Mortgage basics

Featured resources

Image of a pensive woman, possibly considering real estate or financial decisions.

8-minute read

How bankruptcy affects your mortgage: A guide

Wondering how bankruptcy affects a mortgage? Learn what happens to a mortgage if you file for bankruptcy and what it could mean for future home loans.

8-minute read

Escrow: What is it and how does it work?

Escrow is important to estate transactions, but what is it? Read our deep dive into escrow, how it works and why it matters when buying or selling a home.

A young cozy couple enjoying a comfortable and intimate moment together.

7-minute read

Need mortgage help? Here are your options

If you think you may need help with your mortgage payments, it’s good to be proactive. Find out what options you have and what to do next to protect your home.

Tan house with a double-layered front lawn, brick steps, and a wrap-around porch.

3-minute read

Escrow fees: What they cost and who pays them

Escrow fees ensure a secure exchange of funds between buyer, seller, lender and other parties. Read on to learn what they cost and who pays for them.

Image of a women talking on her possibly to some family member while looking outside the window.

4-minute read

Paying off your mortgage? Get your quote by phone

Are you looking to finally pay off your mortgage? Congratulations on the achievement! Here’s how you do it.

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

5-minute read

How to get out of a mortgage

Knowing how to get out of a mortgage the right way can save you from financial ruin. Read our tips for digging yourself out of your mortgage mess.

A house owner having a conversation with his real estate agent, possibly in a familial or business context.

4-minute read

Escrow refund: What is it and when does it occur?

Not sure what an escrow refund is or even when they occur? Read our article on all things escrow refund related and what to expect when dealing with one.

4-minute read

Mortgage servicing transferred? Here's what you should know

Have you received word that your mortgage servicing has been transferred? We’ll go over why this happens, what changes,’ and what to expect.

A couple looking at a computer in a kitchen setting.

7-minute read

What is an escrow waiver? Requirements, fees, pros and cons

When you make your mortgage payment, you may be paying extra into escrow for your insurance and taxes. Find out if an escrow waiver is right for you.

Woman using a phone and a MacBook, potentially managing finances or conducting research online.

6-minute read

Loan principal definition and basics

The principal is the amount you borrowed for your loan, while interest is the fee for use of the loan. Learn how each makes up your monthly payment.

Just married couple first house, possibly depicting a newlywed couple celebrating their first home looking outside the window.

7-minute read

How to get rid of PMI

PMI can raise your mortgage payment, but you may be able to cancel it once you have 20% equity in your home. Learn how to get rid of PMI and save.

A brick olive-colored house, depicting a residential property.

5-minute read

Contingent vs. pending: What's the difference?

Home buyers sometimes confuse contingent versus pending. Learn the difference between pending and contingent and what the two statuses mean in real estate.

A woman relaxing at home, suggesting a comfortable and serene atmosphere in a residential setting.

5-minute read

Can you get a mortgage without a job?

Lenders want to see proof of employment before they’ll approve a mortgage, but can you get a mortgage without a job? Learn about some special circumstances.