Mortgage basics

Featured resources

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.

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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.

Colonial-style house in Massachusetts with a white exterior and greenery.

6-minute read

House deed: Defined and explained

A house deed is a physical document legally transferring ownership of real estate. Learn more about how house deeds affect sellers and buyers.

A beautiful red brick house representing good architectural design.

4-minute read

Mortgage loan limits are on the rise

Rocket Mortgage has updated conventional loan limits. Mortgage limits have gone up for most. Read on for details as well as FHA and VA loan limits.

A charming row of houses with a white picket fence, creating a picturesque neighborhood scene.

6-minute read

Underwriting in the mortgage process, explained

Underwriting is a crucial part of the loan approval process. Learn about what underwriting is, how long it can take, and tips for a successful experience.

3-minute read

What is a transfer tax?

Transfer tax is a one-time fee for the transfer of property ownership. Learn how transfer tax is assessed, rules by state and local governments, and how it works.

A young man sitting on his home couch looking at something on his laptop.

7-minute read

Common mortgage scams and how to avoid mortgage fraud

Mortgage fraud impacts every aspect of the home buying process. We’ll go over common mortgage scams and how you can avoid or spot them.

A man and women unboxing cardboard boxes after moving into the new residence.

5-minute read

What is loan-to-value ratio (LTV) and how is it calculated?

Your loan-to-value ratio (LTV) measures your loan amount against the value of the home you're buying. Figure out how your LTV ratio is calculated.

A stylish young man with tattoo sleeves working on a computer.

5-minute read

What is the prime rate and how does it work?

The prime rate is an index that helps determine rates on loans. But how does that work? In our guide, you’ll learn how the prime rate affects your wallet.

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5-minute read

Is property tax included in your mortgage payment?

Learn how factors like property taxes and insurance can change your monthly home payment.

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12-minute read

When will mortgage rates go down?

Mortgage rates tend to fluctuate, but certain indicators can signal they’re going to drop. Learn when experts predict home interest rates to go down.

Patio outside home with sliding glass doors outside living room.

6-minute read

How to find liens on a property: A home buyer's guide

Looking to find liens on a property you want to buy? Discover how title searches and combing through county records can help.

A yard with flowers, representing a beautiful home exterior.

5-minute read

What does collateral mean and how does it work?

Collateral is any asset a lender accepts to secure a loan. Explore different types of collateral loans, their pros and cons, and how to get one.

6-minute read

How a Fed rate drop affects home buyers and sellers

What’s the impact on home buyers and sellers when the federal funds rate drops? Learn how a Fed rate drop impacts interest rates and home loans.

A cozy house with a charming porch and a well-maintained lawn.

5-minute read

Truth in Lending Act (TILA): Defined and explained

The Truth iokay now let's see if that worked n Lending Act (TILA) protects consumers from unfair lending practices. Find out what TILA requires and how it can protect you.

Two individuals discussing a mortgage prequalification.

6-minute read

Mortgage prequalification: What is it and how does it work?

Mortgage prequalification gives you an estimate of the amount you can borrow to buy a house. Learn more about the loan prequalification process here.

Young couple standing in their kitchen together looking over papers on the counter.

7-minute read

Mortgage fees to avoid

Knowing what fees to watch out for before and after you close your loan can save you money. Learn how to recognize fees you can avoid.

Man on phone getting mortgage pre-approval.

4-minute read

How long does a mortgage preapproval last?

How long a mortgage preapproval lasts will depend on the lender, but it’s usually 60 – 90 days. Uncover more about how long mortgage preapprovals last.

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