Mortgage basics

Learn what a joint mortgage is, how co–borrowers qualify and share responsibility, plus key pros, risks and exit options before you apply with confidence.

Bonds and mortgage rates are related. When investors are buying bonds and mortgage-backed securities, interest rates are likely to fall, and vice versa.

When you buy a home, you may not be able to finance the entire loan. Your loan-to-value ratio, or LTV, determines how much you need to put down in cash.

A mortgage preapproval letter shows you how much a lender has conditionally approved you for. It lasts for a few months and may strengthen your offer.

Learn the right questions to ask a mortgage lender and the mortgage loan questions to ask so you can compare rates, fees, loan options, and timelines.

There are several ways to get help with your mortgage payments and avoid foreclosure. See what kind of assistance is available from a servicer if you qualify.