Dana Anderson

Recent Articles

A Black woman with her daughters on a couch, looking at a computer, potentially in a home setting.

4-minute read

What is a dry closing in real estate?

In dry-funding states, everything except the payment can be completed at closing. Learn about how a dry closing works, what the risks are, and where it's legal.

A white brick house, illustrating residential architecture and exterior design.

7-minute read

Can you use a VA loan for a second home?

VA loans are designed to help military personnel, veterans, and their families buy a primary residence, but there are ways you can use one to buy a second home.

4-minute read

Understanding right of survivorship: What you need to know

Learn how right of survivorship transfers a home to a surviving co-owner, as well as how joint tenancy and community property with the right of survivorship com...

A woman with glasses using her laptop with some worry.

6-minute read

The ATR/QM rule: What it is and what borrowers should know

Lenders have an obligation to make sure you can repay a mortgage before they give you a loan. The ATR/QM rule helps then evaluate your finances.

Friends living together, suggesting a group of friends sharing a living space or residence.

6-minute read

Tenancy in common (TIC): What is it and how does it work?

Tenancy in common is when two or more people share ownership of a property. Learn more about tenants in common and how they compare to other tenancy types.

Woman drinking coffee and smiling in the kitchen.

6-minute read

Escrow refund: What is it and when does it occur?

An escrow refund is excess money returned by your lender from your mortgage escrow account. Here’s how it works.

A senior couple relaxing on couches in a living room, indicating a comfortable and relaxed retirement setting.

6-minute read

What to consider before getting a home equity line of credit (HELOC)

A home equity line of credit can help you pay for home renovations or consolidate debt. However, there are pros and cons to a HELOC worth considering.

Two men reviewing paperwork in a modern office.

7-minute read

10 questions to ask when refinancing your mortgage

While you’re comparing rates, speak with lenders and get answers to your questions. Use our list of questions to help guide your conversation.

Large countryside house, depicting a spacious home in a rural setting.

4-minute read

Mortgage par rates: What are they and how do they work?

Your mortgage par rate is essentially the baseline rate offered to you by a lender. You may be able to bring this rate down through discount points and more.