This article does not represent the financial advice of Barclays. Individuals should consider their situation carefully before making financial decisions. Not all savings accounts are created equal — especially if you’re dealing with larger amounts. If you have $25,000 or more in your savings account, it’s time to think more…

Key takeaways Under current law, you do not have to be a U.S. citizen to buy a home in the U.S. The vast majority of non-resident buyers come from Canada, China, Mexico and India. Many mortgage lenders offer conventional and FHA home loans to non-U.S. citizens. You don’t have to…

Key takeaways Having good credit helps you get better rates on mortgages, car loans and other debt products, and may affect your ability to rent an apartment or sign up for utilities and other services. To build good credit, you need to use your credit — but you don’t want…

Westend61/Getty Images: Illustration by Issiah Davis/Bankrate Key takeaways You can refinance a second mortgage on its own fairly easily. Refinancing first and second mortgages together requires you to meet certain requirements but it is possible. Refinancing your primary mortgage while keeping a second mortgage requires resubordination. Refinancing a second mortgage…