Featured resources
6-minute read
Homeowners insurance deductible: What it is and how to choose
Not sure how to choose the right homeowners insurance deductible? Check out our guide to find out how to weigh short-term finances against long-term savings.
Read more
4-minute read
Selling mortgages: How it affects you and what to do next
How does selling mortgages work? Find out why lenders sell mortgages to investors, how the process works and how it affects you.
Read more
7-minute read
Prepayment penalty: What it is and how to avoid it
A prepayment penalty is a fee some lenders charge when you pay all or part of your loan off early. Find out what triggers the fee and how to avoid it.
Read more
6-minute read
Mortgage insurance premium (MIP) vs. private mortgage insurance (PMI): How do they differ?
As you learn more about mortgage insurance, you’re likely to encounter two acronyms: MIP and PMI. We'll break down how they each work and their key dif...
Read more
3-minute read
Easement in gross: Defined and explained
An easement in gross gives a person the right to use a parcel of land owned by someone else. Read more about easements in gross and how they work.
Read more
6-minute read
A comprehensive guide to mortgage payments on a $300K loan
Curious if you can afford a $300K mortgage? Explore different loan terms and interest rate options so you’ll know before buying what your payments will be...
Read more
10-minute read
$350,000 mortgage: Total cost and other factors to consider
Considering a $350,000 mortgage for your home purchase? Learn about a mortgage this size, the upfront and monthly costs to expect, how to get one, and more.<...
Read more
6-minute read
How to pay your mortgage easily
Making a mortgage payment on time is easier than ever. Read on to see which option fits your needs, from automated monthly payments to paying over the phone....
Read more
8-minute read
How to get a mortgage without 2 years of work history
Getting a mortgage without 2 years of work history is possible – but will involve extra paperwork. Learn everything you need to know to qualify for a home...
Read more
6-minute read
What is a promissory note? Definition and explanation
A promissory note is a repayment agreement between a borrower and lender, but how does it differ from a loan? Read on to see how promissory notes work.
Read more
6-minute read
Types of assets to include on your mortgage application
Lenders examine your assets when assessing your mortgage application. Learn which types of assets should be included to improve your chances of approval.
Read more
9-minute read
Mortgage origination fee: The inside scoop
Ready to apply for a mortgage and wondering if you should pay an origination fee? Find out how this common charge can actually save you money in the long run...
Read more
3-minute read
What is a chattel mortgage and how does it work?
A chattel mortgage is an option for purchasing a manufactured home where the home secures the loan. See how chattel loans differ from traditional mortgages.<...
Read more
3-minute read
Do oil prices affect mortgage rates?
Oil prices are one of many factors that affect mortgage rates. Learn more about how oil prices indirectly affect mortgage rates in the U.S.
Read more
3-minute read
Interest rate floor: Definition and how it works
An interest rate floor is the lowest agreed-upon rate for floating-rate loan products. Learn how interest rate floors work and uncover some examples.
Read more
6-minute read
Biweekly mortgage payments: Are they a good choice for you?
Biweekly mortgage payments help pay off your loan faster by applying an extra payment to the principal yearly. Find out if biweekly payments are right for you.
Read more
6-minute read
How to beware of mortgage wire fraud during closing
Wiring money for closing costs can leave you vulnerable to fraud and scams. Learn how you can protect yourself from real estate fraudsters.
Read more
7-minute read
What is manual underwriting and how does it work?
Manual underwriting is one of the ways a lender can review your loan application for approval. Learn more about what this means for you and your loan.
Read more