Mortgage guide
Learn how mortgages work and what it will mean for your finances to have one
Featured articles:
Prequalified vs. preapproved: what’s the difference?
A prequalification estimates how much you can afford, while a preapproval gives a better estimate and verifies your financial info for a loan. Learn more.
A walk-through on how to apply for a mortgage
The mortgage application process has five important steps. Learn each step of the mortgage process from start to finish for a smooth path to homeownership.
Featured resources

5-minute read
What is the average mortgage payment?
Wondering what you can expect for your monthly mortgage payments? Learn about the average mortgage payment and the factors that affect it.
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7-minute read
What is considered ‘debt’ when applying for a mortgage?
What is considered ‘debt’ when applying for a mortgage? Our guide describes what monthly debt payments lenders consider when approving a mortgage.
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9-minute read
Alimony and mortgage qualification: How spousal support affects home loans
Discover how alimony and child support influence mortgage qualification. Learn documentation requirements, DTI considerations, and tips to obtain a home loan.
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4-minute read
Does mortgage preapproval affect your credit score?
Worried that getting preapproved for a mortgage will hurt your credit score? Learn how preapproval impacts your credit, including how much and for how long.
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8-minute read
Why does my mortgage keep going up?
An unexpected change to your mortgage payment can be frustrating, especially if you don’t know why it happened. Find out some possible reasons for the cha...
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6-minute read
What is the average mortgage payment in North Carolina?
Discover the average mortgage payment in North Carolina, the factors influencing it, and how mortgage payments in the Tarheel State compare nationally.
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