Emily Guy Birken
Emily Guy Birken is a former educator, lifelong money nerd, and a Plutus Award-winning freelance writer who specializes in the scientific research behind irrational money behaviors. Her background in education allows her to make complex financial topics relatable and easily understood by the layperson. Her work has appeared on The Huffington Post, Business Insider, Kiplinger's, MSN Money, and The Washington Post online. She is the author of several books, including The 5 Years Before You Retire, End Financial Stress Now, and Stacked: Your Super Serious Guide to Modern Money Management, written with Joe Saul-Sehy. Emily lives in Milwaukee with her family.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
Do you need mortgage protection insurance?
Mortgage protection insurance pays off your outstanding balance when you die. Discover whether mortgage protection insurance is right for you and your family.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
What is a single-family home, and should you buy one?
A single-family home gives you space and privacy, but it can be more expensive than other home types. Figure out whether you want to buy a single-family home.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
What is a real estate transfer tax and who pays for it?
A real estate transfer tax is a closing cost, and depending on where you live, either the buyer or seller may pay it. Find out if you have to pay a transfer tax.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
Property tax: How to calculate and pay what you owe
The amount you pay in property tax, or real estate tax, is set by your local government. Learn how property taxes factor into your monthly mortgage payments.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
12 questions to ask when buying a house
Learn the 12 questions to ask when buying a house, from choosing a Realtor to home shopping to closing. Go through the checklist and find your dream home.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
Down payment assistance: How it works and how to qualify
Down payment assistance helps first-time buyers afford a home. Learn how to get a grant, forgivable loan, or low-interest loan for your down payment.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
How to sell your house without a Realtor
To sell your house without a Realtor, list it as "for sale by owner" and learn to negotiate. Here are 10 steps to selling without a Realtor.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
Home appraisal: How it works and how much it costs
A home appraisal tells you the market value of your home and is required when you get a mortgage. Learn how an appraisal works and how much it could cost.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
What is the VA funding fee, and how much does it cost?
Here's what veterans, active-duty service members, and surviving spouses should know about gaining access to VA direct and VA-backed home loans.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
Understanding FHA mortgage insurance
FHA mortgage insurance is paid upfront, annually, and is not cancelable unless you make more than a 10% down payment.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
What is private mortgage insurance, and how much does it cost?
Mortgage borrowers who put less than 20% down will be required to pay PMI. Here's how it works.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
What is a reverse mortgage?
Here’s what you need to know about reverse mortgages to help you determine if it’s a good fit for you.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
How much money do I need to buy a house?
Here's what you'll need to cover all the costs of buying a home, including down payment, closing costs, and monthly payments.
- Yahoo Personal Finance
What is a mortgage, and how does it work?
A mortgage is a specific type of loan used to purchase a home. Here's what you need to know.