Colin Hogan

Contributor at U.S. News & World Report

Senior Newsletter Editor, Finance at SmartBrief

Newsletter Editor at The Points Guy

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Articles

Why You Still Might Want to Bank Locally in 2025

1 week ago | usnews.com | Jessica Merritt |Colin Hogan |Mark Evitt

Key Takeaways Local banks excel at handling complex or urgent banking needs. Many community banks offer competitive digital tools, including mobile apps. Working with a local banker whom you have an established history with can help you reach your financial goals. Online banks have changed the way consumers manage money. With the ability to instantly open an account and to manage your money at your fingertips, banking has never been more convenient.
Tired of Making Payments? Here's 4 Ways to Pay Off a Personal Loan Faster

2 weeks ago | money.usnews.com | Jessica Merritt |Colin Hogan |Emily Hayes

Key Takeaways Paying off a personal loan early can save you money on interest. Even small additional payments can help shorten your loan term and cut interest costs. Some lenders charge a fee when you pay off your personal loan early. Paying off a personal loan early is possible – and often a smart financial move. When you pay off a personal loan early, you save money on interest and lighten your monthly budget ahead of schedule. Just be sure to check your loan terms for prepayment penalties.
First Citizens Bank Mortgage Lender 2025 Review

2 weeks ago | money.usnews.com | Mary Beth Eastman |Colin Hogan |Gina Freeman

Company OverviewFirst Citizens Bank was founded in 1898 in North Carolina and today is one of the country’s top 15 financial institutions, in terms of assets. First Citizens offers a wide range of mortgage products as well as personal, commercial, and small business banking services, including investments and loans. Qualifying for a mortgage with First Citizens may require a slightly higher credit score than with some other institutions.
Movement Mortgage Lender Review

3 weeks ago | money.usnews.com | Peter Warden |Colin Hogan |Gina Freeman

Company OverviewHeadquartered in Indian Land, SC, Movement Mortgage opened for business in 2008. It now operates in all 50 states and has loan officers in more than 775 locations nationwide. BBB RatingA+year established2008Movement Mortgage Ratings OverviewAffordability Customer Service Movement Mortgage Mortgages Are Best For: People who want a broad choice of mortgage products. People who wish to close their loan quickly. People who need help with their FHA loan down payment.
Let's Take a Look at All the Ways to Consolidate Your Debt

3 weeks ago | money.usnews.com | Jerry Brown |Colin Hogan |Emily Hayes

Key Takeaways Debt consolidation loans allow you to merge several debts into a single balance. Consolidating your debt at a lower rate than your existing debts can save you thousands of dollars. Before you take out a debt consolidation loan, weigh the pros and cons. Debt consolidation loans allow you to merge multiple debts into one balance. They can streamline your debt payments and help save money if you qualify for a lower rate. However, these loans aren't for everyone.
These Fintechs Are Revolutionizing Small-Business Lending

4 weeks ago | money.usnews.com | Dawn Papandrea |Colin Hogan |Mark Evitt

Getty ImagesFintechs are reimagining small business lending by cutting through red tape and reducing traditional lending restrictions. Key Takeaways Many small businesses face hurdles when they seek traditional financing, such as credit or longevity requirements. Fintechs are using technology to assess business borrowers and make lending more accessible. Small-business banking fintechs offer unique products tailored to fit different business sizes and capital needs.
Upgrade Personal Loans Review

4 weeks ago | money.usnews.com | Dawn Papandrea |Colin Hogan |Emily Hayes

Company OverviewUpgrade offers access to personal loans, Upgrade cards with personal lines of credit, rewards checking, savings and credit monitoring and educational tools. Founded in 2017 in San Francisco, the firm also has offices in Phoenix, Atlanta, Orange County and Montreal. BBB RatingA+year established2017Upgrade Ratings OverviewAffordability Customer Service Upgrade Is Best For: Those who prefer an online lender. People seeking a personal loan of $1,000 to $50,000..
What's the Best Place to Get a Personal Loan?

1 month ago | money.usnews.com | Peter Warden |Colin Hogan |Gina Freeman

Getty ImagesA trustworthy lender is just as important as a low interest rate. Key Takeaways Online lenders tend to offer the lowest rates, but you'll want to thoroughly research your options. If your bank or credit union's offer is close to the best, you may be more comfortable going with it. Avoid red flags like high origination fees, pressure to sign up quickly or failure to disclose the loan's APR upfront. This is not a time to borrow casually.
Yes, It's Possible to Buy a House With a Bad Credit History. Here's How.

1 month ago | money.usnews.com | Jessica Merritt |Colin Hogan |Emily Hayes

Getty ImagesEven if you have bad credit, you're not out of options. Key Takeaways Getting a mortgage with a bad credit history is possible, but you'll likely face higher rates and fewer options. Government-backed mortgages, including FHA, VA and USDA loans, offer flexibility for low credit scores. Improving your credit even slightly might save you thousands over the life of your mortgage. Ready to buy a home, but not sure your credit can get you in the door?
Pick Up the Phone to Get Your Bank Fees Waived

1 month ago | usnews.com | Jessica Merritt |Colin Hogan |Mark Evitt

Key Takeaways Banks may waive common fees such as overdraft or maintenance fees upon request. You're more likely to get a fee waived if you have a long-standing relationship, higher balances or multiple accounts. Asking politely and providing context can help you get fees reversed. Banks charge fees for a variety of activities and services, but sometimes they are negotiable.