Seven Steps to Simplify Your Finances
Save time and reduce the stress and anxiety of managing your finances with these easy steps.
- Enroll for direct deposit. It eliminates trips to the credit union and keeps your money working longer.
- Sign up for overdraft protection. By linking your checking account to a line of credit you avoid the cost, hassle and embarrassment of a bounced check.
- Establish an automatic savings plan. Regular, automatic transfers to a savings account will add up. Even a little helps.
- Use online bill pay. Eliminate the task of writing checks.
- Consolidate your financial relationships. Dealing with one financial institution makes everything easier.
- Consider personal finance software. Many programs make handling your finances easier and quicker.
- Build a safety cushion. Be ready for unexpected expenses.
How to Find the Best Home Equity Loans
Finding the best home equity loan can save you thousands of dollars – at least. In order to get the best loan, I recommend that you:
- Shop around. Try a variety of sources (banks, brokers, and credit unions)
- Manage your credit score and make sure your credit reports are accurate
- Ask your network of friends and family who they recommend
- Compare your offers to those found on websites and advertisements
To make the deal work out in your best interest, make sure that it is the right deal in the first place. Is a home equity loan a better fit for your needs than a simple credit card account? If you’re not sure, figure it out before you put your home at risk.
Plan out your budget ahead of time. Make sure that taking the loan will not overburden you.
Review and consider insurance to cover the payments if something happens. You may or may not need insurance. If you’re going to include it in your program, try to pay the premiums monthly – not up front.