Featured resources

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Blue and Gray Two Story Home

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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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.

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Family Moving Into New House

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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