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 Pay to Extend a Mortgage Rate Lock? Find out whether it makes sense to pay for a mortgage rate-lock extension during the process of buying a new home. Learn how rate locks work and see the tips that you should use to ensure the lowest interest rate on your mortgages, especially during times when interest rates are fluctuating. How to Get a Debt Consolidation Loan With a Bad Credit Score Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera How to Get a Debt Consolidation Loan With a Bad Credit Score If you’re struggling to pay off debt and juggling multiple balances, a debt... Should You Apply for a Mortgage With or Without Your Spouse? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Should You Apply for a Mortgage With or Without Your Spouse? You and your spouse are ready to buy that dream home. On the mortgage... Are Joint Credit Cards Good for Your Marriage? Even if you prefer your own bank account and your own set of bills, there are benefits to having a joint credit card with your spouse. Buying a Mobile Home With a Personal Loan: Pros & Cons to Consider Learn about the pros and cons of using a personal loan to finance the purchase of a new mobile home, which may not qualify for a typical mortgage loan. What to Do Before Renewing Your Home Insurance Policy? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera What to Do Before Renewing Your Home Insurance Policy? Home insurance is a policy that protects your property from losses and damages.... Should You Take Out a Personal Loan to Pay Your Rent? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Should You Take Out a Personal Loan to Pay Your Rent? Renting an apartment can be cheaper than buying a home, which requires a down... 8 Financial Gift Ideas for Valentine’s Day Use these creative financial gift ideas for Valentine's Day to avoid gifting the same chocolates, flowers, and other material goods. How to Change Your Credit Card Billing Address Learn how to change your billing address with your card issuer and find out what happens if you provide the wrong billing address. What to Consider When Using Gift Funds for Your Down Payment on a Mortgage Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera What to Consider When Using Gift Funds for Your Down Payment on a Mortgage You're ready to buy a home, but understand that you need to have a good chunk of...