“Expert verified” means that our Financial Review Board thoroughly evaluated the article for accuracy and clarity. The Review Board comprises a panel of financial experts whose objective is to ensure that our content is always objective and balanced. Bankrate is always editorially independent. While we adhere to strict , this post may contain references to … Read more
Getting a mortgage for a home purchase is exciting but comes with financial responsibilities. Private mortgage insurance (PMI) is often required when the down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price. PMI adds to your monthly payment and delays homeownership. However, there are strategies to eliminate PMI, including getting an appraisal. This blog … Read more
Mortgage loans play a crucial role in real estate transactions. Its important to know the different types available, including package mortgages. This article explains what package mortgages are, how they differ from other loans, and what you need to know for the real estate exam. Purchasing a home is an exciting milestone in life. But … Read more
A balloon mortgage allows you to enjoy low monthly payments for several years — with a big catch. Your final payment amount “balloons” sharply, potentially leaving you with a bill that’s far higher than what you’ve been paying. If you understand the risks and unusual features of a balloon mortgage, this loan type can make … Read more
The Capital One Platinum Mastercard is a popular credit card that is known for being easy to qualify for, even if you have average credit. It provides basic benefits like no annual fee, fraud coverage, and access to your credit score. But one thing many people wonder about is – what’s the highest credit limit … Read more
This content may include information about products, features, and/or services that SoFi does not provide and is intended to be educational in nature. When you piggyback on someone else’s credit card, you become an authorized user on their account. Usually, this is in service of establishing credit for the first time or building your credit … Read more
When you sign your name for a mortgage on a new home, the most prominent figure that you remember is the monthly payment that you are expected to make. Your payment always includes payments towards your principal and interest. In many cases, it includes prorated monthly payments for the annual amounts that your lender expects … Read more
The US and DC tax systems include many advantages for wealth, allowing it to concentrate in the hands of a few households. Wealthy households, for example, can use the three-step “buy, borrow, die” strategy to get massive capital gains tax advantages. This strategy protects the inheritance of wealth, especially extreme wealth, allowing the very wealthiest … Read more
This content may include information about products, features, and/or services that SoFi does not provide and is intended to be educational in nature. In most cases, opening a checking or savings account is not reported to the major credit reporting bureaus and will not have an impact on your credit score. The same holds true … Read more
Dealing with the IRS can be stressful, especially when you owe back taxes and are faced with penalties and interest charges. The good news is that in some cases, the IRS may be willing to waive these fees. Here’s what you need to know about getting the IRS to forgive penalties and interest. When Can … Read more