Recent Articles

Two young women moving into a new home together.

8-minute read

Are adjustable-rate mortgages bad if you plan to sell soon?

Are you wondering, "Are adjustable-rate mortgages bad for my short-term ownership plans?" Find out whether an ARM is worth it and see a year-by-year breakdown.

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Mother and daughter laughing while baking, depicting a cheerful moment during a baking activity.

7-minute read

FHA down payment assistance: Everything you need to know

FHA down payment assistance comes from state, local, and nonprofit programs, as well as employers and lenders. Learn how it works, and where to find programs.

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African American couple meeting with a banker in an office.

9-minute read

Can you refinance after bankruptcy?

Refinancing after bankruptcy may be possible. Learn about typical waiting periods and steps to improve approval odds after Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

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Interior of luxury high rise condo living room.

9-minute read

Condo financing: How condo loans work

Applying for a condo loan? Learn how condo financing works, what lenders review about the HOA and building, and which loan programs can help you qualify.

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A vibrant image showcasing a community, possibly with people interacting, highlighting the concept of investing in neighborhoods.

7-minute read

Collateralized mortgage obligations: Defined and explained

A CMO is a type of mortgage-backed security that pools mortgage loans and sells them as investments. Here's how a collateralized mortgage obligation works.

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Houseboats floating on water, likely in a residential area.

7-minute read

Natural hazard disclosure report (NHD): What it is and what it covers

A natural hazard disclosure report (NHD) shows whether a property is in a flood, fire, earthquake, or dam inundation zone. Learn how to use it before closing...

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Housemates gathering in a living room, possibly portraying shared living or communal spaces.

6-minute read

What is joint tenancy? Definition, pros, and cons

Joint tenancy is a way to co-own property with the right of survivorship. Learn how joint tenants share ownership and what happens if one owner dies.

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Two children waiting for a school bus, possibly after using an easement to get to the bus stop.

6-minute read

What are prescriptive easements and are they a deal breaker?

Prescriptive easements are held by people who gain a right to use someone else’s property. Find out if you should buy property encumbered with easement...

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Husband holding wife while she washes the dishes.

7-minute read

7 ways to prepare for a refinance appraisal

A home appraisal is an important part of many mortgage refinances. Use our refinance appraisal checklist to prepare and increase your chances of a good result.

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