Featured resources

Family moving into a home, unloading boxes and settling into their new living space.

8-minute read

How to get a mortgage in 7 steps

Getting a mortgage can feel daunting if you’re a first-time home buyer. Learn the steps you must take to prepare for and successfully apply for a mortgage...

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Man on phone getting mortgage pre-approval.

2-minute read

How long does mortgage preapproval last?

How long a mortgage preapproval lasts will depend on the lender, but it’s usually 60 – 90 days. Uncover more about how long mortgage preapprovals la...

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A couple discussing real estate investment or mortgage with an agent.

28-minute read

Mortgage terms: Defined and explained

There are many unfamiliar terms to learn when you’re buying a home and need to apply for a mortgage. Here’s a list of common mortgage terms and what...

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Calculating mortgage payments, representing financial planning or budgeting.

7-minute read

What is an acceleration clause in real estate?

An acceleration clause in a mortgage means that your mortgage balance becomes due if you default on payments. Learn how a mortgage acceleration clause works.

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A woman wearing glasses stands at a desk, working on a laptop computer and looking on a piece of paper.

10-minute read

Closing Disclosure: What it is and how to read the form

Your Closing Disclosure is an important mortgage document, but it can be difficult to interpret. We broke down the essential components in this complete guid...

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A woman looking possibly looking at her good investments in real estate on laptop.

8-minute read

How are mortgage rates determined?

Discover what determines interest rates with our in-depth analysis. Explore how economic trends, credit scores, and more impact mortgage rate decisions.

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A woman multitasking on a phone call and computer, potentially related to mortgage or real estate inquiries.

5-minute read

Prequalified vs. preapproved: what’s the difference?

A prequalification estimates how much you can afford, while a preapproval gives a better estimate and verifies your financial info for a loan. Learn more.

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Front door of brick ranch house with topiary shrubs on either side.

6-minute read

Historical mortgage rates: 1971 to 2025

See how current mortgage rates compare to historical mortgage rates. Rates are among the highest of the decade but relatively low compared to the 1980s.

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Two men in suits discussing contracts with folded hands.

8-minute read

Mortgage fraud: What you need to know to avoid it

Mortgage fraud occurs when someone lies or omits information to get loan approval or favorable loan conditions. Learn about common types of mortgage fraud here.

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A man potentially explaining real estate or taxes to a female from an iPad.

6-minute read

What are title fees and how much are they?

Most home buyers and sellers should anticipate title fees as a part of closing costs. We’ll help you estimate the title-related expenses you’ll have...

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Man talking to a businesswoman in an office.

7-minute read

Letter of explanation: Why it’s important and how to write one

A letter of explanation can be important in the mortgage underwriting and application process. Learn when and how you’ll need to write an explanation l...

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Couple discussing a CMT loan or adjustable-rate mortgage with a financial advisor.

4-minute read

How the constant maturity Treasury rate affects your mortgage

The Constant Maturity Treasury rate plays a key role in determining adjustable-rate mortgage interest rates. Learn how the CMT rate impacts mortgage payments...

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Husband and wife working on taxes together, indicating financial management or tax preparation.

5-minute read

APR vs. interest rate: What's the difference?

Interest rate and annual percentage rate are terms you’ll often see when comparing mortgages and other loans. Learn the difference between APR and inte...

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A young woman inquiring about or getting a mortgage.

6-minute read

A walk-through on how to apply for a mortgage

The mortgage application process has five important steps. Learn each step of the mortgage process from start to finish for a smooth path to homeownership.

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Same-sex female couple with a broker, potentially representing a diverse couple working with a real estate broker.

3-minute read

What is the NMLS, and how can I get my license?

The Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System, or NMLS, is a database of licensed mortgage loan originators. Learn more about the NMLS and how to get a license.

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A women with her daughter holding a cat looking at some information on the laptop.

6-minute read

Fixed- vs. adjustable-rate mortgage: What’s the difference?

While shopping for home loans, you’ll need to decide between a fixed-rate or adjustable-rate mortgage. Learn how they differ, and which is better for you.

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A woman enjoying a cup of coffee while thinking about something.

5-minute read

Adjustable-rate mortgages: The pros and cons

Adjustable-rate mortgages start with lower interest rates that later adjust, affecting your monthly payment. Learn more about the pros and cons of an ARM.

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A couple who may have experienced a scam, potentially related to real estate or financial matters.

8-minute read

7 dangerous real estate scams and how to avoid them

Buyers and sellers must take the threat of real estate scams seriously. Here are 7 of the most common fraudulent real estate schemes to watch out for.

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