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Sarah Sharkey

Contributing writer

Sarah Sharkey is a personal finance writer who enjoys helping readers make informed financial decisions. She lives in Florida with her husband and dogs. When she's not writing, she's outside exploring the coast.

Expertise

Mortgage

Personal Finance

Education

M.S. in Management, Hough School of Business at the University of Florida; B.S. in Biology, University of Florida

Recent Articles

Houseboats floating on water, likely in a residential area.

7-minute read

Natural hazard disclosure report (NHD): What it is and what it covers

A natural hazard disclosure report (NHD) shows whether a property is in a flood, fire, earthquake, or dam inundation zone. Learn how to use it before closing...

Couple with daughter smiling among boxes inside newly moved into home.

5-minute read

What is a kick-out clause and should you include one?

A kick-out clause allows sellers who’ve accepted an offer to continue showing their home. Learn about other features of a kick-out clause in real estat...

Two people holding hands in front of small grey brick house.

6-minute read

How much house can I afford on a $70K salary?

Starting your home buying journey with a salary of $70,000 a year? Find out your mortgage options and how much house you can afford on $70,000.

Small child, dog, mother, and father looking out front porch door smiling.

5-minute read

How do you find out who owns a property?

If you want to find out who owns a property, you have both free and paid options to obtain this information. Here are your options and when to use them.

Mobile home with large windows, potentially illustrating a mobile or manufactured home design.

7-minute read

Mobile home prices: How much does a manufactured home cost?

The cost of a manufactured home depends on where you buy it and choose to live. There are additional costs to consider before you finance your new home.

Young girl running along beach on Atalantic Ocean with properties in the distance.

4-minute read

Average closing costs in North Carolina

Closing costs in North Carolina are generally lower than the national average. Learn more about what's included in these costs and who pays them.

Row of brick townhomes in Astoria, Queens, New York in autumn.

7-minute read

FHA loans in New York

Explore FHA loan options to buy a home in New York state. Learn about all the requirements, including those related to credit and income, to determine if you...

Ranch house with bay window and basketball hoop in driveway.

5-minute read

How much house can I afford on $80K?

Starting your home buying journey with a salary of $80,000 a year? Find out your mortgage options and how much house you can afford on $80,000.

5-minute read

What is a bungalow house?

A bungalow is typically a single-storied house with a low-pitched roof. Learn what separates other types of houses from bungalows and the history behind them...