Author Profiles

If your home is damaged during a federally declared disaster or by vandalism or theft, you may be able to claim special tax deductions. Here’s the fine print. Read More

Few places in the country are considered free from flooding, so protect your home and family. Read More

When a contractor dispute erupts, state and local licensing authorities have the muscle to get you satisfaction. Read More

You have to investigate your policy details and how they relate to your location before making a decision on hurricane insurance. Read More

How you manage your home ownership finances affects your credit score—and your ability to refinance later. Read More

If you’re trying to raise your credit score to get a good rate for a refinance or HELOC, you might be surprised by what affects—or doesn’t affect—your score. Read More

Military families who’ve suffered a tragedy or injury may find foreclosure relief in a new Fannie Mae program that offers forbearance. Read More

We’re in the peak of the busiest hurricane season in years. Is your home properly insured? Read More

A short sale is far from hassle-free, but it’s a better alternative than foreclosure. And now you’ve got a little help from your friends in D.C. Here are the facts about short sales and how to get started. Read More

Facing foreclosure and you just want it over with? The deed in lieu of foreclosure may be your best alternative. Here are the advantages, disadvantages and tips on obtaining a deed in lieu. Read More

Should you shake loose the cash for earthquake insurance? Read More

Flooding risks, as well as the value of your home and your possessions, help determine whether the cost of flood insurance is worth it. Read More

Whether mold is covered by homeowners insurance often comes down to the source of moisture and the wording of a policy. Read More

Homeowners insurance typically excludes war and nuclear accidents, but acts of terrorism can fall into a gray area. Read More

Use these tactics to create a home inventory after a casualty loss to support an insurance claim. Read More

Create a home inventory before disaster strikes to make filing an insurance claim a smoother process. Read More

A home inventory of your belongings for insurance purposes is a relatively inexpensive way to make any future claims go smoother. Read More

After flood waters subside, document, work with your insurer, and clean up safely. Read More

The right tools and pre-winter maintenance will ensure that your home and your family are safe and from cold-weather threats. Read More

The region in which you live dictates what kind of disaster insurance you might need to protect your home from Mother Nature’s wrath. Read More

Your homeowners insurance covers many of life’s disasters, just not some natural disasters like earthquakes and floods, so consider supplemental policies. Read More

The secret to filing a successful disaster insurance claim is getting prepared long before catastrophe actually strikes your home. Read More