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.

Earthquake Insurance: Do You Need Coverage in Your Area? Learn what is covered by earthquake insurance, what policy coverage would cost, and whether you actually need it to pay for expensive earthquake damage. Finding a Good Real Estate Attorney: What to Look For Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Finding a Good Real Estate Attorney: What to Look For Some people don’t give any thought to hiring a lawyer until they have to go to... Do Banks Offer Notary Services? Is It Free? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Do Banks Offer Notary Services? Is It Free? At some point in time, you might need to get a document notarized. To do so,... How to Find Your Bank's Routing Number Learn how to find the correct routing number for your bank account. See the list of routing numbers at the top U.S. banks based on your state. Credit Karma Savings Account Review 2024: Extra FDIC Insurance and a High Savings Rate Learn about the features and fees of the Credit Karma Savings account, which offers a competitive savings rate, no account fees, and extra FDIC insurance. What to Do With a Debt Collections Item You Didn’t Know About Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera What to Do With a Debt Collections Item You Didn’t Know About If an unknown debt collection shows up on your credit report, getting a credit... 10 Reasons Why You Were Denied a Business Credit Card Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera 10 Reasons Why You Were Denied a Business Credit Card A small business credit card can reduce cash flow problems and separate business... How to Get a Mortgage If You’re Self-Employed, a Small Business Owner or Gig Worker Learn about the process of getting approved for a mortgage as a business owners, self-employed individual, or gig worker who doesn't have typical documentation. Can You Take Out a Personal Loan for Closing Costs? Find out if you can use a personal loan to help finance and pay for the closing costs, which can be substantial, on a new home purchase. Should You Use a HELOC to Buy a Car? Photo of Valencia Patrice Higuera Valencia Patrice Higuera Should You Use a HELOC to Buy a Car? If you don’t have money in savings to pay cash for a car, one option is to apply...