Dan Rafter's blog

Don't Start a Family Before Reaching These 5 Money Goals

Raising kids isn't free. Before you grow your family, consider hitting these money goals first.

College is a time to discover your passions, goals, and aspirations. It's also a time to start building strong credit.

You have homeowners insurance. What more could you need to protect your house? Actually, these policies might help.

You don't get to quit budgeting just because you've retired. Actually, if you collect Social Security benefits, it's more important than ever.

You're thinking about joining a credit union. You've noticed some credit unions are federal, and some are state-chartered. What's the difference?

You'd do anything for your kids — but you shouldn't derail your retirement to loan them money.

Real estate agents take a hefty commission from your home sale. Want to avoid that financial hit? You can sell your home without a traditional agent.

Sometimes a loan or credit card doesn't work out to your favor. Is there any way out?

Buying a new home is exciting, but before you sign your name on the dotted line, you need to ask — and answer — a few key questions about your loan.

Ever wonder if you're on the financial straight and narrow? If these signs all point to you, you are!

Your credit score carries a lot of weight in your financial life. It can even impact your monthly bills.

You have secured debt, and you have unsecured debt. Do you know the difference? It's time to learn.

Refinancing your mortgage can be a sound financial move. But how do you figure out when you'll break even? Let's crunch numbers.

Want to invest a lump sum while cutting down risk? Dollar cost averaging may be your move.

Debt settlement companies make a pretty convincing pitch, but beware: They just might leave you worse off.

Your house is on the market, and you finally got an offer. Done deal, right? Not so fast...

College isn't cheap and a student loan may seem inescapable. Make sure you've checked out all your options before you sign.

Divorce is complicated and expensive. Dispel these money myths so you'll be better prepared to go your separate ways.

A home refi can help your overall financial health. Don't let these myths keep you from applying.

Your home may be where your heart is, but it's not an investment.