“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
Home, a four-letter word that can’t describe the amazing feeling of just being there. A space that is ours from the inside-out, a safe-haven to run to when needed. Doesn’t it sound great to just have one until the end of our days? No matter how nice it sounds, that is not a choice many … Read more
Bankrate is always editorially independent. While we adhere to strict , this post may contain references to products from our partners. Heres an explanation for . Our is to ensure everything we publish is objective, accurate and trustworthy. Bankrate logo. Founded in 1976, Bankrate has a long track record of helping people make smart financial … Read more
The current average mortgage rate for someone with a good credit score (700) was 7. 42% as of January 3, 2025, according to Curinos data. Your credit scores can directly impact your eligibility for a mortgage and the interest rate you receive. You may need a score in the high 700s (or higher) to get … Read more
A charge-off can stay on your credit report for seven years from the date the debt was paid off. A charge-off, which appears on your credit report after a lender or other creditor gives up trying to collect a debt you owe, remains on your credit report for seven years. Charge-offs are bad things for … Read more
Getting an unexpected check in the mail can be puzzling. If it’s from the government or another organization, you may be wondering – why did I get this disbursement check? Understanding disbursement checks can help you identify the source and purpose of the payment. What is a Disbursement Check? A disbursement check is a check … Read more
The paperwork that comes with closing on a house can be so much that it makes your head spin. You should know exactly what you’re signing at closing, whether you’re buying or selling, so you don’t get any nasty surprises that cost a lot of money. In this guide, you’ll learn about the important closing … Read more
If you recently purchased your home but need to tackle some repairs, you can get home improvement loans with no equity that’ll allow you to finance up to 100% of the renovation costs. There are a variety of secured and unsecured home improvement loan options you can use to avoid turning to high-interest credit cards … Read more
A 720 credit score is at the border between “good” and “excellent” on a 300-850 range. Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not … Read more
Mortgage lenders usually verify your employment by contacting your employer directly and reviewing recent income documentation. The borrower must sign a form authorizing an employer to release employment and income information to a prospective lender. At that point, the lender typically calls the employer to obtain the necessary information. Most employers will be happy to … Read more