Author

Lauren Hargrave, Personal Finance Writer

Lauren Hargrave is a writer from San Diego who focuses on technology, finance, and healthcare. She worked in finance for seven years before pivoting to a career in writing, and now, instead of putting numbers into spreadsheets, she writes about them instead. Her articles have appeared in Forbes, The Huffington Post, the Credit Karma blog, and more.

Articles by Lauren Hargrave

Down Payments

A Comprehensive Guide to Pennsylvania’s First-Time Homebuyer Grants and Assistance Programs

Pennsylvania residents can access financial assistance with downpayment and closing costs through multiple government, lending and non-profit programs.

Mortgage Advisors

Why You Should Do an Annual Mortgage Checkup

If you aren’t happy with the conditions of your mortgage loan, you may be able to refinance or renegotiate your loan terms. Consider an annual mortgage checkup with your mortgage advisor.

First Home Loan

What is Title Insurance and How Does it Protect the Homebuyer?

A clean property title is worth its weight in gold.

Mortgage Advisors

Can a Mortgage Advisor Help Me After My Loan Has Been Approved?

Your mortgage advisor has several roles during the homebuying process. Here's a rundown of how they can represent you and guide you from loan application through closing.

Mortgage Comparison

9 Essential Tips for Home Loan Shopping

Before you start seriously house hunting, it's important to know your loan options.

First Home Loan

First-Time Homebuyer? These 10 Tips Are For You

The homebuying process can be long, repetitive, and downright confusing. Here are 10 tips to help you navigate the real estate process.

Mortgage Comparison

A Breakdown: 5 Different Types of Mortgages

Weigh your options before deciding which mortgage is right for you.

First Home Loan

From Sale to Sold: Your Guide to the “Pending” Status in Real Estate

What does it mean when an active listing moves into the pending phase? This article will break down the details about pending home sales and how they differ from other listing labels.

Mortgage Comparison

What are HOA Fees and How Do They Impact the Price of Your Home?

There are many benefits to living in a community with homeowners association fees, but they can also impact your budget.

Mortgage Comparison

What is the Difference Between Prequalification and Preapproval?

These two terms may sound similar, but they actually carry different weight when placing an offer on a home. Learn the difference between them here.