Gina Freeman

2 days ago | money.usnews.com | Erik Martin |Gina Freeman |Ray Frager

Getty ImagesCompare the advantages and disadvantages of each financing option for your upcoming remodeling project. Key Takeaways The National Association of Realtors' 2025 Remodeling Impact Report ranks popular home renovation projects based on homeowner satisfaction ("joy scores") and resale value ("cost recovery scores"). Adding a primary bedroom suite, upgrading a kitchen and replacing a roof all earned perfect 10 joy scores, while new steel front doors offered the best financial return.

1 week ago | money.usnews.com | Kim Porter |Whitney Blair Wyckoff |Gina Freeman

Key Takeaways Home construction loans are generally tougher to qualify for than traditional mortgages. These loans typically require a 20% down payment and a strong credit score. They also have higher interest rates than mortgages. With a home construction loan, the lender must vet the builder as well. If you've been house hunting and can't find the perfect home, you may decide to have one built for you. However, financing a home that doesn't yet exist is different and a bit more complicated.

1 week ago | money.usnews.com | Jessica Merritt |Gina Freeman |Ray Frager

Getty ImagesIt's important to note a reverse mortgage is still a loan, and the balance will eventually be due. Key Takeaways Homeowners 62 and older can access home equity with a reverse mortgage. Reverse mortgages can be good for aging in place and supplementing retirement income. They also have drawbacks, including costs and decreased home equity. Reverse mortgages are specialized home equity loans for homeowners age 62 and up.

2 weeks ago | money.usnews.com | Ray Frager |Gina Freeman |Whitney Blair Wyckoff

Is Debt Settlement Right For You? Debt settlement may be the right choice if you’ve exhausted nearly all other options and still struggle with debt. For-profit companies offering these services may charge high fees, and you might have to pay taxes on forgiven debt. If your credit is still in good standing, debt settlement will also hurt your credit score.

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.