Erik Martin

Many older homeowners run into situations where they need extra funds to pay for a major expense. Fortunately, there are a variety of financing options that can help, if they qualify. These include a reverse mortgage or home equity conversion mortgage (HECM), home equity line of credit (HELOC), or a personal loan. The former two capitalize on the fact that homeowners have earned equity in their home.

If you have a low credit score, can you repair your credit with a personal loan? You may be able to use a personal loan to improve your credit score. This article explains how to use a personal loan to fix your credit score.

For disciplined consumers, plastic can be fantastic. A debit card and credit card allow you to make purchases safer and easier without having to carry cash. That begs the question: When should you use a debit card vs credit card?

Using cash for all your transactions isn’t practical or safe. That’s why it’s best to get a bank account with a debit card. Problem is, some people can’t qualify for an account at many banks. And many can’t afford the various fees charged. So what’s the best bank account for you? Probably an entry-level online or mobile bank account.

When you’re a homeowner, burglars aren’t the only crooks you should be concerned about infiltrating your property. An even bigger theft is home title fraud. This occurs when a bad actor alters ownership of your property title or deed by putting their name on it. And it can cost you plenty — both in terms of dollars, the time it takes to resolve it, and damage to your credit.

You don’t have to wait out the remaining term of your mortgage to pay it off.

Instead, you can make accelerated payments on an occasional or regular basis, which could save you big money in interest charges overall. But your best option may not be to prepay your mortgage. Understand the pros and cons; then learn how to crunch the numbers.

If you’re starting, running or expanding a business, what kind of loan is right for you? Sometimes, the best business loan is not a business loan. This article explains the differences between business loans and personal loans, and helps you choose the best financing for your business needs.

You finished your tax return. But unfortunately you owe the IRS and don’t have the money to pay your tax bill. What are your options?

Tiny homes are proving to be increasingly popular among a small contingent of home shoppers today. They are compact and efficient. Plus, they’re affordable and easy to maintain. And you don’t necessarily need to take out a mortgage loan to buy one. Personal loans are often used to finance tiny houses. But first, learn if you’re the right candidate for a tiny home. And determine if a personal loan is the right funding option for your needs.

It’s important to know how to check your credit report, how to get a your credit score. And how to get a free credit report that won’t cost you later.