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.

How to Get a Mortgage If You’re Self-Employed, a Small Business Owner or Gig Worker Learn about the process of getting approved for a mortgage as a business owners, self-employed individual, or gig worker who doesn't have typical documentation. Can You Take Out a Personal Loan for Closing Costs? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Can You Take Out a Personal Loan for Closing Costs? If you’re buying a home, it’s important to remember that your expenses go beyond... Should You Use a HELOC to Buy a Car? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Should You Use a HELOC to Buy a Car? If you don’t have money in savings to pay cash for a car, one option is to apply... BankAmeriDeals Rewards Review 2023: Earn More Rewards at Specific Brands As a Bank of America customer, the BankAmeriDeals offers additional opportunities to earn bonus rewards on spending that was going to happen anyway. The Best Steps to Take After Paying Off Your Mortgage Find out about the best (and proper) steps to take after you've finishing paying off your mortgage -- including how to best manage your finances afterward. Denied a Secured Credit Card? What You Can Do About It Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Denied a Secured Credit Card? What You Can Do About It You've been denied a secured credit card. It's rare, but it can happen. Getting... Should You Get a Secured Business Credit Card? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Should You Get a Secured Business Credit Card? A business credit card can simplify your business life. It’s a convenient way to... How Old Should Your Children Be to Get Their First Credit Card? Find out how old your children should be when they get their first credit card to begin building their credit score and learning how to manage debt responsibly. Homeowners Insurance Canceled: Next Steps to Ensure Coverage Learn the next steps to take if your homeowners insurance is canceled or renewal is denied and you still need coverage for your property. Where to Find Personal Loans for First Responders Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Where to Find Personal Loans for First Responders Police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel (EMTs) are...