Informational purposes only, not financial advice — always do your own research. See our full legal disclosure for details.

How to Borrow Money Smartly: Best Cards and Loans Guide

Borrowing is not the problem; borrowing the wrong way is. Learn how to borrow money at the lowest cost, with the right credit card, mortgage or loan for your goal.

Five Smart Ways to Borrow and Spend

Best Credit Cards

Flexible credit with built-in protections. See how to pick the best credit card.

Cash Back Cards

Get money back on everyday purchases with cash back cards.

Mortgage Rates

Even a small difference in your rate adds up over decades. Understand mortgage rates first.

Personal Loans

Fixed payments for big expenses or debt consolidation. Compare personal loans.

Travel Rewards Cards

Turn spending into flights and hotel stays with travel rewards cards.

Learn, Compare and Get Inspired

Each category follows the same three steps. A detailed guide explains the legal, tax and practical rules in plain English. A comparison article then lists current offers side by side. Finally, six real people share their stories: their situations, their problems and why they chose each product.

Browse all borrowing articles below.

  • Downsizing Before Retirement: Refinance or Buy Smaller?

    Jozsef Huszar

    By Jozsef Huszar • Updated: September 15, 2026 Downsizing before retirement means choosing between refinancing and buying smaller, and today’s mortgage rates change that math. Here is how to run the numbers before you decide. Kevin is thinking free-stock-screener-and-financial-insights downsizing before retirement, and he knows this decision carries more weight than most — a bad…

  • Mortgage Rates and Monthly Payment: A House-Hunting Guide

    Jozsef Huszar

    By Jozsef Huszar • Updated: September 15, 2026 Mortgage rates and your monthly payment decide what a house really costs your family. Here is how to run the real numbers before you fall in love with a home. Rachel is house hunting with kids in tow, and she’s watching mortgage rates closely for one reason:…

  • Business Cash Back Card: How Robert Picks One for His Small Business

    Jozsef Huszar

    By Jozsef Huszar • Updated: September 15, 2026 The right business cash back card turns routine supply and vendor spending into real savings. Here’s the practical framework Robert, a small shop owner, used to choose one that fits how his business actually spends. Robert runs a small shop with a steady rhythm of supply orders…

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This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. We may receive compensation from our partners when you click on links or apply for products featured here; this does not influence our editorial opinions or ratings. For complete terms, see our full legal disclosure.