Menninger & Associates Articles

Financial Planning Articles by Michael Menninger, CFP and Kyle Ryan, CFP, ChFC

Michael and the team are widely quoted in publications nationwide. Check out some articles on financial planning that they have been featured in.

*Topics discussed and disclosures displayed in articles dated prior to November 28, 2022 reflect the requirements from previous Broker-Dealers. Please see the footer of the website for how services are currently provided.

What Is a Good Interest Rate for a Personal Loan?

Discover what makes a good personal loan interest rate, how credit scores and loan terms affect APR, and how to compare borrowing offers before applying.

How Many Times Can You Refinance a House?

March 3, 2026 Investment Insights Estate Planning Financial Planning Cash Management

Learn how often you can refinance a mortgage, what lenders consider, and how closing costs, interest rates, and your financial goals affect refinancing decisions.

What Is a Home Equity Investment Loan? Pros, Cons, and How It Works

January 8, 2026 Insights Taxes Estate Planning Financial Planning Cash Management

Discover how home equity investment loans work, including their costs, benefits, risks, and key differences from traditional home equity loans and HELOCs.

Best Free Financial Literacy Courses to Take Online in 2026

January 6, 2026 Investment Retirement Funding Insights Taxes Estate Planning Financial Planning Cash Management

Discover free online financial literacy courses in 2026 that can help you improve budgeting, saving, investing, debt management, and overall personal finance knowledge.

Should You Use a Home Equity Loan or HELOC to Pay Off Credit Cards?

December 7, 2025 Insights Taxes Estate Planning Financial Planning Cash Management

Compare using a home equity loan or HELOC to pay off credit card debt, including interest rates, repayment terms, potential savings, and financial risks, to understand whether home equity debt consolidation fits your budget and financial goals.

How Does Rent-to-Own Work? Understand the Process, Pros and Cons, and When It’s Right for You

February 18, 2025 Investment Insights Estate Planning Financial Planning Cash Management

Understand rent-to-own home agreements, including lease conditions, purchase options, upfront costs, and potential risks before committing to a path toward homeownership.

Shared Appreciation Mortgage Definition and Lender Options

July 16, 2024 Taxes Estate Planning Financial Planning Cash Management

Understand shared appreciation mortgages, how homeowners exchange a portion of future home value for financing, and what to compare when evaluating lenders.

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