Author

Marianne Hayes, Personal Finance Writer

Marianne Hayes is a longtime freelance writer who's been covering personal finance and home ownership for over a decade. She has written for CNBC, Redbook, Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping and more. Marianne lives in Tampa with her three daughters and two miniature Dachshunds.

Articles by Marianne Hayes

First Home Loan

Understanding "Cash to Close:" Your Key to a Smooth Home Purchase

“Cash to close” is the total amount of money you’ll need to come up with to close on a new home.

First Home Loan

Property Taxes at Closing: Who Bears the Burden?

Property taxes are typically prorated during a home sale, with the buyer and seller each paying a portion.

First Home Loan

Timing and Importance of Home Appraisals in the Mortgage Process

If You’re Buying, Selling, or Refinancing a Home, Understanding How the Home Appraisal Process Works Can Make for a Smoother Transaction

First Home Loan

Solving the Real Estate Puzzle: The Integral Role of Agents in Property Transactions

Real estate agents are in a unique position to help home buyers and sellers alike – here’s how.

First Home Loan

How Long Does it Take to Refinance Your Home? What to Expect from Start to Finish

The refinancing process typically takes 30 to 60 days, but it could be longer if you run into a delay.

Mortgage Comparison

Hybrid Mortgages Demystified: Features, Advantages, and Things to Watch

A hybrid mortgage combines the pros and cons of both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages. Learn what this can mean for your bank account.

Mortgage Comparison

The FHA Loan: Benefits, Qualifications, and Application Process

FHA Loans can open up the mortgage process to buyers who don't have lots of cash on hand, but there may be some additional costs to consider.