Jean Folger is a freelance writer and editor specializing in real estate, retirement, investing, and other personal finance topics. She is passionate about helping people make better financial choices so they have more money and time to spend on the things that matter most. She believes investing in your health—whether to eat well, hit the gym, or try a new sport—is as important as saving for retirement.
Articles by Jean Folger

Best Money Making Apps for December 2023
Money-making apps can be a quick and simple way to earn extra cash from your habits and hobbies with just a few taps on your mobile device.
December 03, 2023

12 Best Online Brokers and Stock Trading Platforms in December 2023
The best online brokers offer a full range of investments, low fees, and user-friendly trading platforms. Here are our top picks for online brokers in 2023.
December 03, 2023

Open-End vs. Closed-End Funds: Differences & How To Choose
Open-end and closed-end funds are professionally managed portfolios that can provide diversification, but there are some key differences to consider before investing.
November 30, 2023

What Is the Secure Act 2.0?
President Biden signed the SECURE Act 2.0 into law in late 2022, bringing dozens of new provisions aimed at making it easier to save money and better prepare for retirement.
November 30, 2023

What Is Wealth Management and Do You Need It?
A wealth manager helps you grow and protect your wealth and reach your financial goals, but they aren’t cheap. Here’s a closer look at wealth management to help you decide if it’s a smart investment.
November 30, 2023

Can You Pay Your Mortgage with Your Credit Card?
You might be able to pay your mortgage with a credit card, but it may not be easy or affordable. Find out when it makes sense.
November 29, 2023

Dividend Kings List 2023: The Most Elite Group of Dividend-Paying Stocks
A dividend king is a stock that has increased its shareholder dividends for at least 50 years in a row. Learn more about this exclusive group of stocks and how to invest.
November 07, 2023

What Is an Appraisal Gap Clause?
An appraisal gap clause says you agree to pay the difference between the appraised value and the agreed-upon purchase price of a home, up to a limit.
October 25, 2023

Best Time to Buy a House in 2023
Spring signals the start of the homebuying season, when home inventory and sales typically hit their annual peaks. But it's not necessarily when buyers get the best deals.
October 25, 2023

Mutual Funds vs. Stocks: Key Differences & Which Investors Should Pick
When you invest in a stock, you buy a share of one company. A mutual fund bundles stocks, bonds, or other securities together, offering instant diversification in a single investment.
October 17, 2023

How to Make Money on Twitch
Ever wondered how you can make money as a Twitch streamer? We talked with one of the best Tekken 7 players of all time to find out what it takes.
September 18, 2023

6 Proven Strategies To Invest In Real Estate in 2023
Real estate can be a lucrative investment, whether you invest directly in properties or indirectly through REITs, REIGs, and crowdfunding. Here are six ways to invest in real estate.
September 18, 2023

Small Cap Stocks: All Your Need to Know
Small-cap stocks have market caps between $250 million and $2 billion. They can bring diversification and higher growth potential to your portfolio—but also risk. Here's what you need to know.
September 10, 2023

What Is a Secured Credit Card and How Does It Work?
A secured credit card requires an upfront security deposit, but it can help you establish or build your credit and improve your credit score. Here's what you need to know.
September 09, 2023

What is a Balance Transfer & How Does it Work?
A balance transfer credit card can save you money on interest so you can pay down your debt faster, but it's essential to understand how the process works before diving in.
July 27, 2023

How to Make Money on Instagram in 2023
Instagram influencers can earn hundreds or thousands of dollars per month. Learn the top five ways to make money on Instagram in 2023.
July 18, 2023

Should You Reinvest Dividends? A Practical Guide
Cash dividends provide immediate income, while dividend reinvestment lets you take advantage of the power of compounding. Learn the pros and cons of dividend reinvestment and DRIPs.
July 16, 2023