Get Inspired
A hub of stories, knowledge and resources that help shape financial futures and a better community.
Get Inspired
From our latest impacts and financial tips to what it means to Belong, see how we’re making Impossible Dreams come true in the Michigan communities we serve.
Showing 24 results for Borrowing
Guide
How to Trade in a Car with a Loan
You can trade in a car you still owe money on, but it can make your next purchase a little more complicated. Learn how your payoff amount, trade-in value and equity can affect your next car purchase.
Guide
A Car Buyer's Guide to Dealer Add-Ons
Dealer add-ons can quickly change the price of a car and the amount you end up financing. Before you start signing, here’s what to know about some of the extras you may be offered and the questions to ask before you say yes.
Guide
Benefits of a Preapproved Car Loan
Getting preapproved before you start car shopping helps you understand what you can afford, set a realistic price range and head into the car-buying process with more confidence. So, before you start scrolling through listings and walking deal lots, start with your financing.
Guide
HELOC for Home Improvement: What Michigan Homeowners Need to Know
The state’s harsh winters and older-than-average housing stock mean Michigan homeowners often need to renovate more often. The good news is that a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can make those renovations far easier to finance. Using smart financing and finding the right renovation projects can translate into serious long-term benefits. Here, we explain how to make that choice based on your unique needs.
Guide
HELOC vs. Home Equity Loan for Michigan Homeowners
Even after an interest rate cut in 2025, Michiganders are still getting squeezed between high borrowing costs and rises in the cost of living. That’s made paying for things like home improvements or even retirement more difficult than ever. Fortunately, in times like this, Michigan homeowners can turn to their own home equity to finance their needs and wants more conveniently and affordably.
Guide
Benefits of a Credit Union vs. Bank
Think the differences between banks and credit unions is all technical stuff for finance geeks? Think again! Knowing the differences can have a huge impact on you and your money, from a retirement with more time at the lake to healthier Michigan communities.
Guide
The New Member’s Guide to orsa
So, you just became an orsa member—what now? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the accounts and services that make orsa stand out, and what to do next to make the most of them!
Story
The Family Financial Circle: Passing Wisdom, Wealth, and Wild Dreams Forward
Money is more than numbers in an account—it’s a story that spans generations. Here’s how to pass on your hard-earned wisdom, wealth, and wild dreams!
Guide
Mortgages as Forced Savings?
A guide to understanding how mortgages can help train you to save better.
Guide
How to Navigate Expensive Debt
Tips to navigate a more expensive world of debt when the cost of borrowing is spendy.
Guide
What is a HELOC?
Everything you need to know about a Home Equity Line of Credit
Guide
How Much Car Can (Should!) I Afford?
A simple and straight-forward guide to figuring out how expensive of a car you should buy or lease on your budget.