Featured resources

Exterior of modern home with two story picture windows.

10-minute read

Can you build a barndominium with a USDA loan?

Yes, you can use a USDA loan to buy or build a barndominium. Here are the requirements and what to expect when financing this type of house with a USDA loan.

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Person sitting at computer smiling and holding cat.

5-minute read

Can you use a home equity loan to buy another house?

Can you use a home equity loan to buy another house? Yes, you can, but it's important to understand how it works and the benefits and drawbacks of doing so.<...

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Modern residential buildings possible available for sale or rent.

5-minute read

FHA commercial loan programs: An introduction

FHA commercial loans are available for the creation of housing for low-income, elderly, or disabled people. Learn more about this type of lending.

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Carpenter and apprentice taking lumber measurements to build garden summerhouse.

10-minute read

8 HELOC alternatives to know

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

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Beautiful two-story homes on a winding California street.

7-minute read

What is a jumbo loan in California? 2025 jumbo mortgage limits and requirements

Discover the 2025 jumbo loan limits in California, how they compare to conforming loans, and what home buyers should know about qualifying for larger mortgages ...

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Man working a laptop, drinking coffee at a cafe with a living wall behind him.

7-minute read

SCRA mortgage protections: What to know

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) mortgage protections include reducing interest rates to 6% in specific cases and guidelines related to foreclosures.

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Man holding woman while she does dishes and laughs.

5-minute read

FHA nonoccupant co-borrowers: Guidelines and how they can help

Nonoccupant co-borrowers can make a big difference in the qualifying process for an FHA loan. Learn the requirements for using this process effectively.

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A grey-tan home in a tropical climate with a palm tree, suggesting a serene living environment.

8-minute read

What is a nontraditional mortgage?

“Nontraditional mortgage” is a broad term for home loans that aren’t a 30-year fixed mortgage. Here’s how they work and how to qualify f...

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A young couple looking for a house, symbolizing the process of home search or property hunting.

5-minute read

Nonconforming loans: What are they and how do they work?

Wondering what a nonconforming loan is and how one works? Learn about your mortgage options and see whether a nonconforming loan is the best option for you.

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Man with glasses smiling while putting coffee cup in the dishwasher.

5-minute read

FHA minimum property standards checklist: What to know

Planning on purchasing a home with an FHA loan? Make sure it can be FHA-approved with our useful FHA minimum property standards checklist.

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Father at kitchen table with young son on his lap reviewing paperwork and information on laptop..

5-minute read

How to get a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE)

Securing a VA Certificate of Eligibility (COE) is the first step to getting a VA home loan. Learn why you need a VA COE and how to get one.

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A grand house with a huge yard and deck.

4-minute read

Conforming loan limits in 2026

Conforming loan limits update every year to adapt to the change in home prices. Learn how much the conforming loan limit is for 2026 and more with our guide....

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A beautiful classic country house, showcasing a specific architectural style.

4-minute read

Jumbo loan limits and requirements for 2026: A guide

The conforming loan limit in most areas in 2025 is $806,500 for one unit. A home above this limit may require a jumbo loan. Learn about jumbo loan limits.

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Row of houses on sunny street.

6-minute read

FHA reserve requirements for 2025

Learn FHA reserve requirements for 2025—what qualifies as reserves, how many months you need, and exceptions. Get clear answers and see if you qualify tod...

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Couple sitting on brown couch while brown large dog climbs up.

4-minute read

FHA DTI ratio requirements (2026 guide)

Learn FHA DTI ratio requirements for 2026, max limits, front‑end vs back‑end, and how to calculate and lower your DTI. See examples. Get prepped to apply.

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Large home with solar panels at sunset with geese flying overhead.

10-minute read

What is an FHA Energy Efficient Mortgage?

Learn how an FHA Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) can finance cost‑effective upgrades, lower utility bills, and boost comfort. See requirements and get started.

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Top of a house in the process of being constructed.

7-minute read

FHA Construction-to-permanent loans: A guide

Learn how FHA construction-to-permanent loans fund your build and convert to a mortgage with flexible credit and low down payments. Compare options and apply.

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Woman looking through a clothes rack.

7-minute read

FHA income and employment rules

Understand FHA income and employment rules, from job history and gaps to self-employment and VOE. See what lenders verify to qualify and get ready to apply now.

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