Erik J. Martin

Erik J. Martin is a Chicago area-based freelance writer and public relations expert whose articles have been featured in AARP The Magazine, Reader’s Digest, The Costco Connection, Bankrate, Forbes Advisor, The Chicago Tribune, and other publications. He often writes on topics related to real estate, personal finance, technology, health care, insurance, and entertainment. He also publishes several blogs, including Martinspiration.com and Cineversegroup.com, and hosts the Cineversary podcast (Cineversary.com).

Mortgage Rate Lock: What Is It, And When Should You Lock In Your Rate?

The math on mortgage interest rates can be tricky to navigate. That’s because rates can fluctuate from day to day […]

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What Is A Blanket Mortgage?

Typically, a financed real estate property is attached to a single mortgage loan. But when you want to invest in, […]

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Using Gift Funds For A Down Payment

Worried you won’t have enough cash saved to make a sufficient down payment on a home purchase and thereby qualify […]

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How To Get A Mortgage Loan When You Have Student Loan Debt

Having a college degree can help you land a better desirable job, ideally with a higher income. But if you […]

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Understanding Debt Consolidation And How It Works

Getting calls from creditors about outstanding debts? Worried about how you’re going to repay what you owe and safeguard your […]

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Best Time to Refinance a Car Loan

If you are financing a new or used car, take a closer look at your current loan and monthly payments. […]

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Ways to Lower Your Car Loan Payments

Own a car you’re still financing? Chances are your monthly payments are higher than you’d prefer. Consider that the average […]

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Using Home Equity to Buy a Second Home

Interested in purchasing a second home for vacation, rental, or investment purposes? You may be able to conveniently tap the […]

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When Should You Refinance Into a 15-Year Mortgage?

Currently locked into long-term mortgage financing, such as a 30-year home loan that you closed on in recent years? You […]

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I Am Underwater on My Mortgage. Can I still Refinance?

Owe more on your mortgage loan than your home is currently valued at? If so, you are not alone. Many […]

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mortgage, house, contract

How to Shop for a Mortgage Refinance Without Hurting Your Credit

If you are preparing to refinance your mortgage loan, it’s smart to be aware of how shopping and applying for […]

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How to Pay for Home Renovations with a Refinance Loan

You’re eager to start that kitchen remodel, bathroom redo, attic expansion, landscaping reboot, or other fix-it project. Problem is, you […]

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From above electronic calculator and notepad placed over United States dollar bills together with metallic pen for budget planning and calculation

How to Refinance Your Mortgage Loan When You Have Bad Credit

Before pulling the trigger on a mortgage refinance, it’s smart to check your credit and determine whether you are considered […]

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How to shop for a mortgage refinance without hurting your credit

If you are preparing to refinance your mortgage loan, it’s smart to be aware of how shopping and applying for […]

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How to pay for home renovations with a refinance loan

You’re eager to start that kitchen remodel, bathroom redo, attic expansion, landscaping reboot, or other fix-it project. Problem is, you […]

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