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

First Home Loan

What 'Under Contract' Means When Buying a Home

Understand what 'under contract' means, how contingencies and earnest money affect closing, and when to make a backup offer to protect your purchase.

First Home Loan

Down Payment Assistance Programs for First-Time Homebuyers

Find local down payment assistance for first-time buyers, eligibility, program types, benefits and limits to help you afford your first home.

Refinancing

Cash-Out Refinance Closing Costs: What to Expect

Estimate cash‑out refinance closing costs, avg ~$6,900, typical fee ranges and practical ways to cut or avoid them so you know the true cost.

First Home Loan

Mortgage Application Documents Checklist

Organize the mortgage documents lenders require: W-2s, pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns and gift letters so you can get approved faster.