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Lauren Bowling

Freelance 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.

Bathroom remodel in progress, demonstrating renovations and design improvements.

7-minute read

A complete guide to the Fannie Mae HomeStyle loans for renovations

Looking at bundling home renovation costs into your mortgage? The Fannie Mae HomeStyle loan program makes it easy. Learn how it works and what to expect.

A woman managing finances or financial documents, potentially related to budgeting or personal financial planning.

7-minute read

Net operating income (NOI): Definition and formula

Net operating income (NOI) is a calculation of an investment property’s total revenue. Learn about the NOI formula and how it determines profitability.

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.