CREDIT SCORE REALITY CHECK: IS 760 THE NEW 680?
Read Published Article in USAA.com The bar has been raised for the three-digit number lenders use to determine your worthiness to borrow money. “Three years ago, a creditworthy borrower was someone with a 680 to 700 score. Now, to get the best rates, that score needs to be 760 and up,” says Greg McBride, senior […]
FORCED TO MOVE, FORCED TO STAY
In a topsy-turvy housing market, it’s more important than ever to know the facts before buying or selling. By Kerry Hannon Read Published Article From California to the Carolinas, homebuyers are snapping up some of the best home prices in decades. Sellers, on the other hand, grapple to get what they believe is a decent […]
5 STEPS TO AVOID FORECLOSURE
Want to stay in your home and sleep better at night? Read this. Read Published article on USAA.com After RealtyTrac® logged a record-breaking 2.8 million foreclosures in 2009, the real estate industry tracker projects a miserable 3.5 million in 2010. Don’t be one of them. If you’re at risk, consider taking these steps: 1. Get counseling. […]
3 WAYS TO INVEST NOW IN YOUR GRANDKIDS’ FUTURE
Giving money to your grandchildren today can make a long-lasting financial difference in their lives and provide estate-tax benefits in yours. by Kerry Hannon Read Published Article in USAA Here are three ways to get started: 1. Chip in for college savings by opening a USAA 529 College Savings Plan account for your grandchild in your name. A few […]
WHAT IT TAKES TO BUY OR SELL A HOME IN TODAY’S MARKET
Read Published Article in USAA More than ever, it’s tricky to buy or sell a home without a pro’s help. Ask USAA members Corey and Kelly Campbell, who recently bought their first home for $158,000 in Fort Walton Beach, Fla., near Hurlburt Field where Corey is stationed. It was up to Kelly, now 20, to […]
ON COURSE
Find out how planning now can help you and your parents navigate financial waters later USAA Magazine Winter 2008-2009 On his 70th birthday, USAA member Leonard Ratzman didn’t have a will or any kind of estate plan. “I suddenly realized that the worst thing I could do as a father is to pass away and leave […]