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Street in Saisalito, CA, USA.
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Stuck in a Second Mortgage in the Bay Area? Hit Reset With Equity Sharing

Many Bay Area homeowners are feeling the squeeze from their second mortgage or HELOC. Monthly payments might be creeping higher. Variable rates might be climbing. And everyday living costs in the Bay Area — from groceries to insurance to childcare — aren’t exactly trending down. What once felt like a smart way to access cash has now become another source of monthly stress.

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Success Story
Homeowner Removed the Weight of Frustrating Debt with Home Equity

Unison helped this homeowner pay off debt and remodel their home with home equity funds.

Homeownership
How Much Interest Will I Pay on My Mortgage?

It's easy to focus on the list price of a home, while ignoring the amount of interest that will likely accrue over the lifespan of your mortgage. Here's how to manage it and stay prepared.

Financial Health
How to Get a 'No PMI' Mortgage Loan

PMI adds an additional monthly payment to your budget, but you may be able to avoid it completely. Read on for the easiest ways to reduce or remove the need for PMI entirely.

Person handing cash to someone in reference to how long does a cash out refinance for a house take.
Home Equity
How Long Does a Cash-Out Refinance Take?

Cash-Out Refinancing is more popular than ever. The process of getting approved tends to be faster than a HELOC, but how long does it actually take?

Homeownership
Everything You Need to Know About Late Mortgage Payments

Due dates get missed – it's just part of life! But it's important not to make a habit of missing these deadlines, especially on payments as significant as your mortgage.

Financial Health
Do You Really Need to Put 20% Down?

While a 20% down payment is typically the gold standard, it may not always be financially feasible. Read on to weigh up the pros and cons of 10% and 20% down mortgages.

Financial Health
How Much Should I Save for Retirement? A Realistic Guide for Any Income

It can be one of the most common (and most intimidating) questions in personal finance. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Retirement savings goals depend on your income, lifestyle, age, and where (and even how) you plan to live.

Financial Health
State vs. Federal Taxes: What’s the Difference – And Why We Pay Both

Curious about the difference between state and federal taxes? Learn why we pay both, what they fund, and what to expect when filing your tax return each year.

Financial Health
How Long Will It Take to Do Your Taxes? What to Expect Based on Your Situation

Wondering how long it’ll take to file your taxes? Learn what affects the time it takes, from tax prep methods to complexity, and how to make next season easier.

Financial Health
SURVEY: Hidden Costs of Early 401(k) Withdrawals and Alternatives

Rethink early 401(k) withdrawals. Discover how homeowners are leveraging home equity for financial stability in a new survey.

Financial Health
Should You Use a Home Equity Loan in 2025’s Volatile Market?

Home equity loans – particularly fixed-rate options – are proving to be a steady, strategic tool in an otherwise bumpy market. Understanding what these loans offer, can help you navigate 2025’s unpredictability with more confidence and control.

Financial Health
What are Liquid Assets and Why Do They Matter?

Discover the essential role of liquid assets in your financial health. Learn what they are, why they matter, and how to strike the right balance for your future.