How to Choose a Good Bank

Your money is a treasure. Deciding where to keep it can be a tough decision. These days there are a wide range of options – all better than keeping your money stashed under your mattress! Usually a larger well-known bank is the safest choice; although they are also less likely to offer you quality customer service. Many recommend instead choosing a smaller local bank with a high rating to get the best of both worlds. How to determine a highly rated bank? First ensure they are part of the FDIC, also known as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. This institution … Continue reading

Shopping for a Loan

As a consumer you shop around for the best deal on a car, a television set and other items. Do you do the same thing with the loans that you take out? You can save yourself a lot of money and heartache by taking the time to consider several different companies when it comes to borrowing money. Many consumers simply go with the loan offered by the car dealership or the mortgage company recommended by their realtor. It is important to realize that by shopping around you can find lower interest rates and other benefits that may accompany the loan. … Continue reading

Big Banks vs Small Banks

When you choose a bank you have a wide variety of banks and credit unions to choose from. You need to consider several factors when making your choices. It is important to realize that there is a difference in big banks and the small hometown banks. A big bank may be the right choice for you, or you may decide that you like the services provided by a small hometown bank instead. The main advantage to a big bank is that they have locations in many more places. This means that you will avoid ATM charges, because you can often … Continue reading

Banks Versus Credit Unions

People often wonder what the differences between banks and credit unions are. You can have similar accounts at both. The funds are both guaranteed up to $100,000. The biggest difference between a bank and a credit union is that banks are for-profit organization and credit unions are nonprofit institutions. This can be a real plus for anyone who has an account at a credit union. Many people consider using a credit union to finance a car or a home. The interest rates are generally lower, and the credit unions are more likely to work with you. The terms are easy … Continue reading

Mortgage Borrower Cautions

As you begin the process of looking for a lender on a home, you will have a number of considerations to protect yourself. While most lenders are honest and eager to work hard to make your dream come true, there are some more eager to simply make a buck without giving the borrower much consideration. Therefore, we wanted to provide some mortgage borrower cautions so you can buy your home without major complications. For one thing, be aware that if you have less than perfect credit, most lenders will want to be compensated for taking on the higher risk. Therefore, … Continue reading