How, and why, to set up a trust for your house
Putting assets in a trust, including a home, protects them in many ways.
5 min read
Mar 14, 2025
Erik J. Martin
Contributor, Personal Finance
EXPERTISE
- Personal finance
- Mortgages
- Housing market
- Home improvement
- Credit cards
EDUCATION
- Bachelor of Arts, Loyola University Chicago
- Dale Carnegie Training
Erik J. Martin is a contributor to Bankrate covering personal finance, including mortgages, the housing market, home improvement and credit cards. Based in the Chicago area, he is host of the “Cineversary” podcast and blogs on Cineversegroup.com and Martinspiration.com.
In addition to Bankrate, Martin has contributed to AARP The Magazine, Tte Chicago Tribune, Reader’s Digest, The Costco Connection and USAA, among other outlets.
Erik J.'s latest articles
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How to use a 0% intro APR credit card as an interest-free loan
How a 0 percent APR card can serve as an interest-free loan
7 min read Mar 12, 2025 -
Can you deduct closing costs on your taxes?
In a real estate transaction, are your closing costs tax-deductible? Maybe.
3 min read Mar 11, 2025 -
What is a private mortgage lender?
What is a private mortgage lender? A private mortgage lender is usually a private or public company or individual that offers mortgage loans secured by real estate. These lenders set their own guidelines [...]
6 min read Mar 10, 2025 -
6 times a balance transfer is a bad idea
When is a balance transfer a bad idea? Here’s when to avoid a balance transfer.
7 min read Feb 27, 2025 -
Offer accepted! Now watch out for these mortgage hurdles
Unexpected issues — from an appraisal gap to title disputes — can pop up during underwriting. Here’s what to do.
4 min read Feb 25, 2025 -
Home equity loan or HELOC vs. reverse mortgage: Which is right for you?
They all let you tap your ownership stake, but they differ significantly in a lot of ways.
13 min read Feb 24, 2025 -
Common real estate contingencies and what they mean
Many types of contingency clauses can be added to a real estate contract.
5 min read Feb 24, 2025