Mortgage basics

Featured resources

Street view of a development, showing urban or suburban development projects.

5-minute read

What in the world is an escrow shortage?

Understanding escrow shortages and what causes a negative escrow balance is important for homeowners to know. Read on to learn how to navigate these situations.

Suburban blue home exterior, displaying a residential property in a suburban setting.

3-minute read

Solid offers come with a Verified Approval Letter

A Verified Approval Letter shows the seller that your offer should be taken seriously. Learn how a VAL can be an advantage that gets your home offer accepted.

9-minute read

What does it mean to lease a house?

Not ready to buy your next home, yet tired of renting? You have other options available. Read further to understand the key components of leasing a house.

A couple with two kids giving piggyback rides in front of their house, symbolizing family happiness and homeownership.

4-minute read

Should I lock in my mortgage rate today?

Are you unsure whether you should lock in your mortgage rate today, or wait? Learn about the mortgage rate lock and why you might consider locking your rate.

A young woman inquiring about or getting a mortgage.

4-minute read

Understanding the mortgage loan process

The mortgage loan process consists of eight important steps. Learn each step of the mortgage process from start to finish for a smooth path to homeownership.

A man and a women looking at the laptop and smiling.

6-minute read

Should I pay off my mortgage or invest?

Deciding whether to pay off a mortgage or invest can be tricky. Get familiar with all of the potential financial risks and rewards before making this decision.

Mortgage calculator, pencils and phone on wooden table.

6-minute read

How to use a mortgage calculator

Learn how to use our mortgage calculator to determine your monthly mortgage payments, including PMI, taxes, insurance, down payment, interest rate and more.

Two-story beige house with large paved driveway, manicured shrubs and red front door.

7-minute read

Mortgage default: Everything you need to know

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.

A man and women doing financing or taxes.

6-minute read

What is a mortgage commitment letter and how can I get one?

Getting a mortgage commitment letter is an important first step in the home buying process. Read on to find out how you can get a loan commitment letter.

The exterior of a white house during the day, showcasing a residential property.

8-minute read

How much can a 1% difference in your mortgage rate save or cost you?

How much does 1% save on a 30-year mortgage? It may seem like nothing, but it adds up. Learn how your interest rate impacts the total cost of your mortgage.

A couple meeting with a tax advisor, potentially discussing financial or real estate planning with a professional.

5-minute read

What happens if the appraisal is lower than the offer?

What happens if your home appraisal comes in lower than your offer? Learn about your options if your home appraisal value is less than the purchase price.

Two men in suits discussing contracts with folded hands.

6-minute read

Mortgage fraud: What you need to know

Mortgage fraud occurs when someone lies or omits information to get loan approval or favorable loan conditions. Learn about different types of mortgage fraud.

A row of townhomes, illustrating residential complexes or real estate developments.

5-minute read

How much of your income should go to your mortgage?

Are you preparing to buy a house but are unsure how much income should go to your loan payment? Learn what percentage of income is needed for mortgage approval.

A young Asian woman working on a computer, potentially in an office or work setting.

6-minute read

Types of eClosing and how they work

Looking for digital options to close on your new house? Learn about the different types of eClosings available to you and Rocket Mortgage^®

A woman looking at a deed, potentially involved in property ownership or real estate matters.

6-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 or purchase.

Image related to mortgage processors, potentially depicting their role in the mortgage application process.

4-minute read

What is a mortgage processor, and what do they do?

A mortgage processor guides borrowers through the loan application process by collecting documents and information. Learn how they help secure mortgage loans.

A young Asian couple smiles as they unpack cardboard boxes in a warmly lit living room, creating a cozy scene of settling into their new home.

5-minute read

Interest rate vs. home price: Which matters more?

If you’re a prospective home buyer, looking at interest rates vs. home price can help you decide your budget. Get familiar with what these metrics can impact.

Asian couple saving for vacation, possibly discussing financial plans or budgeting.

9-minute read

What does inflation do to mortgage rates? A guide for uncertain times

When inflation increases, interest rates on new mortgages and ARMs increase too. Learn more about the relationship between inflation and mortgage rates.

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