Page 12 - Fi Reference News Today

Lenders prefer you follow the 28/36 rule: Spend 28% or less of your gross monthly income on housing expenses, and 36% or less on total monthly debt.

Here's a step-by-step guide to buying a house, from teaming up with a real estate agent and finding out what you can afford to closing on the deal.

Historically, growth stocks perform best when interest rates are low, while value stocks tend to outperform during economic downturns.

Balloon mortgage monthly payments are smaller than what you'll pay with a regular mortgage, but you'll make a large lump sum payment later.

If you can save money or achieve financial goals with a refinance, it might be a smart move. But refinancing doesn't always make sense.

FHA loans are easier to qualify for than conventional mortgages, with no income restrictions. But make sure you're comfortable with the guidelines.

You can check your debit card balance over the phone, at an ATM, in person at the bank, online, or via your bank's mobile app.

You may qualify for a VA loan if you or your spouse has served in the military for a certain amount of time, and if you have a good credit score.

Construction loans have short terms, usually about a year, and charge higher interest rates than regular mortgages.

Credit cards get declined when something goes wrong, such as exceeding your credit limit, using an expired card, or typos during an online purchase.