Mortgage basics

Featured resources

A woman using her personal computer with a satisfactory and a confident loon on her face.

5-minute read

Liens and encumbrances: What to know

Liens and encumbrances both relate to legal claims against properties. Learn how they can affect buying, owning and selling your house.

Homes in fall, portraying residential properties during the autumn season with foliage and trees.

5-minute read

Appraisal vs. inspection: A guide

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

A couple discussing real estate investment or mortgage with an agent.

22-minute read

Glossary of mortgage terms: Defined and explained

There are many mortgage terms to understand when you embark on the home buying process. Learn what these common mortgage terms mean.

Asian couple going over compound interest, potentially discussing financial investment or mortgage details.

6-minute read

What is compound interest and how is it calculated? A guide

Compound interest is the money you earn on the interest that accrues on an account, investment or loan. Learn how to calculate compound interest and more here.

An elderly couple possibly looking at property or mortgage paper.

5-minute read

What is a mortgage note and why is it important?

A mortgage note is a legal document that defines the terms of the loan for the borrower and lender. Learn more about mortgage notes and why they’re important.

Large countryside house, depicting a spacious home in a rural setting.

4-minute read

Mortgage par rates: What they are, how they work

A par rate is a rate charged to a borrower based on DTI and other factors. It doesn’t include discount points or other adjustments. Read on to learn more.

A women likely worried possibly after hearing some news on the phone.

8-minute read

Mortgage forbearance: What it is and how it works

Mortgage forbearance allows you to pause payments on a mortgage. Read on to learn about how forbearance works and whether it’s right for you.

Probably a women calculating her taxes or finances.

6-minute read

Mortgage amortization schedule: What it is and how to calculate yours

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

Two women shaking hands, indicating a successful agreement or partnership in real estate.

4-minute read

What is a mortgage reinstatement?

Mortgage reinstatement can be a vital lifeline for borrowers who have missed payments and want to avoid foreclosure. Learn more about how it works here.

7-minute read

Your guide to a $450,000 mortgage: Costs and requirements to consider

Ready for a $450,000 mortgage to buy a home? Read our guide to understand the costs and requirements that come with taking out a $450,000 loan.

Image of a newly constructed home with white bricks and a black roof, showcasing modern residential architecture.

4-minute read

What is mortgage curtailment?

Interested in shortening the life of your mortgage loan? Consider how a mortgage curtailment could benefit you in reducing your debt.

Same-sex female couple with a broker, potentially representing a diverse couple working with a real estate broker.

3-minute read

What is NMLS?

Learn how mortgage and finance regulatory agencies use the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System (NMLS) to maintain national licensing requirements.

An asian couple discussing their future plans or real estate investment with an agent.

7-minute read

What to do if you're applying for a mortgage and a business loan

Follow these quick tips if you have no choice but to go “all in” on both a mortgage loan and a business loan at once.

Mixed race couple diligently working while standing on personal finances and budgeting documents.

5-minute read

What is considered debt when applying for a mortgage?

When applying for a mortgage, what is considered debt? Take a look at our guide to what monthly debt payments lenders consider when approving a mortgage.

A young couple reviewing paperwork together, possibly related to a mortgage or property.

8-minute read

What types of mortgage lenders are there, and how do I choose the right one?

There are several types of mortgage lenders you can work with when buying a house. From traditional banks to credit unions, discover which one is right for you.

A large brick house in the countryside at dusk.

4-minute read

What is a mortgage rate?

When you get a mortgage, you pay your lender interest based on your mortgage rate. Learn what a mortgage rate is, what determines it and how to get a good one.

A young woman sitting at a desk, possibly managing bills or finances using a digital tablet.

7-minute read

What is a good debt-to-income ratio?

What is a good debt-to-income ratio and why does it matter when getting a mortgage loan? Explore the details to help get the best loan terms possible.

A banker discussing a loan with a couple.

4-minute read

What is a mortgage banker? Services, responsibilities and more

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

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