Blog

Home Buying Guide: All the Major Steps of Buying a House

The process isn't always clean and linear, but being able to anticipate next steps will help you navigate one of the most complicated purchases you'll likely ever make.

Financial Health

How to Help Your Kids' Finances (Without Draining Yours)

It's important to look at long-term benefits instead of short-term solutions, and seek out a financial plan to help your children not just survive, but thrive. Here are some key tips to get started.

Financial Health

A Berkeley Behavioral Economist’s Advice for Homebuyers

Terrence Odean, professor of finance at UC Berkeley's Haas School of Business, shares his suggestions for avoiding common mistakes when buying a home.

Renovations & Remodeling

How to Increase Your Home Value Through Renovations

You likely have an idea of what home improvements you want for you, but have you considered which renovations impact your home's value most? Read on to help narrow down your wishlist.

Homeownership

What is Private Mortgage Insurance?

Also known as PMI, it's a form of insurance homeowners may have to carry, typically when they've entered a mortgage agreement with a sub-20% down payment. Explore the details!

Financial Health

How to Mind the Parental Spend Gap

Being a woman is expensive. Between the pay gap and the costs of motherhood... but what about the parental spending gap?

Financial Health

9 Options for Consolidating Debt

Debt consolidation is a financial strategy in which one combines multiple high-interest debts into a single, more manageable loan or line of credit. Ultimately, the goal of debt consolidation is to simplify debt repayment; two bonuses are that it can also potentially reduce the overall interest rate, and make monthly payments more affordable.

Financial Health

Can I use a HELOC if I’m retired, self-employed, or on disability?

Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) are often associated with traditional borrowers who have steady W-2 income. However, if you're retired, self-employed, or receiving disability income, you might be wondering if this financial tool is accessible to you. The good news is that it can be – provided you meet certain criteria and understand the nuances involved.

Renovations & Remodeling

Best Renovations to Boost Home Value: 6 Smart Upgrades That Pay Off

Whether you’re planning to sell someday soon or simply want to build equity along the way, choosing renovations that increase home value can offer the best of both worlds – a more beautiful, functional home and a stronger financial future.

Home Equity

Why Tapping Your Home Equity Doesn’t Always Require a Loan

Traditional “second mortgage” options like HELOCs or home equity loans often bring larger monthly payments, stricter qualifications, and added stress – which isn’t what you need when cash flow feels tight.

Home Equity

Equity Sharing Agreements: A Clear, Honest Guide for Homeowners

If you own a home, there’s a good chance you’re sitting on a significant amount of equity. The challenge? Most of it is trapped in your property – which means it can’t help you cover pressing needs like renovating an aging home, paying down debt, saving for retirement, or investing in new opportunities.

Home Equity

Living in California? Use Home Equity for Debt Relief, Without Another Monthly Payment

For many California homeowners, the pressure isn’t just the daily cost of living. It’s also the weight of high-interest debt – credit cards, medical bills, car loans, student loans – all can make it feel like you’re running in place, even if the home you own has appreciated in value over the years.