debentures for terms of two years or less; prohibit transfer
of  control of Metropolitan without regulatory approval; prohibit
common  control  of  another debenture  company,  bank  or  trust
company; and prohibit officers, directors
<PAGE>                        Page 139

and   controlling  shareholders  from  directly   or   indirectly
borrowing funds of Metropolitan and from participating in certain
other   preferential  transactions  with  it.   Metropolitan   is
required  to  notify its debentureholders in writing  fifteen  to
forty-five  days  in  advance  of the  maturity  dates  of  their
investments  and to provide all debentureholders with  copies  of
its  annual  financial  statements.  The Act  also  provides  for
periodic  examinations  of the accounts,  books  and  records  of
debenture  companies such as Metropolitan to ascertain compliance
with  the  law.  Finally, the Act and other applicable  laws  and
regulations  provide  the  Department  with  authority  to   take
regulatory  enforcement actions in the event of  a  violation  of
such laws and regulations.

     Throughout the securities offering which expired January 31,
1997,  Metropolitan's aggregate principal amount  of  outstanding
debentures,  including  accrued and compound  interest,  and  its
aggregate  amount of preferred stock outstanding were limited  to
$251,300,000, by the terms of the securities sales permits issued
by  the State of Washington pending improvement in Metropolitan's
ratio  of  earnings  to  its fixed charges  and  preferred  stock
dividends.  For the purposes of this calculation, the earnings of
subsidiaries are excluded unless actually paid to Metropolitan as
dividends.   These limitations restricted Metropolitan's  ability
to  sell  debentures  and preferred stock  during  the  12  month
offering  period  ending  January  31,  1997.  See  "MANAGEMENT'S
DISCUSSION  AND  ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND  RESULTS  OF
OPERATIONS".

     All areas of the Consolidated Group's Receivable acquisition
and  servicing  activities are highly regulated  by  Federal  and
State  laws designed principally to protect the payor.  Metwest's
lending  and  servicing activities must comply with, among  other
regulations, Truth in Lending Act (TILA), Real Estate  Settlement
Procedures Act (RESPA), Regulation X, and Z.  Metwest is licensed
with FHA and HUD as a lender and servicer, as such it must comply
with applicable FHA and HUD regulations and guidelines.

      Metropolitan is subject to certain federal and Hawaii state
laws  and  regulations governing timeshare marketing  procedures,
licensing requirements and interest rates.  Hawaii also  requires
the  registration  and periodic renewal of timeshare  condominium
projects  prior to the commencement or continuation of  sales  in
the  state.  The  law also provides timeshare purchasers  with  a
seven-day right of rescission following execution of an agreement
to purchase.

     Western United and Metropolitan are subject to the Insurance
Holding Company Act as administered by the Office of the State
<PAGE>                        Page 140

Insurance  Commissioner  of  the State  of  Washington.  The  act
regulates  transactions  between insurance  companies  and  their
affiliates.   It requires that Metropolitan provide  notification
to the Insurance Commissioner of certain transactions between the
insurance  company  and  affiliates.  In certain  instances,  the
Commissioner's approval is required before a transaction with  an
affiliate can be consummated.

      Western  United  is  subject to  extensive  regulation  and
supervision by the Office of the State Insurance Commissioner  of
the State of Washington as a Washington domiciled insurer, and to
a  lesser extent by all of the other states in which it operates.
These  regulations are directed toward supervision of such things
as  granting and revoking licenses to transact business  on  both
the  insurance company and agency levels, approving policy forms,
prescribing  the  nature  and amount  of  permitted  investments,
establishing solvency standards and conducting extensive periodic
examinations  of insurance company records.  Such  regulation  is
intended  to  protect annuity contractholders and policy  owners,
rather than investors in an insurance company.  Certain of  these
regulations may be subject to additional federal regulation, such
as  the  Secondary  Mortgage  Market Enhancement  Act,  which  is
designed  to  enhance  the  movement of  funds  in  the  national
secondary mortgage market.

      All  states  in  which Western United  operates  have  laws
requiring solvent life insurance companies to pay assessments  to
protect   the  interests  of  policyholders  of  insolvent   life
insurance  companies.   Assessments  are  levied  on  all  member
insurers in each state based on a proportionate share of premiums
written by member insurers in the lines of business in which  the
insolvent insurer engaged.  A portion of these assessments can be
offset  against  the payment of future premium  taxes.   However,
future  changes in state laws could decrease the amount available
for  offset.  The economy and other factors have caused  failures
of substantially larger companies which have and will continue to
result in substantially increased future assessments.

      The  net amounts expensed by Western United, and the amount
expensed prior to May 31, 1995 for Old Standard for guaranty fund
assessments  and  charged  to  operations  for  the  years  ended
September  30,  1996, 1995 and 1994 were $900,000,  $782,000  and
$192,000,   respectively.    These  estimates   were   based   on
information  provided by the National Organization  of  Life  and
Health  Insurance  Guaranty Associations  regarding  insolvencies
occurring during 1988 through 1994.  Management does not  believe
that  the  amount  of  future assessments associated  with  known
insolvencies after 1994
<PAGE>                        Page 141

will  be  material  to  its  financial condition  or  results  of
operations.   During  the  year ended  September  30,  1994,  the
insurance subsidiaries (Western United and Old Standard)  reduced
their  estimate  of these losses by $588,000 based  upon  updated
information  from the National Organization of  Life  and  Health
Guaranty Associations.  During the years ended September 30, 1996
and  1995,  Western  United did not make an adjustment  based  on
updated  information.   These estimates  are  subject  to  future
revisions based upon the ultimate  resolution of the insolvencies
and  resultant losses.  Management cannot reasonably estimate the
additional  effects, if any, upon its future assessments  pending
the resolution of the above described insolvencies. The amount of
guaranty fund assessment that was originally accrued in 1993  has
been  recorded  net  of  a 8.25% discount  rate  applied  to  the
estimated  payment  term  of  approximately  seven  years.    The
remaining  unamortized discount associated with this accrual  was
approximately $832,000 at September 30, 1996.

      Dividend restrictions are imposed by regulatory authorities
on Western United.  The unrestricted statutory surplus of Western
United totaled approximately $5,567,000 as of September 30, 1996,
$1,986,000  as  of  September  30,  1995  and  $5,499,000  as  of
September 30, 1994. The principal reason for the decrease  during
fiscal 1995 was the payment of dividends to Metropolitan.

     For statutory purposes, Western United's capital and surplus
and  its ratio of capital and surplus to admitted assets were  as
follows for the dates indicated:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            As of                  As of
December 31,
                                       September  30,  1996      1995
1994         1993
                                     -------------------   ------  -------
- -------    ------
           <S>                                    <C>             <C>
<C>      <C>
         Capital and Surplus
          (Millions)                             $48.7          $46.2
$43.8    $43.0
         Ratio of Capital and
         Surplus to Admitted
         Assets                                   5.2%           5.3%
5.5%     5.7%
</TABLE>
     Although the State of Washington requires only $4,000,000 in
capital and surplus to conduct insurance business, Western United
has attempted to maintain a capital and surplus ratio of at least
5%  which management considers adequate for regulatory and rating
purposes.

      In  1993,  Washington State enacted the Risk Based  Capital
Model law which requires an insurance company to maintain minimum
<PAGE>                        Page 142

amounts  of capital and surplus based on complex calculations  of
risk  factors  that  encompass the invested assets  and  business
activities.   Western United's capital and surplus levels  exceed
the calculated minimum requirements at September 30, 1996.
                                
                                
                           MANAGEMENT

        Directors, Executive Officers and Certain Employees
         (Age Information Current as of December 31, 1996)

 Name                 Age            Position

C. Paul Sandifur, Jr. *      55 President, CEO and
                                Chairman of the Board
Bruce J. Blohowiak *   43    Executive Vice President, Corporate
                                Counsel and Director
Michael Kirk           45    Senior Vice President/Production
Jay Caferro*           49    Senior Vice President/Underwriting
Steven Crooks*         50    Vice President, Controller and
                                Acting Chief Financial Officer
Susan Thomson*         36    Vice President and Assistant
                                Corporate Counsel
Tracy Z *              30    Vice President-Production
Doug Greybill          47    Vice President
John McCreary          28    Acting Treasurer
Reuel Swanson          58    Secretary and Director
John Van Engelen       44    President, Western United
Irv Marcus             72    Director
Charles H. Stolz       87    Director
________________________

Neil Fosseen           78    Honorary Director

* Member of Executive Committee

     Directors and officers are elected to one-year terms.

      C.  Paul  Sandifur, Jr. became Executive Vice President  in
1980,  was  elected President in 1981, succeeded  his  father  as
Chief  Executive Officer in 1991 and became Chairman of the Board
in 1995.  He has been a Director since 1975.  Mr. Sandifur was  a
real  estate  salesman with Diversified Properties in  Kennewick,
Washington  during 1977 and 1978 and then with  Century  21  Real
Estate in Kennewick.  In June 1979, he became an associate broker
with Red Carpet Realty in Kennewick before rejoining Metropolitan
in 1980.  He is a director and officer of most of the subsidiary
<PAGE>                        Page 143

companies.  He is the sole shareholder of National Summit  Corp.,
which  in turn is the sole shareholder of former subsidiaries  of
Metropolitan, Summit and Old Standard.

     Bruce J. Blohowiak joined Metropolitan's legal staff in 1979
and became its Corporate Counsel in 1986.  In 1987, he became  an
Assistant  Vice President and was appointed a Vice  President  in
1990.   In  1995 he was named Executive Vice President and  Chief
Operating  Officer.   He  is  also a Vice  President  of  Western
United.   A  member  of the Washington State bar,  Mr.  Blohowiak
received his J. D. degree from Gonzaga University School  of  Law
in 1979.

      Michael  Kirk joined Metropolitan as a Receivable  Contract
Buyer  in  1982.   He later became a member of  the  underwriting
committee  and  is  currently  the  Receivable  Production   Team
Manager.   He was elected Assistant Vice President in 1990,  Vice
President in 1992 and became Senior Vice President in 1995.

      Jay Caferro joined Metropolitan in 1990 as a member of  its
Underwriting Committee.  He was promoted to Underwriting Manager,
and to Senior Vice President during 1995.  From 1986 to 1990,  he
was employed by Seattle First National Bank as Vice President  of
Commercial Real Estate Lending for Eastern Washington.  Prior  to
1986, he had worked 15 years in residential lending.  He has a BA
and MBA from Gonzaga University.

     Steven Crooks has been employed in Metropolitan's accounting
department  since 1972.  He became Controller and Assistant  Vice
President  in  1990,  Vice President in 1994,  and  Acting  Chief
Financial  Officer  in 1996.  Mr. Crooks has  been  a  Washington
licensed Certified Public Accountant since 1974.

     Susan Thomson joined Metropolitan's legal staff in 1989.  In
1993, she was appointed Assistant Secretary for Metropolitan  and
in 1995 was appointed Vice President. From 1992 through 1996, she
was   Vice  President  and  Compliance  Officer  with  MIS,   the
underwriter for Metropolitan's securities offerings.   She  is  a
member  of the Washington State Bar Association and received  her
J.D. from Gonzaga University School of Law in 1989.

      Tracy  Z  joined Metropolitan in 1988 as a  member  of  the
closing  staff.   She  was  later promoted  to  the  underwriting
committee and is now a member of the Receivable Production  Team.
She  was appointed Vice President during 1995.  For approximately
three months during 1994, she was employed by English Mortgage, a
subsidiary of Citicorp as a mortgage originator.


<PAGE>                        Page 144

      Doug  Greybill joined Metropolitan in 1992.  From  1990  to
1992,  he  was self employed as a Banking Consultant and Mortgage
Trader.   From 1983 to 1990, he was Chief Operating  Officer  for
Willamette  Savings  and  Loan.  He was  elected  Assistant  Vice
President in 1994, and Vice President in 1995.

     Reuel Swanson has worked for Metropolitan since 1960 and has
been  a Director since 1969.  From 1972 to 1975, Mr. Swanson  was
Metropolitan's Treasurer.  In 1976, he became Secretary.   He  is
also a director and officer of most of the subsidiary companies.

      John  McCreary joined Metropolitan in 1993  as  a  Treasury
Analyst and is currently the Acting Treasurer.  Mr. McCreary  has
six  years experience in portfolio management, financial analysis
and  accounting.  He has previously been employed  by  Electronic
Data  Systems as a Financial Analyst and Public Utility  District
No.  2 of Grant County as an Accountant.  Mr. McCreary is a  CFA,
CPA  and  CMA  and holds a BS in Finance from Central  Washington
University.

          John   Van  Engelen  joined  Metropolitan's   insurance
subsidiary,  Western United in 1984 as its underwriting  manager,
and shortly thereafter was appointed Vice President-Underwriting.
From  1987-1994, he was the marketing manager.  During  1994,  he
was  appointed President.  Prior to working for Western,  he  had
worked  in  the  insurance industry and in corporate  and  public
accounting.     He    holds    the    following    certifications
CPA,CFP,CLU,CHFC,FLMI.    

      Irv  Marcus had been an officer of Metropolitan  from  1974
until his retirement in 1995.  At retirement, he was Senior  Vice
President, a title which he had held since 1990, and during which
time    he   supervised   Metropolitan's   Receivable   investing
operations.   He  had   previously  been  a  loan  officer   with
Metropolitan  and has over 25 years experience  in  the  consumer
finance  business.   He  continues as a  director  following  his
retirement.

      Charles H. Stolz has been a Director of Metropolitan  since
1953. Mr. Stolz was one of the founders of Metropolitan.  He is a
licensed  public accountant and has been a realtor  for  over  25
years.   He  is  a former Chairman of the Washington  State  Real
Estate Commission and President of the Spokane Board of Realtors.

      Neil  Fosseen was elected honorary director of Metropolitan
in  1995.  As an honorary director, he is not entitled to vote at
board meetings.  Mr. Fosseen was mayor of Spokane from 1960-1967.
He has over 30 years of experience in banking and finance.
                                
<PAGE>                        Page 145
                                
                                
                         INDEMNIFICATION

       Metropolitan's  Articles  of  Incorporation  provide   for
indemnification   of  Metropolitan's  directors,   officers   and
employees  for expenses and other amounts reasonably required  to
be  paid  in  connection with any civil or  criminal  proceedings
brought  against such persons by reason of their  service  of  or
position  with  Metropolitan  unless  it  is  adjudged  in   such
proceedings that the person or persons are liable due to  willful
malfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of
his  or  her  duties in the conduct of his or her  office.   Such
right  of  indemnification is not exclusive of any  other  rights
that  may be provided by contract or other agreement or provision
of  law.   Such  indemnification  is  not  currently  covered  by
insurance.

      As  of the date of this Prospectus, no contractual or other
agreements  providing for indemnification of officers,  directors
or  employees  were in existence other than as set  forth  above.
Pursuant  to  Washington State law, Metropolitan is  required  to
indemnify  any director for his reasonable expenses  incurred  in
the  successful defense of any proceeding in which such  director
was a party because he was a director of Metropolitan.

     Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the
Securities  Act  of  1933  may  be  permitted  to  Metropolitan's
officers,  directors  or  controlling  persons  pursuant  to  the
foregoing provisions, Metropolitan has been informed that in  the
opinion   of   the   Securities  and  Exchange  Commission   such
indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the  Act
and is therefore unenforceable.

                     OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT

         The following table sets forth certain information as to
each   class  of  equity  securities  of  Metropolitan  and   its
subsidiaries  beneficially  owned by  Metropolitan  officers  and
directors as of March 31, 1997.    
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   
                                                              Number of
                                                                Shares
                                                             Beneficially
Name                         Title of Class                Owned   %of
Class
<S>                          <C>                         <C>        <C>

<PAGE>                        Page 146

C. Paul Sandifur, Jr.       Metropolitan Preferred
929 West Sprague            Stock All Series                246     0.05%
Spokane, WA....             Metropolitan Class A
                            Common Stock                11.5258     8.84%

C. Paul Sandifur, Jr.
Trustee(1)..............    Metropolitan Class A
929 West Sprague            Common Stock                82.4667(1) 63.24%
Spokane, WA

Summit Securities, Inc.(2)  Metropolitan Preferred
929 West Sprague Avenue     Stock, All Series          248,025(2)   5.26%
Spokane, WA 99204           Metropolitan Class A
                            Common Stock                9.2483(2)   7.09%

Irv Marcus..............    Metropolitan
929 West Sprague            Preferred Stock,
Spokane, WA                 All Series                      406     0.01%
                            Metropolitan Class A
                            Common Stock                 1.0000     0.77%

Bruce J. Blohowiak......    Metropolitan Class A
929 West Sprague            Common Stock                 2.0000     1.53%
Spokane, WA 99208

Charles H. Stolz........    Metropolitan Preferred
929 West Sprague            Stock, All Series            19,477     0.39%
Spokane, WA

All officers and
directors as a
group ..                  Metropolitan
                          Preferred Stock, All Series    268,154   5.60%
                          Metropolitan Class A           106.2408 81.47%
                         Common Stock
<FN>
(1)    C. Paul Sandifur, Jr., is trustee of the C. Paul Sandifur and J.
Evelyn  Sandifur  irrevocable trust and  has  sole  voting  and  sole
investment   control   over  these  shares  of   stock.   The   trust
beneficiaries are C. Paul Sandifur, Jr., Mary L. Sandifur and William
F. Sandifur.

(2)    Summit Securities, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of National
Summit  Corp., a Delaware corporation, which is wholly  owned  by  C.
Paul  Sandifur, Jr.  As a result, Mr. Sandifur effectively  has  sole
voting and investment control over these shares.    
</TABLE>

<PAGE>                        Page 147


Executive Compensation

      The  following table sets forth the aggregate  compensation
paid  by  Metropolitan during the fiscal years specified  to  its
Chief  Executive Officer and other highly compensated executives.
All  other officers and executives of Metropolitan received  less
than $100,000 in compensation during the year ended September 30,
1996.   No executive officer is a party to, or a participant  in,
any  pension  plan, contract or other arrangement  providing  for
cash  or  non-cash  forms of remuneration  except  Metropolitan's
401(k)  qualified retirement plan adopted as of January 1,  1992,
which  is  available generally to all employees of  Metropolitan.
The  401(k) Plan provides for maximum annual contributions  equal
to  1.5% of each participant's salary.  Approximately $84,000 was
paid  by Metropolitan pursuant to the 401(k) plan during the year
ended September 30, 1996.  As of September 30, 1996, Metropolitan
had  no  compensation  plans or stock  option  plans  in  effect.
Directors of  Metropolitan are paid $500 per meeting.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   

                   SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------(a)---------------------(b)----------------(c)---------------(d)
 Name and Principal             Year              Salary ($)      Bonus/
Position
Commissions
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------

 <S>                               <C>        <C>                 <C>
 C. Paul Sandifur, Jr.             1996      $147,145
 Chief Executive Officer           1995      $128,869            $1,004
                                   1994      $107,063


 Bruce Blohowiak                   1996      $105,000
 Executive Vice President          1995          *
 General Counsel                   1994          *

 Michael Kirk                      1996       $85,000           $91,867
 Senior Vice President             1995       $65,813           $38,050
 -Production                       1994          *

 Tracy Z                           1996       $80,000           $78,743
 Vice President-Production         1995          *

<PAGE>                        Page 148

                                   1994          *

 John Van Engelen                  1996      $105,500           $19,747
 President, Western United         1995          *
                                   1994          *

* Salaries and other compensation were less than $100,000    

</TABLE>
                     PRINCIPAL SHAREHOLDERS

         The  following table sets forth information with respect
to   the   beneficial  owners  of  more  than  five  percent   of
Metropolitan's voting stock as of March 31, 1997.    

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   
                                         Shares of Class A
   Name and Address                         Common Stock        % of Class
 <S>                                         <C>                   <C>
C. Paul Sandifur, Jr.
929 West Sprague
Spokane, Washington.................              11.5258          8.84%

C. Paul Sandifur, Jr.
      Trustee......................              82.4667         63.24%

Mary L. Sandifur
West 601 Main, Suite 714
Spokane, Washington 99201...........               8.7156         6.68%

William F. Sandifur
West 601 Main, Suite 714
Spokane, Washington 99201...........               8.9391         6.85%

Estate of
C. Paul Sandifur, Sr. and J. Evelyn Sandifur
West 601 Main, Suite 714
Spokane, Washington 99201............              6.5120         5.00%

Summit Securities, Inc.
929 West Sprague Avenue
Spokane, Washington..................              9.2483         7.09%


<PAGE>                        Page 149

(1)  C. Paul Sandifur, Jr., is trustee of the C. Paul Sandifur and J.
Evelyn  Sandifur  irrevocable trust and  has  sole  voting  and  sole
investment   control  over  these  shares  of   stock.    The   trust
beneficiaries are C. Paul Sandifur, Jr., Mary L. Sandifur and William
F. Sandifur.
    
</TABLE>

<PAGE>                        Page 150



          CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS & RELATED TRANSACTIONS    

Transactions with and between Metropolitan and Subsidiaries.
   
      In  the  normal  course of business, Metropolitan  and  its
subsidiaries   engage   in   intercompany   transactions.     All
subsidiaries  are  wholly  owned by Metropolitan  except  Western
United,  in  which  Metropolitan owns 24.5%  directly  and  75.5%
indirectly.  See "PROSPECTUS SUMMARY-Organizational Chart".
    

      During  the  three  year period ended September  30,  1996,
Western   United   purchased  some  of   its   Receivables   from
Metropolitan  at  Metropolitan's cost.   In  these  transactions,
Western United paid Metropolitan $9,351,600 for Receivables  with
aggregate  outstanding  principal balances  of  $9,550,915.   The
difference  represents unrealized discounts  net  of  acquisition
costs.

       Metropolitan   charges  Western  United   for   Receivable
acquisition  services.  In  1996, 1995  and  1994,  respectively,
Metropolitan  charged  Receivable  acquisition  fees   of   $29.4
million, $14.6 million and $12.8 million to Western United.   The
charge  to  Western United for 1996, 1995 and  1994  is  a  gross
amount  before  a loss reserve of $12.54 million in  1996,  $6.95
million  in 1995 and $4.75 million in 1994 which was provided  by
Metropolitan. The amounts of the Receivable acquisition fees were
determined   based  on  the  adjustment  necessary   to   convert
Receivables  purchased by Western United utilizing Metropolitan's
services to a defined fair market yield.  The effect of the  fees
charged  was to reduce Western United's effective yields  on  the
purchased Receivables to approximately 8.2% in 1996, 9.3% in 1995
and  8.3%,  in  1994. The estimated value of the  loss  guarantee
reserve,  increases  the effective yield  to  Western  United  to
approximately  9.6%  in 1996, 10.7% in 1995  and  9.7%  in  1994.
Management  believes  the adjusted yields  represent  the  yields
which   Western  United  could  achieve  by  purchasing   similar
Receivables  in arms-length transactions with unrelated  vendors.
In  addition, Metropolitan charges Western United for  management
services,  Receivable collection services and rental  of  offices
and  equipment.  These charges have no effect on the Consolidated
Financial Statement, but create fee income for Metropolitan  when
presented  alone.   See  Note  19 to the  Consolidated  Financial
Statements.


<PAGE>                        Page 151

      Metwest  provides Receivable servicing and  collection  for
Metropolitan  and Western. See "BUSINESS-Receivable  Investments-
Servicing and Collection Procedure and Delinquency Experience."


      In  the normal course of its business, Western United loans
cash  to  Metropolitan and Metwest.  These loans, when made,  are
generally  collateralized by Receivables or  real  property.   At
September 30, 1996, there were $9.7 million in loans outstanding.

      From time to time, since December of 1979, Metropolitan has
made  loans  to  Consumers  Group Holding  Co.  for  purposes  of
increasing  the  capital  and surplus of  Consumers  and  Western
United.  These loans are in the form of surplus certificates  and
are  repayable on demand provided total capital and surplus meets
statutory  requirements.  As of September 30, 1996,  these  loans
outstanding totaled $3,800,000 and currently bear no interest.

      In the three years ended September 30, 1996, Consumers sold
credit  guaranty insurance to Metropolitan for $540,000 in  total
premiums.

Transactions with affiliates.

   
      In  the normal course of business, Metropolitan engages  in
transactions  with companies which were former  subsidiaries  and
which  are currently affiliated through the common control of  C.
Paul Sandifur, Jr.
    
      Metropolitan  Investment Securities (MIS), a  broker-dealer
and   former  subsidiary  of  Metropolitan,  sells  the  publicly
registered  securities of Metropolitan and Summit.   Metropolitan
pays  commissions to MIS for the sale of its  securities pursuant
to  the  terms of written Selling Agreements.  During the  fiscal
years ended September 30, 1996, 1995, and 1994, Metropolitan paid
commissions  to  MIS in the amounts of $203,946, $1,461,033,  and
$1,111,044,  on  sales  of  debt securities  in  the  amounts  of
$9,125,303, $53,120,179, and $46,414,738,  respectively.   During
the  fiscal  years  ended September 30,  1996,  1995,  and  1994,
Metropolitan  paid commissions to MIS in the amounts  of  $8,216,
$152,427, and $17,451 on sales of preferred stock in the  amounts
of   $2,143,930,   $4,665,720,  and   $1,790,100,   respectively.
Additionally,   in  1996,  1995,  and  1994,  Metropolitan   paid
commissions  to  MIS  in the amounts of $156,918,  $140,555,  and
$198,180 on sales of preferred stock through an in-house  trading
list.

<PAGE>                        Page 152


   
      Metropolitan provides Management and Receivable Acquisition
Services  for  a  fee to Summit, Old Standard and  Arizona  Life.
During  1996, such fees were approximately $1.364 million.   Also
See   "BUSINESS-Receivable  Investments-Management  &  Receivable
Acquisition Services".
    
   
     Metwest provides Receivable Collection services for a fee to
Summit,  Old Standard and Arizona Life.  During 1996,  such  fees
were   approximately  $290,000.   Also  See  "BUSINESS-Receivable
Investments-Servicing  and Collection Procedure  and  Delinquency
Experience."
    
     Management believes that the terms of the service agreements
are  at least as favorable as could have been obtained from  non-
affiliated parties.

   
      Western  has  negotiated a Reinsurance Agreement  with  Old
Standard  which became effective in January 1997 for  reinsurance
of  75%  of  specified annuity policies.  As  a  result  of  this
agreement,  approximately  $2  to  $5  million  in  premiums  are
reinsured monthly with Old Standard.  The actual amount reinsured
varies  depending  upon  Western's  annuity  sales  volume.   See
"BUSINESS-Life Insurance and Annuity Operations-Reinsurance".
    

          Metropolitan's  property  development  activities   are
provided by Summit Property Development. Metropolitan paid Summit
Property  Development  $2.0 million in  development  fees  during
1996.      See "REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT".

   




<PAGE>                        Page 153


    
          METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.
           INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
          Years Ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994
                                

Report of Independent Accountants
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Consolidated Statements of Income
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flow
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

          THREE MONTHS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND 1995
                           (UNAUDITED)
                                
Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets
Consolidated Condensed Statements of Operations
Consolidated Condensed Statements of Changes in Cash Flows
Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements


     METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
     INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
     Years Ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994



  <PAGE>
     REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS



     The Directors and Stockholders
     Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc.


     We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of
     Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc. and subsidiaries as of
     September 30, 1996 and 1995, and the related consolidated statements
     of income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three
     years in the period ended September 30, 1996. These financial
     statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
     responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements
     based on our audits.

     We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
     standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit
     to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements
     are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
     test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the
     financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting
     principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well
     as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe
     that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

     In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present
     fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position
     of Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc. and subsidiaries as of
     September 30, 1996 and 1995, and the consolidated results of their
     operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the
     period ended September 30, 1996 in conformity with generally accepted
     accounting principles.

     As discussed in Note 1, the Company changed its method of accounting
     for impaired loans in 1996.


                                     /s/COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.        

     Spokane, Washington
     December 6, 1996










                                      F-1 
     <PAGE>
     METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
     CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
     September 30, 1996 and 1995



                      ASSETS                    1996             1995
                                           --------------   --------------
     Cash and cash equivalents             $   35,226,746   $   32,798,627
     Restricted cash and cash equivalents     132,652,334
     Investments:
       Available-for-sale securities, 
         at market                             38,554,498       31,829,980
       Held-to-maturity securities, at 
         amortized cost                       124,748,490      188,073,542
       Accrued interest on investments          1,516,390        2,372,891
                                           --------------   --------------
           Total cash and investments         332,698,458      255,075,040
                                           --------------   --------------
     Real estate contracts and mortgage 
       notes receivable, net, including 
       real estate contracts and mortgage 
       notes receivable held for sale of 
       approximately $106,575,000 in 1996     650,933,330      587,493,614
     Real estate held for sale and 
       development, including foreclosed 
       real estate received in satis-
       faction of debt of $36,158,099 
       and $38,004,011                         84,333,288       91,105,003
                                           --------------   --------------
           Total real estate assets           735,266,618      678,598,617

     Less allowance for losses on real 
       estate assets                          (10,192,584)      (8,116,065)
                                           --------------   --------------
           Net real estate assets             725,074,034      670,482,552
                                           --------------   --------------
     Other receivable investments             107,494,150       41,591,415
                                           --------------   --------------
     Other assets:
       Deferred costs                          74,530,361       74,521,803
       Land, buildings and equipment, 
         net of accumulated depreciation        8,516,598        8,148,850
       Other assets including receivables 
         from affiliates, net of allow-
         ances of $180,954 and $77,039         34,345,227       28,648,340
                                           --------------   --------------
           Total other assets                 117,392,186      111,318,993
                                           --------------   --------------
           Total assets                    $1,282,658,828   $1,078,468,000
                                           ==============   ==============





                                      F-2 
     <PAGE>
     METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
     CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS, CONTINUED
     September 30, 1996 and 1995




              LIABILITIES AND
           STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                 1996             1995
                                           --------------   --------------
     Liabilities:
       Life insurance and annuity 
         reserves                          $  837,366,108   $  781,716,153
       Debenture bonds and accrued 
         interest                             192,173,751      201,311,873
       Debt payable                            38,601,146       25,552,451
       Securities sold, not owned, at 
         market                               132,652,334
       Accounts payable and accrued 
         expenses                              18,082,782       15,558,818
       Deferred income taxes                   15,894,831       12,254,475
       Minority interest in consolidated 
         subsidiaries                           1,544,544        1,503,788
                                           --------------   --------------
           Total liabilities                1,236,315,496    1,037,897,558
                                           --------------   --------------
     Commitments and contingencies 
       (Notes 5 and 14)

     Stockholders' equity:
       Preferred stock, (liquidation 
         preference $49,495,906 and 
         $47,825,310)                          21,518,198       21,627,106
       Subordinate preferred stock, no par             --               --
       Common stock, $2,250 par                   293,417          293,417
       Additional paid-in capital              16,791,670       14,917,782
       Retained earnings                        8,731,070        4,561,554
       Net unrealized losses on invest-
         ments, net of income taxes of 
         $510,530 and $427,283                   (991,023)        (829,417)
                                           --------------   --------------
           Total stockholders' equity          46,343,332       40,570,442
                                           --------------   --------------
           Total liabilities and stock-
             holders' equity               $1,282,658,828   $1,078,468,000
                                           ==============   ==============


     The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated
       financial statements.






                                      F-3 
     <PAGE>
     METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
     for the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
      <S>                                        <C>           <C>           <C>
      Revenues:
        Insurance premiums                       $ 3,000,000   $ 3,000,000   $ 2,958,000
        Interest on receivables                   58,529,828    56,553,869    56,420,184
        Earned discount on receivables            18,036,075    13,786,977    13,790,211
        Other investment interest                 15,291,496    15,039,706    16,715,517
        Real estate sales                         45,648,264    39,388,086    40,023,974
        Gain on insurance settlement                                50,922       203,691
        Fees, commissions, service and other 
           income                                  4,300,381     5,847,020     4,992,505
        Realized net gains (losses) on sales
           of investments                           (821,481)       34,565     1,111,974
        Realized net gains on sales of 
           receivables                            12,687,616     4,406,338     1,969,907
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
             Total revenues                      156,672,179   138,107,483   138,185,963
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
      Expenses:
        Insurance policy and annuity benefits     48,301,010    45,483,802    41,918,907
        Interest, net                             18,787,655    16,381,004    19,895,252
        Cost of real estate sold                  43,910,654    36,449,309    38,496,776
        Provision for losses on real estate 
           assets                                  6,360,072     4,174,644     5,533,193
        Salaries and employee benefits            10,199,812     8,803,131     8,846,677
        Commissions to agents                     10,574,049    12,588,546     8,430,654
        Other operating and underwriting           6,958,938     7,414,502     7,420,022
        Less amount capitalized as deferred 
           costs, net of amortization               (801,825)   (2,671,195)   (1,050,279)
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
             Total expenses                      144,290,365   128,623,743   129,491,202
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
      Income before income taxes and minority 
        interest                                  12,381,814     9,483,740     8,694,761
      Provision for income taxes                  (4,235,469)   (3,107,897)   (2,992,476)
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
      Income before minority interest              8,146,345     6,375,843     5,702,285

      Income of consolidated subsidiaries 
        allocated to minority stockholders          (108,681)      (73,197)     (224,529)
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
      Net income                                   8,037,664     6,302,646     5,477,756
      Preferred stock dividends                   (3,868,148)   (4,037,921)   (3,423,326)
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
      Income applicable to common stockholders   $ 4,169,516   $ 2,264,725   $ 2,054,430
                                                 ===========   ===========   ===========
      Income per share applicable to common 
        stockholders                             $    32,073   $    17,288   $    14,996
                                                 ===========   ===========   ===========
      Weighted average number of shares of 
        common stock outstanding                         130           131           137
                                                 ===========   ===========   ===========
      </TABLE>

      The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated
       financial statements.

                                      F-4 
     <PAGE>
     METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
     for the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                                            Additional    Net Unrealized
                                                Preferred     Common        Paid-in       Gains (Losses)   Retained
                                                Stock         Stock         Capital       on Investments   Earnings
                                                -----------   -----------   -----------   --------------   -----------
      <S>                                       <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>              <C>
      Balance, September 30, 1993               $21,402,599   $   310,485   $ 9,754,510    $   535,635     $   778,260
      Net income                                                                                             5,477,756
      Net change in unrealized (losses) on
        available-for-sale securities, net 
        of income taxes of $1,721,435                                                       (3,371,012)
      Cash dividends, common ($675 per share)                                                                  (87,012)
      Cash dividends, preferred (variable rate)                                                             (3,423,326)
      Redemption and retirement of stock
        (14,470 shares)                            (144,699)                   (353,743)
      Redemption and retirement of stock
        (6 shares) and change in minority
        interest                                                  (13,864)      (12,914)
      Sale of variable rate preferred stock,
        net (17,901 shares)                         179,010                   1,593,639
                                                -----------   -----------   -----------    -----------     -----------
      Balance, September 30, 1994                21,436,910       296,621    10,981,492     (2,835,377)      2,745,678
      Net income                                                                                             6,302,646
      Net change in unrealized gains on 
        available-for-sale securities, net 
        of income taxes of $1,018,219                                                        2,005,960
      Cash dividends, common ($3,800 per share)                                                               (501,582)
      Cash dividends, preferred (variable rate)                                                             (4,037,921)
      Redemption and retirement of stock (2
       shares) and change in minority interest                     (3,204)     (123,551)
      Redemption and retirement of stock
        (27,637 shares)                            (276,376)                     13,120
      Sale of variable rate preferred stock, 
        net (46,657 shares)                         466,572                   4,046,721
      Excess sales price over historical cost
        basis of subsidiaries sold to related 
        parties                                                                                                 52,733
                                                -----------   -----------   -----------    -----------     -----------
      Balance, September 30, 1995                21,627,106       293,417    14,917,782       (829,417)      4,561,554
      </TABLE>

                                      F-5
      <PAGE>
      METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY, CONTINUED
     for the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                                            Additional    Net Unrealized
                                                Preferred     Common        Paid-in       Gains (Losses)   Retained
                                                Stock         Stock         Capital       on Investments   Earnings
                                                -----------   -----------   -----------   --------------   -----------
      <S>                                       <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>              <C>
      Balance, September 30, 1995                21,627,106       293,417    14,917,782       (829,417)      4,561,554
      Net income                                                                                             8,037,664
      Net change in unrealized (losses) on
        available-for-sale securities, net 
        of income taxes of $83,247                                                            (161,606)
      Cash dividends, preferred (variable rate)                                                             (3,868,148)
      Redemption and retirement of stock
        (32,330 shares)                            (323,301)                    (47,433)
      Sale of variable rate preferred
        stock, net (21,439 shares)                  214,393                   1,921,321
                                                -----------   -----------   -----------    -----------     -----------
      Balance, September 30, 1996               $21,518,198   $   293,417   $16,791,670    $  (991,023)    $ 8,731,070
                                                ===========   ===========   ===========    ===========     ===========
      </TABLE>
      The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated
       financial statements.



                                      F-6
     <PAGE>
     METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
     for the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                 1996           1995             1994
                                             -------------  -------------   -------------
      <S>                                    <C>            <C>             <C>
      Cash flows from operating activities:
        Net income                           $   8,037,664  $   6,302,646   $   5,477,756
        Adjustments to reconcile net income 
          to net cash provided by operating 
          activities:
            Proceeds from sale of trading 
              securities                        67,093,831    515,677,468   1,064,997,088
            Purchase of trading securities     (67,448,595)  (515,570,230) (1,064,712,932)
            Realized net gains on sales of 
              investments and receivables      (11,866,135)    (4,440,903)     (3,081,881)
            Gain on sales of real estate        (1,737,610)    (2,938,777)     (1,527,198)
            Gain on insurance settlement                          (50,922)       (203,691)
            Provision for losses on real 
              estate assets                      6,360,072      4,174,644       5,533,193
            Provision for losses (recover-
              ies) on other assets                  70,500        (35,657)        204,650
            Depreciation and amortization        4,617,664      3,023,233       2,066,365
            Minority interests                     108,681         73,197         224,529
            Deferred income tax provision        3,640,356      2,747,990       2,644,170
            Changes in assets and liabili-
              ties, net of effects from 
              sale of subsidiaries:
                Life insurance and annuity 
                  reserves                      45,782,339     42,033,038      39,322,517
                Deferred costs, net                 (8,558)    (3,034,857)     (1,349,405)
                Compound and accrued 
                  interest on bonds              4,642,760     (2,214,261)     (2,096,810)
                Securities sold, not owned     132,652,334
                Other                           (6,089,670)    (4,910,909)     (1,537,118)
                                             -------------  -------------   -------------
                    Net cash provided by 
                      operating activities     185,855,633     40,835,700      45,961,233
                                             -------------  -------------   -------------
      Cash flows from investing activities:
        Proceeds from sale of subsidiaries, 
          net of cash                                          (1,406,873)
        Change in restricted cash and cash
          equivalents                         (132,652,334)
        Principal payments on real estate 
          contracts and mortgage notes 
          receivable                           107,702,333    118,869,137     107,040,612
        Principal payments on other 
          receivable investments                 6,049,097      1,664,132
        Proceeds from sales of real estate 
          contracts and mortgage notes 
          receivable and other receivable
          investments                          182,177,259     72,914,006      20,407,270
        Acquisition of real estate contracts 
          and mortgage notes receivable       (282,313,300)  (203,525,666)   (142,479,298)
        Acquisition of other receivable 
          investments                          (99,804,805)   (56,229,758)
        Proceeds from insurance settlement                         50,922         203,691
        Proceeds from sales of real estate       6,545,323      5,285,839       6,562,008
        Proceeds from maturities of held-
          to-maturity investments                2,598,081      4,696,003       8,875,268
      </TABLE>
                                      F-7
      <PAGE>
     METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS, CONTINUED
     for the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>

                                                 1996           1995           1994
                                             -------------  -------------  -------------
      <S>                                    <C>            <C>            <C>
      Cash flows from investing activities,
        Continued:
          Proceeds from maturities of 
            available-for-sale investments      37,496,910               
          Purchases of held-to-maturity 
            investments                        (12,181,445)    (1,557,219)    (5,263,021)
          Proceeds from sales of available-
            for-sale investments                31,686,315     92,779,569    367,846,050
          Purchases of available-for-sale 
            investments                         (4,138,391)   (34,387,059)  (441,965,194)
          Purchases of and costs associated 
            with real estate held for sale 
            and development                    (28,499,006)   (41,841,982)   (27,544,340)
          Capital expenditures                  (1,369,802)      (894,673)      (471,097)
                                             -------------  -------------  -------------
                    Net cash used in 
                      investing activities    (186,703,765)   (43,583,622)  (106,788,051)
                                             -------------  -------------  -------------
      Cash flows from financing activities:
        Increase (decrease) in short-term 
          borrowings                            11,353,125    (36,598,375)    59,730,000
        Repayments of debt payable              (2,060,440)      (524,046)    (2,468,655)
        Receipts from life and annuity 
          products                             112,894,347    145,066,891     85,332,591
        Withdrawals of life and annuity 
          products                            (103,026,731)  (105,469,442)  (124,642,366)
        Issuance of debenture bonds              9,125,303     53,120,179     56,954,423
        Repayment of debenture bonds           (22,906,185)   (48,970,828)   (55,193,403)
        Issuance of preferred stock              2,135,714      4,513,293      1,772,649
        Redemption and retirement of stock        (370,734)      (327,336)      (775,742)
        Cash dividends                          (3,868,148)    (4,539,503)    (3,510,338)
                                             -------------  -------------  -------------
                    Net cash provided by 
                      financing activities       3,276,251      6,270,833     17,199,159
                                             -------------  -------------  -------------
      Net increase (decrease) in cash and 
        cash equivalents                         2,428,119      3,522,911    (43,627,659)

      Cash and cash equivalents:
        Beginning of year                       32,798,627     29,275,716     72,903,375
                                             -------------  -------------  -------------
        End of year                          $  35,226,746  $  32,798,627  $  29,275,716
                                             =============  =============  =============

      </TABLE>
      See Note 16 for supplemental cash flow information.


     The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated
       financial statements. 

                                      F-8
     <PAGE>
     METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


      1.  SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

            BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATION

            Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc. (the Company and
            Metropolitan) invests in real estate contracts and mortgage
            notes receivable and other investments, including real estate
            development, with proceeds from investments and securities
            offerings.

            On September 9, 1994, the Company sold its entire interest in
            one of its subsidiaries, Summit Securities, Inc. (Summit), to
            National Summit Corp., a Delaware corporation which is wholly
            owned by C. Paul Sandifur, Jr., the Company's Chief Executive
            Officer. The change in control was made pursuant to a
            reorganization wherein Summit redeemed all the common shares
            held by its former parent company. Summit redeemed the common
            shares for $3,600,000 paid in cash to the Company. The sales
            price was based upon Summit's estimated fair value, which
            approximated the net book value of Summit at the date of
            acquisition. The results of operations of Summit are included
            in the consolidated financial statements for the period prior
            to September 9, 1994. Also, during the year ended September 30,
            1994, some of the Company's majority-owned subsidiaries had
            reverse stock splits and fractional shares were redeemed and
            retired for cash.

            On January 31, 1995, Metropolitan and Summit consummated a
            transaction whereby 100% of the common stock of Metropolitan
            Investment Securities, Inc. (MIS) was sold to Summit. The cash
            price was $288,950, the approximate historical net book value
            of MIS at closing. MIS is a broker/dealer and the exclusive
            broker/dealer for the securities sold by Metropolitan and
            Summit. This sale did not materially affect the business
            operations of MIS. The results of operations of MIS are
            included in the consolidated financial statements for periods
            prior to January 31, 1995.

            Additionally, by agreement, effective January 31, 1995,
            Metropolitan discontinued its property development division,
            which consisted of a group of employees experienced in real
            estate development. On the same date, Summit commenced the
            operation of a property development subsidiary employing those
            same individuals who had previously been employed by
            Metropolitan. Summit Property Development Corporation, a 100%
            owned subsidiary of Summit, has negotiated an agreement with
            Metropolitan to provide future property development services. 





                                      F-9
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      1.  SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:

            BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATION, CONTINUED

            On May 31, 1995, Metropolitan and Summit consummated a
            transaction whereby 100% of the common stock of Old Standard
            Life Insurance Company (OSL) was sold to Summit. The cash price
            was $2,722,000, the approximate historical net book value of
            OSL at closing, with future contingency payments equal to 20%
            of statutory income prior to the accrual of income taxes for
            the fiscal years ending December 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997. The
            cash sales price plus estimated future contingency payments
            approximated the appraised valuation of OSL. OSL is engaged in
            the business of acquiring receivables using funds derived from
            the sale of annuities, investment income and receivable cash
            flows. The sale of OSL decreased total assets and liabilities
            by approximately $46.2 million. The results of operations of
            OSL are included in the consolidated financial statements for
            periods prior to May 31, 1995.

            The total purchase price of MIS and OSL exceeded the historical
            cost bases of the net assets of the companies by approximately
            $53,000. Due to the common control of Metropolitan and Summit,
            this excess purchase price was recorded as an increase to
            retained earnings in the periods in which the sales occurred.

            Metropolitan is effectively controlled by C. Paul Sandifur, Jr.
            through his common stock ownership and voting control.

            PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION

            The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of
            Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc. and its majority-
            owned subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions
            and balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

            CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

            The Company considers all highly-liquid debt instruments
            purchased with a remaining maturity of three months or less to
            be cash equivalents. Cash includes all balances on hand and on
            deposit in banks and financial institutions. The Company
            periodically evaluates the credit quality of its depository
            financial institutions. Substantially all cash and cash
            equivalents are on deposit with one financial institution and
            balances periodically exceed the FDIC insurance limit.







                                      F-10
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      1.  SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:

            INVESTMENTS

            The Company has classified its investments in debt and equity
            securities as "available-for-sale," "held-to-maturity" or
            "trading." The accounting policies related to these investment
            classifications are as follows:

              AVAILABLE-FOR-SALE SECURITIES:  Available-for-sale
              securities, consisting primarily of government-backed
              securities, public utility and corporate bonds, are carried
              at market value. Unrealized gains and losses on these
              securities are presented as a separate component of
              stockholders' equity, net of related deferred income taxes. 

              HELD-TO-MATURITY SECURITIES:  Held-to-maturity securities,
              consisting primarily of public utility and corporate bonds
              and mortgage- and government-backed securities having fixed
              maturities, are carried at amortized cost. The Company has
              the ability and intent to hold these investments until
              maturity.

              TRADING SECURITIES:  Trading securities, consisting primarily
              of government-backed securities and corporate bonds, are
              bought and held principally for the purpose of selling them
              in the near term and are recorded at market value. Realized
              and unrealized gains and losses are included in the
              consolidated statements of income.

            Realized gains and losses on investments are calculated on the
            specific-identification method and are recognized in the
            consolidated statements of income in the period in which the
            investment is sold.

            For other than a temporary decline in the value of a common
            stock, preferred stock or publicly traded bond below cost or
            amortized cost, the investment is reduced to its net realizable
            value, which becomes the new cost basis of the investment. The
            amount of the reduction is reported as a loss. Any recovery of
            market value in excess of the investment's new cost basis is
            recognized as a realized gain only upon sale, maturity or other
            disposition of the investment. Factors which the Company
            evaluates in determining the existence of an other than
            temporary decline in value include the length of time and
            extent to which market value has been less than cost; the
            financial condition and near-term prospects of the issuer; and
            the intent and ability of the Company to retain its investment
            for the anticipated period of recovery in market value.




                                      F-11
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      1.  SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:

            REAL ESTATE CONTRACTS AND MORTGAGE NOTES RECEIVABLE

            Real estate contracts and mortgage notes receivable held for
            investment purposes are carried at amortized cost. Discounts
            originating at the time of purchase, net of capitalized
            acquisition costs, are amortized using the level yield
            (interest) method. For receivables acquired after September 30,
            1992, net purchase discounts are amortized on an individual
            contract basis using the level yield (interest) method over the
            remaining contractual term of the receivables. For receivables
            acquired before October 1, 1992, the Company accounts for its
            portfolio of discounted receivables using anticipated
            prepayment patterns to apply the level yield (interest) method
            of amortizing discounts. Discounted receivables are pooled by
            the fiscal year of purchase and by similar receivable types.
            The amortization period, which is approximately 78 months,
            estimates a constant prepayment rate of 10-12 percent per year
            and scheduled payments, which is consistent with the Company's
            prior experience with similar receivables and the Company's
            expectations.

            REAL ESTATE CONTRACTS AND MORTGAGE NOTES RECEIVABLE, HELD 
            FOR SALE

            Real estate contracts and mortgage notes receivable held for
            sale are carried at the lower of cost (outstanding principal
            adjusted for net discounts and capitalized acquisition costs)
            or market value, determined on an aggregate basis by major type
            of loan. Gains or losses on such sales are recognized utilizing
            the aggregation method for financial reporting and income tax
            purposes at the time of sale. Interest on these receivables is
            included in interest income. Deferred net discounts and
            capitalized acquisition costs are recognized at the time the
            related receivables are sold to third-party investors or
            securitized through transfer to a real estate investment trust.

            OTHER RECEIVABLE INVESTMENTS

            Other receivables held for investment purposes are carried at
            amortized cost. Discounts originating at the time of purchase,
            net of capitalized acquisition costs, are amortized using the
            level yield (interest) method on an individual receivable basis
            over the remaining contractual term of the receivable.








                                      F-12
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      1.  SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:

            REAL ESTATE HELD FOR SALE AND DEVELOPMENT

            The Company holds real estate, stated at the lower of cost or
            fair value less costs to sell, for purposes of development and
            resale. The Company acquires real estate through direct
            purchase and foreclosure. Cost is determined by the purchase
            price of the real estate or, for real estate acquired by
            foreclosure, at the lower of (a) the fair value of the property
            at the date of foreclosure less estimated selling costs, or (b)
            cost (unpaid receivable carrying value). Periodically, the
            Company reviews its carrying values of real estate held for
            sale and development by obtaining new or updated appraisals and
            adjusts its carrying values to the lower of cost or net
            realizable value, as necessary. As a result of changes in the
            real estate markets in which these properties are located, it
            is reasonably possible that these carrying values could change
            in the near term.

            Occasionally, these real estate properties are rented, with the
            revenue being included in other income and related costs are
            charged to expense.

            In March 1995, SFAS No. 121 (SFAS 121), "Accounting for the
            Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be
            Disposed Of," was issued. SFAS No. 121 requires certain long-
            lived assets, such as the Company's real estate assets, be
            reviewed for impairment in value whenever events or
            circumstances indicate that the carrying value of an asset may
            not be recoverable. In performing the review, if expected
            future undiscounted cash flows from the use of the asset or the
            fair value, less selling costs, from the disposition of the
            asset is less than its carrying value, an impairment loss is to
            be recognized. The Company is required to adopt this new
            standard on October 1, 1996. The Company does not anticipate
            that the adoption of SFAS No. 121 will have a material effect
            on the consolidated financial statements.

            Profit on sales of real estate is recognized when the buyers'
            initial and continuing investment is adequate to demonstrate
            (1) a commitment to fulfill the terms of the transaction, (2)
            that collectibility of the remaining sales price due is
            reasonably assured, and (3) the Company maintains no continuing
            involvement or obligation in relation to the property sold and
            has transferred all the risks and rewards of ownership to the
            buyer.






                                      F-13
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      1.  SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:

            ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES ON REAL ESTATE ASSETS

            The established allowances for losses on real estate assets
            include amounts for estimated probable losses on both real
            estate held for sale and development and real estate contracts
            and mortgages receivable. Specific allowances are established,
            as necessary, for delinquent receivables with net carrying
            values in excess of $100,000. Additionally, the Company
            establishes allowances, based on historic delinquency and loss
            experience, for currently performing receivables and smaller
            delinquent receivables. Allowances for losses are determined
            based upon the net carrying values of the receivables,
            including accrued interest, determined in accordance with the
            provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
            (SFAS) No. 114, "Accounting by Creditors for Impairment of a
            Loan." The Company adopted this new standard on October 1,
            1995, which did not have a material effect on the consolidated
            financial statements. 

            The Company continues to accrue interest on delinquent loans
            until foreclosure, unless the principal and accrued interest on
            the receivable exceeds the fair value of the collateral, net of
            the estimated selling costs. The Company obtains new or updated
            appraisals on collateral for appropriate delinquent
            receivables, and adjusts the allowance for losses as necessary,
            such that the net carrying value does not exceed net realizable
            value.

            DEFERRED COSTS

            Commission expense and other insurance policy, annuity and
            debenture issuance costs are deferred. For debenture issuance
            costs, amortization is computed over the expected term which
            ranges from 6 months to 5 years, using the level yield
            (interest) method. For annuities and life insurance costs, the
            portion of the deferred policy acquisition cost that is
            estimated not to be recoverable from surrender charges is
            amortized as a constant percentage of the estimated gross
            profits (both realized and unrealized) associated with the
            policies in force. Changes in the amount or timing of estimated
            gross profits will result in adjustments in the cumulative
            amortization of these costs.









                                      F-14
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      1.  SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:

            LAND, BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT

            Land, buildings and equipment are stated at cost. Buildings,
            improvements, furniture and equipment are depreciated using
            both straight-line and accelerated methods over their estimated
            useful lives which, for buildings and improvements, range from
            5 to 40 years, and for furniture and equipment, range from 3 to
            10 years. Repairs, maintenance and minor renewals are charged
            to expense as incurred. Upon sale or retirement, the costs and
            related accumulated depreciation are eliminated from the
            accounts and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in
            operations.

            COMPUTER SOFTWARE COSTS

            The Company capitalizes direct costs of enhancements to
            computer software operating systems acquired and developed for
            internal use. At September 30, 1996, total enhancement costs of
            approximately $6,566,000 have been capitalized. These costs are
            being amortized over 5- and 10-year periods, depending on the
            estimated useful life of the enhancement, using the straight-
            line method. It is reasonably possible that the remaining
            estimated useful lives could change in the near term. As a
            result, the carrying value of these enhancements may be
            reduced.

            The Company will be required to make further enhancements to
            its computer software operating systems to enable recognition
            of the new century. The program codes within the operating
            systems currently store only a two digit character for the year
            in which transactions occur. The modification of these program
            codes to store four digit years will occur in the near term.
            The Company expects that the costs of these modifications will
            be material and will be charged to operations as incurred.

            INSURANCE AND ANNUITY RESERVES

            Premiums for universal life contracts and annuities are
            reported as life insurance and annuity reserves under the
            deposit method. Reserves for life insurance and annuities are
            equal to the sum of the account balances including deferred
            service charges. Based on past experience, consideration is
            given in actuarial calculations to the number of policyholder
            and annuitant deaths that might be expected, policy lapses,
            surrenders and terminations. As a result in changes in the
            factors considered in the actuarial calculations, it is
            reasonably possible that the reserves for insurance and
            annuities could change in the near term.



                                      F-15
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      1.  SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:

            RECOGNITION OF INSURANCE AND ANNUITY REVENUES

            Revenues for universal life contracts are recognized upon
            assessment. Revenues for annuity contracts are recognized over
            the estimated policy term. These revenues consist of charges to
            policyholders primarily for of mortality expenses and surrender
            charges. Annuity revenues consist of the charges assessed
            against the annuity account balance for services and surrender
            charges. Charges for future services are assessed; however, the
            related revenue is deferred and recognized in income over the
            period benefitted using the same assumptions as are used to
            amortize deferred policy acquisition costs.

            GUARANTY FUND ASSESSMENTS

            The Company's life insurance subsidiary is subject to insurance
            guaranty laws in the states in which it writes business. These
            laws provide for assessments against insurance companies for
            the benefit of policyholders and claimants in the event of
            insolvency of other life insurance companies. A portion of
            these assessments can be offset against the payment of future
            premium taxes. However, future changes in state laws could
            decrease the amount available for offset. As of September 30,
            1996 and 1995, the Company has accrued an estimated liability
            for guaranty fund assessments for known insolvencies net of
            estimated recoveries through premium tax offsets.

            INTEREST COSTS

            Interest costs associated with the development of real estate
            projects are capitalized. During the years ended September 30,
            1996, 1995 and 1994, the Company capitalized interest of
            $2,468,411, $2,730,373 and $2,151,651, respectively. 

            INCOME TAXES

            The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability
            method, which requires that deferred tax assets and liabilities
            be determined based on the temporary differences between the
            financial statement carrying amounts and tax bases of assets
            and liabilities and tax attributes using enacted tax rates in
            effect in the years in which the temporary differences are
            expected to reverse.








                                      F-16
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      1.  SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:

            INCOME TAXES, CONTINUED

            The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return with
            its includable affiliates. The consolidating companies have
            executed a tax allocation agreement. Under the agreement, the
            Companies' income tax provisions are computed on a separate
            return basis and consolidated affiliates receive a reim-
            bursement to the extent that their losses and other credits
            result in a reduction of the consolidated tax liability.

            EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE

            Earnings per common share are computed by deducting preferred
            stock dividends from net income and dividing the result by the
            weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding.
            All weighted average common shares outstanding and per share
            amounts have been retroactively restated to reflect the reverse
            stock split which occurred in fiscal 1994 (see Note 11). There
            were no common stock equivalents or potentially dilutive
            securities outstanding during any of the three years in the
            period ended September 30, 1996.

            HEDGING ACTIVITIES

            The Company is authorized by its Board of Directors, subject to
            certain limitations, to use financial futures instruments for
            the purpose of hedging interest rate risk relative to the
            securities portfolio and in anticipation of sales and
            securitizations of real estate contracts and other receivable
            investments. The insurance subsidiary sells securities "short"
            (the sale of securities which are not currently in the
            portfolio and therefore must be purchased to close out the sale
            agreement) as another means of managing interest rate risk or
            to benefit from an anticipated movement in the financial
            markets.

            The Company also purchases collateralized mortgage obligations
            (CMOs), pass-through certificates and other asset-backed
            securities for its investment portfolio. Such purchases have
            been limited to tranches that perform in concert with the
            underlying mortgages or assets; i.e., improving in value with
            falling interest rates and declining in value with rising
            interest rates. The Company has not invested in "derivative
            products" that have been structured to perform in a way that
            magnifies the normal impact of changes in interest rates or in
            a way dissimilar to the movement in value of the underlying
            securities.




                                      F-17
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      1.  SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:

            HEDGING ACTIVITIES, CONTINUED

            Unrealized gains or losses associated with financial future
            contracts that meet the hedge criteria prescribed in Statement
            of Financial Standards No. 80 (SFAS No. 80), "Accounting for
            Futures Contracts" are deferred and recognized when the effects
            of changes in interest rate on the hedged asset are recognized.
            Sales of securities, not owned, are recognized as liabilities
            and are adjusted to market value with the unrealized gain or
            loss recognized currently in operations.

            In fiscal 1996, the Company sold U.S. Treasury securities,
            which it did not own, to provide an economic hedge for the
            anticipated securitization of real estate contracts and
            mortgage notes receivable which was completed in November 1996.
            At September 30, 1996, the Company was obligated to deliver
            U.S. Treasury securities with a market value of approximately
            $132,652,000. During the year ended September 30, 1996, the
            Company recognized a loss of approximately $820,000 associated
            with this obligation. At September 30, 1996, approximately
            $131,091,000 of the Company's cash and cash equivalents were
            restricted until such time as these obligations are repaid.

            INTEREST RATE RISK

            The results of operations of the Company may be materially and
            adversely affected by changes in prevailing economic
            conditions, including rapid changes in interest rates. The
            Company's financial assets (primarily real estate contracts and
            mortgage notes receivable, other receivables and investment
            securities) and liabilities (primarily annuity contracts and
            investment certificates) are subject to interest rate risk. In
            the year ending September 30, 1997, approximately $848,000,000
            of the Company's financial liabilities will reprice or mature
            as compared to approximately $256,000,000 of its financial
            assets, resulting in a mismatch of approximately $592,000,000.
            This structure is beneficial in periods of declining interest
            rates; however, may result in declining net interest income
            during periods of rising interest rates. Of the financial
            liabilities scheduled to reprice or mature, approximately 74%
            are annuity contracts which are subject to surrender charges.
            Management is aware of the sources of interest rate risk and
            endeavors to actively monitor and manage its interest rate
            risk, although there can be no assurance regarding the
            management of interest rate risk in future periods.






                                      F-18
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      1.  SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES, CONTINUED:

            ESTIMATES

            The preparation of financial statements in conformity with
            generally accepted accounting principles requires management to
            make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts
            of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets
            and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and
            the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
            reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those
            estimates.

            RECLASSIFICATIONS

            Certain amounts in the 1995 and 1994 consolidated financial
            statements have been reclassified to conform with the current
            year's presentation. These reclassifications had no effect on
            net income or retained earnings as previously reported.


      2.  REAL ESTATE CONTRACTS AND MORTGAGE NOTES RECEIVABLE:

          Real estate contracts and mortgage notes receivable include
          mortgages collateralized by property located throughout the
          United States. At September 30, 1996, the Company held first
          position liens associated with real estate contracts and mortgage
          notes receivable with a face value of approximately $675,000,000
          (99%) and second or lower position liens of approximately
          $6,000,000 (1%). The Company's real estate contracts and mortgage
          notes receivable at September 30, 1996 are collateralized by
          property concentrated in the following geographic areas:


            Pacific Northwest (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon 
              and Washington)                                           23%
            Pacific Southwest (Arizona, California and Nevada)          20
            Southwest (New Mexico and Texas)                            16
            Atlantic Northeast (Connecticut, Maryland, New Jersey, 
              New York and Pennsylvania)                                10
            Southeast (Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South 
              Carolina)                                                 10
            Other                                                       21
                                                                       ---
                                                                       100%
                                                                       ===

          The value of real estate properties in these geographic regions
          will be affected by changes in the economic environment of that
          region. It is reasonably possible that these values could change
          in the near term, which would affect the Company's estimate of
          its allowance for losses associated with these receivables.

                                      F-19
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      2.  REAL ESTATE CONTRACTS AND MORTGAGE NOTES RECEIVABLE, CONTINUED:

          The face value of the real estate contracts and mortgage notes
          receivable range principally from $15,000 to $300,000. At
          September 30, 1996, the Company had 52 receivables aggregating
          approximately $29,400,000 which had face values in excess of
          $300,000. No individual receivable is in excess of 0.4% of the
          total carrying value of real estate contracts and mortgage notes
          receivable, and less than 3% of the receivables are subject to
          variable interest rates. Contractual interest rates for 91% of
          the face value of receivables fall within a range from 6% to 13%
          per annum. The weighted average contractual interest rate on
          these receivables at September 30, 1996 is approximately 9.4%.
          Maturity dates range from 1996 to 2026.

          The following is a reconciliation of the face value of real
          estate contracts and mortgage notes receivable to the Company's
          carrying value at September 30, 1996 and 1995.

                                                  1996           1995
                                              ------------   ------------
            Face value of discounted 
              receivables                     $548,537,547   $505,440,872
            Face value of originated 
              receivables                      132,640,600    112,072,081
            Unrealized discounts, net of 
              unamortized acquisition costs    (38,607,376)   (37,354,378)
            Accrued interest receivable          8,362,559      7,335,039
                                              ------------   ------------
            Carrying value                    $650,933,330   $587,493,614
                                              ============   ============

          The originated receivables are collateralized primarily by first
          position liens and result from loans made by the Company to
          facilitate the sale of its repossessed property. No unrealized
          discounts are attributable to originated receivables.

          The principal amount of receivables with required principal or
          interest payments being in arrears for more than three months was
          approximately $26,500,000 and $17,500,000 at September 30, 1996
          and 1995, respectively.

          Real estate contracts and mortgage notes receivable with net
          carrying values of approximately $38,212,000 were sold, resulting
          in gains of approximately $1,255,000, by the Company's life
          insurance subsidiary to affiliated entities in fiscal 1996. Sales
          of receivables with net carrying values of approximately
          $54,388,000 and $18,437,000 were sold without recourse to various
          financial institutions resulting in gains of approximately
          $2,645,000 and $1,970,000 in fiscal 1995 and 1994, respectively.



                                      F-20
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      2.  REAL ESTATE CONTRACTS AND MORTGAGE NOTES RECEIVABLE, CONTINUED:

          Aggregate amounts of receivables (face value) expected to be
          received, based upon contractual payments are as follows:

            Fiscal Year Ending
               September 30,   
            ------------------
                   1997                       $ 26,327,000
                   1998                         28,911,000
                   1999                         31,748,000
                   2000                         34,865,000
                   2001                         38,287,000
                Thereafter                     521,040,147
                                              ------------
                                              $681,178,147
                                              ============

      3.  REAL ESTATE CONTRACTS AND MORTGAGE NOTES RECEIVABLE, HELD FOR
          SALE:

          Real estate contracts and mortgage notes receivable, held for
          sale consist of a pool of receivables which are intended to be
          securitized and sold without recourse in a private placement. On
          November 26, 1996, the Company securitized and sold all real
          estate contracts and mortgage notes receivable held for sale at
          September 30, 1996, which resulted in a pretax gain of
          approximately $8.9 million.

          The Company entered into a securitization transaction during the
          year ended September 30, 1996. The Company participates in these
          securitization transactions with its subsidiaries and affiliates.
          These receivables are structured in classes by credit rating and
          transferred to a real estate trust, which sells pass-through
          certificates to third parties. These securitizations are recorded
          as sales of receivables and gains, net of transaction expenses,
          are recognized in the consolidated statements of income as each
          class is sold.

          During the year ended September 30, 1996, proceeds from
          securitization transactions were approximately $112,975,000 and
          resulted in gains of approximately $7,798,000. The gain realized
          included approximately $2,290,000 associated with the estimated
          fair value of the mortgage servicing rights retained on the pool,
          which is included in other assets in the consolidated balance
          sheet. The fair value of these rights was determined based on the
          estimated present value of future net servicing cash flows,
          including float interest and late fees, adjusted for anticipated
          prepayments. The Company evaluates possible impairment in its
          mortgage servicing rights by similar type of loan, and to the
          extent that carrying value for a stratum exceeds its estimated
          fair value, an impairment loss is recognized. It is reasonably
          possible that actual prepayment experience could exceed the

                                      F-21
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      3.  REAL ESTATE CONTRACTS AND MORTGAGE NOTES RECEIVABLE, HELD FOR
          SALE, CONTINUED:

          estimated prepayment factor in the near term, which would result
          in a reduction in the carrying value of retained mortgage
          servicing rights.

          Of the receivables securitized, the Company has retained an
          investment in certain classes of the securities having a fair
          value of approximately $4,333,000 at September 30, 1996. These
          securities were transferred to the Company's investment portfolio
          and classified as available-for-sale. These certificates are the
          B-4 and residual certificate classes and are subordinate to the
          other offered classes of certificates. These classes receive the
          lowest priority of principal and interest distributions and thus
          bear the highest credit risk. The Company provides for this risk
          by reducing the interest yield on these securities and by
          providing a reserve for the principal distributions due on these
          subordinate classes which may not be received due to default or
          loss. The weighted average constant effective yield recognized by
          the Company on these securities was 13.2% at September 30, 1996.

          In June 1996, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 125
          (SFAS 125), "Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of Financial
          Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities" was issued. SFAS 125
          provides accounting and reporting standards based on a consistent
          application of a FINANCIAL-COMPONENTS APPROACH that focuses on
          control. Under this approach, after a transfer of financial
          assets, an entity recognizes the financial and servicing assets
          it controls and the liabilities it has incurred, derecognizes
          financial assets when control has been surrendered and
          derecognizes liabilities when extinguished. This statement
          provides consistent standards for distinguishing transfers of
          financial assets that are sales from transfers that are secured
          borrowings. SFAS 125 is effective for transfers and servicing of
          financial assets and extinguishments of liabilities occurring
          after December 31, 1996. The Company does not expect that the
          application of the provisions of SFAS 125 will have a material
          effect on the Company's financial condition, results of
          operations or cash flows.


      4.  OTHER RECEIVABLE INVESTMENTS:

          Other receivable investments include various cash flow
          investments, primarily annuities and lottery prizes. Annuities
          are general obligations of the payor, which is generally an
          insurance company. Lottery prizes are general obligations of the
          insurance company or other entity making the lottery prize
          payments. Additionally, when the lottery prizes are from a state-
          run lottery, the lottery prizes are often backed by the general
          credit of the state.

                                      F-22
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      4.  OTHER RECEIVABLE INVESTMENTS, CONTINUED:

          These investments normally are non-interest bearing and are
          purchased at a discount sufficient to meet the Company's
          investment yield requirements. The weighted average constant
          yield on these receivables at September 30, 1996 is approximately
          8.71%. Maturity dates range from 1996 to 2035.
          The following is a reconciliation of the face value of the other
          receivable investments to the Company's carrying value at
          September 30, 1996 and 1995.

                                                  1996           1995
                                              ------------   ------------

            Face value of receivables         $173,280,414   $ 70,965,501
            Unrealized discounts, net of 
              unamortized acquisition costs    (65,786,264)   (29,374,086)
                                              ------------   ------------
            Carrying value                    $107,494,150   $ 41,591,415
                                              ============   ============

          All such receivables at September 30, 1996 were performing in
          accordance with their contractual terms.

          During the years ended September 30, 1996 and 1995, the Company
          sold approximately $27,853,000 and $14,120,000, respectively, of
          these receivables without recourse and recognized gains of
          approximately $1,882,000 and $1,761,000, respectively.

          The following other receivable investments, by obligor, were in
          excess of ten percent of stockholders' equity at September 30,
          1996 and 1995.

                                                             Aggregate
                                                             Carrying
            Issuer                                           Amount
            ----------------------------------------------   ------------

            1996:
              California State Agency                        $ 24,718,527
              New York State Agency                            15,511,891
              New Jersey State Agency                          10,975,661
              Oregon State Agency                              10,532,006
              Arizona State Agency                             10,223,076
              Michigan State Agency                             8,518,973
              Colorado State Agency                             4,903,971

            1995:
              California State Agency                           8,934,296
              Arizona State Agency                              6,630,281
              New Jersey State Agency                           4,931,025
              New York State Agency                             4,758,062

                                      F-23
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      4.  OTHER RECEIVABLE INVESTMENTS, CONTINUED:

          Aggregate amounts of contractual maturities of other receivable
          investments (face amounts) are as follows:

            Fiscal Year Ending
               September 30,
            ------------------
                   1997                       $ 15,880,000
                   1998                         15,364,000
                   1999                         16,177,000
                   2000                         16,973,000
                   2001                         15,399,000
                Thereafter                      93,487,414
                                              ------------
                                              $173,280,414
                                              ============










                                      F-24
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      5.  REAL ESTATE HELD FOR SALE AND DEVELOPMENT:

          A detail of the Company's real estate held for sale and development 
          by state as of September 30, 1996 is as follows:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                Single-       Multi-
                                                Family        Family
              State               Land          Dwelling      Dwelling      Commercial    Condominium   Total
              ----------------    -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                 <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
              Alabama                           $    74,500                                             $    74,500
              Alaska              $    51,710                                             $    80,790       132,500
              Arizona                 550,142       410,472                 $    80,000                   1,040,614
              Arkansas                               81,000                                                  81,000
              California            1,100,363     1,999,116   $    14,543       370,450       546,285     4,030,757
              Colorado                160,000                                                 812,471       972,471
              Connecticut                           301,113                                                 301,113
              Florida                  28,642       868,778        20,000                     125,422     1,042,842
              Georgia                                47,821                                                  47,821
              Hawaii                                                          3,825,791    18,829,598    22,655,389
              Idaho                                  61,564                                                  61,564
              Illinois                               69,082                                                  69,082
              Indiana                                16,000                                                  16,000
              Iowa                                  110,309                                                 110,309
              Kansas                                 72,870                                                  72,870
              Louisiana                              17,796                                                  17,796
              Maine                                 204,896                                                 204,896
              Maryland                              307,165                                                 307,165
              Massachusetts                         138,000                                                 138,000
              Michigan                              259,230                      90,000                     349,230
              Minnesota                             195,085                                                 195,085
              Mississippi              28,106        58,782                                                  86,888
              Missouri                 40,500       169,181                                   119,811       329,492
              Montana                  27,083                                                                27,083
              Nebraska                               38,231                                                  38,231
              Nevada                                 62,000                                                  62,000
              New Hampshire                         171,114        50,000                                   221,114
              New Jersey                             84,937                     180,000                     264,937
              New Mexico               10,500        39,449                                                  49,949
              New York                  7,633       455,070                                                 462,703
              North Carolina           10,907                                                                10,907
      </TABLE>
                                      F-25
      <PAGE>
      NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      5.  REAL ESTATE HELD FOR SALE AND DEVELOPMENT, CONTINUED:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                Single-       Multi-
                                                Family        Family
              State               Land          Dwelling      Dwelling      Commercial    Condominium   Total
              ----------------    -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                 <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
              Ohio                                   82,400                                                  82,400
              Oklahoma                 51,045       140,992                                                 192,037
              Oregon                                 75,659                                                  75,659
              Pennsylvania             32,400       195,715                                                 228,115
              South Carolina                         71,400                      91,506        30,000       192,906
              Tennessee                              77,650                                                  77,650
              Texas                    48,649       910,960                      65,000                   1,024,609
              Utah                                   26,000                                                  26,000
              Virginia                               26,500                                    72,000        98,500
              Washington           34,736,817       855,044                  13,126,130        57,500    48,775,491
              Wyoming                                85,613                                                  85,613
                                  -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------   -----------
              Balances at
                 September 30, 
                 1996             $36,884,497   $ 8,861,494   $    84,543   $17,828,877   $20,673,877   $84,333,288
                                  ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========
              Balances at
                 September 30,
                 1995             $39,084,721   $ 7,124,907   $         0   $16,312,303   $28,583,072   $91,105,003
                                  ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========   ===========
      </TABLE>
          At September 30, 1996, the Company had approximately $68,930,000
          invested in real estate development projects and approximately
          $1,600,000 in commitments for construction associated with these
          projects.

                                      F-26
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      6.  ALLOWANCE FOR LOSSES ON REAL ESTATE ASSETS:

          The following is a summary of the changes in the allowance for
          losses on real estate assets for the years ended September 30,
          1996, 1995 and 1994:

                                     1996          1995          1994
                                  -----------   -----------   -----------
            Beginning balance     $ 8,116,065   $ 9,108,383   $10,598,491
            Provisions              6,360,072     4,174,644     5,533,193
            Charge-offs            (4,283,553)   (5,166,962)   (7,023,301)
                                  -----------   -----------   -----------
            Ending balance        $10,192,584   $ 8,116,065   $ 9,108,383
                                  ===========   ===========   ===========

          At September 30, 1996, the net investment in real estate
          contracts and mortgage notes receivable for which impairment has
          been recognized in accordance with SFAS 114 was approximately
          $2,642,000, of which approximately $118,000, representing the
          amounts by which the net carrying value of the receivable exceeds
          the fair value of the collateral, has been specifically included
          in the allowance for losses on real estate assets.

          During the year ended September 30, 1996, the average recorded
          investment in impaired receivables was approximately $2,251,000.
          Interest income of approximately $212,000 was recognized on these
          receivables in fiscal 1996 during the period in which they were
          impaired.


      7.  LAND, BUILDINGS AND EQUIPMENT:

          Land, buildings, equipment and related accumulated depreciation
          at September 30, 1996 and 1995 consisted of the following:

                                                   1996          1995
                                                -----------   -----------

            Land                                $   561,794   $   561,794
            Buildings and improvements            6,850,175     6,486,193
            Furniture and equipment              10,365,201     9,415,754
                                                -----------   -----------
                                                 17,777,170    16,463,741
            Less accumulated depreciation        (9,260,572)   (8,314,891)
                                                -----------   -----------
            Totals                              $ 8,516,598   $ 8,148,850
                                                ===========   ===========






                                      F-27
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      8.  INVESTMENTS:

          A summary of carrying and estimated market values of investments
          at September 30, 1996 and 1995 is as follows:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                                         1996
                                              --------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Gross          Gross          Estimated
                                              Amortized      Unrealized     Unrealized     Market Values
              Available-for-Sale              Costs          Gains          Losses         (Carrying Values)
              -----------------------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   -----------------
              <S>                             <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
              Government-backed bonds         $ 11,932,337   $         --   $   (477,670)    $ 11,454,667
              Corporate bonds                   20,230,518          1,897       (437,009)      19,795,406
              Utility bonds                      3,003,075             --        (35,897)       2,967,178
              Pass-through certificates          4,333,481             --             --        4,333,481
                                              ------------   ------------   ------------     ------------
              Total fixed maturities            39,499,411          1,897       (950,576)      38,550,732
              Equity securities                      1,592          2,174             --            3,766
                                              ------------   ------------   ------------     ------------
              Totals                          $ 39,501,003   $      4,071   $   (950,576)    $ 38,554,498
                                              ============   ============   ============     ============
      <CAPTION>
                                                                         1996
                                              --------------------------------------------------------------
                                              Amortized
                                              Costs          Gross          Gross
                                              (Carrying      Unrealized     Unrealized     Estimated
              Held-to-Maturity                Values)        Gains          Losses         Market Values
              -----------------------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   -----------------
              <S>                             <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
              Government-backed bonds         $ 60,005,894   $     11,775   $ (4,006,114)    $ 56,011,555
              Corporate bonds                   12,056,534             --       (202,717)      11,853,817
              Utility bonds                      4,989,311             --       (189,652)       4,799,659
              Mortgage- and asset-backed 
                  securities                    47,696,751         38,062     (1,199,760)      46,535,053
                                              ------------   ------------   ------------     ------------
              Totals                          $124,748,490   $     49,837   $ (5,598,243)    $119,200,084
                                              ============   ============   ============     ============
      </TABLE>


                                      F-28
      <PAGE>
      NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      8.  INVESTMENTS, CONTINUED:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                                         1995
                                              --------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Gross          Gross          Estimated
                                              Amortized      Unrealized     Unrealized     Market Values
              Available-for-Sale              Costs          Gains          Losses         (Carrying Values)
              -----------------------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   -----------------
              <S>                             <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
              Government-backed bonds         $ 15,626,072   $         --   $   (275,286)    $ 15,350,786
              Corporate bonds                   15,627,468         12,621       (143,083)      15,497,006
              Utility bonds                        999,346             --        (17,158)         982,188
                                              ------------   ------------   ------------     ------------
              Totals                          $ 32,252,886   $     12,621   $   (435,527)    $ 31,829,980
                                              ============   ============   ============     ============
      <CAPTION>
                                                                         1995
                                              --------------------------------------------------------------
                                              Amortized
                                              Costs          Gross          Gross
                                              (Carrying      Unrealized     Unrealized     Estimated
              Held-to-Maturity                Values)        Gains          Losses         Market Values
              -----------------------------   ------------   ------------   ------------   -----------------
              <S>                             <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>
              Government-backed bonds         $ 71,323,272   $     46,942   $ (3,901,292)    $ 67,468,922
              Corporate bonds                   68,659,432          6,337     (1,084,387)      67,581,382
              Utility bonds                     10,653,392             --       (261,680)      10,391,712
              Mortgage- and asset-backed 
                  securities                    37,437,446             --       (815,577)      36,621,869
                                              ------------   ------------   ------------     ------------
              Totals                          $188,073,542   $     53,279   $ (6,062,936)    $182,063,885
                                              ============   ============   ============     ============
      </TABLE>
          All bonds and mortgage- and asset-backed securities held at
          September 30, 1996 and 1995 were performing in accordance with
          their terms.




                                      F-29
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      8.  INVESTMENTS, CONTINUED:

          During the year ended September 30, 1995, the Company entered
          into financial futures contracts to hedge its interest rate risk
          on certain held-to-maturity debt securities with remaining
          contractual terms of approximately eight years against a
          potential increase in interest rates. Interest rates declined,
          resulting in a realized loss of $1,600,000 associated with such
          contracts. The hedging loss has been deferred and is being
          amortized over the contractual term of the hedged debt securities
          using the interest method. The remaining unamortized hedging 
          loss at September 30, 1996 was approximately $1,398,000. At
          September 30, 1996 and 1995, the Company was not a party to any
          derivative financial instruments relative to its investments in
          debt or equity securities.

          Net unrealized losses, net of deferred federal income taxes, of
          approximately $625,000 and $279,000, respectively, on the
          available-for-sale portfolio at September 30, 1996 and 1995 are
          reported as a separate component of stockholders' equity. During
          the year ended September 30, 1994, the Company transferred
          approximately $79,000,000 of investments from the available-for-
          sale portfolio to the held-to-maturity portfolio. At the date of
          transfer, these investments had net unrealized losses of
          approximately $1,060,000 before income taxes. These unrealized
          losses are being amortized over the term of the investments
          transferred using the interest method. At September 30, 1996, the
          remaining unamortized loss of approximately $507,000, net of
          deferred income taxes, is reported as a reduction of
          stockholders' equity.

          During the year ended September 30, 1996, in accordance with a
          Special Report issued by the Financial Accounting Standards
          Board, the Company reassessed and reclassified held-to-maturity
          debt securities with a carrying value of approximately
          $72,500,000 to the available-for-sale classification. At the date
          of the transfer, the debt securities were valued at fair value of
          approximately $72,000,000. The difference between the carrying
          value and fair value of the reclassified debt securities at the
          date of transfer of approximately $500,000 is being recognized
          over the remaining contractual term of the securities using the
          interest method.











                                      F-30
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      8.  INVESTMENTS, CONTINUED:

          The following individual investments (excluding  U.S. government
          bonds) held by the Company at September 30, 1996 and 1995, were
          in excess of ten percent of stockholders' equity.

                                                             Carrying
            Issuer                                           Amount
            ----------------------------------------------   ------------
            1996:
              Mortgage-backed securities:
                Residential Funding Mortgage Securities
                  (four issues)                              $ 16,142,719
                Chase Mortgage Finance Corp. 
                  (seven issues)                               10,620,875
                Prudential Home Mortgage Securities 
                  (three issues)                                7,160,855
                Countrywide Funding Corp.                       4,852,322

            1995:
              Mortgage-backed securities:
                Residential Funding Mortgage Securities 
                  (three issues)                               14,450,307
                Chase Mortgage Finance Corp.                    4,992,835
                Prudential Home Mortgage Securities 
                  (two issues)                                  7,350,343
                Countrywide Funding Corp.                       4,821,305

          The amortized costs and estimated market values of held-to-
          maturity and available-for-sale debt securities at September 30,
          1996, by contractual maturity, are shown below. Expected
          maturities will differ from contractual maturities because
          issuers may have the right to call or prepay obligations with or
          without call or prepayment penalties.

                                              Amortized      Estimated
                                              Cost           Market Value
                                              ------------   ------------
            Available-for-sale debt 
              securities:
                Due in one year or less       $ 10,541,669   $ 10,522,470
                Due after one year through 
                  five years                    13,552,416     13,284,073
                Due after five years through 
                  ten years                     11,071,845     10,410,708
                                              ------------   ------------
                                                35,165,930     34,217,251
                Pass-through certificates        4,333,481      4,333,481
                                              ------------   ------------
                                              $ 39,499,411   $ 38,550,732
                                              ============   ============


                                      F-31
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      8.  INVESTMENTS, CONTINUED:

                                              Amortized      Estimated
                                              Cost           Market Value
                                              ------------   ------------
            Held-to-maturity debt securities:
              Due in one year or less         $  7,654,667   $  7,612,538
              Due after one year through 
                five years                      18,557,157     18,137,785
              Due after five years through 
                ten years                       50,591,766     46,658,714
              Due after ten years                  248,149        255,994
                                              ------------   ------------
                                                77,051,739     72,665,031
              Mortgage- and asset-backed 
                bonds                           47,696,751     46,535,053
                                              ------------   ------------
                                              $124,748,490   $119,200,084
                                              ============   ============

          The Company intends to maintain an available-for-sale portfolio
          which may be shifted between investments of differing types and
          maturities to attempt to maximize market returns without assuming
          unacceptable levels of credit risk. Future purchases assigned to
          the held-to-maturity portfolio will be to replace maturing
          investments, or increase the overall size of the portfolio (while
          maintaining its overall composition).


      9.  DEBT PAYABLE, CONTINUED:

          At September 30, 1996 and 1995, debt payable consisted of the
          following:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                                  1996          1995
                                                               -----------   -----------
              <S>                                              <C>           <C>
              Reverse repurchase agreements with various 
                 securities brokers, interest at 5.0% to 
                 5.8% per annum; due on October 1, 1996; 
                 collateralized by $17,700,000 in U.S. 
                 government-backed bonds                       $16,834,750

              Reverse repurchase agreements with Paine-
                 Webber, interest at 5.38% per annum; due 
                 on October 4, 1996; collateralized by 
                 $20,000,000 in U.S. Treasury bonds             18,650,000

              Reverse repurchase agreements with various 
                 securities brokers, interest at 6.1% to 
                 6.75% per annum; due on October 2, 1995; 
                 collateralized by $25,000,000 in U.S. 
                 Treasury bonds                                              $24,131,625
      </TABLE>




                                      F-32
      <PAGE>
      NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

      9.  DEBT PAYABLE, CONTINUED:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                                  1996          1995
                                                               -----------   -----------
              <S>                                              <C>           <C>
              Real estate contracts and mortgage notes 
                 payable, interest rates ranging from 3.0% 
                 to 10.9%, due in installments through 
                 2016; collateralized by senior liens on 
                 certain of the Company's real estate 
                 contracts, mortgage notes and real estate 
                 held for sale                                   2,965,107     1,385,568

              Accrued interest payable                             151,289        35,258
                                                               -----------   -----------
                                                               $38,601,146   $25,552,451
                                                               ===========   ===========
      </TABLE>

          Aggregate amounts of principal and accrued interest payments due
          on debt payable at September 30, 1996 are as follows:

            Fiscal Year Ending
               September 30,   
            ------------------
                   1997                              $37,023,000
                   1998                                  710,000
                   1999                                  242,000
                   2000                                  137,000
                   2001                                  187,000
                Thereafter                               302,146
                                                     -----------
                                                     $38,601,146
                                                     ===========

     10.  DEBENTURE BONDS:

          At September 30, 1996 and 1995, debenture bonds consisted of the
          following:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                       Principally
              Annual Interest Rates    Maturing in               1996           1995
              ---------------------    -------------------   ------------   ------------
              <S>                      <C>                   <C>            <C>
              5% to 6%                 1997                  $    537,000   $  2,486,000
              6% to 7%                 1997, 1998 and 1999      4,979,000      6,911,000
              7% to 8%                 1999 and 2000           51,261,000     50,165,000
              8% to 9%                 1997, 1998 and 2000     84,372,000     85,258,000
              9% to 10%                1997                    20,136,000     30,044,000
              10% to 11%               1998 and 1999            1,749,000      1,951,000
                                                             ------------   ------------
                                                              163,034,000    176,815,000
              Compound and accrued interest                    29,139,751     24,496,873
                                                             ------------   ------------
                                                             $192,173,751   $201,311,873
                                                             ============   ============
      </TABLE>



                                      F-33
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     10.  DEBENTURE BONDS, CONTINUED:

          Unamortized debenture issuance costs incurred in connection with
          the sale of debentures aggregated $2,597,477 and $3,390,744 at
          September 30, 1996 and 1995, respectively, and are included in
          deferred costs on the consolidated balance sheets.

          Debenture bonds at September 30, 1996 mature as follow:

            Fiscal Year Ending
              September 30,
            ------------------           
                   1997                             $ 50,030,000
                   1998                               52,163,000
                   1999                               41,335,000
                   2000                               40,408,000
                   2001                                5,877,000
                Thereafter                             2,360,751
                                                    ------------
                                                    $192,173,751
                                                    ============

          At September 30, 1996, as required by Washington State
          regulation, the parent company could not have more than an
          aggregate total of $202,300,000 in outstanding debentures
          (including accrued and compound interest) and outstanding
          preferred stock (based on original sales price) of $49,540,000.
          Outstanding preferred stock is limited to the amount outstanding
          June 30, 1996 ($49,000,000) plus reinvested dividends ($540,000)
          after that date. At September 30, 1996, the Company had total
          outstanding debentures of approximately $192,174,000 and total
          outstanding preferred stock of approximately $49,496,000.





















                                      F-34
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     11.  STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:

          A summary of preferred and common shares at September 30, 1996
          and 1995 is as follows:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                       Issued and Outstanding Shares
                                             -------------------------------------------------
                                                      1996                      1995
                                             -----------------------   -----------------------
                                Authorized
                                Shares       Shares      Amount        Shares      Amount
                                ----------   ---------   -----------   ---------   -----------
              <S>               <C>          <C>         <C>           <C>         <C>
              Preferred Stock
                 Series A          750,000         --    $        --         --    $       -- 
                 Series B          200,000         --             --         --            -- 
                 Series C        1,000,000     438,343     4,383,432     441,794     4,417,943
                 Series D        1,375,000     673,915     6,739,150     682,359     6,823,587
                 Series E        5,000,000   1,039,562    10,395,616   1,038,558    10,385,576
                                ----------   ---------   -----------   ---------   -----------
                                 8,325,000   2,151,820   $21,518,198   2,162,711   $21,627,376
                                ==========   =========   ===========   =========   ===========
              Common Stock
                 Class A               222         130   $   293,417         130   $   293,417
                 Class B               222          --            --          --            --
                                ----------   ---------   -----------   ---------   -----------
                                       444         130   $   293,417         130   $   293,417
                                ==========   =========   ===========   =========   ===========
              Subordinate 
                 Preferred
                 Stock           1,000,000          --   $        --          --   $        --
                                ==========   =========   ===========   =========   ===========
      </TABLE>

          The Series E preferred stock has been issued in the following 
          sub-series:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                       Issued and Outstanding Shares
                                             -------------------------------------------------
                                                      1996                      1995
                                             -----------------------   -----------------------
                                             Shares      Amount        Shares      Amount
                                             -----------------------   ---------   -----------
              <S>                            <C>         <C>           <C>         <C>
              Series E-1                       728,698   $ 7,286,982     748,578   $ 7,485,783
              Series E-2                        45,579       455,790      45,621       456,208
              Series E-3                       107,874     1,078,736     108,369     1,083,685
              Series E-4                        62,978       629,776      62,993       629,929
              Series E-5                        13,744       137,443      13,747       137,475
              Series E-6                        80,689       806,889      59,250       592,496
                                             ---------   -----------   ---------   -----------
                                             1,039,562   $10,395,616   1,038,558   $10,385,576
                                             =========   ===========   =========   ===========
      </TABLE>






                                       F-35
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     11.  STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY, CONTINUED:

            PREFERRED STOCK

            Series A preferred stock has a par value of $1 per share, is
            cumulative and the holders thereof are entitled to receive
            dividends at the annual rate of 8.5%. Series B preferred stock
            is cumulative and the holders thereof are entitled to receive
            monthly dividends at the annual rate of two percentage points
            over the rate payable on six-month U.S. Treasury Bills as
            determined by the Treasury Bill auction last preceding the
            monthly dividend declaration. Series C, D and E-1 preferred
            stock are also cumulative and the holders thereof are entitled
            to receive monthly dividends at an annual rate equal to the
            highest of the "Treasury Bill Rate," the "Ten Year Constant
            Maturity Rate" or the "Twenty Year Constant Maturity Rate"
            determined immediately prior to the declaration date. The Board
            of Directors may, at its sole option, declare a higher dividend
            rate; however, dividends shall be no less than 6% or greater
            than 14% per annum. Series E-2, E-3, E-4, E-5 and E-6 preferred
            stock are also cumulative and the holders thereof are entitled
            to receive monthly dividends at an annual rate of one-half of
            one percent more than the rate in effect for the E-1 series;
            however, dividends shall be no less than 6% or greater than 14%
            per annum.

            Series B, C, D and E-1 preferred stock have a par value of $10,
            were sold to the public for $10 and are callable at the sole
            option of the Board of Directors at $10.50 per share reduced
            proratably to $10.20 per share as of the date five years from
            the date of issuance. Series E-2, E-3, E-4, E-5 and E-6
            preferred stock have a par value of $10 per share, were sold to
            the public at $100 per share and are callable at the sole
            option of the Board of Directors at $100 per share.

            All preferred stock series have liquidation preferences equal
            to their issue price, are non-voting and are senior to the
            common shares as to dividends. All preferred stock dividends
            are based upon the original issue price.

            At September 30, 1996, as required by state regulation, the
            amount of the Company's aggregate total outstanding preferred
            stock and debentures was limited (see Note 10).










                                      F-36
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     11.  STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY, CONTINUED:

            SUBORDINATE PREFERRED STOCK

            Subordinate preferred shares, no par value, shall be entitled
            to receive dividends as authorized by the Board of Directors,
            provided that such dividend rights are subordinate and junior
            to all series of preferred stock. Subordinate preferred shares
            shall be entitled to distributions in liquidation in such
            priority as established by the Board of Directors prior to the
            issuance of any such shares. These liquidation rights shall at
            all times be subordinate and junior to all series of preferred
            stock. At September 30, 1996 and 1995, no subordinate preferred
            stock had been issued.

            COMMON STOCK

            Prior to September 30, 1994, Class A and B common stock had a
            par value of $1 per share. On September 30, 1994, the Company's
            Board of Directors authorized a 2,250:1 reverse stock split and
            changed the par value from $1 per share to $2,250 per share.
            All common shares reflect the reverse stock split. Class B is
            senior to Class A common stock as to liquidation up to the
            amount of the original investment. Any remaining amounts are
            then distributed pro rata to Class A and Class B common
            stockholders. Class B common stock has no voting rights. All
            series of common stock are subordinate in liquidation to all
            series of preferred stock.

            Dividend restrictions are imposed by regulatory authorities on
            the insurance subsidiary in which the Company has a 96.5% or
            greater stock ownership interest. These restrictions are
            limited to the unassigned statutory surplus of the insurance
            subsidiary which totaled approximately $5,567,000 at 
            September 30, 1996 (see Note 15).


















                                      F-37
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     12.  INCOME TAXES:

          The Company files a consolidated federal income tax return with
          all of its subsidiaries.

          The income tax effects of the temporary differences giving rise
          to the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities as of
          September 30, 1996 and 1995 are as follows:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                                         1996
                                                               -------------------------
                                                               Assets        Liabilities
                                                               -----------   -----------
              <S>                                              <C>           <C>
              Allowance for losses on real estate assets       $ 2,678,016
              Reserves on repossessed real estate                  707,643
              Deferred contract acquisition costs and 
                 discount yield recognition                                  $16,715,163
              Office properties and equipment                                  1,776,499
              Deferred policy acquisition costs                               22,964,052
              Life insurance and annuity reserves                9,018,029
              Guaranty fund liability                            1,353,320
              Investments                                                        636,939
              Tax credit carryforwards                           1,742,000
              Other                                                959,206
              Net operating loss carryforwards                   9,739,608
                                                               -----------   -----------
              Total deferred income taxes                      $26,197,822   $42,092,653
                                                               ===========   ===========
      <CAPTION>
                                                                         1995
                                                               -------------------------
                                                               Assets        Liabilities
                                                               -----------   -----------
              <S>                                              <C>           <C>
              Allowance for losses on real estate assets       $ 1,325,773
              Reserves on repossessed real estate                  867,550
              Deferred contract acquisition costs and 
                 discount yield recognition                                  $18,224,880
              Office properties and equipment                                  1,529,695
              Deferred policy acquisition costs                               22,653,678
              Life insurance and annuity reserves                6,395,750
              Guaranty fund liability                            1,047,320
              Investments                                                      1,377,602
              Tax credit carryforwards                           1,115,000
              Other                                                863,898
              Net operating loss carryforwards                  19,916,089
                                                               -----------   -----------
              Total deferred income taxes                      $31,531,380   $43,785,855
                                                               ===========   ===========
      </TABLE>








                                      F-38
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     12.  INCOME TAXES, CONTINUED:

          No valuation allowance has been established to reduce deferred
          tax assets as it is more likely than not that these assets will
          be realized due to the future reversals of existing taxable
          temporary differences.  Realization is dependent on the
          generation of sufficient taxable income prior to expiration of
          the net operating loss carryforwards. The amount of the deferred
          tax asset considered realizable, however, could be reduced in the
          near term if estimates of future taxable income during the
          carryforward period are reduced.

          Following is a reconciliation of the provision for income taxes
          to an amount as computed by applying the statutory federal income
          tax rate to income before income taxes:
      <TABLE>
      <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Federal income taxes at statutory 
                 rate                            $ 4,209,817   $ 3,224,472   $ 2,956,219
              State taxes and other                   25,652      (116,575)       36,257
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Income tax provision               $ 4,235,469   $ 3,107,897   $ 2,992,476
                                                 ===========   ===========   ===========
      </TABLE>

            The components of the provision for income taxes are as follows:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Current                            $   595,113   $   359,907   $   348,306
              Deferred                             3,640,356     2,747,990     2,644,170
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
                                                 $ 4,235,469   $ 3,107,897   $ 2,992,476
                                                 ===========   ===========   ===========
      </TABLE>















                                      F-39
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     12.  INCOME TAXES, CONTINUED, CONTINUED:

          At September 30, 1996, the Company and its subsidiaries had
          unused net operating loss carryforwards, for income tax purposes,
          as follows:

      <TABLE>
      <CAPTION>
                                                               Life
                                                 Non-Life      Company
                                                 Group Net     Net           Net
                                                 Operating     Operating     Operating
              Expiring in                        Losses        Losses        Losses
              -----------                        -----------   -----------   ------------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
                  2004                           $ 3,766,219                 $ 3,766,219
                  2005                             6,409,762                   6,409,762
                  2006                             5,612,555                   5,612,555
                  2007                               945,516                     945,516
                  2008                                         $11,911,853    11,911,853
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
                                                 $16,734,052   $11,911,853   $28,645,905
                                                 ===========   ===========   ===========
      </TABLE>

          Federal tax regulations require non-life net operating losses to
          be offset first against non-life income for the tax year and then
          against a maximum of 35% of taxable life income for the year, if
          any.

          At September 30, 1996, the Company has alternative minimum tax
          credits of approximately $1,237,000 and general business tax
          credit carryforwards of approximately $505,000 available to
          reduce regular income taxes payable. The general business tax
          credit carryforwards begin to expire in 2004.





















                                      F-40
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     13.  DEFERRED COSTS:

          An analysis of deferred costs related to policy acquisition and
          debenture issuance for the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995
          and 1994 is as follows:

      <TABLE>
      <CAPTION>

                                                 Policy        Debenture
                                                 Acquisition   Issuance      Total
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Balance at September 30, 1993      $70,024,363   $ 3,422,308   $73,446,671
              Deferred during the year:
                 Commissions                       5,572,146     1,381,525     6,953,671
                 Other expenses                    2,493,703       510,588     3,004,291
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Total deferred                      78,090,212     5,314,421    83,404,633
              Amortized during the year           (7,015,570)   (1,592,987)   (8,608,557)
              Reduction upon sale of subsidiary                   (688,559)     (688,559)
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Balance at September 30, 1994       71,074,642     3,032,875    74,107,517
              Deferred during the year:
                 Commissions                       9,383,938     1,461,033    10,844,971
                 Other expenses                    3,587,804       280,196     3,868,000
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Total deferred                      84,046,384     4,774,104    88,820,488
              Amortized during the year          (10,300,547)   (1,383,360)  (11,683,907)
              Reduction upon sale of subsidiary   (2,614,778)                 (2,614,778)
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Balance at September 30, 1995       71,131,059     3,390,744    74,521,803
              Deferred during the year:
                 Commissions                       6,503,580       191,064     6,694,644
                 Other expenses                    3,438,804       402,360     3,841,164
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Total deferred                      81,073,443     3,984,168    85,057,611
              Amortized during the year           (9,140,559)   (1,386,691)  (10,527,250)
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Balance at September 30, 1996      $71,932,884   $ 2,597,477   $74,530,361
                                                 ===========   ===========   ===========
      </TABLE>

          The amortization of deferred policy acquisition costs, which is
          based on the estimated gross profits of the underlying life and
          annuity products, could be changed significantly in the near term
          due to changes in the interest rate environment. As a result, the
          recoverability of these costs may be adversely affected in the
          near term.










                                      F-41
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     14.  LIFE INSURANCE AND ANNUITY RESERVES:

          Life insurance and annuity reserves are based upon contractual
          amounts due to the annuity holder, including accrued interest.
          Annuity contract interest rates ranged from 4.25% to 10.65% and
          4.45% to 10.65% during the years ended September 30, 1996 and
          1995, respectively. Interest assumptions used to compute life
          insurance reserves ranged from 5.0% to 6.5% and 5.25% to 6.5%
          during the years ended September 30, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

          The Company's subsidiary has ceded a portion of certain life
          insurance risks and the related premiums to other companies.
          These insurance transactions permit the Company to recover
          defined portions of losses from claims on life insurance policies
          issued by the Company. The reinsured risks are treated as though
          they are risks for which the subsidiary is not liable. Life
          insurance reserves, as reported in these financial statements, do
          not include reserves on the ceded business. The face value of
          life insurance policies ceded to other companies was
          approximately $58,679,000 and $62,906,000 at September 30, 1996
          and 1995, respectively. Life insurance premiums ceded were
          $354,830 and $364,553 for fiscal 1996 and 1995, respectively. The
          Company is contingently liable for claims on ceded life insurance
          business in the event the reinsuring companies do not meet their
          obligations under those reinsurance agreements.

          All states in which the Company's life insurance subsidiary
          operates have laws requiring solvent life insurance companies to
          pay assessments to protect the interests of policyholders of
          insolvent life insurance companies. Assessments are levied on all
          member insurers in each state based on a proportionate share of
          premiums written by member insurers in the lines of business in
          which the insolvent insurer engaged. A portion of these
          assessments can be offset against the payment of future premium
          taxes. However, future changes in state laws could decrease the
          amount available for offset. 

          The net amounts expensed by the Company's life insurance
          subsidiary for guaranty fund assessments and amounts estimated to
          be assessed for the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994
          were $900,000, $782,000 and $192,000, respectively. The Company's
          estimate of these liabilities is based upon updated information
          from the National Organization of Life and Health Insurance
          Guaranty Associations regarding insolvencies occurring during the
          years 1988 through 1994. These estimates are subject to future
          revisions based upon the ultimate resolution of the insolvencies
          and resultant losses. As a result of these uncertainties, the 






                                      F-42
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     14.  LIFE INSURANCE AND ANNUITY RESERVES, CONTINUED:

          Company's estimate of future assessments could change in the near
          term. The Company does not believe that the amount of future
          assessments associated with known insolvencies after 1994 will be
          material to its financial condition or results of operations. At
          September 30, 1996, the amount of estimated future guaranty fund
          assessments of approximately $3,980,000 have been recorded, which
          is net of a 8.25% discount rate applied to the estimated payment
          term of approximately seven years. The remaining unamortized
          discount associated with this accrual was approximately $832,000
          at September 30, 1996.


     15.  STATUTORY ACCOUNTING:

          The Company's life insurance subsidiary is required to file
          statutory financial statements with state insurance regulatory
          authorities. Accounting principles used to prepare these
          statutory financial statements differ from generally accepted
          accounting principles (GAAP). Selected statutory and the GAAP
          financial statement balances for insurance subsidiaries as of and
          for the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994 are as
          follows:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                               Statutory     GAAP
                                                               ------------  -----------
              <S>                                              <C>           <C>
              Stockholders' equity:
                 1996                                          $48,721,922   $81,605,742
                 1995                                           43,340,817    78,826,654
                 1994                                           48,206,960    77,142,373

              Net income:
                 1996                                          $ 7,224,359   $ 3,076,252
                 1995                                            2,634,919     2,717,893
                 1994                                           12,544,070     8,449,317

              Unassigned statutory surplus and retained earnings:
                 1996                                          $ 5,566,922   $38,450,742
                 1995                                            1,985,817    38,233,333
                 1994                                            6,826,960    38,559,708
      </TABLE>

          Due to the sale of OSL during fiscal 1995, stockholders' equity
          and unassigned statutory surplus and retained earnings amounts
          above do not include OSL at September 30, 1996 and 1995. Also,
          the 1995 net income above only includes OSL operations through
          May 31, 1995.





                                      F-43
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     15.  STATUTORY ACCOUNTING, CONTINUED:

          Under applicable Washington State Insurance laws and regulations,
          the Company's life insurance subsidiary is required to maintain
          minimum levels of surplus, determined in accordance with
          statutory accounting practices, in the aggregate amount of
          $150,000. The Revised Code of Washington defines surplus as "the
          excess of statutory assets over statutory liabilities, accounting
          for the pear value of capital stock as a liability." At
          September 30, 1996, the Company's life insurance subsidiary was
          in compliance with this requirement.

          The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC)
          currently is in the process of codifying statutory accounting
          practices, the result of which is expected to constitute the only
          source of "prescribed" statutory accounting practices.
          Accordingly, that project, which is expected to be completed in
          1997, will likely change, to some extent, prescribed statutory
          accounting practices that insurance enterprises use to prepare
          their statutory financial statements. Written approval was
          received from the Insurance Department of the state of Washington
          to capitalize the underwriting fees charged to the life insurance
          subsidiary by Metropolitan and to amortize these fees as an
          adjustment of the yield on acquired receivables. Statutory
          accounting practices prescribed by the state of Washington do not
          describe the accounting required for this type of transaction. As
          of September 30, 1996, this permitted accounting practice
          increased statutory surplus by approximately $28,700,000 over
          what it would have been had prescribed practices disallowed this
          accounting treatment.

          The regulatory authorities impose minimum risk-based capital
          requirements on insurance enterprises that were developed by the
          NAIC. The formulas for determining the amount of risk-based
          capital (RBC) specify various weighting factors that are applied
          to financial balances or various levels of activity based on
          perceived degree of risk. Regulatory compliance is determined by
          a ratio of the enterprise's regulatory total adjusted capital, as
          defined by the NAIC, to its authorized control level, RBC, as
          defined by the NAIC. Enterprises below specific trigger points or
          ratios are classified within certain levels, each of which
          requires specified corrective action. The RBC measure of the
          insurance subsidiary at September 30, 1996 and 1995 was above the
          minimum standards.









                                      F-44
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     16.  SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES FOR STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS:

          The following table summarizes interest costs, net of amounts
          capitalized and income taxes paid during the years ended
          September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994:

      <TABLE>
      <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                ------------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Interest, net of amounts 
                 capitalized                     $12,653,377   $20,214,329   $23,541,173
              Income taxes                         2,503,482     1,157,155       333,154
      </TABLE>


          Non-cash investing and financing activities of the Company during
          the years ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994 are as follows:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                ------------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Loans to facilitate the sale of 
                 real estate held                $39,102,941   $34,102,247   $33,461,966
              Transfers between annuity 
                 products                         17,051,327    58,012,857    22,248,418
              Transfer of investments from 
                 available-for-sale portfolio 
                 to held-to-maturity portfolio                                79,001,795
              Transfer of investment from 
                 held-to-maturity portfolio
                 to available-for-sale portfolio  72,572,322
              Transfer of property from land, 
                 buildings and equipment 
                 to real estate held for sale 
                 and development                                 1,598,999       258,894
              Change in net unrealized (losses) 
                 gains on investments, net          (244,853)    2,005,960    (3,371,012)
              Real estate held for sale and 
                 development acquired through 
                 foreclosure                      14,270,520    13,850,388    19,245,977
              Debt assumed upon foreclosure of 
                 real estate contracts                              16,059       129,062
              Assumption of other debt payable 
                 in connection with the acqui-
                 sition of real estate contracts 
                 and mortgage notes                3,633,657       526,868       191,213
      </TABLE>










                                       F-45
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     16.  SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES FOR STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS, CONTINUED:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                ------------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Reduction in assets and liabili-
                 ties associated with sale of 
                 subsidiaries:
                   Investment securities                         9,401,577
                   Real estate contracts and 
                      mortgage notes receivable                 32,391,856    27,267,736
                   Real estate held for sale                       514,889       503,000
                   Allowance for losses on real 
                      estate assets                                322,548       287,439
                   Deferred costs                                2,620,571       688,559
                   Equipment                                        13,395
                   Other assets                                    186,316        22,176
                   Annuity reserves                             44,558,959
                   Debenture bonds and accrued 
                      interest                                                30,111,270
                   Debt payable                                                  120,953
                   Accounts payable and accrued 
                      expenses                                   1,653,970       318,574
      </TABLE>

     17.  FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS:

          The following disclosure of the estimated fair value of financial
          instruments is made in accordance with the requirements of
          Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 107, "Disclosures
          about Fair Value of Financial Instruments." The estimated fair
          value amounts have been determined using available market
          information and appropriate valuation methodologies. However,
          considerable judgment is necessarily required to interpret market
          data and to develop the estimates of fair value. Accordingly, the
          estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the
          amounts the Company could realize in a current market exchange.
          The use of different market assumptions and/or estimation
          methodologies may have a material effect on the estimated fair
          value amounts.

          The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the
          fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is
          practicable to estimate that value. Potential income tax
          ramifications related to the realization of unrealized gains and
          losses that would be incurred in an actual sale and/or settlement
          have not been taken into consideration.

            PUBLICLY TRADED INVESTMENT SECURITIES - Fair value is
            determined by quoted market prices.

            REAL ESTATE CONTRACTS AND MORTGAGE NOTES RECEIVABLE - For
            loans, the discount rate is estimated using rates currently 

                                      F-46
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     17.  FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS, CONTINUED:

          offered for loans of similar characteristics that reflect the
          credit and interest rate risk inherent in the loan. For
          residential mortgage loans, fair value is estimated by
          discounting contractual cash flows adjusted for prepayment
          estimates. The prepayment estimates are based upon internal
          historical data. 

            OTHER RECEIVABLE INVESTMENTS - The fair value of other
            receivable investments is based on the discounted value of
            contractual cash flows. The discount rate is estimated using
            the rates currently offered for investments with similar credit
            ratings and similar remaining maturities.

            DEBENTURE BONDS AND DEBT PAYABLE - The fair value of debenture
            bonds and debt payable is based on the discounted value of
            contractual cash flows. The discount rate is estimated using
            the rates currently offered for debt with similar remaining
            maturities.

            SECURITIES SOLD, NOT OWNED - Fair value is determined by quoted
            market prices, including accrued interest necessary to settle
            repurchase.

            OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES - The carrying amount of
            financial instruments in these classifications, including
            insurance policy loans approximates fair value. Policy loans
            are charged interest on a variable rate subject to current
            market conditions, thus carrying amounts approximate fair
            value.

            The estimated fair values of the following financial
            instruments as of September 30, 1996 and 1995 are as follows:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                                        1996
                                                             ---------------------------
                                                             Carrying
                                                             Amounts        Fair Value
                                                             ------------   ------------
                 <S>                                         <C>            <C>
                 Financial assets:
                   Cash and cash equivalents                 $167,879,080   $167,879,080
                   Investments:
                      Available-for-sale securities            38,554,498     38,554,498
                      Held-to-maturity securities             124,748,490    119,200,084
                   Real estate contracts and mortgage 
                      notes receivable                        642,570,771    668,373,000
                   Other receivable investments               107,494,150    109,258,000
                 Financial liabilities:
                   Debenture bonds - principal and 
                      compound interest                       189,320,833    191,631,000
                   Debt payable - principal                    38,449,857     38,486,000
                   Securities sold, not owned                 132,652,334    132,652,334
      </TABLE>
                                       F-47
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     17.  FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS, CONTINUED:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>

                                                                        1995
                                                             ---------------------------
                                                             Carrying
                                                             Amounts        Fair Value
                                                             ------------   ------------
                 <S>                                         <C>            <C>
                 Financial assets:
                   Cash and cash equivalents                 $ 32,798,627   $ 32,798,627
                   Investments:
                      Available-for-sale securities            31,829,980     31,829,980
                      Held-to-maturity securities             188,073,542    182,063,885
                   Real estate contracts and mortgage 
                      notes receivable                        580,158,575    608,775,000
                   Other receivable investments                41,591,415     45,446,000
                 Financial liabilities:
                   Debenture bonds - principal and 
                      compound interest                       198,286,390    205,004,000
                   Debt payable - principal                    25,517,193     25,564,000
      </TABLE>

            LIMITATIONS - The fair value estimates are made at a discrete
            point in time based on relevant market information and
            information about the financial instruments. Because no market
            exists for a significant portion of these financial
            instruments, fair value estimates are based on judgments
            regarding future expected loss experience, current economic
            conditions, risk characteristics of various financial
            instruments and other factors. These estimates are subjective
            in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant
            judgment and, therefore, cannot be determined with precision.
            Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the
            estimates. Accordingly, the estimates presented herein are not
            necessarily indicative of what the Company could realize in a
            current market exchange. 

















                                      F-48
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     18.  RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS:

          During the years ended September 30, 1996 and 1995, the Company
          had the following related-party transactions with Summit and
          other affiliates:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>

                                                                 1996           1995
                                                             ------------   ------------
              <S>                                            <C>            <C>
              Real estate contracts and mortgage notes 
                 receivable and other receivable invest-
                 ments sold to Summit and OSL                $ 45,137,473   $ 59,578,347

              Contract acquisition costs charged to Summit 
                 and OSL on sale of real estate contracts 
                 and mortgage notes receivable and other 
                 receivable investments, including manage-
                 ment underwriting fees                         1,753,206      1,967,409

              Gains on real estate contract and mortgage 
                 notes receivable and other receivable 
                 investments purchased from Summit and OSL                       335,469

              Service fees paid to Summit Property 
                 Development                                    2,038,202      1,250,017

              Commissions and service fees paid to MIS            369,080      1,124,481

              Dividends paid to Summit on preferred stock         200,256        256,991
      </TABLE>

          At September 30, 1996 and 1995, the Company had payables due to
          affiliates of $1,205,920 and $1,962,923, respectively, related
          primarily to advance payments on receivable acquisitions.







                                      F-49
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     19.  PARENT COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:

          The condensed balance sheets of Metropolitan Mortgage &
          Securities Co., Inc. ("Metropolitan" or the "parent company") at
          September 30, 1996 and 1995 are as follows:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                                 1996           1995
                                                             ------------   ------------
              <S>                                            <C>            <C>
                             ASSETS

              Cash and cash equivalents                      $  4,807,147   $ 15,965,359
              Investments                                       8,840,977      6,153,393
              Real estate contracts and mortgage notes 
                 receivable and other receivable investments   72,018,452     30,429,638
              Real estate held for sale and development        69,360,885     48,574,018
              Allowance for losses on real estate assets       (6,297,676)    (3,108,597)
              Equity in subsidiary companies                   97,302,358    117,281,602
              Land, buildings and equipment, net                9,376,863      9,049,942
              Prepaid expenses and other assets, net           12,620,101     10,243,463
              Accounts and notes receivable, net                5,190,592        893,983
              Receivables from affiliates                      24,626,214     43,812,436
                                                             ------------   ------------
                   Total assets                              $297,845,913   $279,295,237
                                                             ============   ============
                            LIABILITIES

              Debenture bonds and accrued interest           $192,173,751   $201,311,873
              Debt payable                                     13,155,334      5,645,410
              Accounts payable and accrued expenses             7,463,342      2,917,769
              Deferred underwriting fee income                 38,710,154     28,849,743
                                                             ------------   ------------
                   Total liabilities                          251,502,581    238,724,795
                                                             ------------   ------------
                         STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

              Preferred stock, $10 par (liquidation 
                 preference, $49,495,906 and $47,825,310, 
                 respectively)                                 21,518,198     21,627,106
              Subordinate preferred stock, no par                      --             --
              Common stock, $2,250 par                            293,417        293,417
              Additional paid-in capital                       16,791,670     14,917,782
              Retained earnings                                 8,731,070      4,561,554
              Net unrealized losses on investments               (991,023)      (829,417)
                                                             ------------   ------------
                   Total stockholders' equity                  46,343,332     40,570,442
                                                             ------------   ------------
                   Total liabilities and stockholders' 
                      equity                                 $297,845,913   $279,295,237
                                                             ============   ============
      </TABLE>

                                      F-50
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     19.  PARENT COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED:

          Metropolitan's condensed statements of income for the years ended
          September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994 are as follows:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                ------------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Revenues:
                 Interest and earned discounts   $ 8,303,775   $ 8,721,451   $ 8,756,861
                 Fees, commissions, service and 
                   other income                   28,567,964    21,788,065    15,056,870
                 Real estate sales                23,499,363     4,700,560     7,607,652
                 Realized net gains on sales of 
                   investments and receivables     2,357,010     1,134,510       366,409
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
                      Total revenues              62,728,112    36,344,586    31,787,792
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Expenses:
                 Interest, net                    15,630,068    16,205,083    17,616,074
                 Cost of real estate sold         22,266,024     3,719,349     7,330,073
                 Provision for losses on real 
                   estate assets                   4,578,315     2,316,354       737,042
                 Salaries and employee benefits   12,085,532    10,035,360     9,332,118
                 Other operating expenses          1,523,541       816,134     2,142,358
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
                      Total expenses              56,083,480    33,092,280    37,157,665
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Income (loss) from operations 
                 before income taxes and equity 
                 in net income of subsidiaries     6,644,632     3,252,306    (5,369,873)
              Income tax benefit (provision)      (2,268,916)   (1,105,581)    1,813,051
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Income (loss) before equity in 
                 net income of subsidiaries        4,375,716     2,146,725    (3,556,822)
              Equity in net income of 
                 subsidiaries                      3,661,948     4,155,921     9,034,578
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Net income                         $ 8,037,664   $ 6,302,646   $ 5,477,756
                                                 ===========   ===========   ===========
      </TABLE>










                                      F-51
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     19.  PARENT COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED:

          Metropolitan's condensed statements of cash flows for the years
          ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994 are as follows:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                ------------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Cash flows from operating 
                 activities:
                   Net income                    $ 8,037,664   $ 6,302,646   $ 5,477,756
                   Adjustments to reconcile 
                      net income to net cash
                      provided by operating 
                      activities                  12,717,338    (3,909,025)   (3,679,005)
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Net cash provided by operating 
                 activities                       20,755,002     2,393,621     1,798,751
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Cash flows from investing 
                 activities:
                   Principal payments on real 
                      estate contracts and 
                      mortgage notes receivable 
                      and other receivable 
                      investments                 12,480,667     5,069,237    10,550,918
                   Proceeds from sales of real 
                      estate contracts and 
                      mortgage notes receivable 
                      and other receivable 
                      investments                 24,297,171    34,946,274
                   Acquisition of real estate 
                      contracts and mortgage
                      notes and other receiv-
                      able investments           (32,175,162)  (18,449,630)   (6,520,436)
                   Proceeds from real estate 
                      sales                        9,221,958     1,876,900     2,915,452
                   Proceeds from sales of 
                      investments                  3,294,326     7,647,099       361,132
                   Proceeds from maturities of 
                      investments                  5,800,000
                   Purchase of investments       (11,689,836)  (12,108,637)     (399,465)
                   Additions to real estate 
                      held for sale and develop-
                      ment                       (17,191,856)  (12,483,117)   (7,945,133)
                   Capital expenditures           (1,271,041)     (803,302)     (469,475)
                   Net change in investment 
                      in and advances to 
                      subsidiaries               (16,293,198)   (9,591,121)    6,332,550
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
                        Net cash provided by 
                          (used in) investing 
                          activities             (23,526,971)   (3,896,297)    4,825,543
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
      </TABLE>
                                      F-52
      <PAGE>
      NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     19.  PARENT COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                ------------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Cash flows from financing 
                 activities:
                   Net borrowings (repayments) 
                      from banks and others        7,497,807     4,156,501    (3,324,722)
                   Issuance of debenture bonds     9,125,303    53,120,179    46,414,738
                   Issuance of preferred stock     2,135,714     4,513,293     1,772,649
                   Repayment of debenture bonds  (22,906,185)  (48,970,828)  (51,610,174)
                   Cash dividends                 (3,868,148)   (4,539,503)   (3,510,338)
                   Redemption and retirement of 
                      stock                         (370,734)     (266,460)     (775,742)
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
                        Net cash provided by 
                          (used in) financing 
                          activities              (8,386,243)    8,013,182   (11,033,589)
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Net increase (decrease) in cash 
                 and cash equivalents            (11,158,212)    6,510,506    (4,409,295)

              Cash and cash equivalents at 
                 beginning of year                15,965,359     9,454,853    13,864,148
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              Cash and cash equivalents at 
                 end of year                     $ 4,807,147   $15,965,359   $ 9,454,853
                                                 ===========   ===========   ===========
      </TABLE>
          Non-cash investing and financing activities not included in
          Metropolitan's condensed statements of cash flows for the years
          ended September 30, 1996, 1995 and 1994 are as follows:
     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                ------------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Loans to facilitate the sale of 
                 real estate                     $14,277,405   $ 2,823,660   $ 4,692,200
              Real estate acquired through 
                 foreclosure                         198,454     1,219,983     2,166,655
              Debt assumed with acquisition of 
                 real estate contracts and 
                 mortgage notes and debt assumed 
                 upon foreclosure of real estate 
                 contracts                                         113,876        81,530
              Change in net unrealized gains 
                 (losses) on investments            (161,606)    2,005,960    (3,371,012)
              Increase in assets and liabili-
                 ties associated with liquida-
                 tion of subsidiary:
                   Real estate contracts and 
                      mortgage notes receivable   30,052,954

                                      F-53
      <PAGE>
      NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     19.  PARENT COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED:

     
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                ------------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Real estate held for sale           27,915,041
              Allowance for losses on 
                 real estate assets                1,107,129
              Land, building and equipment, 
                 net                                  15,518
              Other assets                         1,911,314
              Accounts receivable                  2,963,966
              Debt payable                            13,948
              Accounts payable and accrued 
                 expenses                          2,759,214
              Investments in and advances to 
                 subsidiaries                     58,978,502
      </TABLE>

          Accounting policies followed in the preparation of the preceding
          condensed financial statements of Metropolitan (parent company
          only) are the same as those policies described in the
          consolidated financial statements except that the equity method
          was used in accounting for the investments in and net income from
          subsidiaries. 

          At September 30, 1996 and 1995, Metropolitan's debt payable
          consists of the following:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                                  1996          1995
                                                               -----------   -----------
              <S>                                              <C>           <C>
              Reverse repurchase agreement with a securities 
                 broker, interest at 5.8% per annum, due 
                 October 1, 1996; collateralized by 
                 $2,700,000 in U.S. government-backed bonds    $ 2,678,500

              Reverse repurchase agreement with a securities 
                 broker, interest at 6.75% per annum, due 
                 October 2, 1995; collateralized by 
                 $5,000,000 in U.S. Treasury bonds                           $ 4,606,625

              Real estate contracts and mortgage notes 
                 payable, interest rates ranging from 3% to 
                 10.9%, due in installments through 2016; 
                 collateralized by senior liens on certain
                 of the Company's real estate contracts, 
                 mortgage notes and real estate held for 
                 sale                                           10,456,496     1,016,616

                 Accrued interest payable                           20,338        22,169
                                                               -----------   -----------
                                                               $13,155,334   $ 5,645,410
                                                               ===========   ===========
      </TABLE>
                                      F-54
      <PAGE>
      NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     19.  PARENT COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED:

          Aggregate amounts of principal payments due on the parent
          company's debt payable are expected to be as follows:

            Fiscal Year Ending
              September 30,
            ------------------           

                  1997                              $  3,040,000
                  1998                                   364,000
                  1999                                   393,000
                  2000                                   356,000
                  2001                                   374,000
                Thereafter                             8,628,334
                                                    ------------
                                                    $ 13,155,334
                                                    ============

          At September 30, 1996 and 1995, Metropolitan's debenture bonds
          payable consisted of the following:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                       Principally
              Annual Interest Rates    Maturing in               1996           1995
              ---------------------    -------------------   ------------   ------------
              <S>                      <C>                   <C>            <C>
              5% to 6%                 1997                  $    537,000   $  2,486,000
              6% to 7%                 1997, 1998 and 1999      4,979,000      6,911,000
              7% to 8%                 1999 and 2000           51,261,000     50,165,000
              8% to 9%                 1997, 1998 and 2000     84,372,000     85,258,000
              9% to 10%                1997                    20,136,000     30,044,000
              10% to 11%               1998 and 1999            1,749,000      1,951,000
                                                             ------------   ------------
                                                              163,034,000    176,815,000
              Compound and accrued interest                    29,139,751     24,496,873
                                                             ------------   ------------
                                                             $192,173,751   $201,311,873
                                                             ============   ============
      </TABLE>

          Unamortized debenture issuance costs totaled $2,597,477 at
          September 30, 1996 and $3,390,744 at September 30, 1995.





                                      F-55
     <PAGE>
     NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     19.  PARENT COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED:

          Maturities of the parent company's debenture bonds are as
          follows:

            Fiscal Year Ending
              September 30,
            ------------------           
                   1997                             $ 50,030,000
                   1998                               52,163,000
                   1999                               41,335,000
                   2000                               40,408,000
                   2001                                5,877,000
                Thereafter                             2,360,751
                                                    ------------
                                                    $192,173,751
                                                    ============

          Metropolitan had the following related party transactions with
          its various subsidiaries and affiliated entities:

     <TABLE>
     <CAPTION>
                                                    1996          1995          1994
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
              <S>                                <C>           <C>           <C>
              Dividends received:
                 Summit Securities, Inc.                                     $ 1,422,007
                 Old Standard Life Insurance 
                   Company                                     $ 1,922,000       700,000
                 Metropolitan Mortgage & 
                   Securities Co. of Alaska      $ 1,243,950                     225,000
                 Spokane Mortgage Co.                              125,000     1,800,000
                 Western United Life Assurance 
                   Company                           441,510       288,208     2,604,875
                 Beacon Properties, Inc.             185,000       360,000       330,000
                 Consumers Group Holding Co., 
                   Inc.                            1,880,450       723,250     6,791,358
                 Metropolitan Mortgage Hawaii, 
                   Inc.                                                        1,770,000
                 Metropolitan Investment 
                   Securities, Inc.                                138,950
                 Broadmore Park Factory Outlet, 
                   Inc.                               85,000
                                                 -----------   -----------   -----------
                                                 $ 3,835,910   $ 3,557,408   $15,643,240
                                                 ===========   ===========   ===========

              Fees, commissions, service and 
                 other income                    $26,969,251   $18,829,557   $13,814,334
              Interest income                      1,858,521     4,152,257     3,218,813

      </TABLE>

                                      F-56
      <PAGE>
      NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED

     19.  PARENT COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, CONTINUED:

          Metropolitan charged various subsidiaries and affiliated entities
          for underwriting fees of $29,362,000 in 1996, $14,936,306 in 1995
          and $13,248,132 in 1994 related to contracts sold to these
          entities. Amounts charged to subsidiaries are deferred and
          recognized as income over the estimated life of the contracts.
          Amounts amortized into service fee income were $18,323,435 in
          1996, $10,416,849 in 1995 and $6,596,877 in 1994.

          The underwriting fees are based upon a yield requirement
          established by the purchasing entity. For contracts sold to
          Western United Life Assurance Co. (Western United), one of
          Metropolitan's subsidiaries, the yield is guaranteed by
          Metropolitan. In connection with its guarantee, Metropolitan has
          holdbacks of $12,538,000 and $6,945,473 at September 30, 1996 and
          1995, respectively.












                                      F-57
<PAGE>



<PAGE>                   Page F-58

    MANAGEMENT'S RESPONSIBILITY FOR INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                  
    The interim condensed financial statements for the Company as  of
December 31, 1996 and 1995 are prepared by management of the Company,
and  reflect all adjustments which, in the opinion of management, are
necessary  for  a fair presentation of the results of operations  and
cash  flows for the three-month periods ended December 31,  1996  and
1995, as well as the financial position as of December 31, 1995.

    METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
                                (Unaudited)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                               December 31,
September 30,
                                                   1996
1996

<S>                                            <C>              <C>
ASSETS
  Cash and Cash Equivalents                     $  63,155,394    $
167,879,080
  Investments:
    Available-for-Sale Securities,
     at market                                    56,709,148
38,554,498
    Held-to-Maturity Securities,
     at amortized cost (market value
     $120,153,286 and $119,200,084)              124,109,220
124,748,490
  Accrued Interest on Investments                   2,485,931
1,516,390
                                               --------------     ---
- ----------
      Total Cash and Investments                  246,459,693
332,698,458
                                               --------------     ---
- ----------
  Real Estate Contracts and Mortgage
    Notes and Other Receivables                   703,215,661
758,427,480
  Real Estate for Sale and
    Development - Including
    Foreclosed Real Estate                         84,178,660
84,333,288
                                                -------------     ---
- ----------
  Total Receivables and
    Real Estate Assets                            787,394,321
842,760,768
  Less Allowance for Losses                        (9,900,266)
(10,192,584)
                                                -------------     ---
- ----------
     Net Receivables and
      Real Estate Assets                          777,494,055
832,568,184
                                                -------------     ---
- ----------

  Deferred Acquisition Costs, Net                  74,151,226
74,530,361

  Land, Building and Equipment - net
    of accumulated depreciation                     8,446,566
8,516,598

  Other Assets, net of allowance                   35,670,861
34,345,227
                                               --------------      --
- ----------

    TOTAL ASSETS                               $1,142,222,401
$1,282,658,828
                                               ==============
==============
</TABLE>
<PAGE>                   Page F-59


The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements.
<PAGE>                   Page F-60



       METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                    CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
                                  (Unaudited)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  December 31,
September 30,
                                                        1996
1996


<S>                                               <C>             <C>
LIABILITIES
 Life Insurance and Annuity Reserves             $  844,106,537    $
837,366,108
 Debenture Bonds                                    196,069,990
192,173,751
 Other Debt Payable                                   8,757,554
38,601,146
 Securities Sold, Not Yet Purchased                   4,177,773
132,652,334
 Accounts Payable and Accrued
   Expenses                                          21,610,379
18,082,782
 Deferred Income Taxes                               15,444,286
15,894,831
 Minority Interest in Consolidated
   Subsidiaries                                       1,580,104
1,544,544
                                                  -------------    --
- ------------
   TOTAL LIABILITIES                              1,091,746,623
1,236,315,496
                                                  -------------    --
- ------------

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 Preferred Stock, Series A, B, C, D,
   E Cumulative with Variable Rate,
   $10 Par Value, Authorized 8,325,000
   Issued 2,157,308 Shares and
   2,151,820 Shares (Liquidation
   Preference $50,044,751 and
   $49,495,906, respectively)                        21,573,083
21,518,198
 Class A Common Stock - Voting,
   $2,250 Par Value, Authorized
   222 Shares, Issued 130 Shares                        293,417
293,417
 Additional Paid-In Capital                          17,286,228
16,791,670
 Retained Earnings                                   11,588,559
8,731,070
 Net Unrealized Losses on
    Investments                                        (265,509)
(991,023)
                                                   ------------     -
- ------------
    TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                       50,475,778
46,343,332
                                                   ------------     -
- ------------
      TOTAL LIABILITIES AND
        STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                     $1,142,222,401
$1,282,658,828
                                                 ==============
===============
</TABLE>

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements.
<PAGE>                   Page F-61

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
              METROPOLITAN  MORTGAGE  &  SECURITIES  CO.,  INC.   AND
SUBSIDIARIES
                        CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
                                         (UNAUDITED)

                                            Three Months Ended
                                                December 31,
                                           1996               1995
<S>                                   <C>           <C>
REVENUES:
 Insurance Premiums Earned              $   750,000    $   750,000
 Interest and Earned Discounts           24,105,516     21,919,875
 Real Estate Sales                        6,846,700     10,608,025
 Fees, Commissions, Service
  and Other Income                        1,208,087        691,557
 Realized Investment Gains (Losses)      (2,160,155)         2,800
 Realized Gains on Sales of
  Receivables                             9,834,959         84,490
                                       ------------     ----------

  TOTAL REVENUES                         40,585,107     34,056,747
                                       ------------     ----------
EXPENSES:
 Insurance Policy and Annuity
   Benefits                              13,055,411     12,061,640
 Interest Expense                         5,835,322      3,778,835
 Cost of Real Estate Sold                 7,440,009     10,466,642
 Provision for Losses on Real
   Estate Assets                            586,221        934,543
 Salaries and Employee
   Benefits                               3,032,934      2,280,868
 Commissions to Agents                    2,158,770      2,431,199
 Other Operating and
   Underwriting Expenses                  2,299,904      1,628,563
 Decease (Increase) in Deferred
   Acquisition Costs                        237,955         (9,132)
                                         ----------     ----------

   TOTAL EXPENSES                        34,646,526     33,573,158
                                         ----------     ----------

Income Before Income Taxes and
   Minority Interest                      5,938,581        483,589
Provision For Income Taxes               (2,022,167)      (170,933)
                                         -----------     ----------

Income Before Minority
   Interest                               3,916,414        312,656

Income of Consolidated
   Subsidiaries Allocated to
   Minority Stockholders                    (35,560)        (9,311)
                                         ----------     -----------

NET INCOME                                3,880,854         303,345

Preferred Stock Dividends                (1,023,365)       (923,406)
                                         ----------     ------------
<PAGE>                   Page F-62

Income (Loss) Applicable to
   Common Stockholders                  $ 2,857,489      $ (620,061)
                                        ===========     ============

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements.

</TABLE>
<PAGE>                   Page F-63

       METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
              CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                               (UNAUDITED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   Three Months Ended
                                                       December 31,
                                                1996             1995

<S>                                             <C>           <C>
Net Cash Provided By  (Used In)
  Operating Activities                      $(116,924,803)    $
12,326,474
                                              ------------     ------
- -----
Cash Flows From Investing Activities:
Principal Payments on Real Estate
    Contracts and Mortgage Notes
    and Other Receivables                      29,383,414
27,684,554
Proceeds From Real Estate Sales                   709,061
921,950
Proceeds From Investment Maturities             6,596,423
226,100
Proceeds from Sale of Available
    for Sale Securities
28,121,115
Purchase of Available for Sale
    Securities                                (23,684,536)
Proceeds From Sale of Real Estate
    Contracts and Mortgage Notes
    and Other Receivables                     119,209,316
2,335,415
Acquisition of Real Estate Contracts and
     Mortgage Notes and Other Receivables     (79,616,347)
(77,570,084)
Additions to Real Estate Held                  (6,351,906)
(8,938,063)
Capital Expenditures                             (198,228)
(336,713)
                                              -----------     -------
- -----

Net Cash Provided By (Used In)
    Investing Activities                       46,047,197
(27,555,726)
                                              -----------     -------
- -----
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:
Net Change Short Term Borrowings from
  Brokers and Banks                           (30,328,500)
(12,646,875)
Receipts From Life and Annuity Products        20,337,089
25,261,674
Withdrawals on Life and Annuity Products      (25,369,936)
(20,748,194)
Repayment to Banks and Others                     (55,545)
(33,496)
Issuance of Debenture Bonds                     4,140,969
4,791,350
Issuance of Preferred Stock                       549,743
554,336
Repayment of Debenture Bonds                   (2,096,235)
(7,206,402)
Preferred Stock Dividends                      (1,023,366)
(923,406)
Redemption of Capital Stock                          (300)
(57,143)
                                               ----------     -------
- ------

Net Cash Used In
  Financing Activities                        (33,846,080)
(11,008,156)
                                              -----------    --------
- -----

Net Decrease in Cash and
  Cash Equivalents                           (104,723,686)
(26,237,408)
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning
  of Period                                   167,879,080
32,798,627
                                             ------------    --------
- -----
<PAGE>                   Page F-64

Cash and Cash Equivalents at End
  of Period                                  $ 63,155,394    $
6,561,219
                                            =============
============
</TABLE>
The  accompanying  notes  are an integral part  of  the  consolidated
financial                                                 statements.
<PAGE>                   Page F-65

                METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENT



1.   In  the  opinion of the Company, the accompanying  unaudited
     consolidated  condensed  financial  statements  contain  all
     adjustments  necessary  to  present  fairly  the   financial
     position  as  of  December  31, 1996,  and  the  results  of
     operations for the three months ended December 31, 1996  and
     1995  and  changes in cash flows for the three months  ended
     December  31,  1996 and 1995. The results of operations  for
     the  three month period ended December 31, 1996 and 1995 are
     not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for
     the  full  year.  As provided for in regulations promulgated
     by  the  Securities and Exchange Commission,  all  financial
     statements  included  herein  are  unaudited;  however,  the
     condensed consolidated balance sheet at September  30,  1996
     has  been  derived  from  the audited  consolidated  balance
     sheet.   These  financial  statements  should  be  read   in
     conjunction  with  the  consolidated  financial   statements
     including  notes  thereto included in the  Company's  fiscal
     1996 Form 10-K.

2.   The  principal  amount of receivables as to  which  payments
     were in arrears more than three months was $26,750,000 at December 31, 1996
     and $26,500,000 at September 30, 1996.

3.   Metropolitan  Mortgage  &  Securities  Co.,  Inc.   had   no
     outstanding  legal proceedings other than normal proceedings
     associated with receivable foreclosures, and/or the  general
     business activities of the Company.

4.   Certain  amounts in the prior year's consolidated  condensed
     financial statements have been reclassified to conform  with
     the  current year's   presentation.  These reclassifications
     had  no  effect  on  net  income  or  retained  earnings  as
     previously reported.

5.   In  November  1996, Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities  Co.,
     Inc.  (Metro  or  the  Company) and its  subsidiary  Western
     United Life Assurance Company (WULA) participated as two  of
     the four co-sellers in a receivable securitization sponsored
     by  Metropolitan Asset Funding, Inc, an affiliated  company.
     Approximately  $126.7  million of receivables,  with  $115.5
     million  provided  by  Metro  and  WULA,  were  sold  in   a
     securitization  transaction with proceeds, after  costs,  of
     approximately  $121.1  million,  which  $110.4  million  was
     allocated  to  Metro  and WULA.  With an amortized  carrying
     value  of  approximately $101.5 million in  the  receivables
     sold   in  the  securitization,  Metro  and  WULA   recorded
     approximately  $8.9  million in  pre-tax  gains  from  their
     portion of the sale.  Metropolitan Asset Funding, Inc.  sold
     approximately $113.4 million in varying classes of  mortgage
     pass-through  certificates.  In addition to the certificates
     sold   to  the   public,  approximately  $13.3  million   in
     subordinate   class   certificates   and   residual    class
     certificates were returned to the various co-sellers of  the
     receivables included in the securitization.  Metro and  WULA
     received approximately $101.6 million, after costs, from
     <PAGE>                   Page F-66

     the  securitization and received approximately $12.0 million
     (estimated  fair  value) in subordinate class  and  residual
     class   certificates.   As  an  economic  hedge   for   this
     receivable  securitization sale, the Company had  previously
     sold  short  approximately  $128 million  of  U.S.  Treasury
     securities  of  varying  maturities.   Concurrent  with  the
     completion  of the securitization transaction,  the  Company
     purchased  and  delivered  the  borrowed  securities.    The
     Company lost approximately $2.5 million on this short  sale.
     Thereby from an economic standpoint, the Company realized an
     approximate   $6.4   million  in  pre-tax   gains   on   the
     securitization sale.

6.   In December 1995, the Company reassessed the appropriateness
     of the classifications of its securities investments.  Based
     on this reassessment, the Company transferred $72,572,322 of
     securities from the Held-to-Maturity classification  to  the
     Available-for-Sale classification.  This transfer was  based
     on  guidance  included in the special report issued  by  the
     Financial   Accounting  Standards   Board,   "A   Guide   to
     Implementation  of Statement 115 on Accounting  for  Certain
     Investments in Debt and Equity Securities".

7.   The  preparation  of financial statement in conformity  with
     generally  accepted accounting principles require management
     to  make  estimates and assumptions that affect the reported
     amounts   of  assets  and  liabilities  and  disclosure   of
     contingent  assets  and liabilities  at  the  dates  of  the
     financial  statements and the reported amounts  of  revenues
     and  expenses during the reporting periods.  Actual  results
     could differ from those estimates.




                                  
<PAGE>                        Page 154
                                  
                                  
                               PART II
                                  
            METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.
                                  
                   Form S-2 Registration Statement
                                  
               Information Not Required in Prospectus


Item 14:  Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution

       SEC Registration Fee.......................... $  8,849
       NASD Filing Fee...............................   13,000
       * Blue Sky qualification fees and expenses....   15,000
       Independent Underwriter Fee...................   59,000
       * Accounting fees and expenses................   50,000
       * Legal fees and disbursements................   20,000
       * Trustee's fees and expenses.................    5,000
       * Debenture certificates......................    2,000
       * Printing expenses...........................   15,000
       * Miscellaneous expenses......................    2,151
       Total Expenses................................ $190,000


       * Estimated

Item 15:    Indemnification of Directors and Officers

        Article  X  of the registrant's Articles of Incorporation
     provides as follows:


Metropolitan  has  no contractual or other arrangement  with  its
controlling persons, directors or officers regarding indemnification,
other  than  as  set  forth  in  its Articles  of  Incorporation.
Metropolitan's Articles of Incorporation permits indemnification of a
director,  officers or employee up to the indemnification  limits
permitted by Washington state law which permits indemnification for
judgments,  fines  and  amounts paid in settlement  actually  and
reasonably incurred in connection with an action, suit or proceeding
if  the  indemnified person acted in good faith and in  a  manner
reasonable believed to be in and not opposed to the best interest of
the corporation.

Item 16.    Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

<PAGE>                        Page 155


  (a)  Exhibits

     1(a).               Selling Agreement between Metropolitan and
               Metropolitan Investment Securities, Inc. dated as of
               August 14, 1980 (Exhibit l(a) to Registration  No.
               2-70595).
     
     1(b).                Amendment to Selling Agreement  between
               Metropolitan and Metropolitan Investment Securities,
               Inc. dated as of August 14, 1980, (Exhibit l(b) to
               Registration No. 2-70595).
     
     1(c)(i).        Selling  Agreement between Metropolitan  and
               Metropolitan Investment Securities, Inc., dated as of
               December  21,  1984, with respect  to  Installment
               Debentures, Series I (Exhibit 1(c) to Registration No.
               2-95146).
     
     1(d).                Amendment to Selling Agreement  between
               Metropolitan and Metropolitan Investment Securities,
               Inc. dated as of January 10, 1989.  (Exhibit 1(f) to
               Registration No. 33-25700).
     
     1(e).               Selling Agreement between Metropolitan and
               Metropolitan Investment Securities, Inc. dated as of
               January 31, 1990.  (Exhibit 1(c) to Registration No.
               33-32586).
     
     *1(f)(ii).     Form of Selling Agreement between Metropolitan
               and  Metropolitan Investment Securities, Inc. with
               respect to Preferred Stock Series E-7.
     
     1(g)(i).  Form of Agreement to Act as "Qualified Independent
               Underwriter,"  between Metropolitan,  Metropolitan
               Investment Securities, Inc. and Welco Securities, Inc.
               with respect to Debentures to be registered.
     
     1(g)(ii). Form of Agreement to Act as "Qualified Independent
               Underwriter," between  Metropolitan,  Metropolitan
               Investment Securities, Inc. and Welco Securities, Inc.
               with respect to Preferred Stock to be registered.
     
     4(a).               Indenture, dated as of July 6, 1979, between
               Metropolitan and Seattle-First National Bank, Trustee
               <PAGE>                        Page 156
     
     (Exhibit 3  to Metropolitan's Annual Report on Form 10-K for
               fiscal 1979).
     
     4(b).               First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of
               October   3,   1980,   between  Metropolitan   and
               Seattle-First National Bank, Trustee (Exhibit 4 to
               Metropolitan's Annual Report on Form 10-K for fiscal
               1980).
     
     4(c).               Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of
               November   12,  1984,  between  Metropolitan   and
               Seattle-First National Bank, Trustee (Exhibit 4(d) to
               Registration No. 2-95146).
     
     *4(d).               Statement  of Rights, Designations  and
               Preferences of variable rate cumulative  Preferred
               Stock, Series E-7.
     
     *5(a).              Opinion of Susan A. Thomson, Attorney at
               Law, as to validity of Investment Debentures.
     
               *5(b).         Opinion of Susan A. Thomson, Attorney
               at Law, as to validity of Preferred Stock.
     
     7.                   Opinion re liquidation preference.  See
               Exhibit 5(b).
     
     9.                  Irrevocable Trust Agreement (Exhibit 9(b) to
               Registration No. 2-81359).
     
     11.                   Statement  Indicating  Computation  of
               Per-Share  Earnings.  (SEE "CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
               STATEMENTS".)
     
     12.                  Statement  of computation of  ratio  of
               earnings to fixed charges.
     
               *23(a).          Consent  of  Coopers  &  Lybrand,
               Independent Accountants.
     
     23(b).              Consent of counsel.  Reference is made to
               Exhibit 5(a) and (b).
     
     *24.(a)   Power of Attorney.
     
     24.(b)    Certified   Board  Resolution  authorizing   board
               signatures pursuant to a Power of Attorney
     
     25.                  Statement  on Form T-1 of Seattle-First
               National Bank.
                         (Exhibits to this Exhibit have been filed in
               paper  pursuant to a continuing hardship exemption
               granted January 24, 1994).
     
     
               <PAGE>                        Page 157
     
     *27.           Financial Data Schedules.

* Filed herewith.

Item 17.    Undertakings

            (a)      The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:
     
     (1)            To file, during any period in which offers or
               sales are being made, a post-effective amendment to
               this registration statement:
     
               (i)        To  include any prospectus required  by
               section 10(a)(3) of the Securities Act of 1933;
     
               (ii)      To reflect in the prospectus any facts or
               events  arising after the effective  date  of  the
               registration  statement (or the most  recent  post
               effective amendment thereof) which, individually or in
               the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the
               information set forth in the registration statement;
     
               (iii)          To include any material information
               with  respect  to  the  plan of  distribution  not
               previously disclosed in the registration statement or
               any  material  change to such information  in  the
               registration statement;
     
     (2)             That,  for  the  purpose of determining  any
               liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each such
               post-effective amendment shall be deemed to be a new
               registration statement relating to the  securities
               offered therein, and the offering of such securities
               at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona
               fide offering thereof.
     
     (3)             To  remove from registration by means  of  a
               post-effective amendment any of the securities being
               registered which remain unsold at the termination of
               the offering.
     
     (b)             Insofar  as  indemnification for liabilities
               arising  under the Securities Act of 1933  may  be
               permitted  to directors, officers, and controlling
               persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing
               provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has  been
               advised that in the opinion of the Securities  and
               Exchange Commission such
               <PAGE>                        Page 158
     
     indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act
               and is, therefore, unenforceable.  In the event that a
               claim for indemnification against such liabilities
               (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses
               incurred  or  paid  by  a  director,  officer,  or
               controlling  persons  of  the  Registrant  in  the
               successful defense of any action, suit, or proceeding)
               is asserted by such director, officer or controlling
               person  in  connection with the  securities  being
               registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion
               of  its  counsel  the matter has been  settled  by
               controlling  precedent,  submit  to  a  court   of
               appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such
               indemnification by it is against public policy  as
               expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final
               adjudication of such issue.
     
     (c)           For the purpose of determining any liability under
               the Securities Act of 1933, the information omitted
               from  the form of prospectus filed as part of this
               registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and
               contained  in  a form of prospectus filed  by  the
               registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or 497(h)
               under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of
               this registration statement as of the time it  was
               declared effective.
     
                   For the purpose of determining any liability under
               the  Securities  Act of 1933, each  post-effective
               amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall be
               deemed to be a new registration statement relating to
               the securities offered therein, and the offering of
               such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the
               initial bona fide offering thereof.
     
     
               <PAGE>                        Page 159
     
     
                             SIGNATURES
  Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, the
registrant certifies that it has reasonable grounds to believe that
it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form S-2 and has duly
caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Spokane, State
of Washington, on this 1st day of May, 1997.

                      METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.

                  /S/ C. Paul Sandifur, Jr.
                    _____________________________________________
                    C. Paul Sandifur, Jr., Chief Executive Officer

  Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
registration statement has been signed by the following persons in
the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 Signature                 Title                      Date


**
_____________________    President, Chief Executive    May 1, 1997
C. Paul Sandifur, Jr.    Officer, Chairman of
                         the Board
**
_____________________    Executive Vice President,     May 1, 1997
Bruce J. Blohowiak       Chief Operating Officer,
                         Director

**
_____________________    Vice President,               May 1, 1997
Steven Crooks            Principal Financial
                         Officer, and Principal
                         Accounting Officer

**
_____________________    Secretary and Director        May 1, 1997
Reuel Swanson

**
_____________________    Director                      May 1, 1997
Irv Marcus

**

<PAGE>                        Page 160

_____________________    Director                      May 1, 1997
Charles H. Stolz

/S/ SUSAN THOMSON                                    May 1, 1997
_________________

** Susan Thomson, by signing her name hereto, signs this document on
behalf of Messrs. Sandifur, Blohowiak, Crooks, Swanson, Marcus and
Stolz, indicated above, pursuant to a power of attorney duly executed
by such persons and previously filed herewith.


                               FORM OF
                                  
              VARIABLE RATE CUMULATIVE PREFERRED STOCK
                                  
                          SELLING AGREEMENT

     This Agreement made as of the       day of ____________, 1997,
by  and  between METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.,  a
Washington corporation ("Metropolitan") and METROPOLITAN INVESTMENT
SECURITIES, INC., a Washington corporation (the "Selling Agent").

   WHEREAS, Metropolitan proposes to issue and sell 250,000 shares
                                  
                             WITNESSETH:
                                  
Variable  Rate Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series E-7 (par  value
$10.00  per share) ("Preferred Stock") pursuant to a Registration
Statement  (or  Registration Statements)  and  a  Prospectus  (or
Prospectuses) filed under the Securities Act of 1933; and

     WHEREAS, the Selling Agent, for good and valuable consideration
the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, desires to assist in the
sale of the Preferred Stock upon the terms and in reliance upon the
representations, warranties and agreements set forth herein;

     NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:

     1.   APPOINTMENT OF SELLING AGENT.

     Metropolitan hereby appoints the Selling Agent as its agent to
offer and sell the Preferred Stock at the prices and in the manner
described in the Registration Statement and the Prospectus and in
compliance  with the terms and conditions thereof.   Metropolitan
agrees to provide the Selling Agent with such number of Registration
Statements and Prospectuses as it reasonably requests to enable it to
offer  the  Preferred Stock and authorizes the Selling  Agent  to
distribute the Registration Statements and Prospectuses.

     2.   UNDERTAKING OF SELLING AGENT.


<PAGE>                        Page 162

     The Selling Agent agrees to use its best efforts to sell the
Preferred Stock on the terms stated herein and in the Registration
Statement and Prospectus and to notify Metropolitan of the number of
shares  of  Preferred  Stock with respect to  which  subscription
agreements have been executed by subscribers.  It is understood that
the Selling Agent has no commitment to sell the Preferred Stock other
than to use its best efforts.  The Selling Agent will deliver all
cash and checks received from subscribers to Metropolitan by noon of
the next business day.  All checks received by the Selling Agent from
subscribers shall be made payable to Metropolitan.

      The  Selling Agent will not maintain discretionary customer
accounts  and   undertakes that it will not  in  any  event  make
discretionary purchases of the Preferred Stock for the accounts of
customers.

     3.   AMENDMENT OF THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND PROSPECTUS.

     Metropolitan agrees, at its expense, to amend or supplement that
Registration Statement or the Prospectus and to provide the Selling
Agent  with   sufficient  copies  thereof  for  distribution   as
contemplated  in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus  or
otherwise for purposes contemplated by federal and state securities
laws,  if (i) the Selling Agent advises Metropolitan that in  its
opinion and that of its counsel, such amendment or supplement  is
necessary  or advisable, or (ii) such amendment or supplement  is
necessary to comply with federal or state securities laws or  the
rules  or  regulations promulgated thereunder or is necessary  to
correct  any  untrue statement therein or eliminate any  material
omissions  therein  which  make any  of  the  statements  therein
misleading.   The representation, warranties, and obligations  to
indemnify  all parties thereto contained herein relating  to  the
Registration Statement or the Prospectus shall attach to any such
amendment or supplement.

     4.   UNDERTAKINGS OR METROPOLITAN.

     Metropolitan will promptly notify the Selling Agent in the event
of the issuance by the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") of
any stop order or other orders us pending the Registration of the
Preferred  Stock, or in the event of the institution or  intended
institution of any action or preceding for that purpose.  In  the
event that the SEC shall enter a stop order suspending or otherwise
suspend the Registration of the Preferred Stock, Metropolitan will
make every reasonable effort to obtain as promptly as possible the
entry  of  an appropriate order setting aside such stop order  or
otherwise reinstate the Registration of the Preferred Stock.


<PAGE>                        Page 163

     5.   REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES.

     Metropolitan represents and warrants to the Selling Agent that:

           (i)  The Registration Statement and the Prospectus comply
           as to form in all material respects with the Securities
           Act  of 1933; and the rules and regulations of the SEC
           thereunder,  accurately  describe  the  operations  of
           Metropolitan and do not contain any misleading or untrue
           statements of a material fact or omit to state a material
           fact which is necessary to prevent the statements therein
           from being misleading.

           (ii) Metropolitan is a corporation duly organized  and
           validly   existing   under  the  Washington   Business
           Corporation Act with full corporate power to perform its
           obligations as described in the Registration Statement
           and the Prospectus.

           (iii)      The Preferred Stock, when issued  and  sold
           pursuant  to  the terms hereof and of the Registration
           Statement, Prospectus and subscription agreements, will
           be legally issued, fully paid and nonassessable.

           (iv) This Agreement has been duly and validly authorized,
           executed, and delivered on behalf of Metropolitan and is
           a  valid  and  binding agreement  of  Metropolitan  in
           accordance with its terms.

  6.   INDEMNIFICATION.

  Metropolitan and the Selling Agent each (a) agree to indemnify and
hold harmless the other (and each person, if any, who controls the
other) against any loss, claim, damage, charge or liability to which
the other or such charge or liability (or actions in respect thereof)
(i) arises out of or is based upon any misrepresentation or breach of
warranty of such party herein or any untrue  statement or alleged
untrue statement of any material fact contained in the Registration
Statement or the Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto)
which relates to or was supplied by such party, or (i) arises out of
or is based upon the omission or alleged omission to state therein a
material fact relating to such party required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, including
liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the
Securities  Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and  (b)  agree  to
reimburse such other party (and any controlling persons) for  any
legal
<PAGE>                        Page 164

or  other fees or expenses reasonably incurred in connection with
investigating or defending any action or claim arising out of  or
based upon any of the foregoing.

  7.   FEES AND EXPENSES.

  Metropolitan will pay all expenses incurred in connection with the
offering  and  sale  of  the Preferred Stock,  including  without
limitation, fees and expenses of counsel, blue sky fees and expenses
(including legal fees), printing expenses, and accounting fees and
expenses.  Provided, however, that in the event of termination of the
offering,  Selling Agent will only be reimbursed for its  actual,
accountable, out-of-pocket expenses.

     The maximum commissions payable upon sale of the Preferred Stock
     shall be 6% of the investment amount.

  8.   This agreement shall not in any way affect, modify or change
the terms of those certain Selling Agreements, dated August 14, 1980
and December 21, 1984, as amended, between the parties hereto which
provides  for  the sale of Investment Debentures, Series  II  and
Installment Debentures, Series I, respectively.

  9.   GOVERNING LAW.

  This Agreement shall be deemed to be made under and governed by the
laws of the State of Washington.

  IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been executed by the parties
hereto as of the day and year first above mentioned.

                 METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.


                   ________________________________________
                    C. Paul Sandifur, Jr.,  President

                 METROPOLITAN INVESTMENT SECURITIES, INC.



                   ________________________________________
                    Susan A. Thomson, Vice President


                               FORM OF
       AGREEMENT TO ACT AS "QUALIFIED INDEPENDENT UNDERWRITER"


            This  agreement  made  as  of  the           day   of
__________________, by and between Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities
Co., Inc., a Washington corporation ("Metropolitan"), Metropolitan
Investment Securities, Inc., a Washington corporation ("MIS"), and
Welco Securities, Inc., a Nevada Corporation ("Welco").
                            WITNESSETH:
          WHEREAS, Metropolitan intends to offer 250,000 shares of
Preferred Stock, designated as "Variable Rate Cumulative Preferred
Stock,  Series  E-7," (hereinafter referred to as the  "Preferred
Stock"),  which  will be offered in reliance on a  post-effective
amendment to a registration statement filed on Form S-2, bearing SEC
file number 333-19755;and,
          WHEREAS, MIS, a broker/dealer and a member of the National
Association of Securities Dealers ("NASD"), will be engaged as the
sole selling agent for Metropolitan; and,
          WHEREAS, pursuant to subparagraph (c) of Rule 2720 of the
NASD, MIS, as a NASD member, may participate in such underwriting
only if the price at which the Preferred Stock is offered to  the
public  is  no higher than the price recommended by a  "Qualified
Independent  Underwriter" as that term is defined in subparagraph
(b)(15)  of  Rule 2720 of the NASD, and who participates  in  the
preparation of the registration statement and prospectus relating to
the offering and exercises customary standards of due diligence, with
respect thereto; and,
          WHEREAS, this agreement ("Agreement") describes the terms
on  which  Metropolitan is retaining Welco to  serve  as  such  a
"Qualified Independent Underwriter" in connection with this offering
of Preferred Stock;
          NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the recitations set
forth  above, and the terms, promises, conditions, and  covenants
herein contained, the parties hereby contract and agree as follows:
                             DEFINITIONS
          As hereinafter used, except as the context may otherwise
require, the term "Registration Statement" means the registration
statement on Form S-2(including the related preliminary prospectus,
financial statements, exhibits and all other documents to be filed as
<PAGE>                        Page 166

a part thereof or incorporated therein) for the registration of the
offer and sale of the preferred stock under the Securities Act of
1933,  as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder  (the
"Act")  filed  with the Securities and Exchange  Commission  (the
"Commission"), and any amendment thereto, and the term "Prospectus"
means the prospectus including any preliminary or final prospectus
(including the form of prospectus to be filed with the Commission
pursuant  to  Rule  424(b) under the Act) and  any  amendment  or
supplement thereto, to be used in connection with the offering.
     1. SCHEDULE E REQUIREMENT.  Welco hereby confirms its agreement
as set forth in subparagraph 15(g)of Schedule E of the Bylaws of the
NASD and represents that, as appropriate, Welco satisfies or at the
times  designated  in  such paragraph  (l)  satisfies  the  other
requirements set forth therein or will receive an exemption from such
requirements from the NASD.
      2.  CONSENT.   Welco hereby consents to  be  named  in  the
Registration Statement and Prospectus as having acted as a "Qualified
Independent  Underwriter" solely for the purposes  of  Rule  2720
referenced herein.  Except as permitted by the immediately preceding
sentence or to the extent required by law, all references to Welco in
the  Registration Statement or Prospectus or in any other filing,
report, document, release or other communication prepared, issued or
transmitted in connection with the offering by Metropolitan or any
corporation controlling, controlled by or under common control with
Metropolitan, or by any director, officer, employee, representative
or agent of any thereof, shall be subject to Welco's prior written
consent with respect to form and substance.
      3.  PRICING FORMULA AND OPINION.  Welco agrees to render  a
written opinion as to the price above which Metropolitan's Preferred
Stock may not be offered based on the computation of dividends to be
declared on those shares that is set forth in Schedule "A," a copy of
which is attached hereto, and incorporated herein by reference.  It
is understood and agreed by Welco that the securities to which this
Agreement relates will be offered on a best efforts basis by MIS, as
the  sole  selling agent of Metropolitan pursuant to the  selling
agreement to be entered into between MIS and Metropolitan which is
filed as exhibit to the Registration Statement referred to above.
Metropolitan, through MIS, will continue to offer the preferred stock
according  to  the  terms and conditions of  said  agreement,  in
accordance with this Agreement.  Welco reserves the right to review
and amend its opinion upon the filing of any post-effective amendment
to this Registration Statement or upon occurrence of any material
event which may or may not require such an amendment to be filed, or
at such time as the offering under this registration shall terminate
or otherwise lapse under operation of law.
     4. FEES AND EXPENSE.  It is understood that Metropolitan shall
reimburse Welco for its expenses on a nonaccountable basis in the
<PAGE>                        Page 167

amount  of $5,000 of which $2,500 has been paid to date, and  the
balance to be paid at closing. It is further agreed that Welco shall
be  paid  an additional amount of $15,000 at the time the pricing
opinion is rendered, concurrent with the closing.  Welco agrees to
pay all fees and expenses to any legal counsel whom it may employ to
represent it separately in connection with or on account  of  its
actions contemplated herein.  All mailing, telephone, travel, hotel,
meals, clerical, or other office costs incurred or to be incurred by
Welco in conjunction with Metropolitan's proposed offering which is
the  subject  of this Agreement shall be reimbursed to  Welco  by
Metropolitan at closing on an accountable basis upon receipt of an
itemization of said expenses.
      5. MATERIAL FACTS.  Metropolitan represents and warrants to
Welco that at the time the Registration Statement and, at the time
the  Prospectus  is  filed  with the  Commission  (including  any
preliminary prospectus and the form of prospectus filed with  the
Commission  pursuant to Rule 424(b)) and at all times  subsequent
thereto, to and including the date on which payment for, and delivery
of, the Preferred Stock to be sold in the Offering is made by the
underwriter or underwriters, as the case may be, participating in the
Offering and by Metropolitan (such date being referred to herein as
the "Closing Date"), the Prospectus (as amended or supplemented if it
shall have been so amended or supplemented) will contain all material
statements which are required to be stated therein in accordance with
the Act and will conform to all other requirements of the federal
securities  laws, and will not, on such date include  any  untrue
statement  of  a material fact or omit to state a  material  fact
required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements
therein not misleading and that all contracts and documents required
by the Act to be filed or required as exhibits to said registration
statement  have been filed.  Metropolitan further represents  and
warrants  that any further filing, report, document,  release  or
communication which in any way refers to Welco or to the services to
be performed by Welco pursuant to this Agreement will not contain any
untrue or misleading statement of a material fact or omit to state a
material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
statements therein not misleading.
     Metropolitan further warrants and represents that:
      (a)  All leases, contracts and agreements referred to in or
filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement to which Metropolitan
or its subsidiaries is a party or by which any of them is bound are
in full force and effect.
     (b)  Metropolitan and it subsidiaries have good and marketable
title, except as otherwise indicated in the Registration Statement
and  Prospectus, to all of their assets and properties  described
therein  as  being owned by them, free and clear  of  all  liens,
encumbrances and defects except such encumbrances and defects which
do not, in the aggregate, materially affect or interfere with the use
made and
<PAGE>                        Page 168

proposed  to  be  made  of such properties as  described  in  the
Registration  Statement and Prospectus; and the Company  and  its
subsidiaries have no material leased properties except as disclosed
in the Prospectus.
     (c)  Metropolitan is duly organized under the laws of the State
of  Washington and, as of the effective date of the  Registration
Statement and at Closing Metropolitan will be validly existing and in
good standing under the laws of the State of Washington with full
corporate power and authority to own its properties and conduct its
business to the extent described in the Registration Statement and
Prospectus; Metropolitan and its subsidiaries are duly qualified to
do  business as foreign corporations and in good standing in  all
jurisdictions in which the nature of the business transacted by them
or their ownership of properties or assets makes their qualification
necessary;  the  authorized  and  outstanding  capitalization  of
Metropolitan is as set forth in the Prospectus and the description in
the Prospectus of the capital stock of Metropolitan conforms with and
accurately describes the rights set forth in the instruments defining
the same;
     (d)  Metropolitan and its subsidiaries are not in violation of
their  respective certificates of incorporation or Bylaws  or  in
default in the performance or observance of any material obligation,
agreement, covenant or condition contained in any bond, debenture,
note, or other evidence of indebtedness, contract or lease or in any
indenture or loan agreement to which any of them is a party or by
which any of them is bound.
     (e)  The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement
has been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action on the
part  of  Metropolitan and MIS and performance of  the  foregoing
agreement  and the consummation of the transactions  contemplated
thereby, will not conflict with or result in a breach of any of the
terms or constitute a violation of the respective certificates of
incorporation or Bylaws of Metropolitan or MIS, or any deed of trust,
lease,  sublease,  indenture, mortgage,  or  other  agreement  or
instrument to which Metropolitan or MIS is a party or by which any of
them  or  their property is bound, or any applicable  law,  rule,
regulation, judgment, order or decree of any government, governmental
instrumentality or court, domestic or foreign, having jurisdiction
over Metropolitan or MIS or their properties or obligations; and no
consent,  approval,  authorization  or  order  of  any  court  or
governmental agency or body is required for the consummation of the
transactions  contemplated herein and  in  the  other  agreements
previously referred to in this paragraph except as may be required
under the Act or under any state securities or Blue Sky Laws.
     (f)  Any certificate signed by an officer of Metropolitan and
delivered to Welco pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed a
<PAGE>                        Page 169

representation and warranty by Metropolitan to Welco, to have the
same force and effect as stated herein, as to the matters covered
thereby.
     (g)  If any event relating to or affecting Metropolitan or any
of its subsidiaries shall occur as a result of which it is necessary,
in Welco's opinion, to amend or supplement the Prospectus in order to
make the Prospectus not misleading in the light of the circumstances
existing at the time it is delivered to a purchaser, Metropolitan
undertakes to inform Welco of such events within a reasonable time
thereafter, and will forthwith prepare and furnish to Welco, without
expense to them, a reasonable number of copies of an amendment or
amendments or a supplement or supplements to the Prospectus (in form
and substance satisfactory to Welco) which will amend or supplement
the Prospectus so that as amended or supplemented it will not contain
any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact  necessary to make the statements therein in  light  of  the
circumstances existing at the time the Prospectus is delivered to a
purchaser, not misleading.
     (h)  Metropolitan hereby warrants and represents that it will
offer the preferred stock in accordance with the pricing formula set
forth in Schedule "A" which is incorporated by reference herein.
     (i)  All representations, warranties and agreements contained in
this  Agreement,  or  contained in certificates  of  officers  of
Metropolitan submitted pursuant hereto, shall remain operative and in
full force and effect, surviving the date of this Agreement.
     6. AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION.  Metropolitan hereby agrees to
provide Welco, at its expense, with all information and documentation
with respect to its business, financial condition and other matters
as Welco may deem relevant based on the standards of reasonableness
and  good  faith  and  shall request in connection  with  Welco's
performance  under this Agreement, including, without limitation,
copies of all correspondence with the Commission, certificates of its
officers,  opinions of its counsel and comfort letters  from  its
auditors.  The above-mentioned certificates, opinions of counsel and
comfort letters shall be provided to Welco as Welco may request on
the effective date of the Registration Statement and on the Closing
Date.  Metropolitan will make reasonably available to Welco,  its
auditors, counsel, and officers and directors to discuss with Welco
any  aspect  of Metropolitan which Welco may deem  relevant.   In
addition,  Metropolitan, at Welco's request,  will  cause  to  be
delivered to Welco copies of all certificates, opinions, letters and
reports to be delivered to the underwriter or underwriters, as the
case  may be, pursuant to any underwriting agreement executed  in
connection with the Offering or otherwise, and shall cause the person
issuing  such certificate, opinion, letter or report to authorize
Welco to rely thereon to the same extent as if addressed directly to
Welco.  Metropolitan represents and warrants to Welco that all such
information and documentation provided pursuant to this paragraph 6
will not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to
<PAGE>                        Page 170

state a material fact necessary to make the statement therein not
misleading.  In addition, Metropolitan will promptly advise Welco of
all telephone conversations with the Commission which relate to or
may affect the Offering.
     7. INDEMNIFICATION.
         (a)   Subject to the conditions set forth below, and  in
addition to any rights of indemnification and contribution to which
Welco may be entitled pursuant to any agreement among underwriters,
underwriting agreement or otherwise, and to the extent allowed by
law, Metropolitan hereby agrees that it will indemnify and hold Welco
and each person controlling, controlled by or under common control
with Welco within the meaning of Section 15 of the Act or Section 20
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange
Act"), or the rules and regulations thereunder (individually,  an
"Indemnified Person") harmless from and against any and all loss,
claim, damage, liability, cost or expense whatsoever to which such
Indemnified Person may become subject under the Act, the Exchange
Act, or other federal or state statutory law or regulation, at common
law or otherwise, arising out of, based upon, or in any way related
or attributed to (i) this Agreement, (ii) any untrue statement or
alleged  untrue  statement of a material fact  contained  in  the
Registration Statement or Prospectus or any other filing, report,
document, release or communication, whether oral or written, referred
to in paragraph 5 hereof or the omission or alleged omission to state
therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to
make the statements therein not misleading, (iii) any application or
other  document  executed by Metropolitan or based  upon  written
information furnished by Metropolitan filed in any jurisdiction in
order to qualify the Debentures under the securities or Blue Sky laws
thereof,  or the omission or alleged omission to state therein  a
material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
statements  therein not misleading, or (iv)  the  breach  of  any
representation or warranty made by Metropolitan in this Agreement.
Metropolitan further agrees that upon demand by an Indemnified Person
at any time or from time to time, it will promptly reimburse such
Indemnified Person for, or pay, any loss, claim, damage, liability,
cost or expense as to which Metropolitan has indemnified such person
pursuant hereto.  Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this
paragraph 7, any such payment or reimbursement by Metropolitan of
fees, expenses or disbursement incurred by an Indemnified Person in
any  proceeding in which a final judgment by a court of competent
jurisdiction (after all appeals or the expiration of time to appeal)
is entered against such Indemnified Person as a direct result of such
person's  negligence, bad faith or willful  misfeasance  will  be
promptly repaid to Metropolitan.  In addition, anything  in  this
paragraph 7 to the contrary notwithstanding, Metropolitan shall not
be liable for any settlement of any action or proceeding effected
without its written consent.

<PAGE>                        Page 171

        (b) Promptly after receipt by an Indemnified Person under
paragraph (a) above of notice of the commencement of any action, such
Indemnified Person will, if a claim in respect thereof is to be made
against Metropolitan under paragraph (a), notify Metropolitan  in
writing of the commencement thereof; but the omission to so notify
Metropolitan will not relieve Metropolitan from any liability which
it  may have to any Indemnified Person otherwise than under  this
paragraph 7 if such omission shall not have materially prejudiced
Metropolitan's ability to investigate or to defend  against  such
claim.  In case any such action is brought against any Indemnified
Person, and such Indemnified Person notifies Metropolitan of  the
commencement thereof, Metropolitan will be entitled to participate
therein  and,  to the extent that it may elect by written  notice
delivered to the Indemnified Person promptly after receiving  the
aforesaid notice from such Indemnified Person, to assume the defense
thereof  with counsel reasonably satisfactory to such Indemnified
Person; provided, however, that if the defendants in any such action
include  both  the  Indemnified Person and  Metropolitan  or  any
corporation controlling, controlled by or under common control with
Metropolitan, or any director, officer, employee, representative or
agent  of  any  thereof,  or  any  other  "Qualified  Independent
Underwriter" retained by Metropolitan in connection with the Offering
and the Indemnified Person shall have reasonably concluded that there
may be legal defenses available to it which are different from or
additional  to  those  available to  such  other  defendant,  the
Indemnified Person shall have the right to select separate counsel to
represent it.  Upon receipt of notice from Metropolitan  to  such
Indemnified Person of its election so to assume the defense of such
action  and  approval  by  the  Indemnified  Person  of  counsel,
Metropolitan will not be liable to such Indemnified Person under this
paragraph 7 for any fees of counsel subsequently incurred by such
Indemnified Person in connection with the defense thereof (other than
the reasonable costs of investigation subsequently incurred by such
Indemnified Person) unless (i) the Indemnified Person shall  have
employed separate counsel in accordance with the provision of the
next  preceding  sentence  (it being  understood,  however,  that
Metropolitan shall not be liable for the expenses of more than one
separate counsel in any one jurisdiction representing the Indemnified
Person, which counsel shall be approved by Welco), (ii) Metropolitan,
within a reasonable time after notice of commencement of the action,
shall  not have employed counsel reasonably satisfactory  to  the
Indemnified Person to represent the Indemnified Person, or  (iii)
Metropolitan  shall have authorized in writing the employment  of
counsel for the Indemnified Person at the expense of Metropolitan,
and except that, if clause (i) or (iii) is applicable, such liability
shall be only in respect of the counsel referred to in such clause
(i) or (iii).

<PAGE>                        Page 172

        (c)  In order to provide for just and equitable contribution
in  circumstances in which the indemnification  provided  for  in
paragraph 7 is due in accordance with its terms but is for any reason
held  by a court to be unavailable from Metropolitan to Welco  on
grounds  of  policy or otherwise, Metropolitan  and  Welco  shall
contribute to the aggregate losses, claims, damages and liabilities
(including legal or other expenses reasonably incurred in connection
with investigating or defending same) to which Metropolitan and Welco
may be subject in such proportion so that Welco is responsible for
that portion represented by the percentage that its fee under this
Agreement bears to the public offering price appearing on the cover
page  of  the Prospectus and Metropolitan is responsible for  the
balance, except as Metropolitan may otherwise agree to reallocate a
portion of such liability with respect to such balance with any other
person,  including,  without  limitation,  any  other  "Qualified
Independent Underwriter"; provided, however, that (i) in no  case
shall Welco be responsible for any amount in excess of the fee set
forth in paragraph 4 above and (ii) no person guilty of fraudulent
misrepresentation within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the  Act
shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty
of such fraudulent misrepresentation.  For purposes of this paragraph
(c), any person controlling, controlled by or under common control
with   Welco,  or  any  partner,  director,  officer,   employee,
representative or any agent of any thereof, shall have  the  same
rights  to  contribution as Welco and each  person  who  controls
Metropolitan within the meaning of Section 15 of the Act or Section
20 of the Exchange Act, each officer of Metropolitan who shall have
signed the Registration Statement and each director of Metropolitan
shall have the same rights to contribution as Metropolitan, subject
in each case to clause (i) of this paragraph (c).  Any party entitled
to  contribution  will,  promptly  after  receipt  of  notice  of
commencement of any action, suit or proceeding against such party in
respect of which a claim for contribution may be made against the
other party under this paragraph (c), notify such party from whom
contribution may be sought, but the omission to so notify such party
shall not relieve the party from whom contribution may be sought from
any other obligation it or they may have hereunder or otherwise than
under this paragraph (c).  The indemnity and contribution agreements
contained in this paragraph 7 shall remain operative and in  full
force and effect regardless of any investigation made by or on behalf
of any Indemnified Person or termination of this Agreement.
     8. AUTHORIZATION BY METROPOLITAN.  Metropolitan represents and
warrants  to  Welco that this Agreement has been duly authorized,
executed and delivered by Metropolitan and constitutes a valid and
binding obligation of Metropolitan.

<PAGE>                        Page 173

     9. AUTHORIZATION BY MIS.  MIS represents and warrants to Welco
that this Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and delivered
by MIS and constitutes a valid and binding obligation of MIS.
     10. AUTHORIZATION BY WELCO.  Welco represents and warrants to
Metropolitan that this Agreement has been duly authorized, executed
and delivered by Welco and constitutes a valid and binding obligation
of Welco.
     11. NOTICE.  Whenever notice is required to be given pursuant to
this Agreement, such notice shall be in writing and shall be mailed
by first class mail, postage prepaid, addressed (a) if to Welco, at
P.O.  Box  688,  One Belmont Avenue, Suite 105, Bala  Cynwyd,  PA
19004-3207,  Attention:   Kenneth  S.  Shapiro,  and  (b)  if  to
Metropolitan, at West 917 Sprague Avenue, Spokane, Washington 99204,
Attention: C. Paul Sandifur, Jr.
     12. GOVERNING LAW.  This Agreement shall be construed (both as
to  validity and performance) and enforced in accordance with and
governed  by  the laws of the State of Washington  applicable  to
agreements made and to be performed wholly within such jurisdiction.
      IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been executed by the
parties hereto as of the day and year first above mentioned.

               METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.



               By:__________________________________________
                  C. Paul Sandifur, Jr., President



               By:__________________________________________
                  Reuel Swanson, Secretary

               METROPOLITAN INVESTMENT SECURITIES, INC.



               By:__________________________________________
                  C. Paul Sandifur, Jr., President




               By:__________________________________________
                  Reuel Swanson, Secretary

               WELCO SECURITIES, INC

<PAGE>                        Page 174


               By:________________________________________
                  Kenneth S. Shapiro, President
                                
<PAGE>                        Page 175
                                
                           SCHEDULE A

      The  opinion  of  Welco is conditioned upon  Metropolitan's
undertaking  to maintain the distribution rate of  the  Preferred
Stock in accordance with the formula set forth below:

       Notwithstanding  anything  to  the  contrary  herein   the
Applicable Rate for any monthly distribution period shall not, in
any  event,  be less than 6% or greater than 14% per annum.   The
Board  of  Directors  may,  however,  by  resolution,  authorized
distributions  in excess of the Applicable Rate.  The  Applicable
Rate for any monthly distribution period shall be the highest  of
the  Treasury Bill Rate, the Ten Year Constant Maturity Rate  and
the  Twenty  Year  Constant Maturity Rate  (each  as  hereinafter
defined)  plus one half of one percentage point for such dividend
period.   In the event that the Company determines in good  faith
that  for  any  reason  one  or more  of  such  rates  cannot  be
determined for any distribution period, then the Applicable  Rate
for  such  period shall be the higher of whichever of such  rates
can be so determined.
                                
<PAGE>                        Page 176
                                
                            Exhibit B
                                
                    VARIABLE RATE, CUMULATIVE
                                
    PREFERRED STOCK, SERIES E-2, E-3, E-4, E-5, E-6, and E-7
                             PRICING




For Distributions Payable
 On:________________________________________

Distributions                                              Record
Date:________________________________________

                                                       Applicable
Effective
                 Date   Date     Average       Rate      Rate*



3 Mo. Treasury Bill   ________________________           +.5%      +1%

10 Yr Constant Rate   ________________________           +.5%      +1%

20 Year               ________________________           +.5%      +1%


            HIGHEST APPLICABLE RATE:____________________________
            MONTHLY DISTRIBUTION PER SHARE:_____________________

As  resolved  by  the  Board of Directors, distribution  will  be
deemed declared on the 1st day of each month, payable on the 20th
of each month to the holders of record on the 5th of each month.

*  Includes any distribution authorized by the Board in excess of
the Applicable Rate.


_______________________________________________________
            Authorized Signature




                                
                                
      STATEMENT OF RIGHTS, DESIGNATIONS AND PREFERENCES OF
            VARIABLE RATE CUMULATIVE PREFERRED STOCK,
              SERIES E-7 PURSUANT TO RCW 23B.06.020
                                

1.    Name  of  corporation:  Metropolitan Mortgage &  Securities
Co., Inc..

2.    Copy  of  resolution establishing and designating  Variable
Rate  of  Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series E-7, and determining
the relative rights and preferences thereof:  Attached hereto.

3.    The  undersigned  does  hereby certify  that  the  attached
resolution  was  duly adopted by the Board of  Directors  of  the
corporation on April 28, 1997.


                                   /S/ Reuel Swanson
                                   _________________________
                                   Reuel Swanson, Secretary


                                
<PAGE>                        Page 178
                                
          METROPOLITAN MORTGAGE & SECURITIES CO., INC.
        PREFERRED STOCK SERIES E-7 AUTHORIZING RESOLUTION

   Resolved, that pursuant to the authority expressly granted and
vested   in  the  Board  of  Directors  (the  "Board")  of   this
Corporation by its Articles of Incorporation, as amended, a  sub-
series of Preferred Stock, Series E of the Corporation be, and is
hereby, established which will consist of 250,000 shares  of  the
par  value  of $10.00 per share ($2,500,000), shall be designated
"Variable Rate Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series E-7" (hereafter
called "Preferred Stock"), shall be offered at $100.00 per  share
and  which  shall  have rights, preferences,  qualifications  and
restrictions as follows:

  1.   DIVIDENDS.

       a)  Dividends (or other distributions deemed dividends for
purposes of this resolution) on the issued and outstanding shares
of  Preferred  Stock  shall be declared and  paid  monthly  at  a
percentage  rate  per  annum  of the  liquidation  preference  of
$100.00  per share equal to the "Applicable Rate," as hereinafter
defined, or such greater rate as may be determined by the  Board.
Notwithstanding  the  foregoing,  the  Applicable  Rate  for  any
monthly dividend period shall, in no event, be less than  6%  per
annum  or  greater than 14% per annum.  Such dividends  shall  be
cumulative  from  the date of original issue of such  shares  and
shall  be  payable, when and as declared by the  Board,  on  such
dates  as  the Board deems advisable, but at least once  a  year,
commencing May 1, 1997.  Each such dividend shall be paid to  the
holders of record of shares of Preferred Stock as they appear  on
the  stock  register of the Corporation on such  record  date  as
shall  be  fixed  by  the Board in advance of  the  payment  date
thereof.   Dividends on account of arrears for any past  Dividend
Periods  may be declared and paid at any time, without  reference
to  any  regular dividend payment date, to holders of  record  on
such  date  as  shall be fixed by the Board  in  advance  of  the
payment date thereof.

        b)   Except  as  provided  below  in  this  section,  the
Applicable  Rate  for any monthly dividend period  shall  be  the
highest of the Treasury Bill Rate, the Ten Year Constant Maturity
Rate  and the Twenty Year Constant Maturity Rate (each as defined
in  Exhibit  A  attached  hereto and  incorporated  by  reference
herein) plus one half of one percentage point. In the event  that
the  Board  determines in good faith that for any reason  one  or
more  of such rates cannot be determined for any dividend period,
than  the Applicable Rate for such dividend period shall  be  the
higher of
<PAGE>                        Page 179

whichever of such rates can be so determined.  In the event  that
the Board determines in good faith that none of such rates can be
determined for any dividend period, then the Applicable  Rate  in
effect  for the preceding dividend period shall be continued  for
such  dividend  period.  The Treasury Bill  Rate,  the  Ten  Year
Constant Maturity Rate and the Twenty Year Constant Maturity Rate
shall  each  be  rounded  to the nearest  five  hundredths  of  a
percentage point.

        c)   No  dividend shall be paid upon, or declared or  set
apart  for, any share of Preferred Stock for any Dividend  Period
unless at the same time a like dividend shall be paid upon, or be
declared  and set apart for, all shares of Preferred  Stock  then
issued  and  outstanding and all shares of all  other  series  of
preferred  stock  then  issued and outstanding  and  entitled  to
receive  dividends.   Holders of Preferred  Stock  shall  not  be
entitled  to  any dividend, whether payable in cash, property  or
stock, in excess of full cumulative dividends as herein provided.
No  interest,  or  sum  of money in lieu of  interest,  shall  be
payable in respect of any dividend payment or payments which  may
be in arrears on Preferred Stock.

        d)   Dividends  payable  for each full  monthly  Dividend
Period shall be computed by dividing the Applicable Rate for such
monthly  Dividend Period by twelve and applying such rate against
the liquidation preference of $100.00 per share.  Dividends shall
be  rounded to the nearest whole cent.  Dividends payable for any
period less than a full monthly Dividend Period shall be computed
on the basis of 30 day months and a 360 day year.  The Applicable
Rate  with  respect  to  each monthly Dividend  Period  shall  be
calculated   as  promptly  as  practicable  by  the   Corporation
according  to  the method provided herein.  The Corporation  will
cause  notice  of  such Applicable Rate to be enclosed  with  the
dividend  payment check next mailed to the holders of  shares  of
Preferred Stock.

        e)   So  long  as  any  shares  of  Preferred  Stock  are
outstanding,  (i)  no dividend (other than a dividend  in  common
stock or in any other stock ranking junior to Preferred Stock  as
to  dividends and upon liquidation and other than as provided  in
the  foregoing  section 1(c)) shall be declared or  paid  or  set
aside  for payment; (ii) no other distribution shall be  declared
or  made upon common stock or upon any other stock ranking junior
to  or  on a parity with Preferred Stock as to dividends or  upon
liquidation; and (iii) no common stock or any other stock of  the
Corporation ranking junior to or on a parity with Preferred Stock
as  to dividends or upon liquidation shall be redeemed, purchased
or  otherwise  acquired by the Corporation for any  consideration
(or
<PAGE>                        Page 180

any  monies paid to or made available for a sinking fund for  the
redemption  of any shares of any such stock) except by conversion
into  or exchange for stock of the Corporation ranking junior  to
Preferred  Stock as to dividends and upon liquidation unless,  in
each  case,  the  full cumulative dividends  on  all  outstanding
shares  of  Preferred Stock shall have been paid or declared  and
set apart for all past dividend payment periods.

        f)   The holders of Preferred Stock shall be entitled  to
receive,   when   and   as  declared  by  the   Board,   dividend
distributions  out  of  the  funds  of  the  Corporation  legally
available therefor.  Any distribution made which may be deemed to
have  been  made  out of the capital surplus of  Preferred  Stock
shall not reduce either the redemption process or the liquidation
rights as hereafter specified.

  2.   REDEMPTION.

        a)  The Corporation, at its option, may redeem shares  of
Preferred Stock, in whole or in part, at any time or from time to
time,  at redemption prices hereafter set forth plus accrued  and
unpaid dividends to the date fixed for redemption.

             i)   In the event of a redemption of shares pursuant
to this subsection prior to January 1, 1997, the redemption price
shall  be  $102.00 per share; and the redemption price  shall  be
$100.00  per  share  in  the  event of redemption  anytime  after
December 31, 1996.

             ii)   In  the  event  that fewer  than  all  of  the
outstanding  shares of Preferred Stock are to  be  redeemed,  the
number  of  shares  to  be redeemed shall be  determined  by  the
Corporation and the shares to be redeemed shall be determined  by
lot, or pro rata, or by any other method, as may be determined by
the Corporation in its sole discretion to be equitable.

             iii)  In the event that the Corporation shall redeem
shares  hereunder, notice of such redemption shall  be  given  by
first  class mail, postage prepaid, mailed not less than 30  days
or  more than 60 days prior to he redemption date, to each holder
of  record of the shares to be redeemed, at such holder's address
as  it  appears  on the stock register of the Corporation.   Each
such  notice  shall  state:  (i) the redemption  date;  (ii)  the
number  of  shares to be redeemed and, if fewer than  all  shares
held by such holder are to be redeemed, the number of such shares
to be redeemed from such holder; (iii) the redemption price; (iv)
the place or places where certificates for such shares are to be
<PAGE>                        Page 181

surrendered  for payment of the redemption price;  and  (v)  that
dividends  on the shares to be redeemed will cease to  accrue  on
such redemption date.

            iv)  Notice having been mailed as aforesaid, from and
after  the redemption date (unless default shall be made  by  the
Corporation in providing money for the payment of the  redemption
price), dividends on the shares so called for redemption shall no
longer be deemed to be outstanding, and all rights of the holders
thereof  as stockholders of the Corporation (except the right  to
receive  from the Corporation the redemption price) shall  cease.
Upon surrender in accordance with said notice of the certificates
representing  shares redeemed (properly endorsed or assigned  for
transfer, if the Board shall so require and the notice  shall  so
state), such shares shall be redeemed by the Corporation  at  the
redemption price aforesaid.  In case fewer than all of the shares
represented  by  any  such  certificate  are  redeemed,   a   new
certificate  shall  be issued representing the unredeemed  shares
without cost to the holder thereof.

        b)   Discretionary Redemption Upon Request of the Holder:
The shares of Preferred Stock are not redeemable at the option of
the holder.  If, however, the Corporation receives an unsolicited
written  request  for redemption of shares from any  holder,  the
Corporation  may,  in  its sole discretion  and  subject  to  the
limitations  described below, accept such shares for  redemption.
Any  shares so tendered, which the Corporation in its discretion,
allows  for  redemption,  shall be redeemed  by  the  Corporation
directly, and not from or through a broker or dealer, at a  price
established by time to time by the Board of Directors in its sole
discretion, plus any accrued but unpaid dividends to date.

   For  a period of three years from the date of initial sale  of
each  share  of Preferred Stock, any such optional redemption  of
such  share  shall  occur only upon the death  or  major  medical
emergency  of  the  holder  or any  joint  holder  of  the  share
requested to be redeemed.  Any optional redemption of a share  in
any  calendar year after the third year from the date of sale  of
the share, not arising from the death or medical emergency of the
holder  or any joint holder shall occur only when the sum of  all
optional redemptions (including those arising out of the death or
medical emergency of the holder or any joint holder) of shares of
Preferred Stock during that calendar year shall not exceed 10% of
the number of shares of Preferred Stock outstanding at the end of
the  preceding  calendar year.  In the event  the  10%  limit  is
reached  in  any  calendar year, the only  redemption  which  may
thereafter occur during that calendar year shall be those arising
<PAGE>                        Page 182

from  the  death or medical emergency of the holder or any  joint
holder; provided, however, that to the extent that total optional
redemptions in any calendar year do not reach the 10% limit,  the
amount by which such optional redemptions shall fall short of the
10%  limit  may be carried over into ensuing years; and  provided
further that to the extent that all redemptions, including  those
involving  the  death or medical emergency of the holder  or  any
joint  holder,  exceed the 10% in any year, the amount  by  which
such  redemptions exceed the 10% limit shall reduce the limit  in
the  succeeding year for limiting redemptions not  involving  the
death  or medical emergency of a holder or any joint holder.   In
no event shall such optional redemptions of all types in a single
calendar  year  exceed 20% of the number of shares  of  Preferred
Stock outstanding at the end of the preceding calendar year.

   The  Corporation may not redeem any such shares  tendered  for
redemption if to do so would be unsafe or unsound in light of the
Corporation's   financial  condition  (including  its   liquidity
position); if payment of interest or principal on any outstanding
instrument  of  indebtedness is in arrears or in default;  or  if
payment of any dividend on Preferred Stock or share of any  stock
of  the  Company  ranking at least on a parity  therewith  is  in
arrears as to dividends.

        c)  Any shares of Preferred Stock which shall at any time
have  been redeemed shall, after such redemption, have the status
of  authorized  but unissued shares of Preferred  Stock,  without
designation as to series until such shares are designated as part
of a particular series by the Board.

        d)   Notwithstanding  the foregoing  provisions  of  this
Section 2, if any dividends on Preferred Stock are in arrears, no
shares   of   Preferred  Stock  shall  be  redeemed  unless   all
outstanding   shares   of  Preferred  Stock  are   simultaneously
redeemed,  and  the Corporation shall not purchase  or  otherwise
acquire  any  shares of Preferred Stock; provided, however,  that
the  foregoing  shall not prevent the purchase or acquisition  of
shares  of  Preferred  Stock pursuant to a purchase  or  exchange
offer made on the same terms to holders of all of the outstanding
shares of Preferred Stock.

   3.    CONVERSION  OR  EXCHANGE.   The  holders  of  shares  of
Preferred Stock  shall not have any rights to convert such shares
into  or  exchange such shares for shares of any other  class  or
series of any class of securities of the Corporation.

   4.   VOTING.  Except as required from time to time by law, the
shares of Preferred Stock shall have no voting powers.  Provided,
<PAGE>                        Page 183

however,  not  withstanding the foregoing, that whenever  and  as
often as dividends payable on any shares of Preferred Stock shall
be  in  arrears  in an amount equal to twenty four  full  monthly
dividends  or  more  per share, the holders of  Preferred  Stock,
together with the holders of Preferred Stock, Series C, D, E-1, E-
2,  E-3,  E-4, E-5 & E-6 and any other preferred stock  hereafter
authorized,  voting  separately and as a single  class  shall  be
entitled  to  elect a majority of the Board of Directors  of  the
Corporation.   Such right shall continue until all  dividends  in
arrears on preferred stock have been paid in full.


  5.   LIQUIDATION RIGHTS.

       a)  Upon the dissolution, liquidation or winding up of the
Corporation, the holders of the shares of Preferred  Stock  shall
be  entitled  to  receive out of the assets of  the  Corporation,
before  any  payment or distribution shall be made on the  Common
Stock, or on any other class of stock ranking junior to Preferred
Stock, upon liquidation, the amount of $100.00 per share, plus  a
sum equal to all dividends (whether or not earned or declared) on
such  shares  accrued and unpaid thereon to  the  date  of  final
distribution.

        b)   Neither  the  sale, lease or conveyance  of  all  or
substantially  all the property or business of  the  Corporation,
nor  the merger or consolidation of the Corporation into or  with
any other corporation or the merger or consolidation of any other
corporation into or with the Corporation, shall be deemed to be a
dissolution, liquidation or winding up, voluntary or involuntary,
for the purposes of this Section.

        c)   After  the payment to the holders of the  shares  of
Preferred Stock of the full preferential amounts provided for  in
this  Section, the holders of Preferred Stock as such shall  have
no  right  or  claim  to  any  of the  remaining  assets  of  the
Corporation.

        d)   In the event the assets of the Corporation available
for distribution to the holders of shares of Preferred Stock upon
any  dissolution,  liquidation or winding up of the  Corporation,
whether voluntary or involuntary, shall be insufficient to pay in
full  all amounts to which such holders are entitled pursuant  to
this  Section, no such distribution shall be made on  account  of
any  shares or any other series of Preferred Stock or  any  other
class  of  stock ranking on a parity with the shares of Preferred
Stock  upon  such dissolution, liquidation or winding up,  unless
proportionate  distributive amounts shall be paid on  account  of
the
<PAGE>                        Page 184

shares  of Preferred Stock, ratably in accordance with  the  sums
which  would be payable in such distribution if all sums  payable
in respect of the shares of all series of Preferred Stock and any
such other class of stock as aforesaid were discharged in full.

  6.   PRIORITIES.  For purposes of this Resolution, any stock of
any class or classes of the Corporation shall be deemed to rank:

        a)  Prior to the shares of Preferred Stock, either as  to
dividends  or  upon liquidation if the holders of such  class  or
classes  shall  be  entitled to the receipt of  dividends  or  of
amounts distributable upon dissolution, liquidation or winding up
of the Corporation, as the case may be, in preference or priority
to the holders of shares of Preferred Stock.

        b)  On a parity with shares of Preferred Stock, either as
to  dividends  or upon liquidation, whether or not  the  dividend
rates, dividend payment dates or redemption or liquidation prices
per  share or sinking fund provisions, if any, are different from
those  of  Preferred Stock, if the holder of such stock shall  be
entitled  to the receipt of dividends or of amounts distributable
upon  dissolution, liquidation or winding up of the  Corporation,
as  the  case may be, in proportion to their respective  dividend
rates or liquidation prices, without preference or priority,  one
over  the  other,  as between the holder of such  stock  and  the
holders of Preferred Stock; and

        c)   Junior  to shares of Preferred Stock, either  as  to
dividends  or  upon  liquidation, if the  holders  of  shares  of
Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receipt of dividends  or  of
amounts distributable upon dissolution, liquidation or winding up
of the Corporation, as the case may be, in preference or priority
to the holders of shares of such class or classes.

   7.    SHARES NON-ASSESSABLE.  Any and all shares of  Preferred
Stock issued, and for which the full consideration has been  paid
or  delivered, shall be deemed fully paid stock and the holder of
such  shares  shall  not  be  liable  for  any  further  call  or
assessment or any other payment thereon.

  8.   PRE-EMPTIVE RIGHTS.  Holders of Preferred Stock shall have
no  pre-emptive rights to acquire additional shares of  Preferred
Stock.

<PAGE>                        Page 185


                            EXHIBIT A


  Treasury Bill Rate

   Except as provided below in this paragraph, the "Treasury Bill
Rate" for each dividend period will be the arithmetic average  of
the  two  most recent weekly per annum market discount rates  (or
the  one weekly per annum market discount rate, if only one  such
rate  shall be published during the relevant Calendar Period  (as
defined below)) for three-month U.S. Treasury bills, as published
weekly  by  the Federal Reserve Board during the Calendar  Period
immediately prior to the ten calendar days immediately  preceding
the  first day of the dividend period for which the dividend rate
on Preferred Stock Series E-7, is being determined.  In the event
that the Federal Reserve Board does not publish such a weekly per
annum market discount rate during any such Calendar Period,  then
the  Treasury Bill Rate for the related dividend period shall  be
the  arithmetic average of the two most recent weekly  per  annum
market  discount  rates  (or  the one  weekly  per  annum  market
discount  rate,  if only one such rate shall be published  during
the  relevant  Calendar  Period) for  three-month  U.S.  Treasury
bills,  as  published weekly during such Calendar Period  by  any
Federal  Reserve  Bank  or by any U.S. Government  department  or
agency  selected by the Company.  In the event that a  per  annum
market discount rate for three-month U.S Treasury bills shall not
be  published  by  the Federal Reserve Board or  by  any  Federal
Reserve  Bank  or  by  any U.S. Government department  or  agency
during such Calendar Period, then the Treasury Bill Rate for such
dividend  period shall be the arithmetic average of the two  most
recent  weekly per annum market discount rates (or the one weekly
per  annum market discount rate, if only one such rate  shall  be
published  during the relevant Calendar Period) for  all  of  the
U.S.  Treasury bills then having maturities of not less  than  80
nor  more than 100 days, as published during such Calendar Period
by  the  Federal Reserve Board or, if the Federal  Reserve  Board
shall  not publish such rates, by any Federal Reserve Bank or  by
any U.S. Government department or agency selected by the Company.
In  the event that the Company determines in good faith that  for
any  reason  no  such U.S. Treasury bill rates are  published  as
provided  above  during such Calendar Period, then  the  Treasury
Bill  Rate  for  such  dividend period shall  be  the  arithmetic
average  of the per annum market discount rates based  upon  bids
during  such Calendar Period for each of the issues of marketable
non-interest bearing U.S. Treasury securities with a maturity  of
not less than 80 nor more than 100 days from the date
<PAGE>                        Page 186

of  each such quotation, as quoted daily for each business day in
New  York City (or less frequently if daily quotations shall  not
be  generally  available)  to  the  Company  by  at  least  three
recognized primary U.S. Government securities dealers selected by
the  Company.  In the event that the Company determines  in  good
faith  that  for  any  reason the Company  cannot  determine  the
Treasury  Bill Rate for any dividend period as provided above  in
this  paragraph, the Treasury Bill Rate for such dividend  period
shall  be the arithmetic average of the per annum market discount
rates based upon the closing bids during such Calendar Period for
each  of  the issues of marketable interest-bearing U.S. Treasury
securities with a maturity of not less than 80 nor more than  100
days  from  the date of each such quotation, as quoted daily  for
each  business day in New York City (or less frequently if  daily
quotations shall not be generally available) to the Company by at
least three recognized primary U.S. Government securities dealers
selected by the Company.

  Ten Year Constant Maturity Rate

   Except  as  provided below in this paragraph,  the  "Ten  Year
Constant   Maturity Rate" for each dividend period shall  be  the
arithmetic  average of the two most recent weekly per  annum  Ten
Year Average Yields (or the one weekly per annum Ten Year Average
Yield,  if  only  one  such Yield shall be published  during  the
relevant  Calendar Period as provided below, as published  weekly
by   the   Federal  Reserve  Board  during  the  Calendar  Period
immediately prior to the ten calendar days immediately  preceding
the  first day of the dividend period for which the dividend rate
on Preferred Stock, Series E-7 is being determined.  In the event
that the Federal Reserve Board does not publish such a weekly per
annum  Ten  Year Average Yield during such Calendar Period,  then
the  Ten  Year  Constant Maturity Rate for such  dividend  period
shall be the arithmetic average of the two most recent weekly per
annum  Ten  Year Average Yields (or the one weekly per annum  Ten
Year  Average  Yield, if only one such Yield shall  be  published
during  such  Calendar Period), as published weekly  during  such
Calendar  Period  by  any Federal Reserve Bank  or  by  any  U.S.
Government department or agency selected by the Company.  In  the
event  that  a  per  annum Ten Year Average Yield  shall  not  be
published by the Federal Reserve Board or by any Federal  Reserve
Bank  or by any U.S. Government department or agency during  such
Calendar  Period,  then the Ten Year Constant Maturity  Rate  for
such  dividend period shall be the arithmetic average of the  two
most  recent weekly per annum average yields to maturity (or  the
one  weekly  average yield to maturity, if only  one  such  yield
shall  be published during the relevant Calendar Period) for  all
of the actively traded
<PAGE>                        Page 187

marketable  U.S.  Treasury fixed interest rate securities  (other
than   Special  Securities  (as  defined  below))   then   having
maturities of not less tan eight nor more than twelve  years,  as
published  during  such Calendar Period by  the  Federal  Reserve
Board  or,  if  the Federal Reserve Board shall not publish  such
yields,  by  any  Federal Reserve Bank o by any  U.S.  Government
department or agency selected by the Company.  In the event  that
the  Company  determines in good faith that for  any  reason  the
Company cannot determine the Ten Year Constant Maturity Rate  for
any dividend period as provided above in this paragraph, then the
Ten Year Constant Maturity Rate for such dividend period shall be
the  arithmetic  average  of  the per  annum  average  yields  to
maturity based upon the closing bids during such Calendar  Period
for  each  of  the  issues  of actively  traded  marketable  U.S.
Treasury  fixed  interest  rate securities  (other  than  Special
Securities)  with a final maturity date not less than  eight  nor
more  than twelve years from the date of each such quotation,  as
quoted  daily  for each business day in New York  City  (or  less
frequently  if daily quotations shall not be generally available)
to  the  Company  by  at  least  three  recognized  primary  U.S.
Government securities dealers selected by the Company.

  Twenty Year Constant Maturity Rate

   Except  as provided below in this paragraph, the "Twenty  Year
Constant  Maturity Rate" for each dividend period  shall  be  the
arithmetic average of the two most recent weekly per annum Twenty
Year  Average  Yields (or the one weekly per  annum  Twenty  year
Average  Yield, if only one such Yield shall be published  during
the relevant Calendar Period), as published weekly by the Federal
Reserve Board during the Calendar Period immediately prior to the
ten  calendar  days immediately preceding the first  day  of  the
dividend  period for which the dividend rate on Preferred  Stock,
Series  E-7  is being determined. In the event that  the  Federal
Reserve  Board  does not publish such a weekly per  annum  Twenty
Year  Average Yield during such Calendar Period, then the  Twenty
Year Constant Maturity Rate for such dividend period shall be the
arithmetic average of the two most recent weekly per annum Twenty
Year  Average  Yields (or the one weekly per  annum  Twenty  Year
Average  Yield, if only one such Yield shall be published  during
such  Calendar Period), as published weekly during such  Calendar
Period  by  any  Federal Reserve Bank or by any  U.S.  Government
department or agency selected by the Company.  In the event  that
a  per annum Twenty Year Average Yield shall not be published  by
the  Federal Reserve Board or by any Federal Reserve Bank  or  by
any  U.S.  Government department or agency during  such  Calendar
Period,  then  the Twenty Year Constant Maturity  Rate  for  such
dividend
<PAGE>                        Page 188

period  shall  be the arithmetic average of the two  most  recent
weekly  per  annum average yields to maturity (or the one  weekly
average  yield  to  maturity, if only one  such  yield  shall  be
published  during such Calendar Period) for all of  the  actively
traded  marketable U.S. Treasury fixed interest  rate  securities
(other  than  Special Securities) then having maturities  of  not
less  than  eighteen nor more than twenty-two years, as published
during  such Calendar Period by the Federal Reserve Board or,  if
the  Federal Reserve Board shall not publish such yields, by  any
Federal  Reserve  Bank  or by any U.S. Government  department  or
agency  selected by the Company.  In the event that  the  Company
determines  in good faith that for any reason the Company  cannot
determine the Twenty Year Constant Maturity Rate for any dividend
period as provided above in this paragraph, then the Twenty  Year
Constant  Maturity  Rate for such dividend period  shall  be  the
arithmetic  average of the per annum average yields  to  maturity
based upon the closing bids during such Calendar Period for  each
of  the issues of actively traded marketable U.S. Treasury  fixed
interest rate securities (other than Special Securities)  with  a
final  maturity date not less than eighteen nor more than twenty-
two  years from the date of each such quotation, as quoted  daily
for  each  business day in New York City (or less  frequently  if
daily quotations shall not be generally available) to the Company
by  at  least three recognized primary U.S. Government securities
dealers selected by the Company.

  As used herein, the term "Calendar Period" means a period of 14
calendar  days;  the term "Special Securities"  means  securities
which  may, at the option of the holder, be surrendered  at  face
value  in payment of any federal estate tax or which provide  tax
benefits  to  the  holder  and are priced  to  reflect  such  tax
benefits or which were originally issued at a deep or substantial
discount;  the  term "Ten Year Average Yield" means  the  average
yield  to  maturity for actively traded marketable U.S.  Treasury
fixed  interest rate securities (adjusted to constant  maturities
of ten years); and the term "Twenty Year Average Yield" means the
average  yield  to maturity for actively traded  marketable  U.S.
Treasury  fixed  interest rate securities (adjusted  to  constant
maturities of 20 years).
     



                   OPINION OF SUSAN A. THOMSON
                                
                           May 1, 1997
                                
The Directors and Stockholders
Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc.
West 929 Sprague Avenue
Spokane, WA  99204

Gentlemen:

   I  have  acted  as  counsel  to you  in  connection  with  the
proceedings  for  the authorization and issuance of  $100,000,000
principal amount of Investment and Installment Debentures of  the
Company  and  the  preparation of a Registration Statement  (Form
S-2) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, which you have
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission with respect to
the Debentures.    (SEC Registration No.  333-19755).

   I  have examined the Registration Statement referred to  above
and such documents and records of the Company and other documents
as I have deemed necessary for the purpose of this opinion.

   Based  upon the foregoing, I am of the opinion that  upon  the
happening of the following events,

       (a)   due  action by the Board of Directors of the Company
       authorizing  the  issuance  and  sale  of  the  Debentures
       pursuant  to  the Indenture dated as of July 6,  1979,  as
       amended  October  3, 1980 and December 13,  1984,  between
       the   Company   and  First  Trust  National   Association,
       successor Trustee;

       (b)    the   Registration  Statement  referred  to   above
       becoming effective;

       (c)   compliance  with  the terms and  conditions  of  the
       Indenture  with  respect  to the creation,  authentication
       and  delivery of the Debentures, the due execution by  the
       Company and authentication and delivery by the Trustee  of
       the Debentures, and the sale thereof by the Company as
       <PAGE>                        Page 190

contemplated in the Registration Statement and in accordance with
       the    above-mentioned    corporate    and    governmental
       authorizations,

   The  Debentures will constitute in the hands  of  the  holders
thereof valid, binding and legal outstanding obligations  of  the
Company,  in  accordance with their terms, subject to  applicable
bankruptcy and insolvency laws.

  I hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to
the  Registration Statement and to the reference  to  me  in  the
Prospectus under the caption "Legal Opinion."

                                         Sincerely,

                                        /S/ Susan Thomson

                                       Susan A. Thomson
                                           Assistant    Corporate
Counsel


                   OPINION OF SUSAN A. THOMSON
                                
                           May 1, 1997
                                
The Directors and Stockholders
Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc.
West 929 Sprague Avenue
Spokane, WA  99204

Gentlemen:

   I  have acted as counsel to Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities
Co., Inc. (the "Company") in connection with the proceedings  for
the authorization and issuance of 250,000 shares of Variable Rate
Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series E-7 ("Preferred Stock,  Series
E") including the preparation of a Registration Statement (Form S-
2)  under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, which has  been
filed   with  the  Securities  and  Exchange  Commission.    (SEC
Registration No. 333-19755).

   I  have examined the Registration Statement referred to  above
and  such  other documents and records as I have deemed necessary
for the purpose of this opinion.

   Based  upon  the  foregoing,  and  subject  to  the  Board  of
Directors'  adoption of Articles of Amendment  to  the  Company's
Article  of  Incorporation  which incorporate  the  Statement  of
Rights,  Designation and Preferences of variable Rate  Cumulative
Preferred  Stock,  Series E-7, and the filing of  same  with  the
Secretary of State of the State of Washington in accordance  with
RCW 23B.06.020, I am of the opinion that:

       (1)  the Preferred Stock, Series E-7 of the Company  which
       is  being  registered, when issued and sold in the  manner
       and    for   the   consideration   contemplated   by   the
       Registration  Statement,  will be  legally  issued,  fully
       paid and non-assessable; and

        (2)in  the  event of dissolution, liquidation or  winding
        up  of  the affairs of the Company, whether voluntary  or
        involuntary, the holders of Preferred Stock, Series E-7
        <PAGE>                        Page 192

will be entitled to receive, on parity with all other issued  and
        outstanding  preferred  stock,  before  any  payment   or
        distribution is made on the Company's Class A or Class  B
        Common  Stock, the amount of ($100.00 per share  plus  an
        amount  equal to all accrued and unpaid dividends thereon
        to the date of distribution or payment; and

        (3)   The  liquidation preference of the preferred  stock
        exceeds   the   par   value  thereof.    There   are   no
        restrictions  upon surplus by reason of such  excess  and
        there  are  no remedies available to security holders  by
        reason  of  such  excess before or after payment  of  any
        dividend  that  would reduce surplus to  an  amount  less
        than  the amount of such excess and which remedies  arise
        by reason of such excess.

        This opinion is furnished pursuant to the requirements of
Item 601(b)(5) of Regulation S-K.

        I  hereby  consent to the filing of this  opinion  as  an
exhibit to the Registration Statement and to the reference to  me
in the Prospectus under the caption "Legal Opinion."



                                         Sincerely,

                                             /S/ Susan Thomson
                                             Susan A. Thomson
                                   Assistant Corporate Counsel


                           CONSENT OF
                                
                     INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS



Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc.
Spokane, Washington

   We   consent to the inclusion in this Pre-Effective  Amendment
No.  1 to Registration Statement on Form S-2 (File No. 333-19755)
of our reports, which include an explanatory paragraph describing
changes in the method of accounting for impaired loans in  fiscal
1996,  dated  December 6, 1996 on our audits of the  consolidated
financial   statements  and  financial  statement  schedules   of
Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc. and subsidiaries.

   We also consent to the reference to our firm under the caption
"Experts".


                    /s/ COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.



                    COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.


Spokane, Washington
April 30, 1997

                        POWER OF ATTORNEY

      KNOW  ALL  MEN  BY THESE PRESENTS, that each  person  whose
signature  appears below constitutes and appoints  Susan  Thomson
and Reuel Swanson and each of them, his true and lawful attorney-
in-fact   and   agent  with  full  power  of   substitution   and
resubstitution for him and in his name, place and stead,  in  any
and  all  capacities,  to sign any and all amendments  (including
post-effective amendments) to this Registration Statement on Form
S-2  and  file  the  same, with all exhibits  thereto  and  other
documents  in  connection  therewith,  with  the  Securities  and
Exchange  Commission,  granting unto  such  attorney-in-fact  and
agents full power and authority to do and perform each and  every
act and thing requisite and necessary to be done in and about the
premises,  to all intents and purposes and as full as they  might
or  could do in person, hereby ratifying and confirming all  that
such  attorneys-in-fact  and agents,  or  their  substitutes  may
lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

      Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1993,
this  registration  statement has been signed  by  the  following
person in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

                Signature                                   Title
Date

/S/ C. Paul Sandifur, Jr.
________________________       President, Chief Executive
C.   Paul  Sandifur,  Jr.           Officer,  Chairman  of  the  Board
January 10, 1997

/S/ Bruce J. Blohowiak
________________________       Executive Vice President, Chief
Bruce    J.    Blohowiak               Operating   Officer,   Director
January 10, 1997

/S/ Steven Crooks
________________________       Vice President
Steven Crooks                (Principal Financial Officer)
January 10, 1997

/S/ Reuel Swanson
________________________            Secretary       and       Director
January 10, 1997
Reuel Swanson

/S/ Irv Marcus
________________________      Director
January 10, 1997
Irv Marcus

/S/ Charles H. Stolz
________________________      Director
January 10, 1997
Charles H. Stolz


         CERTIFICATE OF ADOPTION OF CORPORATE RESOLUTION
                                
     I, Reuel Swanson, hereby certify that I am the Secretary of
Metropolitan Mortgage & Securities Co., Inc.  As such officer I
have custody of the records of meetings of the Board of Directors
of said corporation and I hereby certify that the following
resolution was unanimously adopted by the Board of Directors of
the corporation at the Board meeting held on December 30, 1996. I
further certify that the Power of Attorney referred to in the
resolution is the Power of Attorney attached hereto which grants
a Power of Attorney to Susan Thomson and Reuel Swanson to execute
any and all amendments (including post-effective amendments) to
this Registration Statement on Form S-2 and file the same, with
all exhibits thereto and other documents in connection therewith,
with the Securities and Exchange Commission.


     WHEREAS, each of the Board members has received a copy of
the power of attorney form for his review and approval;

     RESOLVED, the Board hereby authorizes each member of the
Board of Directors of the corporation to execute the power of
attorney.
     
     I further certify that said resolution is still in full
force and effect and is not contrary to any provision of the
charter or bylaws of said corporation.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this certification is executed as of
this 21st day of March, 1997.

                         Reuel Swanson, Secretary
                         _______________________________
                         Reuel Swanson, Secretary
                                
State of Washington )
                    )
County of Spokane   )

Personally appeared before me the above-named, Reuel Swanson,
personally known to me, who, being duly sworn, deposes and says
that he executed the above instrument.

<PAGE>                        Page 196


Subscribed and sworn before me this 21st day of March, 1997.

                         /S/Jill C. Arnold
                              (Notary Public)
                         Residing at Spokane, WA.
                         My Commission Expires 2/26/2000

<PAGE>                        Page 197


WARNING: THE EDGAR SYSTEM ENCOUNTERED ERROR(S) WHILE PROCESSING THIS SCHEDULE.

<TABLE> <S> <C>


<ARTICLE> 5
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   YEAR
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          SEP-30-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               SEP-30-1996
<CASH>                                         167,879
<SECURITIES>                                   164,819
<RECEIVABLES>                                  758,427
<ALLOWANCES>                                    10,193
<INVENTORY>                                          0
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                                    0
<PP&E>                                          17,777
<DEPRECIATION>                                   9,261
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                              1,282,659
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                               0
<BONDS>                                        363,427
<COMMON>                                           293
                               0
                                     21,518
<OTHER-SE>                                     24,532
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>              1,282,659
<SALES>                                              0
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                              156,672
<CGS>                                                0
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                 119,143
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                    0
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                6,360
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                             18,788
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                12,382
<INCOME-TAX>                                         4,236
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             8,038
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                         8,038
<EPS-PRIMARY>                               32,073.00
<EPS-DILUTED>                               32,073.00
        

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