Mortgages
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…
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…
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…
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.…
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…
Key takeaways You won’t owe taxes on the cash you receive from a cash-out refinance. If you use the cash to fund capital improvements on your home, the interest may be tax-deductible. Any mortgage interest you deduct is subject to IRS limits. A cash-out refinance lets you turn a portion…
wera Rodsawang/ Getty Images Key takeaways Enrolling in paperless credit card statements allows for easier management and faster access. Not to mention, it’s better for the environment. Credit card companies use strict security measures to protect customer data in paperless billing. To effectively manage your e-statements, you need to keep…
Key takeaways Seasonal short-term rental markups for the 50 most popular vacation spots in the U.S. can range between 59 percent and 178 percent. Short-term rental rates in Augusta, Ga., Long Island, N.Y. and Saratoga Springs, N.Y. double during the peak tourist months of spring and summer. Short-term rental rates…
Key takeaways United miles are worth approximately 0.9 cents each according to Bankrate valuations, although some bookings may have a higher or lower point value. United no longer features an award chart, and this makes it difficult to predict how many miles you’ll need for a specific award. Miles can…
Niall Carson – PA Images / Contributor/Getty Images As a popular, affordable airline with international reach, United Airlines flies 140 million people every year to destinations across six continents. United Airlines is also part of Star Alliance, one of the largest alliances in the world, making it possible to transfer…
