Featured resources
5-minute read
How do homeowners insurance deductibles work?
Learn how homeowners insurance deductibles work, when you pay them, and how deductible choices affect premiums so you’re ready if you need to file a cl...
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10-minute read
What is an escrow waiver? Requirements, fees, pros, and cons
Considering an escrow waiver? Learn what it is, how it works, eligibility criteria, potential fees, and the pros and cons to decide if it’s right for you.
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12-minute read
Closing Disclosure: What it is and how to read the form
Learn what a Closing Disclosure is, how the 3-day rule works and which loan costs to check before closing. Review your form with confidence before you sign.<...
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8-minute read
Mortgage fraud: What it is and what to do about it
Any misrepresentation of information on a mortgage application is considered mortgage fraud. Here’s how to identify, avoid, and report scams.
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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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