Appraisals and inspections are critical steps in the home buying process. Learn how to identify the key differences in appraisals versus inspections.

Mortgage default can occur if you stop making payments, and it can lead to foreclosure. See how to avoid delinquency and what to do with a mortgage in default.

Buying your dream home may be more realistic than you think. Explore our guide to learn what might help increase your mortgage preapproval amount.

A mortgage banker is an individual or entity that originates, services, and sells mortgages. Read on to learn more about their responsibilities to borrowers.

Owner-occupied investments are properties in which the landlord both owns and lives in a home. Understand the pros and cons of owner occupancy before you buy...

A mortgage amortization schedule shows a breakdown of your monthly mortgage payment over time. Figure out how to calculate your mortgage amortization.

Tri-merge credit reports help mortgage lenders determine the size and type of your loan. Learn more about the role this report plays in your application.

The MERS System is an online registry that tracks a mortgage loan’s servicing rights and ownership interests. Learn more about t...

Tenancy in common is when two or more people share ownership of a property. Learn more about tenants in common and how they compare to other tenancy types.

Unsure whether to pay extra on your mortgage or federal student loans? We break down the factors you need to consider for making the right financial decision...

Is saving 1% on your mortgage interest rate worth it? Whether you’re shopping for a mortgage or refinancing your current loan, the savings are signific...

Not sure which documents to expect at closing? Learn more about the documents you will need to sign, approve and review to close on a real estate deal.

A mortgage is a type of secured debt, meaning it’s backed by your home as collateral. Learn how secured loans differ from unsecured ones.

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.

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.

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...

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...

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...