Do I have to carry a balance on my credit card in order to build credit faster?
“John, I’ve read that you can build credit faster if you carry a balance on your credit cards. Is that true? That seems like an expensive way to establish credit because of the interest charges.” The...
View ArticleShort Sales Being Reported to Credit Bureaus as Foreclosures? Problem Will Be...
“John, I recently went through a short sale to get rid of my home. I realize this is bad for my credit but I had no idea it was going to show up as a foreclosure. That can’t be correct. Can I get...
View ArticleHow Many Points Are Late Payments Worth In Your Credit Score?
I had so much fun writing my article about how many points inquiries are worth that I figured I’d follow up the theme and write about how many points delinquencies are worth. So, finally, here’s the...
View ArticleWhy Are My Scores Different Across Credit Reporting Agencies? Shouldn’t They...
Circa 1997, the question posed in this article’s title was one of the questions I was asked during my interview at FICO. Thankfully I answered correctly! Credit scores are built using credit data at...
View ArticleWhat Affects Your Credit Score?
Maintaining a high credit score is essential as it is the determining factor when apply for a loan, mortgage, or credit card. Unless you make all of your purchases with cash, managing your credit score...
View ArticleShould You Add Your Child to Your Credit Card Account?
Good parents are continually seeking ways to improve the opportunities and security of their children. As a child enters early adulthood – beginning to drive and travel on their own – having access to...
View ArticleWhat is Your Identity Worth?
You. Taking charge of your financial life begins with knowing your net worth. Of course, the higher that value, the better off you are. The straight forward way of calculating your net worth is the sum...
View ArticleBuying, Renting, or Failure to Launch
What’s on your mind? Many people often find themselves at a financial crossroad. You might have graduated college recently, and after working for the last few years, must decide what to save up for in...
View ArticleTreasure Your Home
From Renting to Owning There is no doubt that owning a dwelling of your own is the cornerstone of financial and emotional security. If you have not reached that point yet, it should certainly be your...
View ArticleGoing from good to great credit.
“How do I go from good to great credit?” This is a common question from those with a 700+ credit score and can’t figure out how to improve it. To go from good to great credit, you need to understand...
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