Featured resources

5-minute read
Regulation Z, or the Truth in Lending Act (TILA): Explained
Regulation Z, or the Truth in Lending Act, requires lenders to disclose key loan details like terms, interest rates, and annual percentage rates (APRs).
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4-minute read
Understanding appraisal vs. assessment
If you're preparing to buy a home, it's important to understand the difference between an appraisal and an assessment. Read on to learn how they compare.
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6-minute read
Liens and encumbrances: What to know
Liens and encumbrances both relate to legal claims against properties. Learn how they can affect buying, owning, and selling your house.
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5-minute read
Mortgagee clause: Definition and how it works
A mortgagee clause protects the lender if a mortgaged property is damaged. Learn the components of a mortgagee clause and how their protections work.
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7-minute read
Can the 30% rule help you budget for housing?
How much should you spend on housing? A general guideline says you should spend 30% of your income on housing. Is the 30% rule for housing true for you?
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4-minute read
Mortgage loan limits are on the rise
The Federal Housing Finance Agency updated conforming loan limits, which are rising 3.25% in 2026. Read on for details as well as FHA and VA loan limits...
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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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5-minute read
What is an escrow waiver? Definition, requirements, and pros and cons
Considering an escrow waiver? Learn what it is, how it works, eligibility criteria, potential fees, and the pros and cons to decide if it’s right for you.
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9-minute read
How to get out of a mortgage loan
Whether you’re facing financial issues or major life changes, knowing how to get out of a mortgage loan the right way is important. Learn about your optio...
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5-minute read
Mortgage prequalification: What is it and how does it work?
Mortgage prequalification gives you an idea of how much house you can afford. Learn more about the loan prequalification process here.
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9-minute read
How to get a mortgage preapproval
Mortgage preapproval is an important step in your home-buying journey that helps you understand your borrowing ability. Find out what the process involves.
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8-minute read
How to buy a house with no money down
Some mortgages allow you to buy a house with no money down. Learn how to buy a house with n...
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7-minute read
Should you pay off your mortgage early?
Paying off your mortgage early reduces the amount that you’ll pay over time, but is it a good idea? Figure out if paying your mortgage early is worth i...
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5-minute read
Can you make principal-only payments on your mortgage?
Making principal-only payments on your mortgage can save you on interest over time. Learn how to make a principal-only payment and pay off your loan faster.<...
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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.
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10-minute read
14 questions to ask a mortgage lender
The best way to pinpoint the right mortgage lender for you is to ask plenty of questions. Read through these 14 essential ones to get you started.
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6-minute read
Should I pay off my mortgage or invest?
Deciding whether to pay off a mortgage or invest can be tricky. Get familiar with all of the potential financial risks and rewards before making this decision.
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6-minute read
What is total debt service and the debt service coverage ratio (DSCR)?
Lenders use total debt service to measure your ability to repay a mortgage. Learn what a debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) is and how to calculate it yourself.
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