The VantageScore, which dictates the way credit bureaus — Experian, TransUnion and Equifax — determine your credit score, is going through a shake-up this fall. The company is looking deeper into specific circumstances and what they say about your financial responsibility. Having a favorable credit score comes into play when you need to qualify for […]

We received this notification from one of our local police departments so beware! The Crest Hill Police Department has been receiving reports from residents in reference to a new telephone scam “Can you hear me”. The scam works like this: You will receive an automated phone call from a voice that sounds legitimate. It identifies […]

How many times do you ever look close enough at the person checking you out in line to know what color eyes they have or how often do you remember what your spouse wore to work? We’re all busy-really busy. Unfortunately this makes us easy marks for criminals who place skimming devices on ATM machines. […]

The financial benefits of buying a home compared with renting have yoyoed over the years, especially of late. If you’re sitting on the fence, here are four circumstances in which it may be a better bet to buy. If interest rates remain low From a financing perspective, if this isn’t the best time to buy […]

Encouraging my 18 year old to apply for a credit card seemed akin to encouraging him to run with the bulls in Pamplona. It’s dangerous for teenagers to have credit cards, right? They can go out and put anything on the credit card without any concept that they actually have to pay for the item […]

Unlike diamonds, mortgages are not forever. The ultimate goal is to pay them off and own your home free of encumbrances. But there are many good reasons to trade in your original mortgage for a new one along the way. One of the most common reasons to refinance is to move from an adjustable-rate mortgage, […]