Articles
Knowledge Is Power
We’re here to advise.
Preparing for life’s changes and challenges is no easy task. We’re here to help you make smart financial decisions that push you to the next level of prosperity, and education is your best path to success.
Rely on us for honest, practical advice that can help you manage your money, invest and save, build good credit, buy a car or a home, and more. Whatever you’re striving toward, we’re here to help you get there.
The Latest Articles
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Buying vs. Renting
This video discusses several important factors to consider when choosing which option is right for you. -
Buyer Beware
Purchasing can put you on the radar for unwanted solicitations. Learn about the most common solicitation types and what you should do about them. -
Managing Credit Difficulties
Would you know if you were having credit problems or were in "Debt Distress?" Get tips for avoiding bankruptcy, checking for errors or negative information in your credit report and more. -
How UFCU Looks at Your Credit
University Federal Credit Union uses information from your loan application and your credit report to determine whether to grant credit under the terms you request. Learn what factors we consider. -
Understanding Your Credit Report
Learn the ABCs of your credit report, from how it’s compiled and what exactly it contains to how it’s used by creditors, what effects to expect from a negative report and more. -
All About Credit Scores
When you borrow from any lender or use any company that bills you for services, paying your obligations as you originally agreed has a big impact on your future access to credit and the rates you will pay. -
Ordering Your Credit Report
There are three major credit reporting agencies–Equifax, Experian and Trans Union. Learn how to check all three scores with one easy report through UFCU and myfico.com. -
Understanding Appraisals
Before investing in an appraisal, you'll want to use your option period to complete all property inspections to your satisfaction. Then, your real estate agent will give us the go-ahead to order an appraisal. -
Home Equity Loan Basics
Determining whether it’s best to refinance or to obtain a home equity loan is very complicated and depends on many factors. Let us guide you through what to consider and why. -
Refinancing Your Mortgage
Refinancing is paying off your existing mortgage with a brand new mortgage. Why and when should you refinance your home—or hold off until a better time? We’ll help you decide. -
Handling ARM Rate Increases
If you, like many others, are struggling with monthly payments on an Adjustable Rate Mortgage that has re-set to a higher rate, there are options you can take to alleviate the pain. -
Investing in Land
Whether a neighborhood lot, country acreage or lakeside tract for weekend getaways, investing in land can bring years of enjoyment and be a valuable addition to your investment portfolio. -
What is Mortgage Insurance?
Many homebuyers confuse mortgage insurance and mortgage life insurance. Mortgage insurance protects the lender from the additional risk associated with low-down-payment loans. -
What is Title Insurance?
If this is the first time you’ve bought a home, you may be wondering what title insurance is, and if you really need it. We’ll break it down so you can make an informed decision. -
Getting a Mortgage Approval
Get some guidance on the mortgage application process, including the lowdown on what information you’ll need for the application and what conditions apply to certain requirements. -
Understanding Mortgage Types
Today’s homebuyer has a virtual smorgasbord of financing options. Before committing to a mortgage, research what’s available to you and which loan type makes the most sense for your situation. -
Working with Real Estate Agents
Purchasing a home is likely the single largest investment you will make in your lifetime. A good agent can provide valuable insight, information and interpretation of the information involved. -
Buying a Home: The Basics
Read our simple roadmap for buying your first home: how to prioritize the process, calculate what you can afford, work with real estate professionals and narrow down your search.