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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

PersonalFinance

Education

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

Recent Articles

A woman hugging her father in front of a property possibly in woods.

5-minute read

Step-up in basis defined: How does it work?

If you’re deciding between gifting your home or bequeathing it, you may want to weigh the tax implications first. Learn how a step-up in basis benefits...

Man sitting on staircase with peaceful and happy look on his face.

5-minute read

7 tax deductions for homeowners: Your breaks and benefits

If you own your own home, you might be able to save on your tax returns. Get the most value from your home with these seven tax deductions.

Small bungalow single story home exterior.

6-minute read

Second mortgage vs. home equity loan: What's the difference?

Home equity loans are a type of second mortgage, but not the only one. Explore the differences between second mortgages and home equity loans in this article.

Historic brownstones in NYC, showcasing classic architectural buildings in New York City.

3-minute read

A complete guide to mortgage REITs (mREITs)

Mortgage REITs (mREITs) are publicly traded investments in mortgages and mortgage-backed securities. Learn about mREITs as well as their pros and cons.

Woman calculating finances at her kitchen table with laptop open and paperwork in her hands.

7-minute read

A guide to getting a HELOC with bad credit

A low credit score doesn’t have to mean a HELOC denial. Learn about getting a HELOC with bad credit, including the pros, cons and alternative options.

A younger Asian woman moving with a senior father, depicting a family or intergenerational relocation scene.

4-minute read

FHA non-occupant co-borrowers: Guidelines and how they can help

FHA non-occupant co-borrowers can make a big difference during the qualifying process for an FHA loan. Learn the requirements to best utilize this process.

A man calculating debt, potentially involved in financial planning or debt management.

6-minute read

Using a home equity loan to tackle credit card debt: A guide

Tackling credit card debt? Learn about using a home equity loan to pay it down, along with the benefits, drawbacks and alternative methods.

A couple reviewing documents with an advisor or financial professional.

5-minute read

What is a mortgage maturity date and how does it work?

A mortgage maturity date indicates when you’re expected to make your last mortgage payment. Learn more about how maturity dates work and how to find yours...

A house featuring a large porch in a suburban setting.

2-minute read

Netting escrows: What does it mean and should you net escrow?

Should you net escrow on your refinance? Read our guide to learn what netting escrow means, how it affects your refi and its benefits and drawbacks.