
Daniel Bortz
Daniel Bortz is a freelance writer based in Arlington, Va. His work has been published by The New York Times, The Washington Post, Consumer Reports, Newsweek, and Money magazine, among others.
Latest articles by Daniel Bortz
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What Factors Affect Your Home Insurance Cost?
Eight features influence your home insurance cost. Here's how to whittle down your premium.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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Six Surprising Things Home Insurance Doesn't Cover
Home insurance protects you from a lot, but not from damage caused by floods, earthquakes, sinkholes, water leaks and a number of other risks.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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What Is a Guarantor? You May Need to Help Your Kids Rent As One
A rent guarantor pays the rent and any other fees laid out in the lease when the tenant cannot. With rising rental prices, you may need to find one, or become one for someone else.
By Daniel Bortz Last updated
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How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House?
Selling a home in a tough housing market isn't easy. Here's a look at all the costs, including agents fees, repairs, staging and closing costs.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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5 Ways to Shop for a Low Mortgage Rate
Becoming a Homeowner Rates are high this year, but you can still find an affordable loan.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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How to Buy a Foreclosed Home
Buyers and investors hit hard by a challenging housing market are increasingly looking to foreclosed homes as an option. Here's how to get started.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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What Is Redlining?
Redlining is a type of mortgage discrimination in which lenders deny loans based on a neighborhood's racial composition.
By Daniel Bortz Last updated
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What Is an Earnest Money Deposit?
An earnest money deposit, paid before you close on a home, is meant to show the seller you're serious. How much is it, and can you lose it?
By Daniel Bortz Published
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Cheap Ways to Cool Your Home in the Summer
Take these smart steps to lower your house's energy bill and cool your home.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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5 Things You May Not Know You Can Negotiate When Buying a Home
Five things buyers might not know to negotiate when buying a home.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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10 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Summer Weather
Hot summer weather can take a toll on your home if you're not prepared. Follow these tips to make sure you're ready for the season.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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Save Big By Going Green At Home
New legislation is packed with tax breaks for homeowners who upgrade to energy-efficient systems and appliances. Bonus: You’ll slash your utility bills.
By Daniel Bortz Last updated
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How to Save on Pet Insurance
Pets Three types of pet insurance can help offset emergency veterinary bills and sometimes even cover routine care.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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How to Save Money on Pet Costs
Pets We love our furry/scaly friends — but pet costs are rising along with the cost of living. From daycare to grooming here are some ways to save money on pet care.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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Is Paying Off Your Mortgage Before Retirement a Good Idea?
Many feel they've reached a major goal when they pay off their mortgage. But it isn't always the best idea. Here's what to consider.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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The 27 Best Smart Home Devices
gadgets Innovations ranging from voice-activated faucets to robotic lawn mowers can easily boost your home’s IQ—and create more free time for you.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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How Much Will Home Prices Continue to Rise in 2022?
Becoming a Homeowner It’s still a seller’s market, but higher mortgage rates will slow the torrid price increases. Know how to be a smart buyer or seller in these conditions.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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Negotiate a Better Deal
Smart Buying For a price break on a number of products and services, all you have to do is ask. But first read up on tactics the experts use.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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Win in a Red-Hot Housing Market
Becoming a Homeowner Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, these strategies will help you get the best deal.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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Get a Good Deal on Car Rentals
Smart Buying Get up to speed on how to snag a deal and avoid pesky fees.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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Home Buyers Loving the Suburbs Again
Becoming a Homeowner Urban condos found little love as telecommuting home buyers bid up prices far from city centers.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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Smart Strategies to Tackle Your Debt
Coronavirus and Your Money Millions of Americans facing furloughs and layoffs turned to credit cards to stay afloat. Here’s how to get out from under burgeoning balances.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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Time for an Insurance Review
Coronavirus and Your Money You may need to update your policies in light of COVID-19.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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You Can Still Buy and Sell a Home During the Coronavirus Outbreak
home But you’ll have to jump through some hoops to close the deal.
By Daniel Bortz Published
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