Author

Ashley Altus, Certified Financial Counselor

Ashley Altus is a writer in the personal finance space, and has covered topics ranging from consumer finance to student debt and first-time homebuyers.

She has been a journalist since 2013, and her content has included interviews with top experts and researchers in a variety of personal finance spaces, including credit scoring, consumer spending habits, and lending.

Altus’s work has appeared in O: The Oprah Magazine, Cosmopolitan Magazine, U.S. News and World Report, in addition to personal finance publications like The Smart Wallet and Float. Her articles have also been cited by the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and Washington University in St. Louis.

Altus earned her designation as a Certified Financial Counselor through the National Association of Certified Credit Counselors in 2021. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Baylor University and a Master of Science in Journalism from Northwestern University.

Articles by Ashley Altus

Mortgage Comparison

A Guide to Calculating Your Total Loan Cost

Borrowing money isn’t always as straightforward as it seems. Here are several tips that will help you calculate the actual cost of your next home loan.

Mortgage Comparison

Is Refinancing Worth It?

When it comes to refinancing, timing is everything. This article explains how refinancing works and how it may impact your monthly and long-term expenses.

Mortgage Advisors

A Deep Dive Into Mortgage Closing Costs

The cost of homeownership is typically more than the sale price of the home. Here's a look at additional expenses you can expect to see during the closing process.

Mortgage Advisors

The Role of the Attorney Review in Home Buying

The homebuying process can involve a lot of people: the buyer, the seller, real estate agents, the inspector, the title company, and sometimes, an attorney. Learn how the attorney review process can impact your homebuying experience.

Mortgage Comparison

How To Find And Choose The Right Mortgage Lender For Your First Home Loan

There are many factors that can impact your overall home price; finding the right lender is key to ensuring you’re getting the best bang for your buck.

Mortgage Comparison

7 Tips for Mortgage Rate Shopping

Comparing mortgage rates may be the best thing to do in the search for your dream home.

First Home Loan

A Guide to Buying Your First Home

Essential tips and insights for first-time home buyers in our comprehensive guide, covering everything from financial preparation to closing the deal on your dream home.

Mortgage Advisors

What to Look for in a Mortgage Advisor

Make informed decisions in your home buying process. Learn about the vital role of a mortgage advisor, key selection criteria, and how they can simplify your mortgage application for a successful home purchase.

Mortgage Comparison

Your Guide to Mortgage Rate Comparison Shopping

Learn the basics of comparing mortgage rates and loan estimates to find the best loan for your financial profile.

First Home Loan

What Does it Mean to Be ‘Under Contract’?

The homebuying process doesn’t end after a seller accepts an offer. Here’s what it means to go under contract and how it can impact the closing process.