A few years ago, a couple I know got into trouble with some payday loans.  Hard on their luck and desperately in need of groceries, they spent a couple of weeks taking out payday loans from one of those conveniently located check-cashing places.  Before too long, they were drowning due to the payday loans.  While they wouldn’t have had food in their home otherwise, here’s a list of things that would have helped them (and can help you) before they were in over their heads in a high-interest debt situation:
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You’re tired of renting – all that money that’s been flushed down the drain again and again – and now you’re ready to buy your first home.   You may have heard about the government’s program promising money to first time homebuyers is being extended until 31 December 2009.  What is this grant about, who is eligible and how much will first time buyers receive?
What is the First Home Buyer’s Grant?
The grant is a one-time boost intended to motivate citizens to purchase property.  The amount given in the grant ranges from …

It’s been said that the key to financial success is based on two key principles. First, work hard for your money. Then, let your money work hard for you.
The existence of compound interest speaks to the latter. And it’s exactly why compound interest is one of the safest, most effective mechanisms for growing wealth in existence.
Albert Einstein called compound interest the “greatest mathematical discovery of all time.”
But fortunately, understanding and capitalizing on compound interest doesn’t require the mental capacity of a genius like Einstein.
What is Compound Interest?
Compound interest occurs when …

Home equity loans can be appealing loan options for a number of reasons. Still, before you seek out this type of loan, make sure you know what you are getting into. There are lots of things that you should know before you apply for that loan.
The Basics
Essentially, a home equity loan involves using your home as collateral in order to obtain a revolving line of credit. Home equity loans can be used for many different things, though they should not be used for everyday items.
Some reasons why homeowners apply for …

Qualifying for a low-interest rate loan is an ambition many have but a dream few realize. Unfortunately, securing a loan at optimal rates can be an incredibly difficult feat to conquer. Although every lending institution establishes its own criteria and guidelines for issuing loans, most reserve stringent income, credit, and savings standards when it comes to evaluating a loan applicant and awarding the lowest interest rate possible.
Naturally, some lenders are considerably more flexible than others and therefore willing to work with borrowers who have diverse and even less-than-favorable financial histories. …