Melanie Lockert

New York

💰 Writer, creator: Dear Debt, paid off $81k 🧠 Host @mentalhandw show 🧚‍♀️ Founder @lolaretreat 👀 Featured in NY Times & Marketwatch

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Articles

Long-term CDs vs. short-term CDs: Which is better this May?

1 day ago | cbsnews.com | Melanie Lockert |Angelica Leicht

The Federal Reserve raised the federal funds rate several times over the past few years to help tame inflation — but as inflation has started to cool, the Fed has adjusted its approach. The outcome of its last few meetings, for example, has been that the Fed has opted to keep rate changes paused, essentially locking in its benchmark rate for now. That news hasn't been great for borrowers, who are temporarily stuck with higher-than-normal interest rates on borrowing products.
How to protect your retirement savings now, according to experts

1 week ago | cbsnews.com | Melanie Lockert |Matt Richardson

If you've looked at your retirement accounts recently, you probably saw a major drop in value. As the stock market yo-yos up and down, it's enough to give anyone economic whiplash in search of solid ground. These major fluctuations in the market can be anxiety-inducing and potentially affect your investment strategy and retirement plans. Fortunately, there are some reliable ways to protect your savings even in today's hard-to-predict economic climate.
4 HELOC moves experts say to make with rates low

1 week ago | cbsnews.com | Melanie Lockert |Matt Richardson

Inflation cooled in March, dropping 0.4 percentage points to 2.4%, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This new data shows that inflation is inching closer to the Federal Reserve's target of 2%. The Federal Reserve maintained the federal funds rate in March as part of its efforts to rein in inflation. The drop could be an encouraging sign that more rate cuts are in the future as planned.
Is Now a Good Time to Lock In Certificate of Deposit Rates?

1 week ago | usnews.com | Melanie Lockert |Gina Freeman |Mark Evitt

Key Takeaways Now is a good time to buy short-term and long-term CDs before the Federal Reserve cuts rates. In the current environment, you'll likely see higher short-term CD rates. CDs may have a minimum opening deposit and come with early withdrawal penalties. In the current economic climate, putting your money in a certificate of deposit account can provide some stability.
Early HELOC repayments: 3 questions homeowners should ask

1 week ago | cbsnews.com | Melanie Lockert |Angelica Leicht

The Federal Reserve held steady with no changes to the federal funds rate after its March meeting. Inflation and economic uncertainty led the Fed to maintain what's often used as a benchmark interest rate that can affect the cost of borrowing. As these challenges continue, homeowners can tap their home equity as a cost-effective alternative. Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs), in particular, offer flexible financing at lower rates.
Home equity loans vs. home improvement loans: Everything to know

1 week ago | cbsnews.com | Melanie Lockert |Angelica Leicht

Despite the Federal Reserve's best efforts, inflation has held firm. Due to that, the Fed held firm, keeping the federal funds rate steady in March. This benchmark interest rate influences the cost of borrowing. Together, higher costs of goods and higher rates can put a damper on your cash flow. Homeowners who are looking to renovate or upgrade their homes may be looking for financing to help. Two ways to access cash for home upgrades include home equity loans and home improvement loans.
Why you should shop for home equity loans and HELOCs this April, according to experts

2 weeks ago | cbsnews.com | Melanie Lockert |Angelica Leicht

Americans continue to fight an uphill battle with economic forces outside their control. Inflation is beyond its target, increasing the cost of goods and total expenses. Interest rates remain steady to help tame said inflation. Now, more price hikes might be in the future due to new tariffs. These and the other economic factors that are looming can have a direct impact on your wallet. Because of this, consumers need to take advantage of the financial tools and resources available to them.
Credit counseling vs. debt forgiveness: Which is better for $10,000 (or more) in debt?

2 weeks ago | cbsnews.com | Melanie Lockert |Matt Richardson

If you owe a significant amount of debt, it can feel tough to get ahead. Inflation is still above its ideal target, taking a bite out of your purchasing power. Interest rates are also still relatively high, adding to the cost of borrowing. For example, credit card interest rates are above 20%. If you're behind on payments, you could be hit with an even higher penalty APR. Whether you have credit card debt, medical debt, or a mix, it can be overwhelming to manage.
How much further can HELOC interest rates fall? Experts weigh in

1 month ago | cbsnews.com | Melanie Lockert |Angelica Leicht

A home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a built-in borrowing tool that homeowners with enough equity can access. This line of credit offers a way for homeowners to borrow against their home equity at an affordable rate, and the good news is that borrowing conditions are becoming even more favorable as HELOC interest rates are following a downward trajectory. Though HELOCs have variable interest rates and are subject to change, there have been numerous drops in HELOC borrowing rates recently.
How much higher will home equity levels rise? Here's what experts predict.

1 month ago | cbsnews.com | Melanie Lockert |Angelica Leicht

The average homeowner currently has $313,000 of equity in their home, according to the March 2025 Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) Mortgage Monitor report. While home equity levels are slightly down compared to what they were a few months ago, they're still up 6% year-over-year. As inflation persists and the cost of living rises, home equity increases have some baked-in benefits. Namely, borrowing through a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC) becomes more feasible.