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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Ten Tools for First-Time Home Buyers
Do you have a list of projects you want to tackle in your new home? Here are the basic tools you’ll need to get the job done. -
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Home Ownership — The American Dream Lives On
While the housing crisis did impact the desire to own a home, it did not have a long-term effect. The American dream of owning a home lives on. -
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Are You Ready for Home Ownership? Four Ways to Know
It’s not always obvious for first-time home buyers when the time is right to make that big purchase. If home ownership is something you’re working toward, here are four ways to know if you’re really ready. -
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Making Home Ownership a Reality
UFCU staff and referral partners worked together to help 2,993 Members buy or refinance a home in 2016. Learn why the Austin Business Journal has named UFCU Mortgage Services the largest mortgage lender in Austin for two consecutive years now. -
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Why First-Time Home Buyers Need an Agent
Hiring a real estate agent is a very wise decision for first-time home buyers. Consider these five reasons why. -
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Five Fun and Frugal Date Ideas
Interesting in going on a romantic date but worried about the cost? Here are 5 fun and frugal date ideas. -
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Gear Up for Summer Adventure
If you’re looking to purchase a recreational vehicle, boat, or Jet Ski™ to make the most of your summer, consider these common questions and our answers. -
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Three Tips to Help College Graduates Establish their Finances
Recent college graduates can take advantage of these three tips when they’re young, and be well on their way to establishing very strong personal finances from the start. -
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Building Credit from Scratch
If your credit history is sparse, start now to build it up. Having little or no credit is easy to fix with time, patience, and a strategy. -
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Become a Smarter Car Buyer
While a lot of cars are affordable, they're still considered a large purchase and can significantly impact your budget. Consider these strategies for success the next time you’re in the market for a vehicle. -
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Is It Time to Upgrade to a Bigger Vehicle?
Have you outgrown your cute little two-seater or tiny econo-car? Is it time to upgrade your tiny transportation to something larger and more comfortable? Whether you need to make room for a new baby, a big pooch, or your next DIY project, a bigger vehicle might be the answer. Consider these reasons why, and learn what to look for in a larger vehicle. -
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Top 5 Ways to Minimize Car Stress with Your Pet
The prep work for traveling with your pet is as important to your success as the drive itself. Take advantage of our top five ways to have a safe and happy ride with your best four-legged friends. -
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. -
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. -
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.
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