Featured resources

9-minute read
Low appraisal: What happens next and buyer options
A low appraisal can affect your mortgage, cash to close and contract. Learn your options for an appraisal gap and how to negotiate with a seller now.
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10-minute read
What is homeowners insurance?
What is homeowners insurance? Learn what it covers, what it excludes, how much it can cost, and why lenders require it before you buy a home. Start here.
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6-minute read
Why do lenders sell mortgages and how does it affect you?
How does selling mortgages work? Find out why lenders sell mortgages to investors, how the process works, and how it affects you.
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8-minute read
The hidden costs of late mortgage payments
Are you worried about the effects of making a late mortgage payment? Learn more about missing a mortgage payment, including how it affects your credit and more.
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6-minute read
How long does mortgage preapproval last?
Mortgage preapproval estimates how much a lender expects you can borrow and usually is valid for 60 – 90 days. Learn when to apply and what you need to ge...
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8-minute read
What is a co-borrower?
What is a co-borrower? See how sharing a mortgage affects loan approval, home ownership, and credit – and how to decide if applying together is right for ...
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8-minute read
How to buy a house with no money down
Learn how to buy a house with no down payment using government-backed mortgages, assistance programs, and low-down payment loans. Compare your options.
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7-minute read
Escrow fees: What they are, who pays, and what they cost
Learn how escrow fees work, what they may include, who pays them, and how to review your Loan Estimate before closing. Start your mortgage journey.
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6-minute read
First lien vs. second lien: What’s the difference?
Second lienholders agree to be subordinate to the first if a borrower defaults or files for bankruptcy. Understanding this can help you manage your finances.
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9-minute read
Mortgage forbearance vs. deferment: Key differences
Mortgage forbearance vs. deferment can help during hardship. Compare how each works, pros and cons, credit impact, and next steps. Learn your options today.<...
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5-minute read
What is the NMLS, and why does it matter?
Learn what the NMLS is, why NMLS numbers matter, and how licensing works for mortgage loan originators. Use this guide before choosing a lender or applying.<...
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8-minute read
Mortgage interest deduction: A guide for the 2025 tax year
Learn how the 2025 mortgage interest deduction works, what qualifies, and whether itemizing or the standard deduction saves you more.
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6-minute read
What does collateral mean and how does it work?
Collateral is an asset used to secure a loan. If a borrower defaults, the lender can take the collateral to recover losses.
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10-minute read
What is a mortgage note and why is it important?
Learn what a mortgage note is, what terms it includes, and how it differs from a mortgage or deed. Find out where to locate yours and what if it gets sold.
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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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10-minute read
What is a short sale in real estate? A guide to the process
A short sale may be a solution when a homeowner is in a dire financial situation and needs to sell their home for less than they owe. Learn about this option.
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12-minute read
How bankruptcy affects your mortgage: A homeowner guide
Learn how bankruptcy affects your mortgage, whether you can keep your home, and when you can qualify for a new loan. Review your housing options today.
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9-minute read
What’s the average mortgage payment in Texas?
Learn the average mortgage payment in Texas, how costs vary by county, and what taxes, insurance, and rates can mean for your budget. Explore options today.
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