Featured resources

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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7-minute read

What is Fannie Mae (FNMA)? A guide for home buyers

Fannie Mae is a government-sponsored enterprise that buys mortgages from lenders. It also determines conforming loan limits, which may impact your loan.

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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

What is a conventional loan?

A conventional loan is a non-government-backed home mortgage. Learn more about down payment requirements, getting approved, and more.

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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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11-minute read

Escrow holdback: Repair rules, costs, and closing steps

Learn how an escrow holdback works, which home repairs qualify, who funds the account, and what happens after closing. Keep your home closing right on track.

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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

Mortgage reinstatement: What it is and how it works

Have you missed mortgage payments? Learn how mortgage reinstatement can bring your loan current, what you need to pay for, and when deadlines may apply.

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8-minute read

Is mortgage forbearance a good idea?

Mortgage forbearance can be a lifeline for many homeowners struggling to make their mortgage payments. Find out whether mortgage forbearance is a good idea.

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10-minute read

30% rule: How much of your income should go to your mortgage?

How much of income should go toward a mortgage? Learn the 30% rule, compare three common budgeting methods, and estimate what you can comfortably afford.

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14-minute read

What's the mortgage payment on a $400K loan?

The monthly mortgage payments on a $400K loan vary based on factors such as term length and interest rate. Learn more about the payments on a $400K mortgage.

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10-minute read

How a Fed rate hike affects home buyers

Learn how a Fed rate hike affects home buyers across three major affordability factors. We’ll explain mortgage rates, payments, and overall buying powe...

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12-minute read

How to buy down an interest rate on a mortgage

Learn how to buy down interest rate with points, compare temporary and permanent buydowns, calculate break-even timing and decide if it fits. Start here.

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6-minute read

What are lender credits?

What are lender credits? Learn how they can lower closing costs, raise your mortgage rate, and affect long-term costs before you apply for a home loan.

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