Featured resources

A document showing goods sold, income and other things in different years.

8-minute read

Proof of funds: What is a POF letter in real estate?

Proof of funds (POF) is a document that shows how much money a person or entity has available. Learn more about POF letters when getting a mortgage.

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Man standing outside of garage with motorcycle.

8-minute read

Debt-to-income ratio (DTI): What is it and how is it calculated?

Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) measures your total income against any debt you have. Learn what a good DTI is, how to calculate it and how to lower it.

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A couple discussing finances, real estate investments or taxes on a laptop.

5-minute read

What is deed of trust?

A deed of trust is an agreement between home buyers and lenders at the closing of a property. Learn about trust deeds and how they differ from mortgages.

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A Black man's hands signing a document on a desk at home, potentially related to paperwork or contracts.

5-minute read

Deed of reconveyance: Definition, process and FAQs

A deed of reconveyance is a document that transfers the property title from the mortgage lender to the borrower. Learn more about how a reconveyance works here.

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Aerial shot of a neighborhood, showcasing houses, streets, and community living.

7-minute read

Deed in lieu of foreclosure: What is it and is it right for you?

If you’re staring down the possibility of foreclosure, you might have options. Learn what a deed in lieu of foreclosure is and whether it’s right for you.

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Fork in two sidewalks through a residential neighborhood.

4-minute read

Easement appurtenant: What it means and how it works

An easement appurtenant creates a right of access for non-owners of one property for another’s benefit. Find out how this easement might affect your property.

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A man wearing a headset, likely in a customer service or financial services role.

4-minute read

Mortgage loan originators: What they do and how they can help you

Mortgage loan originators (MLOs) guide borrowers through the home loan process, from application to closing. Learn what an originator can do for you.

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A woman in middle of call or meeting talking with either colleague or customer.

7-minute read

Cybersecurity best practices to keep you safe online

How can you stay safe from cyber threats? Start with these 7 tips.

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A couple paying their mortgage online using a laptop.

5-minute read

When is your first mortgage payment due?

Your first mortgage payment is always due to your lender within 60 days of your closing date. Get more details about your first mortgage payment after closing.

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3-minute read

Intent to occupy letter: What it is and how to write one

To qualify for some mortgages, your lender may need a letter of your intent to occupy the property. Learn what the letter should include and how to write it.

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A man reviewing paperwork at a laptop, possibly managing real estate or financial documents.

4-minute read

Mortgage loan term: What is it, and which option is best for you?

“Loan term” often refers to how much time it takes a borrower to pay off their mortgage when making regular payments. Learn more about loan term options here.

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Two women looking at different paint colors for their house.

4-minute read

What is a co-borrower? A beginner's guide

When you buy a home with a co-borrower, you typically share ownership of the loan and the home. Let’s explore the pros and cons of having a co-borrower.

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Businesswoman at a cafe making a phone call, potentially discussing business or financial matters.

4-minute read

Close of escrow: What you need to know

Close of escrow is the point in the real estate transaction when all parties have fulfilled their responsibilities. Read on to learn how close of escrow works.

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The front door of a suburban home with flowers, showcasing curb appeal and home aesthetics.

4-minute read

What is chain of title and why is it important?

Chain of title represents the complete and unbroken ownership of a property. Learn more about chain of title in real estate and why it’s important.

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A beautiful brick home, showcasing real estate or homeownership.

7-minute read

Clear to close: What to expect and what happens next

Being clear to close on a mortgage means you're almost done with the mortgage process. Learn how to become clear to close and what happens after.

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A home exterior with red shutters on a sunny summer day, portraying a residential property's facade.

4-minute read

Defeasance clause: Definition and overview

Defeasance clauses assure buyers that they’ll get the title once they meet all payment conditions. Learn more about the impact of defeasance on your mortgage.

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A woman working from home on her laptop with her pet cat sitting in front of her.

5-minute read

A guide to TILA-RESPA integrated disclosures (TRID)

Learn how TRID mortgage guidelines, or “Know Before You Owe” rules, protect borrowers, including what they mean for you during the home buying process.

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Row of upscale condos, showcasing modern residential buildings or properties.

6-minute read

The hidden costs of late mortgage payments

Are you worried about the effects of making a late mortgage payment? Learn more about missing a mortgage payment, including how it affects your credit and more.

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