Laura Gariepy
Bio: Laura has been a freelance writer since 2018. Her work primarily focuses on mortgages, homebuying, loans, credit, and other personal finance and careers-related topics. Her words have been featured in U.S. News & World Report, Fortune Recommends, The New York Post, USA Today, and many other publications. She earned her MBA and a Bachelor's in Psychology during her previous career in human resources.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
Cash-out refinance vs. HELOC: Which should you choose?
A cash-out refinance and HELOC are two ways to tap your home equity, each with pros and cons. Find out which is better for your situation.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
How the mortgage underwriting process works
The mortgage underwriting process determines whether you qualify for a home loan. Learn about how it works and how to make the process go smoothly.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
What is a short refinance, and how does it work?
A short refinance replaces your existing mortgage with a new one for less than you owe, helping you avoid foreclosure. Learn more about short refinancing.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
How a VA streamline refinance (VA IRRRL) works
A VA IRRRL, or a VA streamline refinance, doesn’t require an appraisal or credit check. Learn whether a VA IRRRL is the best choice for you.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
What is a VA Certificate of Eligibility, and how do you get one?
You need a VA Certificate of Eligibility to get a VA home loan. Learn what a VA COE is and how to get one.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
How does title insurance work?
Title insurance can protect you and your lender from costly lawsuits for years to come. Learn how home title insurance works and how much it costs.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
How does a fixed-rate mortgage work?
A fixed-rate mortgage locks in your interest rate for the entire loan term. Learn how a fixed-rate mortgage works and whether it’s the right fit for you.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
Your home inspection checklist: What to expect on inspection day
A home inspection can prevent you from making a costly home-buying mistake. Review our home inspection checklist so you’re fully prepared.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
How to prequalify for a mortgage
Mortgage prequalification is a useful step when you’re thinking about buying but haven’t started house shopping yet. Learn how to prequalify for a home loan.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
Mortgage origination fee: Details, costs, and options for paying less
A mortgage origination fee typically costs 0.50% to 1% of your mortgage and is paid at closing. Learn about how it works and options for paying less.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
Explaining LTV and how it impacts your mortgage
LTV ratio, or loan-to-value ratio, helps lenders determine your mortgage eligibility, interest rate, and more. Learn how it works and what to expect here.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
How much down payment do you need for a house?
Your minimum down payment will depend on the type of mortgage you want. Learn how much down payment you need for a house and how to save money faster.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
APR vs. interest rate: What you need to know when mortgage shopping
Learning the difference between mortgage APR and interest rate makes you a smarter mortgage shopper and can save you money.