Featured resources
5-minute read
Impound accounts explained: Why your servicer holds funds
Some mortgage servicers arrange impound accounts to collect fees from home buyers. But how do they work, and do they benefit you? Keep reading to find out.
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9-minute read
What is private mortgage insurance? PMI defined and explained
Learn what private mortgage insurance is, when PMI is required, how much it costs, and how to cancel it. Compare options before you apply.
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10-minute read
How much is title insurance? Costs, requirements, and savings tips
How much does title insurance cost? Break down premiums, closing fees, state rules and discounts before you get to closing.
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6-minute read
When will mortgage rates go down?
Learn what experts expect regarding mortgage rates, what drives rates, and how to decide whether to buy or refinance now.
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8-minute read
What does clear to close mean? What to expect
Clear to close is an important milestone in the mortgage process. Learn what clear to close means, how it fits into underwriting, and what happens next.
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15-minute read
Can you get a mortgage without a job?
Can you get a mortgage without a job? Learn what lenders review, which income sources may count and steps to improve approval odds.
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7-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 decisio...
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6-minute read
What is a homeowners insurance binder, and when do you need one?
You may need a homeowners insurance binder to close your loan. Learn what it is, when lenders require one, what the document means, and how you can get one.<...
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5-minute read
Do you have an underwater mortgage? Here are your options
Learn what an underwater mortgage is, how to tell if you have one, and what options may help if you owe more on your mortgage than your home is worth.
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5-minute read
What happens after preapproval? A step-by-step timeline
You’ve completed the mortgage preapproval process. What comes next? Here's a step-by-step breakdown of the home buying timeline after mortgage preappro...
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8-minute read
Why does your mortgage keep going up?
Why did your mortgage payment go up? Learn the most common causes, including taxes, insurance, escrow changes, and adjustable rates.
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7-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 without hurting your credit. Learn more about the prequalification process.
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7-minute read
How to calculate per diem interest
You can calculate per diem interest with a simple formula or set up a per diem interest calculator in a spreadsheet. Learn about how per diem interest works....
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8-minute read
Debt-to-income ratio: What it is and how to calculate it
Learn what debt-to-income ratio means, how to calculate DTI and what lenders may look for before you apply for a mortgage. Start planning your next step.
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9-minute read
A complete guide to a $100,000 mortgage
Are you considering a $100,000 mortgage? Learn how interest rates, loan terms, and other factors can affect your mortgage payment on a $100,000 loan.
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9-minute read
Blanket mortgages: How they work and when to use one
Learn how blanket mortgages finance multiple properties with one loan, review pros and cons, requirements, and alternatives, and decide if one fits your goals.
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12-minute read
Mortgage preapproval: How to get preapproved
Mortgage preapproval helps you set a home budget and strengthen your offer. Learn what you need, how it works and when to apply.
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5-minute read
What happens if mortgage rates drop after you buy?
If mortgage rates drop after closing, you aren't stuck forever. Learn how fast you can refinance, calculate breakeven costs, and lower your monthly payment.
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