Jennifer Carranza">

Author: Jennifer Carranza

Recent Posts

Housing Market Update

June 18, 2026 Recent global events continue to influence the housing and mortgage markets. Ongoing conflict involving Iran has contributed to higher energy prices, which can fuel inflation concerns. When inflation expectations rise, mortgage rates often follow suit. Adding to the uncertainty, a stronger-than-expected jobs report has some market observers questioning whether the Federal Reserve…

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Need More Time After Selling Your Home? A Leaseback May Help

Selling a home and buying another doesn’t always happen on the same timeline. Sometimes sellers need a little extra time after closing to move into their next home. That’s where a leaseback agreement can help. A leaseback, also known as a rent-back agreement, allows the seller to remain in the home for an agreed-upon period…

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Housing Market Update

May 15, 2026 Mortgage rates don’t move in isolation. Economic trends, inflation, and even global events can all influence what borrowers see when shopping for a home loan. Right now, one of the biggest factors impacting rates is rising inflation tied to higher energy costs. Ongoing instability in the Middle East — particularly around the…

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Understanding Cash to Close When Purchasing a Home

Even before starting your home-buying journey, you’re probably already aware that the numbers aren’t just about the home’s purchase price and your down payment. There are dozens of smaller fees, expenses, credits, and adjustments in the real estate transaction that you need to account for. This is where the term “cash to close” comes into…

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Using Credit as a Tool (and Not a Crutch)

What separates financially confident households from financially stressed ones? The relationship they have with credit. The difference isn’t about income, it’s about intention. Credit is one of the most powerful financial instruments available. Used strategically, it can accelerate wealth: helping you purchase a home that appreciates, smoothing your cash flow during investment cycles, or earning…

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Balancing College Costs with Retirement Planning

If you are within five years of retirement and still financing a college education — or two — you are not alone. Millions of American parents find themselves caught between two of the largest financial obligations of their lives at the very same time. The good news is that with a clear-eyed strategy, you can…

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Lafayette Federal Credit Union Empowers Members Through February Financial Success Workshops

Throughout February, Lafayette Federal Credit Union (LFCU) hosted a series of Financial Success Workshops at nearly all of our branch locations. Designed to meet members where they are financially—and in their local community—these workshops combined in‑person and virtual experiences to deliver practical, relevant guidance on budgeting, goal setting, and building long‑term financial confidence. Led by…

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Preparing Your Taxes: Reduce your stress this year.

Tax season doesn’t have to feel like an annual ambush. For many middle- and higher-income households, the difference between days (or weeks) of stressing out before April’s filing date and a smooth filing often comes down to preparation, not expertise. With a clear framework and some new habits, you can approach tax time with confidence…

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