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.

FHA 203(k) Loan: When Does It Make Sense? Learn how FHA 203(k) loans work for homeowners who need to borrow to pay for a home renovation, repair, or construction project. Should You Split Contributions Between Traditional and Roth 401(k)s? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Should You Split Contributions Between Traditional and Roth 401(k)s? A 401(k) is a popular retirement savings account offered by many employers. But... Wildfires and Homeowners Insurance: Are You Covered? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Wildfires and Homeowners Insurance: Are You Covered? Homeowners insurance protects your house from losses or damages. This includes... Investing in Airbnb Rental Property: Pros and Cons to Consider Learn about the pros and cons of renting out through Airbnb before using an investment property to generate income through short-term rentals. When Landlords Should Pay for Rental Property Insurance Find out when you, as a landlord, should consider paying for rental property insurance on a home which you don't consider to be the primary residence. Received a Job Offer? 6 Questions to Ask Before Accepting Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Received a Job Offer? 6 Questions to Ask Before Accepting Getting a job offer can be a major confidence booster, especially when you beat... When Mortgage Rates Fall, Is It Time to Refinance Your Home Loan? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera When Mortgage Rates Fall, Is It Time to Refinance Your Home Loan? Many people see a drop in mortgage rates as the perfect time to buy a home. A... Home Insurance Inspection: What to Expect? Find out what to expect during an inspection to confirm your homeowners insurance coverage, including what parts of the home will be checked most extensively. Flood Insurance: Find Out If You Need Coverage and Where to Get It Find out whether you need flood insurance to protect your property based on area and risk of flooding. Learn where to get flood insurance. Should You Use a 401(k) Loan to Pay Off Student Loans? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Should You Use a 401(k) Loan to Pay Off Student Loans? Depending on your career path, getting the job you want may require a college...