“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
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
Establishing a credit score can take at least six months, according to credit-scoring company FICO®. VantageScore®, another credit-scoring company, says it produces credit scores even sooner. Timing can change based on many factors. But whether youâre building or building from scratch, one thing is constant: Excellent credit scores depend on responsible credit use. Hey there, … Read more
Join us at Gerald and experience a new way to shop for your recurring and essential household needs. Disclaimer: Activation of cash advances requires a portion to be used for buy now, pay later purchases at Geralds store, Cornerstore. Cash advances have no transfer fees, subscription costs, interest, or down payments. Dave is a popular … Read more
Buying a home is one of the biggest purchases you can make. One of the first steps in the process is to get preapproved for a home loan. Mortgage preapproval may seem straightforward, but there are some considerations to be aware of. Most importantly, loan preapproval is not a guarantee. Preapproval means that you’ve met … Read more
Tax can be taxing. Thereâs a lot to keep an eye on and pay. When you pay your taxes every month, do they help your credit score? If you miss a payment, will it hurt your credit score and make it harder to get a loan? Keep reading to learn more about how taxes affect … Read more
A bank levy lets your creditors take money directly from your account rather than going through your creditors. Most creditors have to first sue you and get a court order before they can take money from you. However, the IRS and state child support offices can do this without a court order. Unlike wage garnishment, … Read more
With Fannie Mae’s new credit score rule, co-borrowers will be able to get a loan even if one of them doesn’t have good credit. Heres what you need to know. Fannie Mae is putting in place new rules that will let co-borrowers with different credit scores buy or refinance a home together. In a big … Read more
Hey there, friend! If you’re staring down a mountain of debt—whether it’s a credit card balance that’s haunting ya or a mortgage that feels like a life sentence—I’ve got somethin’ for ya. Let’s talk about a game-changer: makin’ a principal-only payment. What happens when you make a principal-only payment? Well, in short, you slash the … Read more
Hey there! So, you’ve got a 777 credit score, or maybe you’re just curious if that number is any good. Well, lemme tell ya straight up—yes, 777 is a damn good credit score! It’s considered “Very Good” and sometimes even “Excellent,” sitting way above the average. With a score like that, you’re in a sweet … Read more
