Personal Finance
Prostock-studio / Shutterstock.comAdvertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links within this article, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend. Getting older has its perks — literally. From travel deals to everyday essentials, being 50 or more can unlock a…
Image by Getty Images; illustration by Richard Tran/Bankrate Key takeaways Good credit loans typically have more competitive terms and interest rates than fair credit or bad credit loans. Good credit loans are offered by banks, credit unions and online lenders. To apply for a good credit loan, you’ll need a…
Brett Hondow / Shutterstock.comIf you’re a boomer looking to stretch every dollar without sacrificing quality, Dollar Tree might just be your secret weapon. Tucked among the shelves are hidden gems that deliver way more value than their tiny price tags suggest. From household essentials to everyday upgrades, these six standout…
Key takeaways Agreeing to automatic payments can help you stay on top of your loan and potentially get a discount. Consider consolidating multiple streams of debt into one to lower costs, pay the debts off faster or both. Look into refinancing to get a better interest rate or if you…
karamysh / Shutterstock.comMortgage rates have surged past the 7% mark once again, adding fresh pressure to an already challenging housing market. The spike follows Moody’s recent downgrade of the U.S. credit rating, which cited growing concerns over the federal government’s rising debt burden, as reported by CNBC and Bloomberg. According…
Key takeaways Unsecured loans are debt products that do not require collateral but may come with higher interest rates and stricter credit requirements. There are various unsecured loans, including personal loans, student loans, and credit cards. When determining eligibility for an unsecured loan, lenders will consider factors such as credit…
insta_photos / Shutterstock.comDespite consumer sentiment recently sinking to near-record lows, executives from key consumer-facing industries are painting a more nuanced picture of the economy. At a recent CNBC CEO Council Summit, leaders from the auto, housing, advertising, and travel sectors shared insights that reveal surprising strengths alongside emerging caution in…
Key takeaways A high credit score and income are crucial to getting the lowest rates on a personal loan. If possible, improve your score before applying for any credit products, including a personal loan. Apply for prequalification with at least three lenders to preview your potential rates and loan terms.…
Kim Kuperkova / Shutterstock.comIn a housing market already plagued by affordability issues, a looming threat is emerging that could push the American dream of homeownership even further out of reach for millions: rising lumber duties. The U.S. housing market is facing renewed pressure as lumber prices surge dramatically. According to…
Key takeaways Though they buy homes in greater numbers, single women lag behind men when it comes to building home equity and wealth. Women wait longer to purchase, pay more for homes when they buy — taking out larger, pricier mortgages — and get less when they sell. Both economic…
