Featured resources

A woman looking at mail, potentially in a home or personal finance context.

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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An upscale kitchen with a white island bar and wall shelving, potentially depicting interior design or real estate features.

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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A woman using her personal computer with a satisfactory and a confident look on her face.

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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A blonde woman writing notes while on the phone, potentially related to real estate or work-related tasks.

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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A row of townhomes, illustrating residential complexes or real estate developments.

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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A beautiful red brick house representing good architectural design.

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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A person using a leaf blower outdoors, representing home maintenance and property care.

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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A couple looking at a computer in a kitchen setting.

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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Large white two story house with porch atop a vast green lawn.

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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Young man filling out paperwork, possibly for mortgage prequalifiastion.

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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Large stack of paperwork on a desk.

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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Young woman at desk in studio apartment searching for a home on her laptop.

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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Couple sitting on a couch, having a conversation or relaxing together while looking at something on the tablet.

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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A woman in a blue shirt enjoying the view from her balcony.

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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Two girls smiling and laughing on a bed.

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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A couple with a real estate agent, potentially engaging in property discussions or viewings.

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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A man and a women looking at the laptop and smiling.

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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A young woman working on a laptop, possibly in a home or office setting.

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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