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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