In a competitive housing market, your down payment could be what’s holding you back from buying your dream home — or from even entering the market. The average cost of a home in the U.S. in the second ...

Amanda Smith is a freelance journalist and writer. She reports on culture, society, human interest and technology. Her stories hold a mirror to society, reflecting both its malaise and its beauty.

The total outstanding personal loan balance in America is $249 billion – an increase of 64% over the past five years. By comparison, credit card debt rose 33% in that same timeframe. About 9% of U.S.