Financial Tips – Corazon CRM

You have plenty of financial institutions to choose from when refinancing a mortgage. But if you were happy with the place that originally funded your loan, you might be wondering if you should refinance with that same lender.

Before making the decision, you’ll need to understand your own goals and shop around to find the right fit.

Here’s what to consider if you’re looking to refinance with the same mortgage lender:

Can you refinance with the same lender?Advantages of refinancing with the same lenderDisadvantages of refinancing with same lenderHow to negotiate with lender

Can you refinance with the same lender?

Yes, you can refinance your mortgage with the same bank or lender. According to a Black Knight report, 28% of all homeowners who refinanced in the first quarter of 2021 stayed with their current mortgage company.

This could be a good option if your lender:

Offers low interest rates or closing costsGives discounts to returning customersCloses refinance loans quickly and efficiently

Before you go down this path, you’ll need to find out:

Who’s your loan servicer? Your mortgage lender is the institution that funded your home loan, but it might not be the same company that now processes your payments and manages your account. Since your loan servicer might not originate loans, you’ll want to be sure you’re talking with the right company.Do you need to honor a waiting period? Some lenders make borrowers wait at least six months before they’ll refinance a home loan. So if you recently closed on your mortgage and you want to refinance with the same lender, you’ll need to ask if it’s possible.Does your original lender offer what you need? There are many different types of refinance loans, such as rate-and-term refinances and cash-out refinances. Some lenders also offer programs like the FHA streamline and VA streamline refinances. Make sure your original lender can meet your refinancing goals.

dvantages of refinancing with the same lender

Refinancing your mortgage with the same lender has two major benefits: money savings and convenience.

You might save money

Like your original mortgage, there are costs to refinancing a home loan. These closing costs typically range from 2% to 5% of the total loan amount — or about $5,000 on average, according to Freddie Mac.

However, your lender could waive or reduce certain fees if they already have an appraisal report, title information, and a mortgage insurance policy on your property. You could save money on these costs:

Title insurance feeMortgage insurance feeLoan origination feeHome appraisal fee

You might be able to negotiate better terms

Because you have an established relationship with your original lender, the company might take extra steps to keep you as a customer. Your lender might be willing to match a lower interest rate or closing cost quote from a competitor. This is especially true if you have good credit and a record of making on-time mortgage payments.

Also Read: 6 Ways to Negotiate Home Closing Costs

The process might be quicker and more convenient

It could be easier to refinance with the same lender since you already have an established relationship. The company has your information on file, including your payment history and financial details, so it might be able to streamline some of the documents required on a refinance.

Plus, if the bank or credit union you use for your personal finances underwrites your home loan as well, it might be more efficient to keep everything under one roof.

Disadvantages of refinancing with same lender

Sometimes change can be a good thing. Switching your mortgage lender might be a good idea if it can’t close your loan quickly, offers bad customer service, or it isn’t giving you the lowest rate.

They might have capacity issues

According to national property database ATTOM Data Solutions, refinances during the first quarter of 2021 were at the highest levels in more than 14 years. That means financial institutions have been busy churning out a record number of home loans. If your original lender is popular, you might experience closing delays.

As part of the loan shopping process, you’ll need to ask your lender if it has the capacity for another refinance loan and how long it might take. Across the industry, lenders are taking 47 days on average to close refinance loans, per data from ICE Mortgage Technology — but some are able to turn things around more quickly.

You might get better customer service elsewhere

Every mortgage lender provides different services. Some financial institutions have an end-to-end digital process that emphasizes efficiency and savings, while others offer brick-and-mortar branches to provide in-person help. Furthermore, some lenders have higher customer satisfaction ratings.

If you’re not happy with your original lender or current loan servicer, switching lenders could give you a better experience.

You could lose out on money savings

Shopping around with different lenders is the best way to save money on the interest rate and closing costs. Your lender knows the rate you currently pay, and it might offer you slightly lower terms. But when you get rate quotes from multiple lenders, you can use the information to negotiate.

Credible makes comparing different lenders and refinance options easy. In just a few minutes, you can see personalized prequalified rates from all of our partner lenders. Checking rates with us is free and secure, and it won’t have any effect on your credit score.

Find out if refinancing is right for you

Actual rates from multiple lenders – In 3 minutes, get actual prequalified rates without impacting your credit score.Smart technology – We streamline the questions you need to answer and automate the document upload process.End-to-end experience – Complete the entire origination process from rate comparison up to closing, all on Credible.Find My Refi Rate
Checking rates will not affect your credit

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How to negotiate with lender

You can refinance a mortgage with the same lender, but it’s important to negotiate the details so you save money. Follow these steps to get the best deal:

Get rate quotes from multiple lenders. Compare the interest rate you’ll pay along with the closing costs and your monthly loan payment. Credible can help with this.Ask other lenders to offer a better rate. Take the best offer and ask the other lenders to offer a better interest rate or closing costs — or both. Your original lender might be more willing to compete for your business if it knows you’re shopping around.Consider paying discount points. A discount point is a fee you can pay in exchange for a lower interest rate. If you know you’ll be in the home long enough to recoup this cost, it could be worthwhile.Get everything in writing. If a lender offers a better deal, ask it to send it to you in writing.

Keep Reading: What to Expect When You Close on a House

The post Should You Refinance With the Same Lender? appeared first on Credible.

Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org

Financial Tips

Are Christmas Loans Worth It? Pros and Cons of Taking Out a Loan this Holiday Season

December 3, 2021 Kevin Smith

Paying for Christmas gifts and other holiday-related costs such as food or travel can be expensive, especially if you have lost your job or are working fewer hours. In fact, 11.5% of Americans say they won’t be spending any money on holiday expenses in 2021, according to a survey by Deloitte.

If you need help covering holiday expenses, taking out a Christmas loan might be a good option.

Here’s what you should know about Christmas loans:

What is a Christmas loan?How to qualify for a holiday loanPros of getting a Christmas loanCons of getting a Christmas loanWatch out for predatory loansTips for a debt-free holiday season

What is a Christmas loan?

You might see some lenders advertise special “Christmas loans” — but these are usually just personal loans that can be used for holiday expenses. Here are several important points to keep in mind if you’re considering a personal loan for Christmas:

Interest rates: The rate you get on a personal loan will depend on the lender as well as other factors, such as your credit score and the repayment term you choose. Average personal loan interest rates generally range from 4.99% to 36%. Repayment terms: You’ll typically have one to seven years to repay a personal loan, depending on the lender. While longer terms can provide lower monthly payments, it’s usually a good idea to choose the shortest term you can afford to keep your interest costs as low as possible. Many lenders also offer lower rates to borrowers who opt for shorter terms.Fees: Some lenders charge fees on personal loans, such as origination or late fees. These can increase your overall loan cost. Keep in mind that if you take out a loan with one of Credible’s partner lenders, you won’t have to worry about prepayment penalties.Time to fund: If you’re approved for a personal loan, you can generally expect to get your fund in about one week, depending on the lender. There are also some lenders that will fund loans as soon as the same or next business day after approval — which could be helpful if you need the money quickly for Christmas.

If you decide to take out a Christmas loan, it’s important to shop around and consider as many lenders as possible. This way, you can find the right loan for your needs.

Credible makes this easy — you can compare your prequalified rates from our partner lenders in the table below in just two minutes.

LenderFixed ratesLoan amountsMin. credit scoreLoan terms (years)

Credible Rating>

Credible lender ratings are evaluated by our editorial team with the help of our loan operations team. The rating criteria for lenders encompass 78 data points spanning interest rates, loan terms, eligibility requirement transparency, repayment options, fees, discounts, customer service, cosigner options, and more. Read our full methodology.

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9.95% – 35.99% APR$2,000 to $35,0005502, 3, 4, 5*Fixed APR:
9.95% – 35.99% APRVariable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
550Loan amount:
$2,000 to $35,000**Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4, 5*Time to fund:
As soon as the next business day (if approved by 4:30 p.m. CT on a weekday)Fees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states except CO, IA, HI, VT, NV NY, WVCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
AvantLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, emergency expense, life event, home improvement, and other purposesMin. Income:
$1,200 monthly

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6.79% – 17.99% APR$10,000 to $50,0007003, 4, 5, 6Fixed APR:
6.79% – 17.99% APRVariable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
700Loan amount:
$10,000 to $50,000Loan terms (years):
3 to 6Time to fund:
Next business dayFees:
No prepayment penaltyDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
Does not discloseLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, home improvement, self-employment, and other purposes

View details>
4.99% – 35.99% APR$5,000 to $35,0006002, 3, 4, 5Fixed APR:
4.99% – 35.99% APRVariable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
600Loan amount:
$2,000 to $50,000Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4, 5Time to fund:
As soon as 1 – 3 business days after successful verificationFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all states except DC, IA, VT, and WVCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
Best Egg and Blue Ridge BankMin. Income:
NoneLoan Uses:
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes

View details>
5.99% – 24.99% APR$2,500 to $35,0006603, 4, 5, 6, 7Fixed APR:
5.99% – 24.99% APRMin. credit score:
660Loan amount:
$2,500 to $35,000Loan terms (years):
3, 4, 5, 6, 7Time to fund:
As soon as the next business day after acceptanceFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
YesLoan Uses:
Auto repair, credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home remodel or repair, major purchase, medical expenses, taxes, vacation, and wedding

View details>
7.99% – 29.99% APR$10,000 to $50,000Not disclosed by lender2, 3, 4, 5Fixed APR:
7.99% – 29.99% APRMin. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$10,000 to $50,000Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4, 5Time to fund:
As soon as 2 business daysFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoEligibility:
Available in all states except CO, CT, HI, KS, NH, NY, ND, OR, VT, WV, WI, and WYCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
NoneLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, home improvement, wedding, travel, medical expenses, and other purposes

View details>
7.04% – 35.89% APR$1,000 to $40,0006003, 5Fixed APR:
7.04% – 35.89% APRMin. credit score:
600Loan amount:
$1,000 to $40,000Loan terms (years):
3, 5Time to fund:
Usually takes about 2 daysFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
LendingClub BankMin. Income:
NoneLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, paying off credit cards, home improvement, pool loans, vacations, and other purposes

View details>
9.99% – 35.99% APR$2,000 to $36,5005802, 3, 4Fixed APR:
9.99% – 35.99% APRMin. credit score:
580Loan amount:
$2,000 to $36,500Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4Time to fund:
As soon as the next business dayFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states except NV and WVCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
$20,000Loan Uses:
Home improvement, consolidate debt, credit card refinancing, relocate, make a large purchase, and other purposes

View details>
2.49% – 19.99% APR$5,000 to $100,0006602, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
(up to 12 years for home improvement loans)Fixed APR:
2.49% – 19.99% APRMin. credit score:
660Loan amount:
$5,000 to $100,000Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7*Time to fund:
As soon as the same business dayFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states except RI and VTCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
NoLoan servicer:
LightStreamMin. Income:
Does not discloseLoan Uses:
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, and other purposes

View details>
6.99% – 19.99% APR1$3,500 to $40,0002660
(TransUnion FICO®️ Score 9)3, 4, 5, 6, 7Fixed APR:
6.99% – 19.99% APR1Min. credit score:
660
(TransUnion FICO®️ Score 9)Loan amount:
$3,500 to $40,0002Loan terms (years):
3, 4, 5, 6Time to fund:
Many Marcus customers receive funds in as little as three daysFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
Goldman SachsMin. Income:
$30,000Loan Uses:
Credit card refinancing, debt consolidation, home improvement, major purchase, and other purposes

View details>
18.0% – 35.99% APR$1,500 to $20,000None2, 3, 4, 5Fixed APR:
18.0% – 35.99% APRMin. credit score:
NoneLoan amount:
$1,500 to $20,000Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4, 5Time to fund:
As soon as the same day, but usually requires a visit to a branch officeFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must have photo I.D. issued by U.S. federal, state or local governmentCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
Does not disclose

View details>
5.99% – 17.99% APR$600 to $50,000
(depending on loan term)6601, 2, 3, 4, 5Fixed APR:
5.99% – 17.99% APRMin. credit score:
660Loan amount:
$600 to $50,000*Loan terms (years):
1, 2, 3, 4, 5Time to fund:
2 to 4 business days after verificationFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Does not discloseCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
NoMin. Income:
Does not discloseLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, home improvement, transportation, medical, dental, life events

View details>
6.95% – 35.99% APR$2,000 to $40,0006403, 5Fixed APR:
6.95% – 35.99% APRMin. credit score:
640Loan amount:
$2,000 to $40,000Loan terms (years):
3, 5Time to fund:
As soon as one business dayFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all states except IA, ND, WVCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
NoneLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, home improvement, vehicles, small business, new baby expenses, and other purposes

View details>
4.74% – 19.28% APR10$5,000 to $100,000Does not disclose2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7Fixed APR:
4.74% – 19.28% APR10Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$5,000 to $100,000Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7Time to fund:
3 business daysFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states except MSCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
Does not discloseLoan Uses:
Solely for personal, family, or household uses

View details>
8.93% – 35.93% APR7$1,000 to $50,0005603 to 5 years 8Fixed APR:
8.93% – 35.93% APR7Min. credit score:
560Loan amount:
$1,000 to $50,000Loan terms:
3 to 5 years 8Time to fund:
Within one day, once approved9Loan types:
Debt consolidation, pay off credit cards, home improvements, unexpected expenses, home and auto repairs, weddings, and other major purchasesFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
A U.S. citizen or permanent resident; not available in DC, SC, WVCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
Yes

View details>
5.94% – 35.97% APR$1,000 to $50,0005602, 3, 5, 6Fixed APR:
5.94% – 35.97% APRMin. credit score:
560Loan amount:
$1,000 to $50,000*Loan terms (years):
2, 3, 5, 6Time to fund:
Within a day of clearing necessary verificationsFees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states except West VirginiaCustomer service:
EmailSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
Does not discloseLoan Uses:
Debt consolidation, credit card refinancing, home improvement, and other purposes

View details>
4.37% – 35.99% APR4$1,000 to $50,00055803 to 5 years4Fixed APR:
4.37% – 35.99% APR4Min. credit score:
580Loan amount:
$1,000 to $50,0005Loan terms (years):
3 to 5 years4Time to fund:
As fast as 1 business day6Fees:
Origination feeDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesMin. Income:
$12,000Loan Uses:
Payoff credit cards, consolidate debt, take a course or bootcamp, relocate, make a large purchase, and other purposesCompare rates from these lenders without affecting your credit score. 100% free!

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All APRs reflect autopay and loyalty discounts where available | LightStream disclosure | 10SoFi Disclosures | Read more about Rates and Terms

Christmas loans for bad credit

You’ll generally need good to excellent credit to qualify for a personal loan — a good credit score is usually considered to be 700 or higher. There are also several lenders that offer personal loans for bad credit, but these loans usually come with higher interest rates compared to good credit loans.

If you’re struggling to get approved for a Christmas loan, here are a couple of options to consider:

Take out a secured personal loan. While most personal loans are unsecured, some lenders offer secured personal loans that require collateral. Because these loans are less risky for the lender, you might have an easier time qualifying if you have poor or fair credit.Apply with a cosigner. You might also consider applying with a creditworthy cosigner, which could improve your approval odds. Not all lenders allow cosigners on personal loans, but some do. Even if you don’t need a cosigner to qualify, having one could get you a lower interest rate than you’d get on your own. Tip: It could also be a good idea to work on building your credit so you’ll have an easier time qualifying for loans in the future. There are several potential ways to do this, such as making on-time payments on all of your bills and paying down credit card balances.

Learn More: Getting a Loan with No Credit: 5 Loans for New Borrowers

How to qualify for a holiday loan

While eligibility criteria for a personal loan can vary by lender, there are a few common requirements you’ll likely come across, including:

Good credit: You’ll generally need good to excellent credit to qualify for a personal loan. If you have poor or fair credit, having a creditworthy cosigner could improve your chances of approval.Verifiable income: Some personal loan lenders have a minimum income requirement while others don’t — but in either case, you’ll likely need to provide proof of income to show that you can repay the loan.Low debt-to-income ratio: Your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio is the amount you owe in monthly debt payments compared to your income. To get approved for a personal loan, your DTI ratio shouldn’t be higher than 40% — though some lenders might require a lower ratio than this.

Check Out: Credit Card Consolidation Loans

Pros of getting a Christmas loan

Christmas loans offer a few potential benefits, including:

Lower interest rates: Personal loan interest rates tend to be lower than credit card rates.Fixed payments: Personal loans typically come with fixed interest rates, which means your payments will stay the same throughout the life of your loan.Fast funding: The time to fund for a personal loan is usually about one week — though with some lenders, you might get your money as soon as the same or next business day after approval.

Cons of getting a Christmas loan

There are also some possible downsides of Christmas loans to keep in mind, such as:

Fewer options for bad credit: If you have poor or fair credit, it could be harder to get approved for a personal loan.Increased debt: Getting a personal loan means you’ll have another payment to manage on top of any other debts you might already have. If you’re already stretched financially thin, taking on another loan might not be a good idea.No rewards or perks: Unlike many credit cards, personal loans don’t offer any rewards or perks.

If you decide to get a personal loan, remember to consider as many lenders as you can to find the right loan for your situation. This is easy with Credible: You can compare your prequalified rates in two minutes — without affecting your credit.

Ready to find your personal loan?
Credible makes it easy to find the right loan for you.

Free to use, no hidden feesOne simple form, easy to fill out and your info is protectedMore options, pick the loan option that best fits your personal needsHere for you. Our team is here to help you reach your financial goalsFind My Rate
Checking rates won’t affect your credit

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Watch out for predatory loans

If you need a small, short-term personal loan for Christmas, it’s critical to make sure you’re working with a vetted lender that provides reasonable rates and terms. This is especially true if you have poor or fair credit since predatory lenders and scammers often target borrowers with bad credit who are desperate for a loan.

Here are a few types of loans to watch out for:

Payday loans: While these short-term loans generally don’t require a credit check, they can come with astronomical rates and fees — sometimes as high as 300% to 500% APR. If you can’t quickly repay a payday loan, you could get stuck in a revolving debt cycle that could be hard to escape.Pawn shop loansThese loans are offered by pawn shops and require you to provide an item of value as collateral. If you don’t pay off the loan, the pawn shop can sell your item. Like payday loans, pawn shop loans can also come with extremely high rates and fees. Car title loans With this type of loan, you’ll give the lender the title of your car (or motorcycle). You’ll typically have to repay a car title loan within a short amount of time — usually 30 days or less. If you fall behind on your payments, the lender could seize your vehicle.

If you’re looking for a personal loan, here are a few personal loan scam warning signs to watch out for:

Using high-pressure sales tacticsNot requiring a credit check Approaching you about the loan out of the blueNot having a physical address

Go with your gut — if something feels off about a lender, it probably is. Also keep in mind that if you compare your options with Credible, you’ll be working with vetted, trustworthy lenders.

Learn More: How to Check If a Personal Loan Company Is Legitimate

Tips for a debt-free holiday season

While taking out a Christmas loan could help you cover last-minute holiday expenses, here are also a few other strategies that could help you avoid holiday stress:

Set a budget. Creating a budget based on your income is a great way to determine what you can actually afford to spend for Christmas.Look for deals. Scour the internet and your local shops for deals on what you’re looking for to lower your overall costs. For example, consider taking advantage of savings offered on Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other shopping holidays.Stick to the basics. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and buy what you want (or what someone else wants). But try to be firm whenever you can or compromise when necessary. For example, you might buy a couple of small, practical gifts for those on your list instead of a big expensive gift for each person.

If getting a Christmas loan seems like the right fit for you, remember to consider as many lenders as you can to find the best loan for your needs. Additionally, be sure to think about the overall cost of the loan before you borrow — this way, you can be prepared for any added expenses.

You can estimate how much you’ll pay for a loan using our personal loan calculator below.

Enter your loan information to calculate how much you could pay

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The post Are Christmas Loans Worth It? Pros and Cons of Taking Out a Loan this Holiday Season appeared first on Credible.

Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org

Financial Tips

Can’t Pay Mortgage Due to COVID? Here are Some Options

November 3, 2021 Kevin Smith

Many people are struggling to pay their bills due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But thankfully, as a homeowner, there are several options you can use to request financial relief and avoid foreclosure.

Lenders are willing to help you through these uncertain times, but you should contact them as soon as you fear you might not be able to make your mortgage payment.

Here are some of the ways you can get help paying housing costs during an economic hardship:

ForbearanceCARES ActEmergency rental assistanceMortgage modificationLoan assistanceTalk to a housing counselorRefinance your mortgage

Check your mortgage type

Your COVID-19 mortgage relief options depend on the type of mortgage that you have. The most common mortgage types include:

ConventionalFHAVAUSDA

These loans generally have the most assistance options if you’re behind on mortgage payments.

If you have a conforming conventional loan, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac offer several mortgage relief options to qualified homeowners impacted by the coronavirus, including a forbearance plan and loan modification.

Non-conforming loans, like jumbo loans and government-backed loans, may have fewer financial protections since Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac don’t secure these loans. If you have one of the loans, contact your loan servicer to review your assistance options.

Tip: Mortgage servicers may ask for proof of hardship if you’re seeking a loan modification, but they generally cannot require you to provide proof of hardship to enter forbearance due to COVID-19.

Forbearance

When your loan servicer approves mortgage forbearance, you have permission to stop making monthly payments or reduce your monthly payment temporarily. However, mortgage forbearance doesn’t cancel out the payments — you’ll still need to repay the deferred principal and interest once forbearance ends.

COVID-19 mortgage forbearance extension: The deadline to request COVID-19 mortgage forbearance has been extended several times. It was most recently set to expire for eligible loans on Sept. 30, 2021.

However, you can now request up to six months of initial forbearance until the end of the nationally declared emergency for FHA, USDA, and VA loans. You may also request an additional six months of forbearance if the pandemic hasn’t ended by the time your initial forbearance expires.

If you requested forbearance between Jul 1, 2021 and Sept. 30, 2021, you’re eligible to request an additional six months of forbearance as well.

Home loans owned by Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae also have an open-ended request window.

Most lenders only issue an initial forbearance period of six months. Then, if you need extra help, you can request a forbearance extension in three or six-month increments until you’re in forbearance for 12 months.

When forbearance ends, you’ll need to repay the amount you deferred. Your repayment options may include:

Reinstatement: This is when you pay the entire deferral amount back all at once. Lenders cannot require this repayment option when claiming a coronavirus hardship thanks to the CARES Act but can for traditional forbearance requests. Repayment plan: You might be able to bring your mortgage current by entering a repayment plan and making additional monthly payments for 12 months after forbearance. Once your mortgage is current again, your monthly payment will return to its normal amount.Defer payments until the end of the loan: Another option is delaying the forbearance payments and paying them back at the end of the mortgage. While you stay in debt longer, you’ll have more time to pay it back and your monthly payment won’t increase.Tip: Your forbearance period may last up to 12 months. Single-family and multi-family properties are eligible. Forbearance also isn’t limited to first mortgages — you may qualify for it on your second mortgage as well.

CARES Act

The CARES Act passage in March 2020 provided several financial assistance programs for individuals. For example, this legislation paved the way for the first stimulus checks.

There are several coronavirus-related mortgage assistance benefits too:

Mortgage forbearance: It’s easier for homeowners to qualify for forbearance for up to 12 months. There currently isn’t an application deadline for conventional or government-backed mortgages.Foreclosure moratorium: Lenders were prohibited from starting the home foreclosure process until after July 31, 2021. While this moratorium expired, most mortgage servicers will not initiate foreclosure until Jan. 1, 2022, or later.Eviction moratorium: The federal eviction moratorium expired on Aug. 26, 2021, after a Supreme Court ruling. Landlords must provide a 30-day eviction notice to tenants.

Currently, only the mortgage forbearance benefit remains active for most homeowners.

Emergency rental assistance

Many states and cities offer emergency rental assistance programs. These programs can help you pay rent or cover utility payments.

You can search for local programs from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

If you own rental property, many programs also accept landlord applications. Being able to collect up to 18 months of unpaid rent can help pay your mortgage on investment properties.

Mortgage modification

You may prefer asking your lender to modify your existing loan if you want to continue making payments and avoid the refinancing process.

A loan modification permanently adjusts your mortgage terms. The main benefits of a loan modification include:

Lower monthly payment: Your lender can reduce your monthly payment (while keeping your interest rate the same) by extending your loan term. You’ll pay more in interest over the long term with this option, but it can give you more breathing room in your monthly budget. Reduced interest rate: Your lender may offer a new interest rate if it’s lower than your current rate. This can significantly reduce your monthly payment. Switch to a fixed interest rate: Your lender may recommend switching from an adjustable-rate mortgage to a fixed-rate mortgage so you have a stable monthly payment for the life of your loan.

Loan assistance

Your state may also offer financial assistance for homeowners, and you might be able to qualify for these programs even if your mortgage is already in forbearance.

Many states receive funds from the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Hardest Hit Fund to help you when you can’t pay the mortgage due to COVID-19. Oregon, for example, offers a five-year forgivable loan with its COVID-19 Mortgage Relief program. If you’re currently receiving unemployment benefits, your funds may help keep your home loan current and cover up to six additional payments.

Certain local cities also offer mortgage assistance programs. For instance, City of Chicago homeowners with a low or moderate income may receive up to $3,300 in aid.

Tip: Most city and state loan assistance programs have limited funds. If you need help, it’s best to apply as soon as possible as you have a higher probability of securing aid.

Talk to a housing counselor

If you can’t keep up with your mortgage payments and are facing foreclosure, consider speaking with a HUD-approved housing counselor.

This service is often provided for free, and the counselor can help review your repayment options to avoid foreclosure. To find a foreclosure avoidance counselor, use this search tool from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

You can also contact your mortgage servicer to review your personalized choices too.

Refinance your mortgage

A mortgage refinance may not be the most practical option when you can’t pay your mortgage due to COVID. Mortgage forbearance and other assistance programs may provide immediate assistance and you won’t have to worry about paying hefty closing costs.

However, refinancing is an option to consider after your pandemic forbearance period ends and you want to change the terms of your mortgage. To do this, your loan will need to be current and your lender may have a minimum waiting period if you’re just exiting forbearance or another assistance program.

Good to know: In most cases, you may be eligible for standard refinancing after three post-forbearance payments. After that, it’s possible to reduce your monthly payment, interest rate, or both.

Depending on your situation, you could have to wait at least 12 months. However, it can be easier to waive this requirement when you claim COVID-19 hardship.

If you think refinancing is the right move, Credible makes the process easy. You can compare multiple lenders and see prequalified refinance rates in as little as three minutes without leaving our site.

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Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org

Financial Tips

Is Going to College Worth It? How to Decide

November 2, 2021 Kevin Smith

With education costs steadily rising, you might wonder if going to college is still worth it. Ultimately, there’s no clear answer to this question — it depends on your individual circumstances as well as the degree you choose and your job prospects after graduation.

Here’s how to decide if college is worth it:

Benefits and disadvantages of going to collegeWhy college could be worth itWhy college may not be worth itHow to cover the cost of collegeAlternatives to getting a college degree

Benefits and disadvantages of going to college

If you’re trying to decide whether college is worth it for you, here are a few pros and cons to keep in mind:

ProsConsCould help you prepare for certain professional fields where education is required (such as teaching or medicine)Will likely earn more money with a college degree compared to a high school diploma or GEDCollege graduates are less likely to be unemployed compared to people with less educationCan be expensive and leave you with student loan debtGetting a well-paid job after college isn’t guaranteedYou might not end up liking the degree and career path you choose

Why college could be worth it

Here are four potential benefits that could make college worth it:

Might need a degree for your career field

While some career paths don’t have specific education requirements, others do. For example, you’ll generally need a degree to work in medicine, engineering, physical therapy, or other regimented fields.

If you plan to work in a profession that has these requirements, then attending college will likely be a necessity.

Will likely earn more money

College graduates generally earn more compared to people who don’t have a degree. For example, in 2020, workers with a bachelor’s degree had median weekly earnings of $1,305 while workers with a high school diploma earned just $781, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

If you want to earn a higher salary, then going to college could be worth it.

Less likely to be unemployed

In addition to earning higher wages, college graduates are also less likely to be unemployed compared to people with less education. For example, in March 2021, the unemployment rate for workers with a bachelor’s degree or higher was 3.7% compared to 6.7% for high school graduates with no college, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Tip: The connections that you make in college with peers, mentors, and professors could also help you find job opportunities once you enter the workforce.

If you hope to have steady employment, then attending college might be a good idea.

Learn More: College ROI: 6 Tools to Gauge the Return on Your Degree

Why college may not be worth it

There are also a few reasons why college might not be worth it, including:

Can be expensive and might require student loans

The cost of attending college has steadily risen over time, making it harder to pay for without taking out student loans. The average student loan debt for college students in 2021 was $39,351.

Keep in mind that this debt can end up being much higher for more expensive programs, such as law or medicine.

good job isn’t guaranteed

While earning a college degree can help you find employment, getting a good job after you graduate isn’t guaranteed.

Additionally, some professions don’t require a traditional four-year degree. If you’re interested in one of these jobs, then going to college likely isn’t worth the time or money.

Here are several jobs that might not require a bachelor’s degree:

Dental assistantElectricianPlumberProgrammerWebsite designer

You might not like your school or degree

Even if you attend school tours and learn as much as you can about a program before enrolling, there’s always a chance that the school or degree might not be a good fit for you. If this happens, you might end up dropping out of school.

Keep in mind: The dropout rate for undergraduate students is 40%, and 30% of them drop out before reaching their sophomore year, according to EducationData.org.

Additionally, 57% of student loan borrowers don’t end up graduating, according to OneClass — so if you drop out, you could still have student loan debt to pay off, which could be difficult if you don’t have the education to qualify for higher-paying jobs.

Check Out: Ranking: Return on Investment by University

How to cover the cost of college

If you decide that earning a degree is right for you but aren’t sure how to pay for college, follow these five steps:

1. Fill out the FAFSA

Your first step in paying for college should be completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Your school will use your FAFSA results to determine what federal student loans and other federal aid you qualify for.

Tip: Even if you think you might not be eligible for federal aid, be sure to fill out the FAFSA anyway. You might be surprised to find out you qualify after all.

Learn More: How to Apply to College and When You Should Apply

2. Apply for scholarships and grants

Unlike student loans, college scholarships and grants don’t have to be repaid — which makes them a great way to pay for college. There’s no limit to how many scholarships and grants you can get, so it’s a good idea to apply for as many as you can.

Some organizations that might offer these awards include:

Nonprofit organizationsLocal and national businessesProfessional associations in your field

You might also be eligible for school-based scholarships depending on your FAFSA information.

Tip: You can use sites like Fastweb and Scholarships.com to easily search for scholarships that you might qualify for.

Check Out: 5 Steps to Take If You Can’t Afford College

3. Get a job or apply for a work-study program

You could also consider getting a job while you’re in school to help cover your expenses. Or you might participate in the federal work-study program, which provides part-time employment to undergraduate and graduate students with financial need.

Tip: If you decide to work while going to school, be sure to leave yourself enough time to study, too.

Learn More: When You Should Apply for a Student Loan

4. Take out federal student loans

If you need to borrow for school, it’s usually best to start with federal student loans. This is mainly because these loans come with federal benefits and protections — such as access to income-driven repayment plans and student loan forgiveness programs.

After you fill out the FAFSA, your school will send you a financial aid award letter detailing the federal loans and financial aid you qualify for. You can then choose which aid and loans to accept.

Tip: There are several student loan forgiveness programs available to federal student loan borrowers, which can help reduce the amount you’ll have to repay. To qualify for one of these programs, you’ll typically need to work in a certain field and make qualifying payments for a specific amount of time.

For example, if you’re employed at a nonprofit or government agency and make qualifying payments for 10 years, you could be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Or if you’re a teacher, you might be able to have up to $17,500 of your federal loans forgiven through the Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program if you work in a low-income school full-time for five consecutive years.

Check Out: Subsidized vs. Unsubsidized Student Loans: Know the Difference

5. Use private student loans to fill any gaps

After you’ve exhausted your scholarship, grant, and federal student loan options, private student loans could help fill any financial gaps left over. These loans are offered by private lenders, such as online lenders as well as traditional banks and credit unions.

If you’re considering federal vs. private student loans, keep in mind that private loans don’t come with federal protections. However, they do offer some benefits of their own. For example, you can apply at any time, and you might be able to borrow more than you would with a federal loan.

Tip: You’ll typically need good to excellent credit to get approved for a private student loan — a good credit score is usually considered to be 700 or higher. There are also some lenders that offer student loans for bad credit, but these loans usually come with higher interest rates compared to good credit loans.

If you’re struggling to get approved, consider applying with a creditworthy cosigner to improve your chances. Even if you don’t need a cosigner to qualify, having one could get you a lower interest rate than you’d get on your own.

Rates and terms can vary by lender — so if you decide to take out a private loan, be sure to shop around and consider as many lenders as possible. This way, you can find the right loan for your needs.

Credible makes this easy: You can compare your prequalified rates from our partner lenders in the table below in just two minutes.

LenderFixed rates from (APR)Variable rates from (APR)Loan amountsLoan terms (years)Cosigners allowed

View details>
3.09%+
1.48%+$2,001 to $200,0007 to 15 years
(depending on loan type)YesFixed APR:
3.09%+Variable APR:
1.48%+Min. credit score:
540Loan amount:
$2,001 to $200,000 Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Repayment options:
Full deferral, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
0.25% to 1.00% automatic payment discount, 1% cash back graduation rewardEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident or DACA student enrolled at least half-time in a degree-seeking programCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 24 monthsLoan servicer:
Launch Servicing, LLC

View details>
3.23%+1
1.03%+1$1,000 to $350,000
(depending on degree)5, 10, 15YesFixed APR:
3.23%+1Variable APR:
1.03%+1Min. credit score:
720Loan amount:
$1,000 to $350,000Loan terms (years):
5, 10, 15Loan types:
Any private or federal student loanRepayment options:
Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
Autopay, loyaltyEligibility:
Available in all 50 states (international students can apply with a creditworthy U.S. citizen or permanent resident cosigner)Customer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 36 monthsLoan servicer:
Firstmark Services

View details>
2.94%+2,3

0.99%+2,3$1,000 up to 100% of the school-certified cost of attendance5, 8, 10, 15YesFixed APR:
2.94%+2,3Variable APR:
0.99%+2,3Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$1,000 up to cost of attendanceLoan terms (years):
5, 8, 10, 15Repayment options:
Full deferral, full monthly payment, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and be making satisfactory academic progress.Customer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 24 monthsLoan servicer:
College Ave Servicing LLC

View details>3.75%+1.08%+$1,000 to $99,999 annually
($180,000 aggregate limit)7, 10, 15YesFixed APR:
3.75%+Variable APR:
1.08%+Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$1,000 to $99,999 annually>($180,000 aggregate limit)Loan terms (years):
7, 10, 15Repayment options:
Full deferral, immediate repayment, interest-only repayment, flat/full repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Not available to residents of AZ, IA, or WICustomer service:
Phone, emailSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 36 monthsLoan servicer:
American Education ServicesMin. income:
Does not disclose

View details>
3.0%+7
2.17%+7$1,000 to $200,0007, 10, 15YesFixed APR:
3.0%+7Variable APR:
2.17%+7Min. credit score:
750Loan amount:
$1,000 to $200,000Loan terms (years):
7, 10, 15Repayment options:
Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have a minimum income of $30,000.Customer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 36 monthsLoan servicer:
Granite State Management & Resources (GSM&R)

View details>
3.83%+8
1.69%+8$1,001 up to 100% of school certified cost of attendance5, 10, 15YesFixed APR:
3.83%+8Variable APR:
1.69%+8Min. credit score:
670Loan amount:
$1,001 up to cost of attendanceLoan terms (years):
5, 10, 15Repayment options:
Full deferral, full monthly payment, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferment, forbearanceFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
Autopay, reward for on-time graduationEligibility:
Must be an Indiana resident or a U.S. citizen attending an eligible Indiana schoolCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 48 monthsLoan servicer:
American Education Services

View details>
3.75%+N/A$1,500 or $2,000 up to school’s certified cost of attendance
(depending on school type and minus other aid received)15YesFixed APR:
3.75%+Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
670Loan amount:
$1,500 up to cost of attendance less aidLoan terms (years):
10, 15Repayment options:
Full deferral, interest only, immediate repayment, academic deferral, forbearanceFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and be making satisfactory academic progress.Customer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 48 monthsLoan servicer:
American Education Services (AES)

View details>
3.5% – 12.6% APR9
1.13% – 11.23% APR9Up to 100% of the school-certified cost of attendance10, 15YesFixed APR:
3.5% – 12.6% APR9Variable APR:
1.13% – 11.23% APR9Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$1,000 up to cost of attendanceLoan terms (years):
10 to 15Repayment options:
Full deferral, fixed/flat repayment, interest only, academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Also available to non-U.S. citizen students (including DACA students) attending a school located in the U.S. who apply with a qualifying cosigner.Customer service:
Phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 12 consecutive on-time paymentsLoan servicer:
Sallie MaeCompare rates without affecting
your credit score. 100% free!

lternatives to getting a college degree

If you’re unsure whether getting a traditional four-year college degree is right for you (or if you aren’t quite ready for it), here are a few alternatives to consider:

Community collegeTaking classes at a community college can be much less expensive compared to what you’d pay at a four-year university. This could make it easier to explore various interests at a much lower cost. You could also think about completing your general education courses at a community college before transferring to a four-year school to reduce your overall expenses.Trade schoolThis type of school offers career-oriented programs in a shorter time frame than a traditional four-year degree — often at a lower cost, too. Some popular career programs provided by trade schools include auto body and maintenance, plumbing, welding, and more.Coding bootcampIf you’re interested in becoming a software developer or programmer, attending a coding bootcamp might be a good option. Coding bootcamps are intensive programs that generally take three to four months to complete. While these programs aren’t cheap, they’re typically less expensive than a four-year degree.Gap yearIf you’re not sure what you want to do career-wise, taking a gap year could be a good idea. You can use this time to explore your interests and enrich yourself before attending college.

If you decide that college is worth it for you and want to take out a private student loan, remember to consider as many lenders as you can to find the right loan for your needs. This is easy with Credible — you can compare your prequalified rates from multiple lenders in two minutes.

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Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org

Financial Tips

16 Fast Weekend Projects to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

October 30, 2021 Kevin Smith

Taking on projects to boost your home’s curb appeal can give you a great sense of satisfaction and boost your mood every time you see your completed work.

Here are 16 projects that aren’t expensive or time-consuming — and that you can often do yourself:

Sweep the front porchGet a new front porch matHang a decorative wreathAdd potted plants to your front porchHide your hoseEliminate weedsAdd natural mulchReplace light fixturesClean, touch up, or completely repaint your front doorClean and polish or change front door hardwarePrune flowers and shrubsPressure wash your concreteHire a tree trimmerEmbellish your garage doorStyle your mailboxAttach house numbers

1. Sweep the front porch

The fastest, cheapest thing you can do to boost your home’s curb appeal is to get out a broom and dustpan and sweep your front porch.

You’ve probably become oblivious to the dead leaves and dirt that have accumulated there, so cleaning up will make an instant difference. Everyone who walks up to your front door is sure to notice.

2. Get a new front porch mat

Now that you’ve got a clean front porch, the next simplest way to spruce it up is with a new porch mat. Chances are, you either don’t have one at all, or you have an old one that’s looking ratty.

Hit up a big box store for a simple mat or outdoor rug you can use year-round. Buy a seasonally themed mat from virtually any home goods vendor. Or order something customized from a creator on Etsy.

If you need cash for a major home improvement project, consider a cash-out refinance. Credible can help you find a great refinance rate from our partner lenders in just a few minutes — checking rates with us is free, secure, and won’t affect your credit score.

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3. Hang a decorative wreath

If you want to dress up your front door, try a wreath! You don’t have to hammer a nail into the door to hang it, either. You can use a temporary adhesive hook or an over-the-door hanger.

Choose from holiday-specific wreaths (like Halloween or Easter), seasonal wreaths to celebrate fall or spring, or year-round wreaths that look good all the time.

Front door signs, hung on the door or propped next to it, are also a simple and affordable way to make your front entrance more inviting.

Don’t Miss: 8 Popular Pandemic Home Renovations to Transform Your Space

4. Add potted plants to your front porch

Even the smallest front porch usually has room for a potted plant or two. You might go for a vibrant magenta Tradescantia zebrina or a classic green fern. Consider how much sun the plants will get: You might need shade-loving varieties. Also, keep pet safety in mind.

If you purchase plants from your local nursery, you’re almost guaranteed to get something that’s well-suited to the season and climate, but for a wider selection, you can order plants online.

Tip: If your gardening skills are nonexistent, consider a high-quality artificial plant. You might be surprised by how realistic they can look!

5. Hide your hose

Many of us have a hose in front of our house that we don’t put away because we use it so often. As convenient as this is, some form of hose storage will eliminate the visual clutter of an uncoiled hose.

If you have the right power tools, you can mount a hose holder to a wall, but if you don’t want to drill holes into your home — or you’re looking for an easier project — a hose pot will also work.

One free, temporary fix is to just unscrew your hose from the faucet and store it in the garage. This can be a good option if you just want to impress guests in the short term and aren’t looking for a long-term solution.

6. Eliminate weeds

Weeds are another nuisance that you might have stopped noticing if you see them day after day. Pulling them can be a ton of work, and it won’t work long-term unless you get all the roots out.

There are, however, natural ways to kill weeds using substances you already have around the house. Vinegar, salt, and dish soap can help you kill unwanted plants. Check online for DIY recipes and application tips.

For weeds in your lawn, adjusting your watering and mowing patterns can also help limit weed growth going forward.

7. Add natural mulch

In flower beds and gardens, a thick layer of mulch will help prevent those weeds you just pulled from growing back. Mulch’s sunlight-blocking power also retains soil moisture so you can water less and keep your plants healthy.

You’ll want to do a bit of research to determine the best kind of mulch for your plants and climate, how close to your trees and plants it can be, and which types of mulch are the safest for people and pets.

8. Replace light fixtures

Replacing your old exterior light fixtures with more modern ones can help update your home’s look. It involves some electrical work, so you may want to hire an electrician. However, if you’re comfortable learning basic electrical safety, reading instructions, and watching a few videos, replacing light fixtures can be an easy DIY job.

For an extra-fun change, use smart light bulbs in your new fixtures. You can control these via WiFi and change their color and brightness with your smartphone.

9. Clean, touch up, or completely repaint your front door

Your front door will get dirty and fade over time since it’s exposed to the elements 24/7. Sometimes, just cleaning it with a wet rag will make a big difference, but other times, your door will need a paint job to look its best.

Painting your front door a bright color that complements the other colors in your home’s exterior can make your home stand out in a good way — and potentially raise your home’s value.

The ideal way to do the job will involve removing the door and hardware, filling and sanding any cracks, painting, then reinstalling the door. But you can also paint it in place by taping off the hardware and putting down a drop cloth to prevent paint drips and spills from marring your porch.

10. Clean and polish or change front door hardware

So many things in our homes can look like they need replacement because we’ve never cleaned them properly, and door hardware definitely falls into that category. The solution is sometimes as simple as a dish soap and water mixture.

For problems that go beyond surface dirt, you’ll need to know what material the doorknob is made of. Coated or plated hardware can require different cleaning approaches than solid metal. If your door hardware has corroded due to factors like humidity or salt air, replacing it is probably the best.

Keep Reading: 10 Ways to Craft an Elegant Outdoor Space

11. Prune flowers and shrubs

You should be able to improve your curb appeal by pruning away the dead parts of your flowers, shrubs, and hedges. If you can reshape them, even better!

You might also need to pull out plants that are beyond recovery and add new ones. Planting new flowers in full bloom is a great way to quickly add color to your landscape.

12. Pressure wash your concrete

To get stains and mildew out of the hard surfaces around your home, like your patio and driveway, try pressure washing. With the right detergents and degreasers, you can remove years of grime. Best of all, it’s one of those home improvement projects you can wrap up in a day.

You can borrow a pressure washer from a neighbor or rent one from a home improvement store. Carefully follow the instructions so you don’t hurt yourself. Also, certain materials can be damaged by pressure washing, so do your research first, or hire a professional.

13. Hire a tree trimmer

Having your trees professionally trimmed can make a big difference in your curb appeal.

An arborist will know how to shape your trees to make them look their best. They can also keep your trees healthy by thinning enough branches to improve air circulation and treating any problems that might be weakening your trees.

Besides, it’s a good idea to identify trees or limbs that could be in danger of falling in a storm, then take care of them promptly. A house that’s been partially crushed by a tree is not a pretty sight.

14. Embellish your garage door

If you have a traditional raised-panel garage door, you can add decorative or “dummy” hardware to make it more attractive. These handles and hinges don’t serve any functional purpose, but do add visual interest. There are also kits that allow you to add simulated windows.

Give your door a carriage style, mid-century modern, or contemporary look to go with the rest of your home. Just make sure to install the embellishments in a way that won’t affect the door’s ability to open and close smoothly.

15. Style your mailbox

A professional might be able to build you a custom stone mailbox in a weekend, but for a more affordable DIY upgrade, you have a few options.

If you have a metal mailbox, try cleaning it and spray painting it. You can also order decals, letters, and numbers to customize your mailbox. Or perhaps landscape your mailbox by adding plants and flowers around it.

Keep in mind that you’ll need to prune them periodically, and you may not want to plant anything that attracts lots of bees (like lavender) so you don’t have to worry about getting stung when you check the mail.

16. Attach house numbers

You can make sure your address is prominently displayed on your house by replacing old house numbers or installing new ones. This is also a way to ensure that emergency services can locate your home and that someone else’s packages don’t get dropped on your doorstep. Kits are available online in all different styles.

Boosting your curb appeal is a great way to get more money when selling your home. But even if you’re not selling, sprucing up your home’s exterior will increase your pride of ownership and create a more welcoming experience for your guests. And once you see the results of your first project, you’ll probably feel inspired to do even more.

Shopping around for a home loan can be stressful. Fortunately, Credible simplifies this process and makes comparing multiple lenders easy. You can see prequalified refinance rates from our partner lenders in just a few minutes.

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Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org

Financial Tips

How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House?

October 23, 2021 Kevin Smith

A fresh coat of paint can increase your curb appeal, make your home look newer, and potentially lead to higher offers when you sell. But you’ll need to estimate the cost and make sure it fits into your budget. Several factors, like square footage and the cost of supplies and labor, will impact the final total.

Here’s how much you can expect a freshly painted house to cost:

How much does it cost to paint a house?How to calculate the cost to paint a houseCost to paint house exteriorsFactors that affect the cost to paint a house

How much does it cost to paint a house?

Homeowners spend $1,901 on average painting a home’s interior and $3,045 on the exterior, according to HomeAdvisor. But several factors — including the quality of the paint, whether you hire professionals, and the home’s square footage — affect that estimate.

Here’s a breakdown of what the painting costs might look like for a 2,300-square-foot home, the median size of a new house sold in 2020:

InteriorExteriorAverage cost to paint$1,901$3,045Average range for a 2,300-square-foot home$1,900 to $7,800$1,100 to $7,700Average price per square foot$2 to $6$0.50 to $3.5Sources: HomeAdvisor’s Paint a Home Interior guide and Paint a Home Exterior guide

Don’t Miss: 16 Fast Weekend Projects to Boost Your Home’s Curb Appeal

How to calculate the cost to paint a house

You can always get a quote from a professional, or you can take the following steps to figure out how much it costs to paint a house yourself:

Find the finished area. For interior jobs, measure the height of each room you want to paint and multiply by the width. Do the same for exterior walls if you’re painting the outside, as they measure differently. You might be able to find the exterior perimeter on your mortgage closing papers.Find the paintable area. Measure the total square footage of the windows and doors, and subtract that area from the total finished area. A standard door measures 21 square feet, while a standard window measures 12 square feet.Find the coverage area of the paint. A gallon of paint covers about 400 square feet on average, though you may need more for rough exterior siding. Exteriors usually need two coats of paint, and interiors may need two or three coats if you’re making a dramatic color change. Choose your paint. The cost of a gallon of paint depends on the brand, color, sheen, regional pricing, and whether you’re using interior or exterior paint. Do the math. Divide the paintable area by the coverage of a gallon of paint to find out how many gallons of paint you need. Then, multiply the number of gallons by the price of the gallon to complete your estimate. Use this formula. To find the number of gallons you need, use this formula: square feet of paintable area / square feet of paint coverage area = gallons of paint x 2 = total gallons of paint needed (rounded up to the nearest gallon)

Example calculation

Let’s say you’re painting three rooms — two bedrooms and a living room:

The main bedroom is 200 square feetThe second bedroom is 150 square feetThe living room is 300 square feet

This comes out to a total finished area of 650 square feet. There are also three doors and five windows within those three rooms, for a total area of 123 square feet, giving you a paintable area of 527 square feet. You decide to use paint that costs $50 per gallon.

Here’s how the calculations would break down:

The paintable area: 650 square feet – 123 square feet = 527 square feetThe number of gallons you need: 527 square feet / 400 square feet (the average area a gallon of paint covers) = 1.31 gallons of paint x 2 = 2.62 total gallons of paint neededThe cost of the paint: 3 gallons x $50 = $150

If you’re going the DIY route, then you’ll also need to calculate the cost of basic supplies. For an interior paint job, this might include paint rollers, paint trays, painter’s tape, a paint bucket, sandpaper, caulk, drop cloths, and a ladder.

Related: 15 Home Improvement Projects to Complete Before You List Your Home

Cost to paint house exteriors

The material of your home’s exterior will affect the type and amount of paint you use. You’ll also need to adjust the estimate if your exterior is made of more than one material, such as vinyl and brick.

On a home that measures 1,500 to 2,000 square feet, here’s how much it might cost to paint the exterior, based on what it’s made of:

MaterialAverage cost to paint the exteriorBrick$3,500 to $10,500Vinyl$600 to $3,500Stucco$1,400 to $6,500Concrete$500 to $2,000Metal/aluminum$400 to $3,500Wood$700 to $3,000Trim$1 to $3 per linear footSource: HomeAdvisor’s Paint a Home Exterior guide

Factors that affect the cost to paint a house

Every paint job is different, depending on factors like labor costs, materials and supplies, square footage, and the condition and location of your home.

Labor

When you’re painting a house, labor might represent as much as 75% to 85% of the entire bill, and many charge by area instead of hourly. Professionals that do charge hourly charge about $25 to $75 per hour to paint the exterior and $20 to $50 per hour for the interior.

Painters spend a lot of time preparing the surface, so this might be an area where you can negotiate with the painter to save money. First consider whether you have the time and energy to clean, sand, patch, and caulk the walls.

You also might need to agree to the painter’s terms. For instance, some professionals won’t guarantee the finished product if they’re not doing the prep work. When you’re gathering quotes, make sure the final estimate reflects the arrangement you’ve negotiated.

Tip: Depending on the price of labor and your experience level, you might even decide to skip hiring professionals altogether. Homeowners typically need about two to three weeks to paint an entire home, plus the cost of materials and supplies.

Paint

Paint is the next-biggest cost, at anywhere from $20 to $80 or more per gallon. Professionals often get a contractor discount that they may pass on to you. The cost of the paint depends on the brand, color, sheen, and regional pricing.

Good to know: Interior and exterior paints are not interchangeable, so make sure you don’t mix the two. Exterior paint is made to handle mildew and fading, while interior paint is stain-resistant and allows for cleaning.

While you might want to cut corners here, it’s a good idea to use the highest-quality paint that your budget allows. Using good paint could save you money by offering long-term durability and better coverage, which translates to fewer coats and fewer work hours.

With the exterior, you’ll also need to consider the texture of the siding. Some rough textures, like stucco and wood, require more paint because there’s more surface to cover compared to smooth siding. So stucco and brick might cost $1 to $2 more per square foot compared to wood and vinyl.

Materials

Professionals will often include supplies in their quote, but you’ll need to budget for them if you plan to DIY. Final costs will depend on the brand, quality, quantity, and whether you rent or buy the item.

SuppliesAverage costBrushes$5 to $90Caulk$2 to $8 per tubeDrop cloths$10 to $30 eachLadder$100 to $300Paint pans and buckets $2 to $10Painter’s tape$2 to $5 per rollPower washerVariesRollers and roller handles$15 to $30Sandpaper$3 to $15Scraper$5 to $30Sprayer and power rollers$100 to $2,000Source: HomeAdvisor’s Paint a Home Exterior guide

Location and climate

When you’re painting the exterior, the weather and climate affect the materials you can use, how often you’ll need to paint, and when you can paint.

Homes in areas that experience harsh winters will need paint that’s made to withstand the elements. On the flip side, homes in year-round sunny climates may need paint more regularly because direct sunlight causes paint to fade quicker.

Additionally, high humidity and extremely high or low temperatures can affect how the paint dries and may lead to cracking and peeling.

Check Out: The Cost to Refinance a Mortgage (and How to Pay Less)

Prep work

You or a professional will need to assess your home’s condition before preparing an estimate:

For the exterior: You may need to repair the siding materials, fill cracks and holes, and power wash the sides. You might also need to trim the landscaping and remove vines to prepare the space. For the interior: Walls will need to be cleaned, patched, and sanded. A professional can guarantee this is done quickly and correctly, but you can save costs by doing some of it yourself.

A cash-out refinance can help you fund your next major home improvement project. With Credible, you can compare loan options from all of our partner lenders and get prequalified refinance rates in just a few minutes.

Get the cash you need and the rate you deserve

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The post How Much Does It Cost to Paint a House? appeared first on Credible.

Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org

Financial Tips

Credit Score Needed to Refinance Student Loans and Other Requirements

October 19, 2021 Kevin Smith

If you’re applying for a new loan, you’ll often need good credit to get approved. This is also true if you’re looking to refinance your student loans.

However, minimum credit score requirements for refinancing can differ from one lender to the next.

Here’s what you should know about the minimum credit score needed to refinance student loans:

Eligibility requirements to refinance student loansCredit score needed to refinance student loansHow to qualify for student loan refinancingWhat you can do if you don’t meet qualifying requirementsAlternatives to refinancing a student loan

Eligibility requirements to refinance student loans

While eligibility criteria — including minimum credit score requirements — can vary by lender, here are a few common conditions for student loan refinancing that you’ll likely come across:

Eligibility criteriaMin. requirementsCredit scoreTypically need good to excellent credit (credit score of 700 or above)Some lenders also accept lower credit scores (but these loans usually come with higher interest rates)If you have bad credit, applying with a cosigner could help you get approvedVerifiable income
Proof of income that shows your ability to repay the loanSome lenders have a minimum income requirement (usually about $30,000)
Debt-to-income ratio
(amount you owe in monthly debt payments compared to your income)
50% maximum DTI ratio (a lower ratio than this will likely make it easier to get approved)

Learn More: 11 Strategies for Paying Off Your Student Loans Faster

Credit score needed to refinance student loans

The exact credit score you’ll need to refinance your student loans will depend on the lender. Most lenders require borrowers to have good to excellent credit. A good credit score is usually considered to be 700 or higher. Your credit score will help determine your interest rate, too — in general, the higher your credit score, the better your interest rate.

There are also several lenders that offer refinancing for bad credit, but these loans typically come with higher interest rates compared to good credit loans.

Tip: While you can refinance both federal and private loans (and will need to meet the same refinancing credit requirements for both), refinancing federal student loans will cost you access to federal protections — such as income-driven repayment plans and student loan forgiveness programs.

If you don’t want to lose access to these federal benefits, another option to consider is consolidating your federal loans into a Direct Consolidation Loan. This won’t change your interest rate, but it will allow you to extend your repayment up to 30 years. Just keep in mind that by extending your term, you’ll pay more in interest over time.

If you decide to refinance your student loans, it’s important to compare as many lenders as possible. Consider not only their interest rates, but also eligibility criteria (such as minimum credit score requirements), repayment terms, and any fees charged by the lender.

Here are Credible’s refinancing partner lenders and their minimum credit score requirements:

LenderFixed rates from (APR)Variable rates from (APR)Loan terms (years)Loan amountsOffer Cosigner Release?

View details>
4.54%+N/A10, 15, 20$7,500 up to $200,000
(larger balances require special approval)Yes, after 36 monthsFixed APR:
4.54%+Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$7,500 up to $500,000Loan terms (years):
10, 15, 20Max. undergraduate loan balance:
$250,000 – $500,000Time to fund:
4 monthsRepayment options:
Immediate repayment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Must be a resident of KentuckyCustomer service:
PhoneSoft credit check:
NoCosigner release:
After 36 monthsLoan servicer:
Kentucky Higher Education Student Loan CorporationMax. graduate loan balance:
$250,000 – $500,000Credible Review:
Advantage Education Loan reviewOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing :
Yes

View details>
2.15%+
1.87%+5, 7, 10, 15, 20$10,000 up to $250,000
(depending on degree)NoFixed APR:
2.15%+Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$10,000 to $400,000Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Military deferment, forbearanceFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Must have a credit score of at least 720, a minimum income of $60,000, and must be a resident of TexasCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
Does not discloseCosigner release:
NoLoan servicer:
Firstmark ServicesMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$100,000 – $149,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
$200,000 – $400,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Does not disclose

View details>
2.44%+1
2.24%+15, 7, 10, 15, 20$10,000 to $500,000
(depending on degree and loan type)Yes, after 36 monthsFixed APR:
2.44%+1Variable APR:
2.24%+1Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$10,000 to $750,000Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Immediate repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
Autopay, loyaltyEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have at least $10,000 in student loansCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 24 to 36 monthsLoan servicer:
Firstmark ServicesMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$100,000 to $149,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
Less than $150,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.99%+2
2.94%+25, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20$5,000 to $300,000
(depending on degree type)Yes, after 24 monthsFixed APR:
2.99%+2Variable APR:
2.94%+2Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$5,000 to $300,000Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Repayment options:
Military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
All states except for MECustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 24 to 36 monthsLoan servicer:
College Ave Servicing LLCMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$100,000 to $149,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
Less than $300,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.16%+
2.11%+5, 7, 10, 15, 20$5,000 to $500,000Yes, after 36 monthsFixed rate:
2.44%+1Variable rate:
2.24%+1Min. credit score:
680Loan amount:
$5,000 to $500,000Cosigner release:
YesLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states, except MS and NVCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
FirstMarkMax. undergraduate loan balance:
$500,000Max. graduate loan balance:
$500,000Offers Parent PLUS refinancing:
YesMin. income:
$65,000 (for 15- and 20-year products)

View details>

1.8%+5
1.8%+55, 10, 15, 20$1,000 to $250,000Yes, after 36 monthsFixed APR:
1.8%+5Variable APR:
1.8%+5Min. credit score:
700Loan amount:
$7,500 to $200,000Loan terms (years):
5, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Immediate repayment, academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and submit two personal referencesCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 36 monthsLoan servicer:
Granite State Management & Resources (GSM&R)Max. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$150,000 to $249,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
$150,000 to $199,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing :
Yes

View details>
2.47%+3
2.39%+35, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Minimum of $15,000NoFixed APR:
2.47%+3Variable APR:
2.39%+3Min. credit score:
680Loan amount:
No maximumLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Repayment options:
ForbearanceFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, have at least $15,000 in student loan debt, and have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an approved schoolCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
NoLoan servicer:
MohelaMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
No maximumMax. Graduate Loan Balance:
No maximumOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
3.47%+4
2.44%+45, 10, 15, 20$5,000 to $250,000Yes, after 48 months of on-time paymentsFixed APR:
3.47%+4Variable APR:
2.44%+4Min. credit score:
670Loan amount:
$5,000 to $250,000Loan terms (years):
5, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Academic deferment, military deferment, forbearanceFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Must be U.S. citizen or permanent residentCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
YesMax undergraduate loan balance:
$250,000Max graduate loan balance:
$250,000Offers Parent PLUS refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.24%+7N/A5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Up to $300,000Yes, after 24 monthsFixed APR:
2.24%+7Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
670Loan amount:
Up to $300,000Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Time to fund:
Usually one business dayRepayment options:
Academic deferral, military deferral, forbearance, death/disability dischargeFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 24 monthsMax. undergraduate loan balance:
$300,000Max. graduate balance:
$300,000Offers Parent PLUS loans:
YesMin. income:
None

View details>
3.05%+
3.05%+7, 10, 15$10,000 up to the total amount of qualified education debt NoFixed APR:
3.05%+Variable APR:
3.05%+Min. credit score:
670Loan amount:
$10,000 up to the total amountLoan terms (years):
7, 10, 15Repayment options:
Military deferment, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have at least $10,000 in student loansCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
NoLoan servicer:
AESMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
No maximumMax. Gradaute Loan Balance:
No maximumOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.89%+N/A5, 8, 12, 15$7,500 to $300,000Yes, after 12 monthsFixed APR:
2.89%+Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
670Loan amount:
$7,500 to $300,000Loan terms (years):
5, 8, 12, 15Repayment options:
Does not discloseFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen and have and at least $7,500 in student loansCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 12 monthsLoan servicer:
PenFedMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$300,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
$300,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.69%+N/A5, 10, 15$7,500 up to $250,000
(depending on highest degree earned) NoFixed APR:
2.69%+Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
680Loan amount:
$7,500 to $250,000Loan terms (years):
5, 10, 15Repayment options:
Academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 states; must also have at least $7,500 in student loans and a minimum income of $40,000Customer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
Does not discloseCosigner release:
NoLoan servicer:
Rhode Island Student Loan AuthorityMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$150,000 – $249,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
$200,000 – $249,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.49%+6
1.99%+65, 7, 10, 15, 20$5,000 up to the full balance of your qualified education loans NoFixed APR:
2.49%+6Variable APR:
1.99%+6Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$5,000 up to the full balanceLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Academic deferment, military defermentFees:
NoneDiscounts:
Autopay, loyaltyEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
NoMax undergraduate loan balance:
No maximumMax graduate loan balance:
No maximumOffers Parent PLUS refinancing:
YesAll APRs reflect autopay and loyalty discounts where available | 1Citizens Disclosures | 2College Ave Disclosures | 5EDvestinU Disclosures | 3 ELFI Disclosures | 4INvestEd Disclosures | 7ISL Education Lending Disclosures | 6SoFi Disclosures

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Check Out: 7 Ways to Lower Your Student Loan Interest Rate Now

How to qualify for student loan refinancing

If you’re ready to refinance your student loans, follow these four steps:

Check your credit score. When you apply for refinancing, the lender will review your credit to determine your creditworthiness — so it’s a good idea to take a look at your credit first to see where you stand. You can use a site like AnnualCreditReport.com to review your credit reports for free. If you find any errors, dispute them with the appropriate credit bureau to potentially boost your credit score.Gather income documents. Lenders typically ask borrowers to submit recent pay stubs or tax documents to verify income as well as calculate DTI. Some lenders have a specific minimum income requirement you’ll need to meet while others don’t — but in either case, they’ll want to see that you can afford to repay the loan. Research and compare lenders. Be sure to shop around and compare as many student loan refinance companies as possible to find the right loan for you. Many lenders provide a prequalification option without a hard credit check so you can see your personalized loan offers before completing a full application. For example, with Credible, you can compare your prequalified rates from multiple lenders after filling out a single form — without affecting your credit.Pick your loan option and complete the application. After you’ve done your lender research, pick the loan option that best suits your needs. You’ll then need to fill out a full application and submit any required documentation. If you’re approved, continue making payments on your old loans while the refinance is processed — this could take one to two billing cycles to complete.

If you decide to refinance your student loans, remember to consider as many lenders as you can to find the right loan for you. This is easy with Credible — you can compare your prequalified rates from multiple lenders in just two minutes.

Find out if refinancing is right for you

Compare actual rates, not ballpark estimates – Unlock rates from multiple lenders in about 2 minutesWon’t impact credit score – Checking rates on Credible won’t impact your credit scoreData privacy – We don’t sell your information, so you won’t get calls or emails from multiple lendersSee Your Refinancing Options
Credible is 100% free!

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Learn More: How to Know if Your Student Loan Interest Rates Are Too High

What you can do if you don’t meet qualifying requirements

If you don’t meet the qualifying requirements for refinancing, here are a few options to consider:

dd a cosigner — and find a lender that offers cosigner release

Having a creditworthy cosigner could help you get approved for refinancing if you have poor or fair credit. A cosigner can be anyone with good credit — such as a parent, other relative, or trusted friend — who is willing to share responsibility for the loan.

Even if you don’t need a cosigner to qualify for refinancing, having one could get you a lower interest rate than you’d get on your own.

Cosigner release options: Many lenders offer cosigner release — meaning your cosigner could be removed from the loan after you meet certain requirements. To be eligible for cosigner release, you’ll usually need to make consecutive, on-time payments for a specific period of time as well as meet the underwriting criteria on your own.

If your potential cosigner feels unsure about sharing responsibility for the loan, finding a lender that allows for cosigner release might help put their mind at ease. Also be sure to sit down and discuss ground rules for your situation before you apply (such as what to do if you can’t make a payment) to avoid straining your relationship with your cosigner.

If you’re thinking about refinancing with a cosigner, here are some pros and cons to keep in mind:

ProsConsMight help you get approved if you have bad creditCould get you a lower interest rateMight be able to release the cosigner from the loan in the future (depending on the lender)You might not know anyone who has good enough credit to cosign (or who is willing to do so)Your cosigner will be on the hook if you don’t make your payments (this could also damage their credit)If your lender doesn’t offer a cosigner release option, you’ll have to refinance again to remove your cosigner from the loan

Check Out: How Often Can You Refinance Student Loans?

Improve your credit score

If you have poor credit and can wait to refinance, it could be a good idea to spend some time improving your credit score first. This way, you’ll likely have an easier time getting approved — as well as have a better chance of qualifying for a good interest rate.

There are several ways to potentially build your credit, such as:

Making on-time payments: Your payment history is one of the biggest factors that make up your credit score. Paying all of your bills on time could help you build a positive payment history and improve your credit over time.Paying down credit card balances: Another major component of your credit score is your credit utilization ratio — this is the amount you owe on revolving credit lines (such as credit cards and lines of credit) compared to your total credit limits. Paying down your balances can lower your credit utilization, which might boost your score. Becoming an authorized user: One of the easiest ways to build your credit is to become an authorized user on the credit card account of someone you trust. By doing this, you can benefit from the card owner’s good credit habits without even needing to use the card.

Learn More: Cost to Refinance Student Loans: Fees and Discounts Explained

lternatives to refinancing a student loan

Refinancing is a good idea in some cases, but it isn’t right for everyone. Additionally, it can be hard to qualify for refinancing if you don’t have good credit or stable income (or someone willing to cosign your loan).

While the options for private student loans outside of refinancing are limited, here are a few alternatives to consider if you have federal student loans:

Sign up for an income-driven repayment plan

On an income-driven repayment (IDR) plan, your payments will be based on your income — typically 10% to 20% of your discretionary income. Additionally, any remaining balance will be forgiven after 20 to 25 years, depending on the plan.

There are four main IDR plans to choose from:

Pay As You Earn (PAYE)Revised Pay As You Earn (REPAYE)Income-Based Repayment (IBR)Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR)

Check Out: PAYE vs. REPAYE: Which Repayment Plan Is Right for You?

Pursue student loan forgiveness

There are several student loan forgiveness programs available to federal student loan borrowers. Most of these programs require you to work in a certain field and make qualifying payments for a specific amount of time.

For example, if you work for a nonprofit or government organization and make qualifying payments for 10 years, you might be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

Learn More: Private Student Loan Consolidation

Consolidate your loans

If you have multiple federal loans, you can consolidate them into a Direct Consolidation Loan. With a Direct Consolidation Loan, your interest rate will be the average of your old loans, but you might be able to extend your repayment term up to 30 years — this could greatly reduce your monthly payments but also means you’ll pay more in interest over time.

If you decide to refinance your loans, remember to consider as many lenders as you can to find the right loan for your needs. This is easy with Credible: You can compare your prequalified rates from multiple lenders in two minutes — without affecting your credit.

Compare Rates Now

The post Credit Score Needed to Refinance Student Loans and Other Requirements appeared first on Credible.

Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org

Financial Tips

How to Pay Off $300,000 in Student Loans

October 15, 2021 Kevin Smith

The average student loan debt for college students is $39,351. However, some students — such as those attending expensive law or medical programs — end up with $300,000 or more in education debt.

Paying off such a large balance can be difficult and time consuming. For example, if you had $300,000 in federal student loans and paid them off on the standard 10-year repayment plan with a 6.22% interest rate, you’d end up with a monthly payment of $3,364 and a total repayment cost of $403,663.

The good news is that there are several strategies that could help you pay off your student loans more easily.

Here’s how to pay off $300,000 in student loan debt:

Refinance your student loansConsider using a cosigner when refinancingExplore income-driven repayment plansPursue loan forgiveness for federal student loansAdopt the debt avalanche or debt snowball method

1. Refinance your student loans

Student loan refinancing is the process of paying off your old student loans with a new loan. Depending on your credit, you might get a lower interest rate through refinancing — this could save you money on interest and potentially help you pay off your loan faster.

Or you could opt to extend your repayment term through refinancing to reduce your monthly payments and lessen the strain on your budget. Just keep in mind that choosing a longer term means you’ll pay more in interest over time.

Keep in mind: While you can refinance both federal and private loans, refinancing federal student loans will cost you access to federal benefits and protections — such as income-driven repayment plans and student loan forgiveness programs.

If you decide to refinance your student loans, be sure to consider as many lenders as possible. This way, you can find the right loan for your situation.

Here are Credible’s partners that offer refinancing for student loan balances of $300,000:

LenderFixed rates from (APR)Variable rates from (APR)Loan terms (years)Loan amounts

View details>
2.44%+1
2.24%+15, 7, 10, 15, 20$10,000 to $500,000
(depending on degree and loan type)Fixed APR:
2.44%+1Variable APR:
2.24%+1Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$10,000 to $750,000Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Immediate repayment, academic deferment, military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
Autopay, loyaltyEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have at least $10,000 in student loansCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 24 to 36 monthsLoan servicer:
Firstmark ServicesMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$100,000 to $149,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
Less than $150,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.99%+2
2.94%+25, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20$5,000 to $300,000
(depending on degree type)Fixed APR:
2.99%+2Variable APR:
2.94%+2Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$5,000 to $300,000Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Repayment options:
Military deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
All states except for MECustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 24 to 36 monthsLoan servicer:
College Ave Servicing LLCMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$100,000 to $149,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
Less than $300,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.16%+
2.11%+5, 7, 10, 15, 20$5,000 to $500,000Fixed rate:
2.44%+1Variable rate:
2.24%+1Min. credit score:
680Loan amount:
$5,000 to $500,000Cosigner release:
YesLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Academic deferment, forbearance, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
Late feeDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all states, except MS and NVCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesLoan servicer:
FirstMarkMax. undergraduate loan balance:
$500,000Max. graduate loan balance:
$500,000Offers Parent PLUS refinancing:
YesMin. income:
$65,000 (for 15- and 20-year products)

View details>
2.47%+3
2.39%+35, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Minimum of $15,000Fixed APR:
2.47%+3Variable APR:
2.39%+3Min. credit score:
680Loan amount:
No maximumLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Repayment options:
ForbearanceFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, have at least $15,000 in student loan debt, and have a bachelor’s degree or higher from an approved schoolCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
NoLoan servicer:
MohelaMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
No maximumMax. Graduate Loan Balance:
No maximumOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.24%+7N/A5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20Up to $300,000Fixed APR:
2.24%+7Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
670Loan amount:
Up to $300,000Loan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Time to fund:
Usually one business dayRepayment options:
Academic deferral, military deferral, forbearance, death/disability dischargeFees:
NoneDiscounts:
AutopayEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 24 monthsMax. undergraduate loan balance:
$300,000Max. graduate balance:
$300,000Offers Parent PLUS loans:
YesMin. income:
None

View details>
3.05%+
3.05%+7, 10, 15$10,000 up to the total amount of qualified education debtFixed APR:
3.05%+Variable APR:
3.05%+Min. credit score:
670Loan amount:
$10,000 up to the total amountLoan terms (years):
7, 10, 15Repayment options:
Military deferment, loans discharged upon death or disabilityFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and have at least $10,000 in student loansCustomer service:
Email, phoneSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
NoLoan servicer:
AESMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
No maximumMax. Gradaute Loan Balance:
No maximumOffers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.89%+N/A5, 8, 12, 15$7,500 to $300,000Fixed APR:
2.89%+Variable APR:
N/AMin. credit score:
670Loan amount:
$7,500 to $300,000Loan terms (years):
5, 8, 12, 15Repayment options:
Does not discloseFees:
NoneDiscounts:
NoneEligibility:
Must be a U.S. citizen and have and at least $7,500 in student loansCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
After 12 monthsLoan servicer:
PenFedMax. Undergraduate Loan Balance:
$300,000Max. Graduate Loan Balance:
$300,000Offers Parent PLUS Refinancing:
Yes

View details>
2.49%+6
1.99%+65, 7, 10, 15, 20$5,000 up to the full balance of your qualified education loansFixed APR:
2.49%+6Variable APR:
1.99%+6Min. credit score:
Does not discloseLoan amount:
$5,000 up to the full balanceLoan terms (years):
5, 7, 10, 15, 20Repayment options:
Academic deferment, military defermentFees:
NoneDiscounts:
Autopay, loyaltyEligibility:
Available in all 50 statesCustomer service:
Email, phone, chatSoft credit check:
YesCosigner release:
NoMax undergraduate loan balance:
No maximumMax graduate loan balance:
No maximumOffers Parent PLUS refinancing:
YesCompare personalized rates from multiple lenders without affecting your credit score. 100% free!

Compare Now

2. Consider using a cosigner when refinancing

You’ll typically need good to excellent credit to qualify for refinancing — a good credit score is usually considered to be 700 or higher. There are also several lenders that offer refinancing for bad credit, but these loans usually come with higher interest rates compared to good credit loans.

If you’re struggling to get approved, consider applying with a creditworthy cosigner. Even if you don’t need a cosigner to qualify, having one could get you a lower interest rate than you’d get on your own.

Tip: A cosigner can be anyone with good credit — such as a parent, other relative, or trusted friend — who is willing to share responsibility for the refinanced loan. Keep in mind that this means they’ll be on the hook if you can’t make your payments.

Learn More: Best Student Refinance Companies: Reviewed and Rated

3. Explore income-driven repayment plans

If you have federal student loans, you might consider signing up for an income-driven repayment (IDR) plan. On an IDR plan, your payments will be based on your income — typically 10% to 20% of your discretionary income. Additionally, you could have any remaining balance forgiven after 20 to 25 years, depending on the plan.

Here’s how the four main IDR plans compare to a few other federal repayment plan options:

Repayment planWho’s eligible?Monthly paymentRepayment termsEligible for loan forgiveness?Standard repayment planAny borrower with Direct or FFEL LoansAmount when payments are spread equally over 10 years (usually $50 minimum) 10 yearsNoGraduated repayment planAny borrower with Direct or FFEL LoansDepends on loan amount
(payments start low and increase every 2 years)10 yearsNoExtended repayment planAny borrower with more than $30,000 in Direct or FFEL LoansFixed: Spread evenly over up to 25 years

Graduated: Depends on loan amount (start low and increase every 2 years)Up to 25 yearsNoIncome-Based Repayment (IBR)Borrowers with partial financial hardship

(no Parent PLUS Loans)For borrowers who took out loans after July 1, 2014: 10% of discretionary income
(never more than 10-year plan)

For borrowers who took out loans before July 1, 2014: 15% of discretionary income
(never more than 10-year plan)For borrowers who took out loans after July 1, 2014: 20 years

For borrowers who took out loans before July 1, 2014: 25 yearsYesPay As You Earn (PAYE)Must have partial financial hardshipMust have borrowed on or after Oct. 1, 200710% of discretionary income
(never more than 10-year plan)20 yearsYesRevised Pay As You Earn (REPAYE)Any borrower
(no Parent PLUS Loans)10% of discretionary income
(no cap)20 years
(25 years if repaying grad school debt)YesIncome Contingent Repayment (ICR)Any borrower
(Parent PLUS Loans must be consolidated)20% of discretionary income
(or income-adjusted payment on 12-year plan)25 yearsYes

Check Out: PAYE vs. REPAYE: Which Repayment Plan Is Right for You?

4. Pursue loan forgiveness for federal student loans

There are several student loan forgiveness programs available if you have federal student loans. Most of these require you to work in a certain field as well as make qualifying payments for a specific period of time.

For example: If you have federal loans and work for a nonprofit or government organization, you might be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF). Under this program, you’ll need to make qualifying payments for 10 years to have your loans forgiven.

Some occupations that might qualify for a forgiveness program include:

DentistsDoctorsLawyersNursesPharmacistsTeachersKeep in mind: Unfortunately, private student loan forgiveness doesn’t exist. However, there are other options that could help you manage your private loans more easily — such as refinancing.

5. Adopt the debt avalanche or debt snowball method

If you have multiple loans and don’t qualify for forgiveness or refinancing, you might just need to buckle down and focus on paying them off. Here are a couple of strategies that could help:

Debt avalanche method

With the debt avalanche method, you’ll concentrate on paying off the loan with the highest interest rate first while continuing to make the minimum payments on your other loans.

After you pay off the highest-interest loan, move on to the loan with the next-highest rate. You’ll continue with this until all of your loans are paid off.

Tip: While the debt avalanche method can be a good option to save money on interest, it can also take a while before you see any results.

If you’re more motivated by small wins, you might consider the debt snowball method instead.

Debt snowball method

With the debt snowball method, you’ll focus on paying off your smallest loan first while making the minimum payments on your other loans.

After this loan is paid off, move on to the next-smallest loan — and continue until all of your loans are paid off.

Tip: The debt snowball method generally offers quicker results. But if you’d rather save more money on interest and don’t mind waiting to see your savings, the debt avalanche might be a better fit.

Frequently asked questions

Here are the answers to a few commonly asked questions about paying off $300,000 in student loan debt:

How long does it take to pay off $300k student loans?

This will depend on the type of student loans you have and the repayment terms you choose.

Federal student loans: It will generally take 10 to 25 years to pay off federal loans, depending on the repayment plan. You could also opt to consolidate your loans into a Direct Consolidation Loan — this will let you extend your term up to 30 years.Private student loans: These loans usually come with repayment terms ranging from five to 20 years, depending on the lender.

Learn More: Private Student Loan Consolidation

Can I file for bankruptcy to eliminate my student loan debt?

Yes, you can file bankruptcy for student loan debt. But keep in mind that actually having your student loans discharged could be quite difficult. To have your loans discharged, you’ll have to prove to the court that repaying them would cause an undue hardship on you and your dependents.

If the court decides in your favor, your loans might be:

Fully dischargedPartially discharged with you responsible for the remainder of the balanceAdjusted with different terms to make repayment easier (such as a lower interest rate)Tip: Bankruptcy will severely damage your credit and make it hard to access new loans in the future. Because of this, it’s best to treat bankruptcy as a last resort after all other repayment strategies have been exhausted.

If you’re thinking about filing for bankruptcy, be sure to consult with a lawyer so you can make the best decision for your financial situation.

re student loans forgiven after 20 years?

This depends on the type of student loans you have.

If you have federal student loans, you could have your loans forgiven after 20 or 25 years if you sign up for an IDR plan. Or you might be able to have them partially or fully discharged even sooner if you qualify for PSLF or another federal forgiveness program.If you have private student loans, you won’t be eligible for federal forgiveness programs. But you might be able to save money on interest and even possibly shorten your repayment time through refinancing.

Do children inherit student debt?

Typically no. Here’s what you can typically expect:

Federal students are discharged upon the death of the borrower. If you have Parent PLUS Loans, they’ll be discharged upon the death of either the parent or the student who benefitted from the loan.Private student loans are often discharged like federal loans — however, this is up to the discretion of the lender. If your lender doesn’t offer a death discharge, then your loans will be considered part of your estate and will be paid off by your assets.

Keep Reading: How Often Can You Refinance Student Loans?

The post How to Pay Off $300,000 in Student Loans appeared first on Credible.

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Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org

Financial Tips

How to Get a Mortgage With a 600 Credit Score

October 12, 2021 Kevin Smith

If you want to get a mortgage but your credit score needs work, you might think homeownership is out of reach. But you don’t need perfect credit to get a home loan. It’s possible to get a mortgage with a 600 credit score.

Check out some of the home loan programs with flexible credit requirements — and how you can improve your credit score to get better terms:

Can I buy a house with a 600 credit score?Mortgage loans for a 600 credit scoreHow to improve your credit score

Can I buy a house with a 600 credit score?

A 600 credit score is high enough to get a home loan. In fact, there are several mortgage programs designed specifically to help people with lower credit scores. However, you’ll need to meet other lending requirements too. For instance, the lender will check your debt-to-income ratio (DTI), verify employment, and go over your credit history. You might have to make a down payment as well.

A lower credit score also means you’ll have higher borrowing costs because there’s more risk for the lender. These costs usually come in the form of mortgage insurance premiums and higher interest rates.

Mortgage loans for a 600 credit score

If you’re looking for a home loan with a 600 credit score, check out these programs:

FHA home loan

FHA home loans are mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration. The government backing removes some of the risk for lenders, so people with lower credit scores and smaller down payments may qualify.

If you have a credit score of 580 or more, you’ll only need to put down 3.5% of the home’s purchase price, while a score of 500 to 579 requires at least 10% down.

You’ll have to pay two types of mortgage insurance with an FHA loan as well: an upfront premium and an ongoing fee — known as an annual mortgage insurance premium — that’s baked into your monthly payment. Depending on how big of a down payment you make, you’ll have to pay these mortgage insurance premiums for either 11 years or the life of the loan.

VA home loan

Backed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA loans are geared toward veterans, service members, and surviving spouses. You’ll pay no money down and no mortgage insurance, though you’ll be required to pay an upfront funding fee between 1.4% and 3.6% of the loan amount.

There’s no minimum credit score requirement for VA loans. The lender sets its own minimum, which means it’s possible to get this type of loan with a 600 credit score.

USDA home loan

USDA home loans are no-money-down mortgages guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. To get one, you’ll need to meet income requirements and buy a home in a USDA-designated rural area. Borrowers are also responsible for paying mortgage insurance in the form of an upfront guarantee fee and an annual fee.

Like VA loans, every lender sets its own credit score requirements. So it’s possible to get a USDA-backed mortgage with a 600 credit score, as long as you find a lender willing to work with you.

Non-qualified mortgages

A non-qualified mortgage loan, also known as a non-QM loan, is a home loan that doesn’t satisfy the requirements to be a Qualified Mortgage. Non-QM loans are ideal for borrowers with fluctuating incomes — such as self-employed workers — and people who can’t meet stringent conventional loan requirements.

Non-qualified mortgages are usually offered by banks that set up and service their own unique mortgage programs, such as interest-only home loans. You can shop around for lenders that offer these loans or work with a mortgage broker who can make recommendations.

How to improve your credit score

If you can pause your mortgage search for a few months and work on improving your credit, you may be able to qualify for conventional financing. Or you might get better loan terms that help you save money.

Here are some ways to boost your credit score:

Make on-time payments

Payment history is one of the most important factors that influences your credit scores, so focus on paying all of your bills on time. To avoid missed or late payments, set up automatic payments or schedule a reminder on your phone a few days before the bill is due. Make sure you have money in your checking account before the payment is processed too.

Tip: If you’re in danger of missing a payment, contact the service provider or lender right away. They may be able to move the due date or work out a payment plan for you while keeping your account in good standing.

Pay down debt

Paying down outstanding balances lowers your credit utilization ratio, which is the amount of credit you’re using compared to your available credit. A lower credit utilization signals less risk for a lender. In turn, it can help improve your credit scores.

Tip: Aim to keep your credit card balances to 30% of the credit limit or less, and pay off loan balances where possible.

There’s another bonus to paying down your credit card debt: It improves your debt-to-income ratio, which measures how much of your monthly income goes toward debt payments. With a higher credit score and lower DTI ratio, you improve your chances of qualifying for a home loan.

Don’t close credit card accounts

Credit scores are also based on the length of your credit history, so the simple act of keeping credit card accounts open can help keep your credit healthy.

You might have been tempted to close an account if you don’t use it much or it comes with a high annual fee. But you can keep the account active by connecting the card to a small recurring bill and setting up payment reminders.

Tip: Additionally, your card issuer might be able to downgrade the account to a card with lower fees. Just make sure you ask about changes to your perks and rewards, and make sure the issuer will report the new card to the credit bureaus as the same account.

Limit new credit applications

Every time you apply for new credit, whether it’s for a credit card or loan, the lender reports a hard inquiry to the credit bureaus. Plus, the new account can bring down the average age of your credit history and increase your outstanding debt. All of these factors can bring down your credit score, so always keep this in mind before opening a new account.

Get a credit-builder loan

A credit-builder loan is designed to help you build credit as you make payments. They’re typically available at smaller financial institutions, such as community banks and credit unions.

If you qualify, you don’t get the money upfront. Instead, the lender holds it in a savings account and collects payments from you (with interest) throughout the loan term. You get the money once the loan is paid off, usually within six to 24 months.

Become an authorized user

With this option, a trustworthy friend or relative adds you to their credit card account. You get your own copy of the credit card and can make purchases with it, but you’re not required to make payments. The account activity will be reflected on your credit reports along with the primary account holder’s.

An account in good standing will positively impact your credit, but the opposite is true too. Any late payments or high balances may negatively affect your credit.

Regularly check your credit reports

Your credit scores are based on the information in your credit reports, so it’s a good idea to make sure they don’t contain mistakes. You’re entitled to a free credit report with TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian once a year at AnnualCreditReport.com. If you find an error or signs of identity theft during your review, you can resolve it with the credit bureau.

The post How to Get a Mortgage With a 600 Credit Score appeared first on Credible.

Kevin Smith

corazoncrm.org