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Marilyn Lewis

Marilyn is a former NerdWallet writer focusing on mortgages and homeownership. Her writing has been featured by MSN, The Mercury News and The Providence Journal. She has a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Washington.

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Posts by Marilyn Lewis:

What Are VA Loan Closing Costs?

Marilyn Lewis
Dec. 19, 2019

For cash-strapped military borrowers, a VA mortgage can be the answer to a prayer. Eligible military borrowers can get into a new home with no down payment, only a funding…

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How Home Improvements Can Increase Your Property Taxes

Kate Wood & Marilyn Lewis
Jan. 9, 2020

You transformed your dingy basement into square footage you’ll actually use, with an entertainment room, a guest bedroom and a three-quarter bath. Yay! Dream realized. What’s more, the makeover will…

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Granite Countertops Cost: 7 Ways to Save

Marilyn Lewis
June 22, 2018

Granite countertops, durable, high-fashion and low-maintenance, are stars in kitchen and bathroom remodels nationwide. And you don’t need to buy the most expensive granite to get stunning results in your…

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save-on-cost-to-paint-a-house

6 Tips to Save on the Cost to Paint a House

Marilyn Lewis
June 11, 2018

A fresh coat of paint makes everything it touches seem brand new. But such new beginnings cost real money. Professional painters charge around $4,000 for labor and materials to paint…

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Documents Needed for a Mortgage Preapproval Letter: A Checklist

Marilyn Lewis
Dec. 6, 2019

Getting preapproved for a mortgage before you go home shopping isn’t required, but it is a good idea, especially in a seller’s market, where competition among buyers is intense. Unlike…

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ways-parents-can-help-grown-kids-own-a-home

3 Ways Parents Can Help Grown Kids Own a Home

Marilyn Lewis
April 13, 2018

When responsible first-time home buyers need help buying a home, the family bank can sometimes lend a hand. Younger home buyers face a mountain of obstacles, including rising home prices…

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Love that home’s view? See how much more you’ll pay

Love That Home’s View? See How Much More You’ll Pay

Marilyn Lewis
April 4, 2018

A house with a fabulous view can be hard for a home buyer to resist. But seeing the mountains, water or city lights from the comfort of home comes at…

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Curb Appeal Ideas to Attract Home Buyers

Kate Wood & Marilyn Lewis
Dec. 14, 2020

Planning to sell a home? Up your curb appeal with these low-cost, DIY upgrades. These six quick projects can enhance your home’s curb appeal for under $100 apiece. Each can…

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Do Your Own ‘Comps’ to Gauge Home Value

Do Your Own ‘Comps’ to Gauge Home Value

Marilyn Lewis
Jan. 5, 2018

When you buy or sell real estate, you’ll want to get a good idea of the property’s value. Understanding value helps you set a price when you’re selling. After all, you don’t…

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How to Apply for a Mortgage

How to Apply for a Mortgage

Marilyn Lewis
Dec. 20, 2019

You’ve decided to buy a home. Hooray! Now you need a mortgage. Take a big breath — it’s not every day you apply for a loan with that many zeros.…

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