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Sarah Li Cain

Sarah Li Cain is Accredited Financial Counselor® and a finance and business writer with over a decade of experience in the industry. Her journey in personal finance started when she moved to the US and had to navigate the world of personal finance like banking and how to purchase a home. This led to her passion helping others understand how to navigate financial topics such as building a credit score, comparing loan options, and relevant topics for first-time home buyers and sellers. She pursued the Accredited Financial Counselor designation to further her knowledge in the personal finance space. Sarah's goal is to break down financial topics in a way that's digestible and straightforward to understand.

Expertise

Mortgage

PersonalFinance

Recent Articles

Calculating mortgage payments, representing financial planning or budgeting.

7-minute read

What is an acceleration clause in real estate?

An acceleration clause in a mortgage means that your mortgage balance becomes due if you default on payments. Learn how a mortgage acceleration clause works.

Same-sex female couple with a broker, potentially representing a diverse couple working with a real estate broker.

3-minute read

What is the NMLS, and how can I get my license?

The Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System, or NMLS, is a database of licensed mortgage loan originators. Learn more about the NMLS and how to get a license.

An aerial city view, showcasing a cityscape or urban area from above.

5-minute read

When to rent vs. buy a house: Weighing the pros and cons

When relocating to a new place for a job, you have a choice between renting or buying a home. Explore the pros and cons of each approach before deciding.

Woman using a phone and a MacBook, potentially managing finances or conducting research online.

6-minute read

Loan principal definition and basics

The principal is the amount you borrowed for your loan, while interest is the fee for use of the loan. Learn how each makes up your monthly payment.

A woman sitting at the kitchen table looking at her computer and on the phone.

4-minute read

Can I pay off my home equity loan early?

A home equity loan can give you purchasing power for home improvements or debt consolidation. But can you pay off a home equity loan early? Read on to find out.

Business investor analyzing financial data or investment opportunities.

4-minute read

Dual agency: What to know before you buy

Dual agents work for the buyer and seller in real estate transactions. Learn more about how this works and how to decide if dual agency is right for you.