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Articles by Valencia Patrice Higuera

Valencia Higuera is based in Virginia and she covers budgeting, credit cards, and student loan debt, with expertise in frugal living, general banking, and mortgages. She is a self-proclaimed personal finance junkie. Valencia has contributed to publications and outlets including MSN, The Huffington Post, CBS News, Investopedia, and more. Education: B.A. in English from Old Dominion University.

Should You Invest in Series I Savings Bonds or CDs? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Should You Invest in Series I Savings Bonds or CDs? Series l savings bonds and certificate of deposits (CDs) are low-risk, long-term... The Best Teen Checking Accounts in 2024: For Managing Money at an Early Age Find out which banks offer the best checking accounts for teenagers who want to learn how to manage their own money at an early age. How to Place a Credit Freeze at the Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion Find out how to put a security freeze on your credit report at the three major U.S. credit bureaus: Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. Should You Close Your First and Oldest Credit Card? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Should You Close Your First and Oldest Credit Card? A credit card is an excellent tool for establishing a credit history and many... What Financial Documents Needed When Applying for a Mortgage Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera What Financial Documents Needed When Applying for a Mortgage Getting a mortgage can be a lengthy process, taking between 30 and 45 days to... Can You Get an Auto Loan for a Private Car Sale? Learn how you can buy a used car from a private party and still borrow funds through an auto loan to pay for the purchase. Compare the Best Business Loans for Bad Credit in 2024 Compare the best bad credit business loans based on their minimum credit score and business revenue/sales requirements. There may be no need for credit checks. When Does It Make Sense to Take Out a 401(k) Loan? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera When Does It Make Sense to Take Out a 401(k) Loan? You've been setting money aside for retirement with a 401(k) and there's a good... How to Refinance a Mortgage With Bad Credit Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera How to Refinance a Mortgage With Bad Credit When mortgage interest rates decrease, refinancing is an excellent way to reduce... How to Buy Homeowners Insurance Before Closing on a New Home See the steps to buy homeowners insurance, which is often needed before the closing process can complete because mortgage lenders require it.