News

Empowering Michigan state and local leaders to address housing affordability and equitable access in their own communities

Published on September 7, 2023
MSU Extension educators quickly and collaboratively responded to pressing housing policy needs and developed an extensive attainable housing program tailored to the varying geographies of urban, suburban, and rural communities in Michigan.
Helping Michigan homeowners stay in their homes after financial hardships from COVID-19

Published on September 7, 2023
MSU Extension financial and homeownership educators quickly moved to aid over 300 Michigan homeowners across 21 Michigan counties in applying for the Michigan Homeowner Assistance Fund program.
5 facts to know about mortgage insurance

Published on June 15, 2023
Add mortgage insurance to costs if your down payment is below 20 percent when buying a home.
Do I have to move out of my home before the sheriff sale?

Published on June 15, 2023
Homeowners can stay in their homes after the sheriff sale, usually 6 months.
Is a low credit score keeping you from buying a home

Published on June 15, 2023
Bankruptcy and foreclosure can be overcome when trying to purchase a home.
Buying on a land contract instead of a mortgage

Published on June 15, 2023
A land contract may give you the option to purchase a home after foreclosure, bankruptcy, or low credit score.
How to avoid foreclosure

Published on June 14, 2023
Procedures from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau require servicers to contact delinquent borrowers early with information on options.
Are you behind on property tax or mortgage payments?

Published on June 14, 2023
Funds to help eligible struggling homeowners are still available through the Michigan Homeowner Assistance Fund (MIHAF).
Is the Schedule 1099-C a blessing or a curse?

Published on June 14, 2023
Receiving a 1099-C does impact your credit report and score and also has Federal income tax consequences.
Reduce, recycle and reuse to decrease climate change

Published on June 14, 2023
More energy conservation could affect the occurrence of major storms and hurricanes.
Four ways persons with disabilities can safely save for the future

Published on June 14, 2023
Savings are an asset, and there are options for individuals for people with disabilities that do not impact the asset limits with Social Security Income (SSI), Medicaid or other benefits.
Understanding the foreclosure timeline in Michigan

Published on June 14, 2023
Avoid unnecessary stress.
It’s your money: 10 ways to keep it at tax time

Published on June 14, 2023
IRS and Michigan tax credits add up to huge savings for those who qualify.
Nine key financial strategies for recovery after a disaster

Published on June 14, 2023
Tools and resources to help homeowners and renters make financial decisions.
Delinquent property tax help for Michigan homeowners

Published on June 14, 2023
Eight options to assist with paying property taxes.
Is your consumer complaint going nowhere? Boost solution with the CFPB

Published on June 14, 2023
Consumers are getting results by filing their complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).
Five ways to save on housing costs

Published on May 16, 2023
By following these five steps, you can lower your housing costs and have more money to spend on other parts of your life.
Which bills should I pay first in a financial crisis?

Published on May 16, 2023
How do I make tough choices in tight months and which debts should I prioritize?
5 guidelines when deciding how long to work before retiring

Published on May 16, 2023
Consider the pros and cons of working and not working when about to retire—also have a fallback strategy ready if you realize you need to go back to work.
Six things to know about buying a foreclosed house

Published on May 16, 2023
Buying a foreclosed house is different than purchasing from a private seller—be prepared for the differences.