I just received a notice from a local department store that they are INCREASING my interest rate from 24% to 31%! I’m a bit befuddled since the Fed recently lowered the funds rate by 0.50 and I pay off my account monthly. My credit is excellent. I decided to call the 1-800 number on the notice and was told this is an increase “across the board” and they do not have a lower rate to offer me. I enjoy receiving my benefits from using the card and even though I rarely pay interest as the bill is typically paid off every month, I can’t support this rate. I asked if there was anything I could do and she informed me that I have no options…except to no longer use this card. [Read more…]
PSA: Check Your Credit Card Interest Rates
October 18, 2024 by Leave a Comment
The FIRST thing you need to do BEFORE applying for a mortgage or get preapproved for ANY credit
October 12, 2022 by Leave a Comment
WARNING: Rant ahead!
When you meet with a mortgage professional and allow them to pull your credit so that you can be prequalified for a mortgage to buy or refinance a home, your information is provided to countless other lenders. Before you become furious with your mortgage lender, please know that it’s not their fault! [Read more…]
What to do if your bank closes your line of credit
July 9, 2021 by Leave a Comment
CNBC reports that Wells Fargo is closing personal lines of credit and no longer offering the product to consumers. In a letter sent to their clients, they state that the closure may impact their credit scores. In my opinion, this really stinks! [Read more…]
The Mortgage Junk Mail Bag
March 29, 2021 by Leave a Comment
It’s been a while since I’ve written about mortgage junk mail. Today I have been presented the opportunity as a client I helped with their mortgage a few years ago reached out to me regarding some mail they recently received that appeared to have possibly come from our company, Mortgage Master.
The P.O. J. (piece of junk) appears to know a lot of information about the home owner – this is because your mortgage and original loan amount are public record. This type of marketing also tends to offer lower than available interest rates and things like “no payments for two months”…perhaps it features an offer code or a limited time offer. [Read more…]
Boost Your Credit Score or Boost Your Spam?
October 17, 2019 by Leave a Comment
Experian, one of the big 3 credit bureaus, has been actively promoting that consumers can “boost” their credit score using their services. Since I help people with their credit and mortgage needs for my profession, this naturally got my attention.
RIP RainCityGuide
March 21, 2019 by 2 Comments
Rain City Guide, back in the day, was a resource for people interested in all things about Seattle…especially real estate. I was beyond honored to join the RCG panel back in 2007 to represent the mortgage industry. [Read more…]
Our Veterans DESERVE to use a VA Mortgage Loan
November 13, 2018 by Leave a Comment
I’ve been trying to think about how to title this post without “shaming” real estate agents or home sellers… but I do feel that it’s really unfortunate that some still have a low view of VA mortgages. Men and women who have dedicated their lives to serve our country and protect our freedom have EARNED the privilege to have a VA mortgage loan. Those of us who have not committed to serve do not have this benefit… and it is a benefit. [Read more…]
King County Property Tax Valuation Notice
September 5, 2018 by Leave a Comment
Did you receive your “Official Property Value Notice” over the weekend? Let’s just say that I’m not surprised to see how much our values have gone up…although, in my opinion, I think the 2018 assessed value of my home is higher than what I could most likely sell it for. [Read more…]
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