Articles
Creating a manageable holiday shopping budget and sticking to it
The holidays can become outrageously expensive, and with inflation creating tight budgets for so many families, the holidays may be extra stressful this year. It’s import...
Are smart homes a good idea?
Smart home adoption is on the rise. But what exactly is a "smart home" and is it a good idea for most homeowners? We explore the pros and cons to help you decide if a sma...
Is a home equity loan different from a cash-out refinance?
Both a home equity line of credit (HELOC) and cash-out refinance let you tap into the equity in your home, and depending on what you need the money for, one option could ...
5 smart tips on how to buy a car
Buying a car can feel like a bit of a song and dance. It is easy to question whether or not you’re getting a good deal. Check out these top tips to help prepare you for h...
Can you remove PMI without refinancing?
There are a number of ways you can remove PMI without refinancing, such as building equity, waiting out the mortgage term and applying to cancel the insurance.
Do I Have to Put 20% Down on a House?
Do I have to put 20% down on a house? The short answer is no. Some lenders may require this, but it's rare. For some people, 20% down is simply not realistic.
How to fix an error on a credit report
Here's how to fix an error on a credit report. Errors make you look riskier to a lender, so protect your creditworthiness by correcting any mistakes.
Understand the loan-to-value ratio and what it means for a mortgage refinance
The loan-to-value (LTV) ratio for a refinance is determined by the amount borrowed compared to the current market value of the home.
What is home equity and how can it be accessed?
Home equity is a home’s value after subtracting the mortgage from the market value. It can be accessed through a home equity loan, HELOC or cash-out refinance.