Securing a debt consolidation loan and paying down your obligation can fast-track you to an improved credit rating and financial stability. But success requires personal vigilance and fiscal responsibility.

American consumer debt reportedly exceeds $14 trillion, and it seems individuals accumulate more — not less — as they get older. Recent data points to a troubling trend that often puts hard-working people in a difficult financial position. Responsible people in these age groups reportedly take on sometimes onerous debt and struggle to get relief.

As a millennial, you're part of a unique and special generation. You're probably at the exciting stage in life where you're just starting out or you're beginning that career climb. Undoubtedly you want to avoid some of the financial pitfalls that have befallen previous generations, but how can you do so? Read below to learn the top 10 financial tips for millennials today. 

With the Federal Reserve reporting that Americans owe $1.021 trillion in outstanding credit card debt, having the facts about how to get out of debt has become more important than ever before. The good news is getting out of debt does not have to be as stressful, painful, or hard as you might think. Mostly, paying off debt requires focus, a changed perspective on spending, and the ability to separate the myths from the facts.

How Does a Home Equity Loan Work?

If you’re looking for a way to deal with debt that is both flexible and affordable, a home equity loan may be a good solution. For homeowners who have built up some equity in their homes, this type of loan allows them to borrow from the accumulated equity and use it to pay down high-interest debt. Here’s a closer look at how home equity loans work, and when they work well for debt consolidation.

If you are thinking about refinancing your mortgage, then you know that this is a great way to save money on your monthly payment, shorten the term of your loan, or tap into the equity of your home for a home improvement project. At the same time, refinancing is like taking out a new home loan. For this reason, you need to know what to expect. There are a few tips that you should follow to make it easier for you to refinance successfully.

Buying a home is a huge milestone and perhaps the largest purchase most of us will ever make. It's important for those who are interested in homeownership to understand the benefits of buying a home versus renting and what a smart investment this decision is for your future. It's also important to understand that homeownership is a lifestyle choice and one that will impact your financial status.

Buying a home is one of the biggest decisions many of us make in our lives. But how do you know if you should continue renting vs. buying a home?

There are pros and cons to each of these housing options, so it's important to do some research about both to help you decide if renting or buying a home is the right decision for you. 

Purchasing a home in South Carolina has proven to be an intelligent investment. Since 2018, South Carolina's real estate market has experienced substantial growth. Over the last five years, from the fourth quarter of 2018 to the fourth quarter of 2023, the state's total home appreciation was recorded at 84%, with an average annual growth rate of 16.8%. If your equity improved in recent years, and you have a need for an affordable financing option, a cash out refinance mortgage could deliver wide-reaching benefits.

From 2020 to 2022, interest rates dropped to an all-time low with rates ranging from 3-to-5 percent, making it the perfect time for South Carolina homeowners to take advantage of Home Equity Loans and Home Equity Lines of Credit (HELCOs). 

In today’s rising rate environment, some homeowners wonder if a Home Equity Loan or HELOC is worth it. The short answer is yes.