Monday’s need-to-know money news

imagesToday’s top story: Maintaining good credit without carrying debt. Also in the news: Taking out the right amount of mortgage, how to keep your home cool for less, and what happens when your student loan co-signer dies.

How to Maintain Good Credit Without Debt
Can you build credit without going into debt?

How Much Mortgage Can You Handle?
How not to get in over your head.

How to Keep Your Home Cool this Summer for Cheap
Staying cool without breaking the bank.

Am I Completely Screwed If My Student Loan Co-Signer Dies?
Pretty much.