Making CENTS - Blog

Top 3 Takeaways Fall is prime time for home purchases. Lower competition and motivated sellers make autumn an ideal season for homebuyers and those considering HELOCs for renovations. Your home’s equity grows like fall leaves accumulate. Home values have likely increased since your purchase, creating equity perfect for accessing through a HELOC for seasonal improvements or financial goals. Preparing for

Top 3 Takeaways Local lenders like CENT Credit Union provide personalized guidance you can’t get from automated, one-size-fits-all mortgage platforms. Credit unions keep decisions in the community, which means faster responses and more flexibility. Working with a trusted local partner ensures your mortgage fits your long-term financial goals, not just a quick approval. Every September, National Mortgage Professional Month recognizes

3 Key Takeaways for Iowa College Funding Start with Federal Aid First: Complete your FAFSA to access federal grants and loans with better terms and protections than private options—Iowa students can borrow $5,500-$12,500 annually in federal Direct Loans depending on their year in school. Consider Community College Transfer Strategy: Save thousands by completing general education requirements at Iowa Lakes Community

3 Key Points for Smarter Vacation Saving Start early for the best deals – Planning months in advance gives you more choice and better rates on flights, hotels, and activities. Separate your travel funds – A dedicated account helps protect vacation savings from everyday expenses. Automate your deposits – Consistent saving, even in small amounts, builds a substantial trip budget

Always Verify Before Sending: Double-check the identity of any person or company before sending crypto or sharing personal info—legit opportunities don’t rush you. Trust Your Gut on Deals: If an investment sounds too good to be true, like guaranteed profits or quick riches, it’s likely a scam. Use Security Tools: Enable wallet alerts, two-factor authentication, and secure browsers to stay

Key Takeaways Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) provides flexible financing for seasonal home improvement projects in Iowa, allowing homeowners to access funds as needed for deck construction, landscaping, and outdoor living spaces before winter arrives. Iowa’s short construction season makes timing critical. A HELOC’s quick approval process and draw-as-you-go structure helps homeowners complete projects during the May through September