Featured resources
8-minute read
What is PMI? Private mortgage insurance defined and explained
Private mortgage insurance can be a tricky subject, so we broke down what PMI is, how much it costs, and how to tell whether it's the right option for you.
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4-minute read
What is the loan-to-value ratio and how is it calculated?
Your loan-to-value ratio measures your loan amount against the value of the home you’re buying. Figure out how your LTV ratio is calculated.
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8-minute read
How to get a mortgage in 7 steps
Getting a mortgage can feel daunting if you’re a first-time home buyer. Learn the steps you must take to prepare for and successfully apply for a mortgage...
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2-minute read
How long does 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 la...
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28-minute read
Mortgage terms: Defined and explained
There are many unfamiliar terms to learn when you’re buying a home and need to apply for a mortgage. Here’s a list of common mortgage terms and what...
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7-minute read
What is an acceleration clause in real estate?
An acceleration clause in a mortgage means that your mortgage balance becomes due if you default on payments. Learn how a mortgage acceleration clause works.
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10-minute read
Closing Disclosure: What it is and how to read the form
Your Closing Disclosure is an important mortgage document, but it can be difficult to interpret. We broke down the essential components in this complete guid...
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8-minute read
How are mortgage rates determined?
Discover what determines interest rates with our in-depth analysis. Explore how economic trends, credit scores, and more impact mortgage rate decisions.
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5-minute read
Prequalified vs. preapproved: what’s the difference?
A prequalification estimates how much you can afford, while a preapproval gives a better estimate and verifies your financial info for a loan. Learn more.
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6-minute read
Historical mortgage rates: 1971 to 2025
See how current mortgage rates compare to historical mortgage rates. Rates are among the highest of the decade but relatively low compared to the 1980s.
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8-minute read
Mortgage fraud: What you need to know to avoid it
Mortgage fraud occurs when someone lies or omits information to get loan approval or favorable loan conditions. Learn about common types of mortgage fraud here.
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7-minute read
Letter of explanation: Why it’s important and how to write one
A letter of explanation can be important in the mortgage underwriting and application process. Learn when and how you’ll need to write an explanation l...
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6-minute read
What are title fees and how much are they?
Most home buyers and sellers should anticipate title fees as a part of closing costs. We’ll help you estimate the title-related expenses you’ll have...
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5-minute read
Deed vs. title: Know the difference
It’s a misconception that a house’s title and deed are the same, but they aren’t. Learn the differences to be prepared for your home sale o...
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10-minute read
14 questions to ask a mortgage lender
The best way to pinpoint the right mortgage lender for you is to ask plenty of questions. Read through these 14 essential ones to get you started.
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4-minute read
How the constant maturity Treasury rate affects your mortgage
The Constant Maturity Treasury rate plays a key role in determining adjustable-rate mortgage interest rates. Learn how the CMT rate impacts mortgage payments...
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5-minute read
APR vs. interest rate: What's the difference?
Interest rate and annual percentage rate are terms you’ll often see when comparing mortgages and other loans. Learn the difference between APR and inte...
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6-minute read
A walk-through on how to apply for a mortgage
The mortgage application process has five important steps. Learn each step of the mortgage process from start to finish for a smooth path to homeownership.
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