All Articles: Planning for Life Events and Major Purchases

Paying different credit card bills, a personal loan, and a 30-year mortgage every month can feel like managing a dozen spinning plates at once. Refinancing your home loan to combine higher-rate balances into a single, lower-rate mortgage — known as a debt consolidation refinance — transforms that juggling act into one predictable payment.

How do you refinance your mortgage for debt consolidation? We break down how a mortgage debt consolidation refinance works, when the math favors you, and how to weigh the risks and rewards.

Choosing the right credit union mortgage loan shouldn’t feel like decoding a secret manual. Yet when people first compare a VA loan vs a conventional loan, the jargon — funding fees, PMI, conforming limits — can stall the search before it starts. This guide strips away the haze by lining up the two products feature by feature. You will see how each loan handles down payments, credit scores, interest rates, and closing costs, and you’ll finish with a checklist that points you toward the option most likely to fit your budget, service record, and future plans.

If you are mortgage shopping this year, you are feeling the rate sticker shock. The average 30-year fixed rate sits around 7 percent, more than double the record lows of 2021 (Mortgage News Daily, 2025). Why are mortgage rates so high today? In short, mortgage rates are higher because the bond market — where mortgage prices are set — adjusted the cost of money. This shift came after the Federal Reserve responded to a period of high inflation. A careful look at policy, prices, and growth helps explain the surge in rates and the impact of mortgage rates on housing in 2025 and beyond.

Ask any efficiency-minded car shopper, and the first question is usually: Can you buy a car with a credit card? In theory, the answer is yes — you absolutely can. In practice, the path is littered with card-issuer rules, dealer surcharges, and interest-rate landmines that can turn a clever rewards strategy into an expensive misstep. New-vehicle prices hit an average of $48,699 in April 2025, a 2.5% month-over-month increase (Cox Automotive, 2025). At the same time, Woolsey (2025) notes the median credit card APR climbed to 24.2% in March 2025. That combination of sticker shock and swipe costs makes it vital to understand every angle before you hand the finance manager a piece of plastic.

Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions you'll make in your lifetime. If you're considering purchasing a home in Colorado, one of the best options is to obtain a home loan through a credit union. Why is choosing a credit union for your home loan advantageous? Learn more below, including the types of home loans in Colorado available at credit unions, how to qualify, and the step-by-step process to get you into your dream home.

Home values continue to soar, and U.S. households have accumulated over $35 trillion in home equity (St. Louis Fed, 2024). If you are among those who have done so, you can borrow against this financial resource for various needs, such as home improvements, education expenses, or consolidating high-interest debt. Below, we outline how to qualify for a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to prepare you for this opportunity.

Purchasing a home is a dream for many. In this process, understanding the types of home loans in Colorado sets you on the right track to get a mortgage that suits you. Therefore, let's explore the various types of mortgage loans in Colorado and their benefits and eligibility requirements. You will also learn how Ent Credit Union can assist you in home-buying.

One of the most consequential financial decisions you will make in your lifetime is purchasing your home. In Colorado's unique housing market, using a home loan calculator in Colorado can provide invaluable insights. Read on for effective best practices in using these calculators to get accurate results.

The journey to homeownership is exciting, especially for first-time buyers. However, the complexities of mortgages, understanding rates, and knowing what steps to take can sometimes become overwhelming. This guide demystifies the process of securing your first home mortgage.

Starting your financial journey is like setting off on an exciting road trip. You’re gearing up for major life events, like buying a car for the first time. In planning for this event, remember that you are making decisions that should benefit you in the long run. Therefore, it’s important to understand the processes and the appropriate financial products to achieve your goal. This guide shows the critical steps of purchasing your first car.

Is refinancing the right move for me? It depends. Refinancing your mortgage loan can be a strategic financial move, saving you money on interest, lowering your monthly payments or shortening your term.

Refinancing a mortgage offers a pathway to adjust your financial burdens by changing the terms of your home loan in Colorado. There are several reasons for refinancing (Freddie Mac, 2024), including lowering your interest rate, reducing your monthly payment or changing the mortgage term. Other common reasons include switching from an adjustable rate to a fixed rate or tapping into your home equity. However, the process involves gathering and submitting several refinance documents. Here’s a guide to help you understand what you'll need to provide to refinance your mortgage.

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to get caught up in today's immediate needs and forget about tomorrow's financial goals. However, proactively managing your family finances can create a prosperous future for your loved ones. Imagine a life where financial stress is a distant memory, your children's education is fully funded and your retirement is a well-deserved adventure rather than a looming concern. This vision is within reach, but it starts with taking action today. This guide provides practical advice, valuable insights and actionable tips.

Navigating the mortgage loan process for the second time can be both exciting and challenging. Whether you're upgrading, downsizing, or relocating, understanding the steps involved is crucial for a smooth and successful experience. This guide provides a comprehensive step-by-step overview, from pre-approval to closing, with insights and tips to help you secure the best mortgage terms and avoid common pitfalls. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can confidently navigate the complexities of obtaining a mortgage and move forward to your next home with ease.

Refinancing your mortgage involves replacing your existing mortgage with a new loan, often to take advantage of a better interest rate, change your loan term or alter the monthly payment structure. The refinance amortization schedule is at the heart of this process, which dictates how payments are split between principal and interest over the loan’s duration.

When venturing into the market for a used car, there are several considerations to juggle. From deciding which model you want to calculating a car payment—there is plenty to do. One critical measure is having a thorough vehicle inspection checklist. A comprehensive pre-purchase car inspection ensures you’re making an informed decision, saving you from costly repairs down the line. This guide walks you through the essential steps of evaluating a used car and highlights what to look for and the right questions to ask.

The fragile nature of life means we must plan for the unexpected. Let’s take the story of Emma and Alex, a young couple who just welcomed their first child. Amid the joy and new responsibilities, they face a reality that many new parents encounter — securing their family’s future.  

Alex is the sole breadwinner; therefore, if he passed away, his family would have to cope with financial challenges on top of their emotional loss. This situation highlights the importance of life insurance. It ensures peace of mind and safeguards the well-being of the people you cherish the most. 

A new dream home promises a fresh beginning. With this rite of passage comes the complexity of managing your finances and various home-related bills. Embarking on a new home journey is no small feat — especially when it's your first foray. You might ask, "How can I make the most of this experience without compromising my financial well-being?" Fear not. We have new homeowner budgeting tips for you.

Buying a car is an exciting milestone but can also be a significant financial decision. While most people focus on price, its also important to prioritize competitive financing. The auto loan rates you secure can substantially impact the overall cost of your car purchase. Lower interest rates mean more money saved in the long run. So, it’s essential to secure the best auto loan rates possible.

In this article, we explore expert tips and strategies to help you navigate the world of auto loans and get the best rates for your next car purchase.

For many aspiring homeowners, finding an affordable path to homeownership can feel like a distant dream. HomeReady loans are a unique and flexible mortgage option designed to make this dream a reality for a broader range of individuals and families. In this article, we delve into the world of HomeReady loans, demystifying their features, benefits, and eligibility criteria.

In the current high-interest rate environment, car payments might be shrinking your discretionary budget. Refinancing might be the solution if you are burdened by high interest rates or unfavorable terms on your current car loan.

Car loan refinancing allows you to replace your existing auto loan with a new one, typically with better terms, lower interest rates, and a more manageable monthly payment. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of how to refinance car loans.

When you buy a home for the first time and take out a home loan, you will need to pay back the amount borrowed plus interest over a set period of time. The total amount of the loan, including the principal plus interest, is split into equal monthly payments. Every payment will go towards both the principal and interest. A loan amortization schedule shows you what percentage of your monthly payment goes towards the principal vs. interest. These percentages will change over time as you get closer to paying off the loan. Use a loan amortization schedule to determine how much you are paying in interest over the life of the loan.

The automotive industry is going electric, and consumers are slowly shifting towards electric vehicles to save money on gas. Some of the most established automakers in the country have released fully electric vehicles (EVs) that run on electricity instead of fuel and hybrid vehicles that use a combination of the two. These vehicles dramatically reduce our impact on the environment to offset the effects of climate change, but they can also help you save money on transportation. If you are in the market for a new car, learn about the potential benefits of driving an electric vehicle.

Buying a home for the first time can be a special time, but also stressful due to the potential pitfalls. That's why it's crucial to do sufficient due diligence, including a home inspection. This article explains the importance of home inspections and what your can expect.

For many Americans, homeownership is one of many significant life events, and for a good reason. It offers financial security, stability, and the freedom to customize your living space.

While there are many emotional benefits of owning a home, like having a yard for your kids to play or a private space to wind down, there are also financial and practical benefits. Historically, owning a home has been a source of long-term financial security. Home prices appreciate over the long term, and owners can borrow against their home equity. Of course, it also comes with responsibilities such as maintenance and upkeep. However, the benefits outweigh these responsibilities. In this article, we will outline 10 benefits of home ownership.

Buying a home, especially if you have never done it before, can seem like an uphill battle due to the many intricacies involved. As a first-time home buyer in Colorado, you might have many questions. Affordability may be one of the issues on your mind. Luckily, there are programs to ease your home ownership burden, first-time home buyer mortgages being one. This article explains what they are and the eligibility requirements you should meet to qualify.

So, you’re gearing up to buy a car and now it’s time to put your hard-earned money toward a beautiful vehicle that will hopefully last you for the foreseeable future. But calculating a car payment isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Getting pre-approved, locking in a low interest rate and shopping around for the best price is key to making sure you can afford your payments going forward. If you’re new to the world of buying a car, use this guide to get your finances in order before you sign on the dotted line.

The decision to buy a home can be both exciting and terrifying all at the same time. Homeownership is what many of us strive for—to be able to have a home that we can call our own, as well as a real estate asset we can use to build our personal wealth. It is a big step to take. At the same time, though, the process of buying a house can be overwhelming. Understanding the step-by-step process in purchasing a home can help make the home-buying experience a more positive one for you and your family and can help reduce the additional stress that comes with big purchases in life.

Understanding how much you may need for a down payment is an important part of the home-buying process. Your down payment amount not only can help you determine if you have enough money saved to purchase a house but can also affect your monthly payments going forward. Read this article to learn more about the down payment requirements for different home loans.

If you are an Armed Forces member or veteran, you may qualify for the VA loan program. VA loans come with lower eligibility requirements to help service members and their families afford to buy a home even if they don’t have a lot of money in savings or a high credit score. You will need to ensure you meet all the VA loan requirements to get approved. Learn more about the VA loan requirements to see if you qualify.

The interest rate on your mortgage will either be fixed or adjustable depending on what type of mortgage you choose. A fixed-rate mortgage means the interest rate will stay the same over the entire life of the loan. You will need to pay the same amount every month until the balance is paid off in full. With an adjustable-rate mortgage, the interest rate will vary at regular intervals, which means your monthly payment will also fluctuate. Both types of home loans will help you secure a piece of property, but they come with different terms and conditions that can affect your finances. Read this article to learn more about the difference between fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages.

Interest rates on mortgage loans are rising fast due to a variety of factors. The Federal Reserve recently raised interest rates with several more rate hikes planned for later this year in hopes of easing inflation. This makes it more expensive to borrow money. Learn more about what these rates mean for you and your finances.

One of the biggest parts of a person’s budget is their housing expense. If you’re looking to purchase a home, read this article to learn more about how home affordability has changed and what you can do to make things more affordable and fit your budget.

If you’re looking to save money when buying a home, you might consider buying a fixer-upper home. Some individuals choose to renovate an older home or one that needs repairs and flip it to make a profit, but are these homes really worth your money? Take a look at the pros and cons of buying a fixer-upper home

Student loan forbearance is a period in which you aren’t required to make a payment on your student loans. You can temporarily make a smaller payment, but the principal amount of the loan will continue to accrue interest. Forbearance can help you reduce your monthly expenses in the short term, however, you won’t make any progress in terms of paying off the loan or loan forgiveness. Learn more about student loan forbearance and when to consider this option.

Spring is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to get your home in shape. Spring cleaning is a time for cleaning, organizing and improving your living space. From adding a new deck to renovating your kitchen, there are so many projects to consider. However, spring cleaning home improvements can be costly.  Depending on the size and scope of your project, you might need to borrow money. You can use a HELOC to help finance your spring cleaning plans. Learn more about how to use a HELOC for home improvements.

If you are new to the world of Home Equity Loans and HELOCs, learn how these loans work and how you may be able to use them to your advantage.

If your car needs repairs, you may want to consider if it’s cost-effective to get the repairs done. In some cases, it might make more sense to trade your old car in for another vehicle instead of investing in costly repairs, especially if it is nearing the end of its working life. Choosing whether or not to repair your car depends on several factors, including the cost of repairs, how long the car will last and how much it’s worth in today’s market. Learn when to trade in your car instead of making repairs for the best money management. 

The mortgage application process can be overwhelming. Use this guide to simplify the application process so you can finance with confidence. 

In some ways, going to college has become essential in today’s economy. Having a degree can be your ticket to a better paying job, but the cost of tuition can be prohibitive for some aspiring students and professionals. The good news is that there are many financial aid programs for you to choose from, regardless of your financial situation. You can lower the cost of college by doing your research and taking advantage of as many of these programs as possible. Don’t wait! The sooner you start researching these programs, the less you’ll have to pay out of pocket.

You’re looking forward to a long, happy marriage with your betrothed. However, before you say your “I do’s” you might want to have a heart-to-heart talk about money and how you’ll manage your finances. Disagreements on money-related issues are a common challenge that married couples face. Here are some steps you can take so money issues don’t become marriage issues.

This age-old dilemma continues to find new life in today’s economy. Driving is so much a part of our daily lives, but not everyone can afford to buy their car outright. Leasing a car can be a great option to save money, or for those individuals who enjoy driving a different car every few years. Like renting an apartment, you spend money month after month without walking away at the end of the lease with anything of your own. Let’s compare the pros and cons of buying vs. leasing a car so you can make the right decision based on your lifestyle.

Buying a home in a seller’s market can be challenging. While housing market conditions may be less than ideal, there are still benefits to buying a property versus renting. Use these tips to stay ahead of the competition and land the house you’ve always wanted.

Refinancing your mortgage is a great way to reduce debt and take control of your finances. There are many reasons to swap out your current home mortgage for a new repayment plan. It all depends on what you’re looking to achieve with your new home loan. Use this guide to learn more about the refinancing process to see if this is the right option for you.

Nothing could be more exciting than buying your first home! After years of saving and renting, it’s finally time to be the master of your own domain. But buying a home can be much more complicated than you might realize. The asking price of the home is just one piece of the equation as you navigate this all-too-important purchase. From shopping for a mortgage to budgeting for unexpected costs, we’ll walk you through every step of the process.

Paying off student loans is a top financial priority for many people, but it can be confusing and hard to navigate. Many people don’t understand how student loan debt works or what their options are to reduce their payments. Read this article to learn more about student loans and what options you have to pay them back.

As exciting as this moment may seem, it’s best to plan your wedding around your finances and future lifestyle. Your wedding is just one piece of a much bigger financial puzzle. Use this guide to help plan your special day in an affordable way so you don’t end up putting a financial strain on your marriage before it starts!

Are you ready to house hunt, but are wondering "How much mortgage can I afford?" Getting pre-approved for a mortgage can show sellers that you are a serious prospect and give you a leg up on other buyers who jump the gun by visiting open houses without even knowing their budget. In this market, where sellers are getting many offers including cash offers, a pre-approval can help you stand out as a buyer. When you have a documented pre-approval, the seller knows you will be able to get the funding you are offering for the home and you’ll be able to close more quickly and reliably.

Use these car insurance tips the next time you're reviewing your policy to help make sure you have enough coverage and potentially save some money.

While a periodic review of your coverage is always a good idea, it’s also important to know what other things should prompt an insurance review.

This article will cover what to expect, give you some tips to help compare your options and make the life insurance buying experience more convenient and stress free.

Private Party purchases can be stressful and intimidating if you’re not prepared. Review our checklists for information that can help you buy a vehicle with confidence.

Selling your car to a private party can be stressful and intimidating. Use this checklist for information that can help you sell a vehicle with confidence.

Achieving a pre-approval for a home loan marks a significant milestone. It signifies that your journey to homeownership is within grasp. More importantly, it signals to sellers that you’re a serious buyer backed by a financial institution. However, what you do after you get pre-approved for a mortgage can significantly impact the final approval of your loan. Therefore, understanding what not to do after preapproval for a mortgage is crucial.

Ahh the rumble of the engine starting up, the sun glinting off the new paint and that sweet new car smell. There are few things that are more satisfying than the feeling of driving your brand-new car off the lot for the first time. But before you walk away with keys in hand, there are a few steps you must go through first. There can be a lot of anxiety around the car buying process, especially if you aren’t familiar with it and don’t know what to ask. This guide will give you a comprehensive primer of things to know and look out for to ensure that your experience at the dealership is a smooth ride.