Articles by Gina Freeman - Page 2

Buying a house with student loans is complex but doable. Learn how student loans impact your budget and what steps you can take to qualify.

HELOC rates move in tandem with the prime rate and can go up when the Fed meets. Here's what it means for HELOCs when the Fed raises rates.

Cash-out refinancing can be a great idea when rates are low and home values are up. Here are 6 cash-out refinance examples to show you why.

Selling a home yourself, or FSBO, can save you a lot of money. But there are risks involved, too. Learn about the for sale by owner process.

Usually, you can't have two primary residence mortgages at once. But there are exceptions to the rule. Learn more here.

ARM rates are becoming more attractive as home prices rise and fixed interest rates increase. Here's how to save money with an ARM home loan.

Many borrowers wonder how HELOC repayment works when their loans reset. Here's how to create an exit strategy before your payments rise.

Many buyers only need to lock a mortgage rate for around 30 days. But extended rate locks could allow you to lock for up to a year.

A no-closing-cost mortgage or refi saves you money upfront. But your total cost could be higher. Here are the pros and cons of no-closing-cost mortgages.

The national average time to close a mortgage is 48 days. But some borrowers close much faster. Learn how to speed up your closing.

Learn how to shop for a mortgage and find the lowest interest rate without hurting your credit score. Start here.

It may be possible to refinance without an appraisal, but only if you meet certain requirements. Learn about appraisal waivers and no-appraisal refinancing.

It's not always better to refinance with your current lender. In fact, you may save money and get a lower rate when refinancing with a new lender.

Changing jobs probably won't jeopardize your mortgage approval, but switching careers might. Understand how lenders will view your move.

A Community Seconds loan can cover your down payment and closing costs, putting you in a house with no money out of pocket.

Is using a cash-out refinance to invest a good strategy? That depends on the investment, the cost of refinancing, and your other assets.

The HARP program is expired. But other refinance programs could help you access today's low interest rates. Check your refinance eligibility today.

What happens if your home appraisal is lower than the purchase price? Or your refinance appraisal comes in too low? Here are your next steps.

The VA Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) is a special loan program to finance the cost of energy-efficient improvements with low rates and zero down.

If you want to buy a home but can't get a mortgage, you might consider a lease option or "rent-to-own home." But these are risky. Here's what to know.