Primary residence: What it means and rules to know
Make the most of your investment: Learn what it means to have a primary residence.
4 min read
Jul 17, 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 access your home equity
Your home isn’t a piggy bank, but there are wise ways to tap your ownership stake for cash.
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What is a prepayment penalty?
This fee is meant to discourage you from settling your mortgage early.
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When is it time to lower the price of your house? Here’s how to tell
How long should your house be on the market before you reduce the price?
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Pros and cons of a balance transfer
Learn the benefits and drawbacks to these types of transactions.
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When to apply for a credit card after bankruptcy
After a bankruptcy filing, the task of repairing your credit begins. But how soon can you apply for new credit?
6 min read Mar 14, 2025
