Five Secret Ways to Raise Your Credit Score

Raising your credit score can seem like a daunting task, or you may not really care what your score is. However, a credit score affects more than you may realize, which is why we find it important to share our knowledge. Develop consistently strong credit habits with these secret keys of advice from Exchange Bank of Northeast Missouri. 1. Show you can handle all types of debt. Debt comes in all different forms, from car loans and mortgages to credit card bills. Instead of paying for an
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Buying a home may be a common practice for the average American, but it is not a simple one. This is especially true if you are new to the game and have yet to learn the ins and outs of the process. No need to worry, we have plenty of experience from our years in the home buying business and are willing to share the best-kept secrets on the market! 1. Start Today If buying a new home seems far into your future, that means you are in the perfect position to prepare. Often, many have dreams of
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As you begin to write your to-do list of cleaning your home this spring, it’s time to add another section to your list: finances. You wouldn’t believe how helpful it is to do a deep cleaning of your finances every spring. It can contribute to increased feelings of determination and confidence in all areas of your life. Here are the 4 best cleaning moves to add to your list! Review Your Debt Unfortunately, too many people try to turn away from realizing their total amount of debt.
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A dream is just a dream until a plan is created and executed. It’s time to take a step back, think about what you want for your life, and begin building that future today. How to Set You are probably familiar with the concept of goal setting in your everyday life. Often, they take on the form of dreams, like someday having a vacation home in Hawaii or being able to complete a half marathon. It’s fantastic that you have these dreams and dare to imagine bold things for your life. However,
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If you’ve crafted a budget for your household, you are already off to a great start to taking control of your finances in the most useful way possible! There are two things that can hinder a budget and your overall financial goals. They are first, not sticking to the budget and second, missing essential budget limits. Be sure to include these items in your budget now! 1. Medical Bills Your health is never guaranteed. Because of this, it can be challenging to plan for the unexpected. However,
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It’s finally house hunting season and you could not be more excited to get the ball rolling on your big purchase! Before you hit the road or the search bar, take these 7 tips into consideration. 1. Know Your Limits Before signing the papers or falling in love with the first home you see be realistic about what is in your budget. We recommend spending no more than 25 percent of your monthly income on the mortgage. When you know what this number is, be sure to stick with homes in that price
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While budgeting for a fluctuating income can be difficult, Exchange Bank of Northeast Missouri is here to help offer a few strategies to lessen the madness. Finding a process to help soften the blow of the months where revenue drops is a perfect solution. Check out the following rules you should follow when living on an inconsistent income. Know Your Baseline Always having an idea of your lowest point for income will help you prepare for the months where fewer dollars come through the door.
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It’s nearly unavoidable to have some semblance of a social life if you are not using technology to connect with the outside world. From social media and texting to phone applications, we are always connected. Many are uninformed of how to maintain this social connection while at the same time protecting themselves from the most basic security threats. We are combating this by busting the most common notions or myths about cybersecurity. MYTH: Hackers aren’t interested in what I have. If
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If you’re fortunate, your parents may have taught you how to save your allowance or a certain percentage of each paycheck. However, if those skills weren’t taught to you or you just plain didn’t listen, we are here to help you at the beginning of your financial journey as an adult! Stay tuned for some simple tips you can start doing now to strengthen your current and future financial habits. 1. Create a Budget Most adults who have been managing their money for years have yet
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You’ve made the decision that you are tired of renting and ready to step into the world of home ownership. Good for you! You may be wondering what your next steps should be in order to be financially prepared for this major investment. Here are some creative ways to ramp up your savings for this exciting adventure! 1. Consider a Move Now Is the place you’re living now truly the most cost effective for your budget? Consider moving to a temporary location that can significantly trim
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