Auto Loans
Auto Loans are a necessity for most people whether they are buying a new car or used. The dealer may not be the best place to shop for your loan. At the very least arrange your financing before you begin negotiations, taking the time to compare rates and terms and to set a budget so that your new automobile is an affordable necessity, not a liability.

Consolidation Loans
Consolidation loans do not lower your debt. What they do is to substitute one loan at a hopefully lower interest rate for multiple loans at higher rates. They are especially useful for getting out from under the very high interest rates of credit card debt. They should not be looked at as a way to increase purchasing power. Instead they should be used as an efficient way to lower debt. Our consolidation loan resources page has information about and links to a good selection of on line consolidation loan providers.

Equity Loans
In the broadest sense, equity means ownership. You need to own a home to get a home equity loan. You use your home as collateral for the loan - which is a little bit scary. If you can't pay the loan, they can take your house. But if you're sure you can afford it, a home equity loan is a great way to go because not only can you get a lower interest rate, your interest is tax deductible! Our equity loan resources page has information about and links to a good selection of on line equity loan providers.

Mortgages
A mortgage is a long-term loan used to finance the purchase of real estate. As the borrower, or mortgager, you repay the lender, or mortgagee, the loan principal plus interest, gradually building your equity in the property. While the mortgage is in force, you have the use of the property, but not the title to it. When the loan is repaid in full, the property is yours. But if you default, or fail to repay, the mortgagee can exercise its lien on the property and take possession of it. Our mortgage resources page has information about and links to a good selection of on line mortgage providers.

Student Loans
Student loans are used to finance higher education. Our Guide to Student Loans takes you through the various types of loans that are available, who administers them and who is eligible for each category of loan.