Featured resources
4-minute read
How does a mortgage contingency work?
A mortgage contingency is a clause that sets up certain conditions for a real estate transaction. Learn how this can protect both home buyers and home.
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6-minute read
The appraisal waiver: What home buyers should know
Some buyers are able to skip the appraisal process when purchasing their home. Learn more about appraisal waivers and their benefits with our complete guide.
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4-minute read
What is a desktop appraisal and how does it work?
A desktop appraisal is a property valuation that is completed remotely by a professional appraiser. Find out whether a desktop appraisal is right for you.
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7-minute read
Rolling student loans into a mortgage: The pros, cons and alternatives
Rolling your student loans into a mortgage can make it easier to manage your finances. Learn your options for reducing or consolidating student debt.
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3-minute read
What is an abstract of title in real estate
An abstract of title shows all legal documentation associated with a property. Learn why an abstract of title is important in real estate.
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6-minute read
Everything you need to know about loan estimates or 'good faith estimates'
A Loan Estimate lists the key details of a mortgage, like closing costs and interest rates. Find out what other critical loan terms and costs are in the form...
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4-minute read
What is the alienation clause in real estate and how does it work?
The alienation clause, or due-on-sale clause, requires all mortgage payments be made at the time of sale. Learn how it impacts borrowers and real estate.
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5-minute read
What is an appraisal contingency and when should I use it?
An appraisal contingency can give home buyers peace of mind about a home's purchase price. Learn how appraisal contingencies work and when to use one.
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3-minute read
Freddie Mac BorrowSmart® Accessâ„ expands home afffordability
Freddie Mac BorrowSmart® Accessâ„ offers a credit toward the down payment or closing costs of qualified buyers in certain areas. Read on...
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3-minute read
What is an automated valuation model (AVM)?
An automated valuation model (AVM) is a data-based tool real estate sites use to offer estimated property value on searched properties. Explore how it works....
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5-minute read
What is a zombie foreclosure?
Zombie foreclosures demonstrate the risks of leaving before foreclosure ends. Understand these homes and their potential to resurface and create problems lat...
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6-minute read
What is compound interest and how is it calculated? A guide
Compound interest is the money you earn on the interest that accrues on an account, investment or loan. Learn how to calculate compound interest and more her...
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5-minute read
What is a mortgage note and why is it important?
A mortgage note is a legal document that defines the terms of the loan for the borrower and lender. Learn more about mortgage notes and why they’re imp...
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4-minute read
Mortgage par rates: What they are, how they work
A par rate is a rate charged to a borrower based on DTI and other factors. It doesn’t include discount points or other adjustments. Read on to learn mo...
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8-minute read
Mortgage forbearance: What it is and how it works
Mortgage forbearance allows you to pause payments on a mortgage. Read on to learn about how forbearance works and whether it’s right for you.
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7-minute read
Your guide to a $450,000 mortgage: Costs and requirements to consider
Ready for a $450,000 mortgage to buy a home? Read our guide to understand the costs and requirements that come with taking out a $450,000 loan.
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4-minute read
What is mortgage curtailment?
Interested in shortening the life of your mortgage loan? Consider how a mortgage curtailment could benefit you in reducing your debt.
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