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.

Tax Abatement: How Does It Help You Save on Property Taxes? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Tax Abatement: How Does It Help You Save on Property Taxes? Property tax rates vary depending on where you live. But typically average between... Mortgage Loan Estimate vs. Closing Disclosure: What’s the Difference? As you begin the process of buying a new home, learn about the differences between a mortgage loan estimate and closing disclosure. Title Insurance: Why You Might Need It When Buying a Home Learn how title insurance works to protect your home from legal claims and other aspects of the property's history that you didn't know about. Renters Insurance and Roommates: Can You Share Coverage? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Renters Insurance and Roommates: Can You Share Coverage? Whether you’re renting a house or an apartment, it’s important to get coverage... Pennsylvania Homeowners Insurance: Average Rates for Coverage Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Pennsylvania Homeowners Insurance: Average Rates for Coverage Home insurance is a common policy for homeowners, but do you know how this... Mobile Home Insurance: What Does It Cover? Learn what is covered when you purchase a mobile home or manufactured home insurance policy and what to look for when you're considering this type of coverage. Maryland Homeowners Insurance: Average Rates for Coverage Find out how much it costs to get homeowners insurance in Maryland, in addition to the proper coverages you might consider as part of your policy. Condo Insurance: How to Shop for an H0-6 Insurance Policy Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Condo Insurance: How to Shop for an H0-6 Insurance Policy A condo might be perfect if you’re looking to buy a home, yet you want a... Guide to Using a Backdoor Roth IRA Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Guide to Using a Backdoor Roth IRA The more cash you sock away during your working years, the more money you’ll have... Should You Pay Off Student Loans or Credit Cards First? Find out whether it is smarter to pay off your student loan debt or to pay off your credit card balances. Learn the benefits of each option when it comes to saving on interest charges. Consider other options that you have to consolidate or refinance your debt to reduce interest and monthly payments.