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Financial Education
How to Get Preapproved for a Mortgage
Getting preapproved for a home loan is an important part of the home buying process. Not sure how to get preapproval for a mortgage? Read on to learn more about pre-approval and what you need to do to get things started. What is a Mortgage Pre-approval? Mortgage pre-approval is an evaluation process done by […]
cmurray5245
Nov 22, 20224 min read
How to Cover Closing Costs
When you buy a home, you’ll have to cover a number of expenses, including your down payment, certain inspection fees, and closing costs. Not sure how to get money for closing costs? Learning more about closing fees will help you prepare for these expenses and get access to the funds you need. What are […]
cmurray5245
Nov 15, 20224 min read
Stay Safe From Check Thieves
Some fraudsters are going “old school” to commit bank fraud While much safer than sending cash, we advise everyone use caution when sending paper checks through the mail. Properly filling out a check offers a layer of protection, however thieves are even finding ways to manipulate completed checks to commit bank fraud. When using paper […]
cmurray5245
Nov 7, 20222 min read
When to Refinance Your Mortgage
If you’ve been thinking about refinancing, it’s likely that you have some questions. It’s natural to wonder things such as how soon can you refinance a mortgage or when should you refinance a mortgage? Oftentimes, homeowners can benefit from refinancing, but it’s important that you understand all the ins and outs of the refinancing […]
cmurray5245
Oct 26, 20225 min read
When to Refinance Your Car Loan
Refinancing Your Car Loan: What to Know It’s normal to have questions about refinancing, especially if you’ve never refinanced a car before. “If I refinance my car, what happens?” you might ask. “Will refinancing save me money?” While refinancing can lead to savings, it also has its costs. Read on to learn when to […]
cmurray5245
Oct 21, 20224 min read
5 Ways to Use the Equity in Your Home
Wondering what you can do with home equity you’ve acquired? We’ve got some good news…you can do a lot! The equity in your home (which is the value of your home exceeding how much you owe) can be tapped into to improve your home, pay down debt, purchase additional real estate, or achieve any other […]
cmurray5245
Oct 19, 20224 min read
5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Credit Card
Answering the question what credit card should I get is a lot easier when you know what to look for. The right card can save you money in interest and annual fees, offer perks like cash back and rewards, and ensure protection so you’re not surprised by (and responsible for!) fraud or unauthorized spending. Before […]
cmurray5245
Oct 12, 20224 min read
5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Checking Account
Choosing a checking account should be a pretty easy task, in theory. If you’re wondering where should I open a checking account, you’re in the right place. There’s more to think about than you might first realize. To learn more about what questions about checking accounts you should be asking, keep reading. We’re breaking down […]
cmurray5245
Oct 7, 20224 min read
5 Tips to Boost Your Credit Score
5 Ways to Boost Your Credit Score in 2022 Improving your credit score can be a game-changer for your financial health and wellbeing. Having good credit can mean lower interest rates on your credit cards, better loan rates, preapproval for new credit and financing options, home and auto loans, and more. And while it might […]
cmurray5245
Oct 5, 20223 min read
Choosing a Debit Card for Teens
At what age can you get a debit card? While at one time most people didn’t get their first debit card until adulthood, today, there are cards specifically designed for minors. If you’re interested in a debit card for your teen or tween, now’s the perfect time to learn more about these cards and how […]
cmurray5245
Sep 30, 20224 min read
10/1 ARM vs 30 Year Fixed
10/1 ARM vs 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Whether you’re buying a home or refinancing, it’s important to understand your primary financing options, including how current interest rates will affect your loan and monthly payments. In many cases, you can choose between a fixed-rate mortgage or an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM). Making the right choice could change […]
cmurray5245
Sep 17, 20225 min read
Credit Union vs Bank
When it comes to financial services, you have choices. Two specific options you can choose from are found in the form of banks and credit unions. Understanding a few things can help you make a more informed, better decision about which is the best route for you to take. Keep reading to learn more […]
cmurray5245
Sep 14, 20224 min read
4 High ROI Home Improvements
When you’re making improvements to your home, you’re not just making your life better in the short term. You’re also making an investment in your future. Ideally, the increase in the value of your home will exceed the cost of the improvement. However, it seldom works out like that. The most efficient home improvements don’t […]
cmurray5245
Jul 5, 20224 min read
Should I Open A Heloc Now?
If you’re looking for a large sum of money to use for a home improvement project, or the economic devastation of COVID-19 has left you in desperate need of cash, consider tapping into your home’s equity. One great way to do this is by opening a home equity line of credit, or a HELOC. Let’s […]
cmurray5245
May 27, 20224 min read
Pending Package Scam Alert
Financial Security: Beware of the New Pending Package Scam! Everyone loves a surprise package, and scammers are taking the excitement out of that experience by using bogus packages as a cover for a nefarious scam that tricks victims into sharing their personal information — and their money. Here’s all you need to know about the […]
cmurray5245
May 27, 20223 min read
APR Vs Interest Rate
What Is The Difference Between APR and Interest Rate? When comparing long-term loans, the interest rate and the annual percentage rate (APR) are often confused. While the interest rate refers to the annual interest expense of the loan, the APR reflects the annual cost of borrowing money from the lender. Clear as mud? Don’t worry; […]
cmurray5245
May 27, 20223 min read
Holiday Budgeting Tips
Nothing is more heartwarming than seeing your loved ones’ faces light up when they open that perfect gift you (or Santa) gave them. The holidays will look different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which is why most people will try even more challenging to make the season brighter for others. But, you don’t […]
cmurray5245
May 24, 20223 min read
Financial Tips For Single Parents
Smart money management is always important, but it can take on more urgency for those who are without a partner. Whether you’re divorced, widowed, or single by choice, single parenting brings unique budgeting challenges. Marilyn Timbers, a Connecticut-based financial advisor, says of having to raise a child on one income,” Children are a joy, but […]
cmurray5245
May 24, 20224 min read
Auto Loans: Credit Unions VS. Banks
Need a car but can’t pay cash? You have three choices: Borrow from the dealer or manufacturer’s financing company, borrow from a bank, or borrow from a credit union. Each method has advantages and disadvantages – but if you can qualify, the way to go is usually with a credit union. Credit Unions Credit unions […]
cmurray5245
May 24, 20222 min read
Corona Virus Tax Impact
With hundreds of billions of dollars in stimulus money, business loans, and unemployment benefits floating around, everyone is trying to keep up with what all this means for you when you sit down to file your taxes this year. First, don’t panic! Here are some answers to some of the biggest questions about how the […]
cmurray5245
May 24, 20225 min read
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