September was a month where the market story evolved almost week by week. Early in the month, inflation data strengthened the case for a Federal Reserve rate hike. The Fed followed through, raising its benchmark Federal Funds Rate by 25 basis points at its September meeting—the first rate hike in three years. In the following week, several Fed officials suggested another increase could be appropriate. But by the latest MBS Highway report, softer-than-expected inflation and a surprisingly weak...

Learn how a cash-out refinance works, how it compares to a HELOC, and when using your home equity may make sense for your financial goals.

What is a HELOC? Learn how a home equity line of credit works, how borrowing and repayment work, and ways homeowners may use their available equity.