Articles by Valencia Patrice Higuera

Valencia Higuera is based in Virginia and she covers budgeting, credit cards, and student loan debt, with expertise in frugal living, general banking, and mortgages. She is a self-proclaimed personal finance junkie. Valencia has contributed to publications and outlets including MSN, The Huffington Post, CBS News, Investopedia, and more. Education: B.A. in English from Old Dominion University.

Balloon Loan Payments: How Do They Work? Learn how balloon loan payments work when it comes to the amortization schedule and monthly payments towards a mortgage, auto loan, or commercial loan. When Does It Make Sense to Cash Out Refinance? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera When Does It Make Sense to Cash Out Refinance? One benefit of homeownership is... The ability to build equity. A renter... Washington Homeowners Insurance: How to Shop for the Lowest Rates Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Washington Homeowners Insurance: How to Shop for the Lowest Rates Homeowners insurance is a policy that covers losses and damages to your... Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tornado Damage? Find out how your standard homeowners insurance may cover any damage that is caused by a tornado, which is a major concern for homeowners in the Central U.S. Homeowners Insurance vs. Home Warranty: What's the Difference? See the differences between homeowners insurance and home warranties and how they work to protect your property. Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Your Swimming Pool? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Your Swimming Pool? A swimming pool is a great addition if you’re thinking about turning your backyard... Homeowners Insurance and Roof Leaks: Does Your Policy Cover Damages and Repairs? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Homeowners Insurance and Roof Leaks: Does Your Policy Cover Damages and Repairs? A leaky or damaged roof needs quick attention, or else there’s the risk of mold... Should You Make Bi-Weekly Mortgage Payments Instead of Monthly Payments? Find out how to set up bi-weekly mortgage payments instead of monthly payments so that you can pay off your home loan balance faster -- 4 to 5 years sooner. Home Insurance for Older Homes: How to Get the Lowest Policy Rates Find out what you need to think about when shopping for home insurance for older homes, in addition to ways that you can reduce your relatively-higher premiums. Should You Use a 401(K) When Buying a House? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Should You Use a 401(K) When Buying a House? Buying a house can be a great investment, but it’s also expensive. There’s the...