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Lauren Bowling

Former contributing writer

Lauren Bowling is an award-winning blogger and finance writer whose work has been featured on The Huffington Post, Fox Business, CNBC, Forbes, Business Insider, Redbook, and Woman’s Day Magazine. She writes regularly at financialbestlife.com.

Recent Articles

7-minute read

Should I buy a car or house first? How to decide

Are you questioning whether you should buy a car or a house first? Read our guide to learn what to consider when deciding which purchase is right for you.

A line of houses set against a backdrop of clear blue sky and fluffy white clouds.

6-minute read

How to get a VA loan after bankruptcy

It’s possible to get a VA loan after bankruptcy, but borrowers may have to endure a waiting period and improve credit factors. Learn how the process works.

Documents spread across a table alongside a coffee mug, portraying an organized or busy setting related to home paperwork or financial documentation.

4-minute read

What is fair market value (FMV) in real estate and how is it calculated?

Fair market value (FMV) in real estate is an assessment of a property's worth in an open market. Learn how FMV is calculated and what it's used for.

A home exterior with red shutters on a sunny summer day, portraying a residential property's facade.

4-minute read

Defeasance clause: Definition and overview

Defeasance clauses assure buyers that they’ll get the title once they meet all payment conditions. Learn more about the impact of defeasance on your mortgage.

Woman on phone looking over financial documents.

3-minute read

Easement in gross: Defined and explained

An easement in gross gives a person the right to use a parcel of land owned by someone else. Read more about easements in gross and how they work.

Small blue house in a backyard, showcasing a compact standalone house in a residential setting.

5-minute read

What is an RHS loan?

An RHS loan can help rural families bypass the down payment requirement and get the boost they need to qualify for a mortgage. Learn more about RHS loans.

An image representing a broker, potentially related to real estate or financial brokerage.

7-minute read

What is a real estate broker and what do they do?

Real estate brokers have advanced licensing requirements and can hire real estate agents. Learn more about what they do and how they can affect you.

A vibrant image showcasing a community, possibly with people interacting, highlighting the concept of investing in neighborhoods.

5-minute read

Collateralized mortgage obligations: Defined and explained

Collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs) are a pool of mortgage loans that are combined and sold as an investment. Learn more about CMOs and how they work.

A couple looking at papers in a house, potentially discussing documents related to homeownership or a real estate purchase.

8-minute read

A complete guide to commercial REITs

Navigating commercial REITs can be daunting. Our ultimate guide simplifies the complexities to shed light on these powerful investment tools.