Smart Lending 
Buying a home is a significant milestone in the United States, but the financial barrier of a down payment can seem insurmountable for many, especially in 2025 when housing markets remain competitive. However, buying a house with zero money down is possible through specific programs, creative financing, strategic planning and the Smart Lending team will … Read more
The home equity line of credit is powerful 2nd mortgage but securing a HELOC can become complicated when a homeowner has a tax lien—a legal claim imposed by the government on a property due to unpaid taxes. We published this article to determine whether it is possible to obtain a HELOC with a tax lien, … Read more
Refinancing a mortgage with bad credit in 2025 is challenging but achievable. Various lending programs and strategies can help homeowners secure better terms with lower interest rates and cash out opportunities despite credit hurdles. Smart Lending created this online guide to outline the steps to qualify and save from refinancing even with less-than-perfect credit. How … Read more
Do you want to obtain funding your start-up with a small business loan? You aren’t alone! Every year, millions of people dream of owning their own company. Fortunately, there are many kinds of small business loans available, depending on your needs and goals. Is it Hard to Get Approved Small Business Loan in 2025? Traditional … Read more
If you are one of the people in the country who struggle with high-interest debt, you are not alone! Interest rates on credit cards in 2024 often top 20%, making it difficult for many people to afford more than minimum payments. But minimum payments may barely dent the principal, making it impossible to pay off … Read more
Co-signing a mortgage is a generous gesture—one that can make the dream of homeownership possible for a family member, friend, or partner who might not qualify on their own. But like most financial decisions, co-signing carries both benefits and responsibilities. Beyond the credit risk and potential legal obligations, it’s important to understand the tax implications … Read more
For homeowners juggling a primary mortgage and a home equity loan, the idea of simplifying payments through refinancing is increasingly appealing. Especially in a fluctuating interest rate environment like 2025, combining two home loans into a single mortgage can offer benefits such as lower monthly payments, streamlined debt, and potentially better loan terms. But is … Read more
Home equity loans have long been a popular financial tool for homeowners seeking to leverage the equity in their properties for various needs, such as home improvements, debt consolidation, or significant purchases. Understanding current home equity loan rates is essential for making informed borrowing decisions. This Smart Lending article provides an in-depth analysis of current … Read more
An adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) is a type of home loan where the interest rate adjusts periodically based on an index, leading to potential fluctuations in monthly payments. Understanding the factors that directly affect an ARM is crucial for borrowers to anticipate changes in their mortgage obligations. This article delves into the primary elements influencing ARMs, … Read more
As of March 2025, the Federal Reserve has not officially announced plans to integrate or utilize XRP, the cryptocurrency associated with Ripple Labs, within its monetary policy or payment systems. However, recent developments indicate a growing interest from the Federal Reserve to incorporate various cryptocurrencies, including XRP, into the U.S. government’s financial strategies. President Trump’s … Read more
Homeownership can be a rewarding yet complex journey, especially when life circumstances change. Whether due to divorce, separation, or a change in financial agreements, removing someone from a mortgage without refinancing is a common concern. Refinancing is often the most direct solution, but what if it’s not an option? Thankfully, alternative methods exist, though they … Read more
Refinancing a home can be a strategic move to lower monthly payments, secure a better interest rate, or access home equity. However, many homeowners wonder how soon they can refinance after purchasing or refinancing a home. The timeline for house refinancing depends on several factors, including lender requirements, loan type, and financial circumstances. Understanding these … Read more