Featured resources

14-minute read

Monthly mortgage payment on a $250,000 loan: Costs and fees

Estimate the monthly mortgage payment on a $250,000 loan, compare terms and rates, and see how taxes, insurance, and PMI affect costs. Start planning.

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12-minute read

ARM vs. fixed-rate mortgage: How to choose

Compare ARM vs. fixed-rate mortgage options, including rates, payments, risk, and refinancing strategies, so you can choose with confidence. Learn more.

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8-minute read

Mortgage rate history: 1971 – 2026 30-year fixed rates

Explore mortgage rate history from 1971 to 2026, including highs, lows and trends by decade. Compare today’s rates and start your next step.

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10-minute read

Appraisal gap: Preparing for a low appraisal

An appraisal gap can change how much a lender will finance and how much cash a buyer needs. The purchase contract may shape what happens next.

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6-minute read

What is a chattel mortgage and how does it work?

Learn what a chattel mortgage is, how it works for manufactured homes or equipment, plus key pros, cons, tax issues, and risks. Read the guide.

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10-minute read

What is loss mitigation?

Loss mitigation helps homeowners facing hardship avoid foreclosure. Learn common assistance options, how the process works, and when to contact your servicer...

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12-minute read

Mortgage qualification: Requirements and tips

Learn mortgage qualification basics, including credit score, income, DTI, assets, and down payment requirements. See how to prepare and apply.

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6-minute read

How to get a mortgage with a seasonal income

Getting a mortgage as a seasonal worker can be difficult but not impossible. Learn about Fannie Mae rules for seasonal income and more.

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10-minute read

Getting a mortgage without 2 years’ work history

Getting a mortgage without 2 years’ work history may be possible. Learn which income, documents, and loan options may help you qualify. Explore steps.

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8-minute read

Ultimate mortgage preapproval checklist

Are you getting ready to apply for a home loan? Use our complete mortgage preapproval checklist to make sure you have everything you need before you apply.

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8-minute read

Mortgage underwriting: What it is and how the process works

Learn how mortgage underwriting works, what underwriters review, and how to avoid delays with a practical checklist. Start preparing for your loan.

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9-minute read

What is a mortgage? Loan basics for beginners

Learn what is a mortgage, how home loans work, common types, costs and steps to get approved. Compare options and start your home buying plan.

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10-minute read

How to apply for a mortgage in 5 steps

Learn how to apply for a mortgage, from checking credit and getting preapproved to comparing lenders, submitting documents and closing on a home. Start today.

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9-minute read

Real estate scams: 7 warning signs and how to avoid them

Learn how real estate scams work, warning signs to watch for and steps to protect your money before you buy, sell, rent or refinance. Read now.

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6-minute read

What is an automated valuation model (AVM)?

Learn how an automated valuation model estimates home value, what data it uses, how accurate AVMs are, and when to use one before buying or refinancing.

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11-minute read

14 questions to ask a mortgage lender

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.

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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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9-minute read

How to get a mortgage when you’re self-employed

You can still get a mortgage when self-employed. Learn how lenders verify income, what documents you need, and tips to improve your odds before you apply.

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