Featured resources

Two men going over paperwork together.

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 work...

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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.

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Neighborhood block, showcasing houses and streets in a residential area.

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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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 wall...

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Man in suit reviewing stock market charts and numbers.

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.

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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.

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Woman sorting letters at a desk.

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.

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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 ca...

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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.

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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.

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A frustrated young couple, expressing frustration or stress.

6-minute read

What Is preforeclosure and how can you avoid it?

Preforeclosure is the first legal step toward foreclosure. Uncover tips on how to avoid foreclosure and discover some options available to homeowners.

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A modern house in twilight, showcasing the architectural design of a modern residence.

4-minute read

Real property: Definition and examples

Real property is any land or anything attached to it that gives it value. Here’s how this concept works and why it matters to homeowners.

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A couple talking with a mortgage lender, potentially in a home buying process.

6-minute read

Getting a mortgage with a new job: What to know

Getting a mortgage with a new job or in between jobs can be challenging, but not impossible. Learn how to approach the mortgage process with confidence.

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A small greenhouse or conservatory, showcasing a structure designed for gardening, relaxation, or cultivating plants within a home setting.

10-minute read

Contingent: What it means in real estate

In real estate, “contingent” refers to conditions that must be met for a sale to proceed as planned. Learn how contingencies protect potential ho...

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Two-story white house in winter with snowy lawn and trees.

6-minute read

What does assessed value mean and how is it determined?

The assessed value of a home helps determine its worth for property tax purposes. Discover how a home’s value gets assessed and why this matters.

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A family having a meal in their backyard.

6-minute read

What is a conventional loan?

Conventional loans are a traditional mortgage option. Learn what a conventional home loan is, how it works and common lender requirements in our guide.

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A couple on a couch with a laptop, potentially engaging in real estate-related activities or discussions.

6-minute read

What is Fannie Mae's Community Seconds Program?

Need a little extra help covering your down payment or closing costs? A program like Fannie Mae's Community Seconds might be able to help.

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A pregnant Asian woman browsing or working on a computer, possibly researching or organizing information online.

3-minute read

Applying for a home loan while on maternity leave: A guide

Wondering if maternity leave will affect your ability to get a mortgage? Learn what to expect when applying for a home loan while on maternity leave.

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