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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

7-minute read

Your guide to a $450,000 mortgage: Costs and requirements to consider

Ready for a $450,000 mortgage to buy a home? Read our guide to understand the costs and requirements that come with taking out a $450,000 loan.

Image of a newly constructed home with white bricks and a black roof, showcasing modern residential architecture.

4-minute read

What is mortgage curtailment?

Interested in shortening the life of your mortgage loan? Consider how a mortgage curtailment could benefit you in reducing your debt.

A man using a computer in a room filled with plants, perhaps indicating a home office or a relaxed workspace.

10-minute read

How is rental income taxed? A guide for real estate investors

As a real estate investor, you’ll pay income taxes on rental income. Learn about how rental income is taxed and what rental property tax deductions you...

Architects in discussion, reviewing plans and blueprints in an office setting.

3-minute read

What is the Design Approval Primary Inspection Agency (DAPIA)?

The Design Approval Primary Inspection Agency, or DAPIA, inspects and approves manufactured home designs. Learn this process before buying a manufactured hom...

Large mobile home, an image representing a spacious or sizable mobile home.

4-minute read

Can you get an FHA loan on a mobile home?

Can you get an FHA loan on a mobile home? Yes! Let’s discuss the pros and cons and everything you need to know about using an FHA loan on a mobile home...

Young couple sitting at a kitchen counter with a laptop, potentially discussing finances or real estate options.

6-minute read

Can you back out of a house offer? How to formally withdraw

Typically, you can back out of a house offer after it’s accepted. See how home buyers can avoid financial loss when they back out of a home purchase ag...

A backyard villa, showcasing an outdoor residential space or vacation property.

5-minute read

Assessed value vs. market value: Your questions answered

What’s the difference between assessed value and market value? One is the home’s tax-assessed value; the other is what buyers are willing to pay....

Sun room off of two story home on a sunny day.

4-minute read

Understanding FHA 203(b) loans and how they differ from FHA 203(k) loans

FHA 203(b) loans are intended for move-in ready homes and FHA 203(k) loans are used for homes that require significant repairs. Learn more about these loans....

A happy couple reading and drinking coffee on a couch, likely depicting leisure or relaxation at home.

4-minute read

What Is A YOURgage® and how does it work?

A YOURgage® loan is a custom mortgage that can allow home buyers greater flexibility with their mortgages. Read more about YOURgages and their requiremen...