Many reputable debt management companies can help you deal with your debt problems. You can work with a credit counselor to create your own plan to pay off bills. Companies can also help you reduce your debt through debt management plans, consolidation loans, or debt negotiations. While each program has its own benefits, they can all help you get out of debt soonerCredit CounselingCredit counselors work with you privately over the phone, email,...more
First a little story about buying investment property. My wife and I stayed at a motel in Tucson for a week one winter. Our bill was for twice what it should have been, but since I already paid the correct amount in cash, I thought nothing of it. During our stay, we noticed that the lobby and swimming pool were unheated, and passed it off as frugality. A year later, however, when I read a news story about a new owner struggling to make the motel...more
A cash-out mortgage allows you to refinance your mortgage and pull out part of your equity. Before deciding how much to cash to use, be aware of the impact of PMI and equity amounts. However, you may find the benefits of refinancing outweigh the costs.Cash-Out Mortgage BasicsWith a cash-out mortgage, you can refinance for lower rates or to just get part of your equity out. Once the refinancing process is completed, you will end up with a check. You can decide to take up to 90% of your home's equity in some cases. However, cashing-out a large percent of your home's value will impact your refinancing rate and might require you to carry private mortgage insurance (PMI).The Cost Of PMIJust like with a regular mortgage, you will be required to carry PMI if you take out more than 80% of the home's value. PMI protects the mortgage lender since there is a higher risk of default with such loans. You will pay premiums when the loan closes and with each month's mortgage payment. PMI can easily add up to hundreds a year.You can also drop PMI once you build up your principal to 20% or the home appreciates so that your equity is over 20%. With home appreciation, you will have to pay for an...more
Debt negotiation and debt management/consolidation both help consumers pay off their debts through two different approaches. Each affects your credit score, payoff period, and taxes differently. Before choosing either options, be sure you understand the long term consequences of each debt management option.Influence On Credit ScoreDebt...more
Here's a phone interview tip worth considering: smile. A smile is a magic thing, and in addition to being seen in person it can be felt from a distance. When doing a phone interview, don't think that because the person on the other end of the phone can't see you that smiling and other positive body gestures are not important. The best interview...more
The best debt management gives you the most financial options. By making regular payments and having a low debt to income ratio, you can access credit when you choose. If you aren't in that situation, then ask for help from the variety of debt management companies out there. In the end you have to pick the plan that will best fit your unique financial needs.Pay Off DebtThe best way to maintain and improve your credit score is to pay off debts. Regular monthly payments make good habits and high credit scores. High interest credit cards should be tackled first, followed by other unsecured loans. Mortgages and student loans are considered "good" credit, and can be paid off last.Debt consolidation loans, through home equity or personal loans, can help make payments easier by reducing interest rates and lowering monthly payments. You can also transfer credit card balances to reduce rates.Get HelpIf you find making on time payments difficult, then it is time to get some help. Credit counseling can help you figure out a budget and saving plan. They can also educate you on financial services that could help, such as a debt management company.Debt management companies consolidate your...more
Debt negotiation companies that claim they can wipe your credit clean or guarantee they can reduce your debt are bad because they can't deliver. But reputable companies can negotiate with your creditors, often reducing your debt 10% to 50%. They can...more
Many people believe that once they file for bankruptcy they will have a difficult time getting a mortgage loan. However, there is still hope for being approved even with a recent bankruptcy. If you have bad credit and apply for a mortgage loan, more...more
As a business, non-profit, government agency or association manager, are you overly preoccupied with communications tactics like special events, broadcast plugs, press releases and brochures? Yes? Well then, you're probably not getting the best...more
Is there any good reason to do your own home inspection? How about to get a better deal. Every flaw you can find is a negotiating point. You don't have to learn building codes, and you probably should use a professional inspector in any case. The...more
Credit card debt can be reduced through lower rates or negotiating for reduced balances. With reduced interest, you can pay off the principal quicker with the same monthly payment. The other approach is debt settlement, which eliminates part of your...more
Secured loans make your creditors feel more secure about loaning you money. When someone takes out a secured loan, that simply means there is collateral to back up the money they borrowed. This could be a car, or more commonly, a house. There are...more