Featured resources

A couple at home with a laptop, suggesting online activities related to homeownership or finances.

5-minute read

FHA gift funds: Definition and guidelines

FHA gift funds are a way borrowers can get some outside help with a down payment. Explore FHA gift funds guidelines and best practices.

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Woman describing plans for carpentry design to man who focuses intently.

7-minute read

HELOC vs. personal loan: Compare and choose

Is a HELOC or personal loan right for you? Compare the key differences and analyze the strengths and weaknesses of both options before deciding.

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A quaint, grey urban home with a neatly trimmed lawn and a front porch adorned with potted plants.

4-minute read

What are the FHA loan down payment requirements?

FHA loans require a 3.5% down payment with a 580 credit score and 10% down with a 500 score. Explore how FHA loan down payment requirements work.

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Man painting front door of home red.

6-minute read

What is a second mortgage and how does it work?

A second mortgage is a lien taken out against a property that already has a home loan on it. Figure out how this type of mortgage works.

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Woman going over paperwork and having coffee.

5-minute read

HELOC vs. second mortgage: Which loan type is right for you?

A home equity line of credit is a type of second mortgage. Learn how HELOCs compare to other options to determine which is right for you.

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A man engaged in a phone conversation in a kitchen setting, potentially discussing homeownership, property management, or financial matters.

7-minute read

What to know about home equity loans for debt consolidation

Using a home equity loan for debt consolidation can reduce the interest you’ll pay. Uncover several pros and cons of using home equity to consolidate debt.

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Young couple holding curious baby sitting on the couch while unpacking cardboard boxes.

7-minute read

A guide to the VA loan preapproval process

A preapproval for a VA home loan can give eligible borrowers an advantage when buying a house. Learn more about the VA loan preapproval process.

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Carpenter and apprentice taking lumber measurements to build garden summerhouse.

14-minute read

8 HELOC alternatives to know

A HELOC can help you get the money you need, but it may be not the best option for everyone. Explore these HELOC alternatives and decide what’s right for you.

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Couple snuggling on couch and reviewing information online on open laptop.

4-minute read

How to apply for a home equity line of credit (HELOC) in 6 simple steps

Review the basic requirements for a home equity line of credit (HELOC) and check out step-by-step instructions on how to apply for one.

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Close up of clients and Realtor reviewing contract.

7-minute read

Choosing a bridge loan vs. a HELOC: What's right for you?

Bridge loans and HELOCs can cover you financially if you need to buy and sell a house at the same time. Learn more about which is best for you.

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Small brown house with orange trim.

8-minute read

HELOC vs. mortgage: A guide

Curious about the differences between a HELOC and a mortgage? See how these loans differ in repayment term, interest rate and other conditions of the loan.

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A women possibly working from home engrossed in her thoughts.

6-minute read

What are the FHA compensating factors?

FHA compensating factors help borrowers qualify for an FHA loan. Learn what lenders consider a compensating factor and how it can help you get an FHA loan.

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Bathroom mid-renovation with new white tile and dark wood vanity.

6-minute read

HELOC vs. home equity loan: Which is best for you?

Trying to decide between a HELOC and a home equity loan? Learn the differences between these borrowing options and how to choose which is best for you.

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Home with Texas state flag hanging above the porch.

5-minute read

What you need to know about home equity loans and cash-out refinances in Texas

If you’re looking to do a home equity loan or otherwise do a cash-out refinance in Texas, you should know there are some special rules to follow.

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A woman sitting in a fancy room thinking something with a pen in hand while a man in background is talking on phone.

6-minute read

10-year mortgage rates: What to expect

A 10-year mortgage may come with lower interest rates than a 15- or 30-year mortgage. Learn what to expect with 10-year mortgage rates here.

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Contemporary new build condos.

6-minute read

What to know about buying a condo with a VA loan

You can buy a condo with a VA loan as long as you’re eligible and the condo complex is VA approved. Learn more about using a VA loan to buy a condo.

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A father and son having a moment and watching something on the tablet.

6-minute read

VA housing grants for disabled veterans

VA housing grants provide financial help that doesn’t need to be repaid to make homes more accessible for disabled veterans. Learn about VA housing grants.

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Home improvement image, possibly illustrating renovation or remodeling work being done in a residential setting.

7-minute read

Home improvement grants to fund your next repair project

Home improvement grants are a type of financial aid for homeowners to make necessary repairs to their home. Check out our guide to find grant resources.

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