Dan Rafter's blog

5 Money Moves to Make Even If You Don't Plan to Buy a House

Getting a mortgage isn't the only reason to keep your finances in tiptop shape. You should make these money moves even if you plan to rent forever.

4 Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Enroll in Medicare

It's easy to make mistakes when signing up for Medicare. Here's how you can avoid the big ones.

Why You Should Call Your Mortgage Lender Every Year

When was the last time you gave your mortgage lender a ring? If it's been a few years, you could be throwing money out the window.

9 Smart Moves to Make After Getting a Raise or Promotion

Nice job! Be sure to follow up your promotion or raise with plenty more of what got you here.

5-Minute Finance: Checking Your Credit Score

Do you know your credit score? You should — and it only takes five minutes to find out.

What Makes a Home's Location "Good"

When searching for the perfect new home, make sure the location is perfect, too.

7 Ways to Vet Your Mortgage Lender

A mortgage is one of the biggest financial moves you'll ever make. It pays to be picky with your lender.

How to Fight Back Against Mortgage Discrimination

Several big banks have been accused of unfairly lending to minority borrowers. Here's how to see if your lender is playing fair.

Paying Your Debts in the Wrong Order Could Be Costing You

All debts are not created equal. There's an order to your path to financial freedom.

4 Signs Your Emergency Fund Is Too Big

Your emergency fund is stocked. Would your extra dollars better serve you elsewhere?

What You Need to Know About the Statute of Limitations on Debts

Debt doesn't disappear, but it does expire.

5 Surprises When Downsizing to a Condo

Condo living is a common way to downsize. But for homeowners making the leap, it comes with a few surprises you may not expect.

5 Signs You're Ready to Sell Your House

The housing market is red-hot. But are you truly ready to sell?

Here's How Late Starters Can Save for Their Kids' Education

You've always planned to save for your kid's college education. But that kid is in high school, and you haven't even started. What now?

6 Ways to Get Financially Fit for Homebuying Season

Ready to take the plunge on your dream home? Before you hit the housing market, do a little financial fine-tuning of your own.

This Is Why Your Credit Limit Was Lowered

Your credit limit is not a fixed number. If it went down, here's why.

5 Surefire Ways to Maintain a Good Credit Score in Retirement

You relied on good credit to see you through to retirement — don't put those good financial habits aside just yet!

6 Personal Finance Rules to Live By in Your 40s

Make your 40s all about securing financial stability. These personal finance rules can help you get there.

5 Reasons Why Your Credit Score Dropped Out of the Blue

Not sure why your credit score took a tumble? It might be one of these not-so-obvious reasons.

Here's What You Need to Know About 529 ABLE Accounts

If you're the parent of a special-needs child, the 529 ABLE account can be a valuable resource in helping your child thrive.