Headshot of Jackie Lam

Jackie Lam

Contributing writer

Jackie Lam is a personal finance writer and is based in Los Angeles. She is an accredited AFC® financial educator.

Jackie is passionate about helping artists, freelancers, and gig economy workers with their finances. She has in-depth experience writing about all aspects of personal finance, including budgeting, investing, frugality, money management, and relationships, and enjoys discovering interesting stories that revolve around money.

In her spare time she enjoys volunteering, water aerobics, sticker collecting, being in nature, and learning the drums.

Awards:

  • 2022 recipient of Money Management International's Financial Literacy and Education in Communities (FLEC) Award
  • 2022 Plutus Awards recipient for Best Freelancer in Personal Finance Media

Expertise

Personal Finance

Education

UCLA Copyediting Certification, UCLA Extension Community Counselor Certification, Southern California Counseling Center (SCCC) AFCPE Certification

Recent Articles

White two story home with large grassy yard and big trees in autumn.

6-minute read

What is a zombie foreclosure?

Zombie foreclosures demonstrate the risks of leaving before foreclosure ends. Understand these homes and their potential to resurface and create problems later.

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Image depicting a couple during the process of moving into a new home, with boxes and furniture being transported.

7-minute read

Moving costs: How much will it cost you to move?

The cost of your move depends on where you’re going, the size of your home, and labor fees. Before you pack up, here’s what you should prepare for.

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Two woman go over budget charts together, possibly discussing how to plan monthly mortgage payments.

7-minute read

Using an affordability calculator to estimate mortgage costs

How much does it cost to buy a home, and can you afford one? Creating a realistic home buying budget can help you get on track to becoming a homeowner.

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Exterior view of a suburban home with a well-manicured lawn and blue sky.

8-minute read

How to save for a house: A complete guide

One of the biggest hurdles when buying a home is saving for a down payment, closing costs, and other expenses. Learn how to save for a house more easily.

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A tan two-story home, showing a two-story house with a tan exterior.

8-minute read

How to sell a house with a mortgage

Selling your home while you’re still paying off your mortgage can be difficult to navigate. Learn how to prepare to sell your house and pay off your mo...

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Wood panelled tiny home with covered porch with hanging chair surrounded by tall pine trees.

6-minute read

How much does a tiny home cost?

The tiny house movement is growing in popularity, but how much does a tiny home cost? Learn about the factors that impact pricing in this complete guide.

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Senior couple sitting on sofa in home with a tablet and relaxing together.

9-minute read

How to buy a house in Georgia

Is Georgia on your mind? Here’s what buyers should know about the market and how to prepare to buy a house in Georgia.

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Young man smiling on the phone at a desk, possibly indicating work or communication.

6-minute read

How you can change homeowners insurance with escrow

Want to change your homeowners insurance? Read through our step-by-step guide on how to change your homeowners insurance with an escrow account.

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Retired couple in home.

6-minute read

5 alternatives to a reverse mortgage

Many older adults consider a reverse mortgage to help finance their retirement. If you're one of them, explore these alternatives to see what suits your needs.

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