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.

Homeowners Insurance vs. Home Warranty: What's the Difference? See the differences between homeowners insurance and home warranties and how they work to protect your property. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Your Swimming Pool? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Your Swimming Pool? A swimming pool is a great addition if you’re thinking about turning your backyard... Homeowners Insurance and Roof Leaks: Does Your Policy Cover Damages and Repairs? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Homeowners Insurance and Roof Leaks: Does Your Policy Cover Damages and Repairs? A leaky or damaged roof needs quick attention, or else there’s the risk of mold... Should You Make Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments Instead of Monthly Payments? Find out how to set up bi-weekly mortgage payments instead of monthly payments so that you can pay off your home loan balance faster -- 4 to 5 years sooner. Home Insurance for Older Homes: How to Get the Lowest Policy Rates Find out what you need to think about when shopping for home insurance for older homes, in addition to ways that you can reduce your relatively-higher premiums. Should You Use a 401(K) When Buying a House? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Should You Use a 401(K) When Buying a House? Buying a house can be a great investment, but it’s also expensive. There’s the... Pawnshop Loans: Should You Use Them for Quick Cash? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Pawnshop Loans: Should You Use Them for Quick Cash? Whether it’s a car repair, a home repair, or an unexpected bill, there are dozens... FHA 203(k) Loan: When Does It Make Sense? Learn how FHA 203(k) loans work for homeowners who need to borrow to pay for a home renovation, repair, or construction project. Should You Split Contributions Between Traditional and Roth 401(k)s? Find out if you should consider making contributions that are split between a traditional 401(k) and a Roth 401(k). Wildfires and Homeowners Insurance: Are You Covered? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Wildfires and Homeowners Insurance: Are You Covered? Homeowners insurance protects your house from losses or damages. This includes...