Sarah Henseler headshot.

Sarah Henseler

Editor

Sarah Henseler is a seasoned content editor with over 30 years of experience shaping stories and sharpening language for a wide range of audiences. Currently, she uses that experience at Rocket Mortgage, where she helps demystify mortgages, real estate, and personal finance through clear, accessible, and trustworthy content.
Before joining Rocket in 2019, she built her editorial foundation at places like the Chicago Tribune, Chicago Daily Herald, and Macmillan Learning — refining her skills in journalism, digital publishing, and educational content. Whether she's editing long-form features or optimizing copy for SEO, her goal is always the same: to connect with readers and deliver value through every word. Sarah grew up in Chicago and went to Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Sarah is a die-hard, unapologetic Cubs fan and season ticketholder since 1998. She's a dedicated follower of the Star Wars and Marvel universes, and a Springsteen fan who has traveled all over the country to see shows. When she's not working, she's usually looking for a great new taco place, getting together with friends, or planning her next trivia night outing.

Expertise

Mortgage
Personal Finance
Real Estate

Recent Articles

Woman snuggling fluffy dog on couch.

8-minute read

Can you avoid capital gains by paying off your mortgage? How home sale taxes really work

There are a number of strategies to avoid or reduce capital gains tax on a home sale. Learn more about exclusions, exceptions, and basis rules.

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A couple leaving their house probably leaving for their jobs.

7-minute read

A guide to the home inspection contingency

A home inspection contingency allows buyers to respond to results within a specific time frame. Learn how to successfully navigate and reply to an inspection.

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Happy family with two toddlers playing on the landscaped front lawn of new home.

7-minute read

Adjustable mortgage rates: A guide to your first reset

Adjustable mortgage rates can affect the monthly payment and interest costs. Learn what happens when your ARM adjusts and how to prepare for your first reset.

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Father playing piano with small child and dog nearby.

8-minute read

What is a home equity loan? A complete guide

A home equity loan is a second mortgage that allows you to use your home as collateral to borrow a lump sum. Read this complete guide to home equity loans.

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Woman smiling while reviewing finances on tablet while man drinks coffee and looks at the screen. Paperwork and calcluator are on the table nearby.

6-minute read

Should you make one extra mortgage payment per year?

Making an extra mortgage payment each year could help you save on interest. Use this guide to figure out how much difference it will make for your finances.

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Middle-aged couple with teen son on front porch of new home.

7-minute read

How to strengthen your mortgage application before you apply

Getting ready to apply for a mortgage? Learn how to strengthen your application, understand what lenders look for, and have the best shot at loan approval.

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Row of detached houses with trees in the foreground.

5-minute read

What is a probate sale in real estate?

A probate sale takes place when an owner dies without a legal will. Learn how to buy a probate property and see if probate real estate makes sense for you.

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A couple on a couch with a laptop, potentially engaging in real estate-related activities or discussions.

8-minute read

Why are mortgage rates still going up, and how can you buy in 2026?

Many factors can determine whether you qualify for a mortgage. Learn what influences your mortgage qualification and how you can improve your chances at the rig...

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A row of bungalows, illustrating a series of single-story residential homes or a housing complex.

7-minute read

A cost segregation study: What it is and how it works

Cost segregation is a method of tax planning that can help real estate owners increase their cash flow. Learn about cost segregation studies and how they wor...

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