Mortgage guide

Featured resources

A realtor explaining things possibly about a property to a couple interested in buying it.

7-minute read

Mortgage insurance premium (MIP) vs. private mortgage insurance (PMI): How do they differ?

As you learn more about mortgage insurance, you’re likely to encounter two acronyms: MIP and PMI. We'll break down how they each work and their key dif...

Couple looking at a home, potentially discussing or exploring a property they're interested in purchasing.

6-minute read

Don’t fall for these 7 mortgage myths: What first-time home buyers should know

Buying your first home? Don’t let outdated mortgage myths hold you back. Discover the...

Couple doing financial planning on a laptop, indicating financial management or budgeting.

5-minute read

How to understand your mortgage statement

Your mortgage statement includes important information like due dates and your loan balance...

A couple looking at an iPad in a kitchen.

7-minute read

How to lower your mortgage payment

Paying off your mortgage doesn’t always go as planned, but there are ways to reduce your monthly payments. Learn how to lower your mortgage payment here.

A man and woman possibly discussing switching lenders or financial arrangements related to a property.

7-minute read

How to change your mortgage lender

You might want to change your mortgage lender while you're still in the buying process or after you've closed on your home. Find out why and how to do it.

Woman with pixie cut silver hair having coffee while checking email on laptop on outdoor balcony.

4-minute read

How long should you keep your mortgage statements?

Wondering how long to keep your mortgage statements? Learn what to save, what...

Man sitting cross legged with his laptop on his back deck of wood panelled home.

6-minute read

What is an interest-only mortgage?

An interest-only mortgage lets you make interest-only payments for an initial term. Learn how this type of loan works to decide whether it's right for you.

Young couple standing before a new house at sunset.

5-minute read

How to choose a mortgage lender in 5 steps

Choosing the right lender can save you time, money, and peace of mind in the long run. Use these steps to pick the best home loan lender for your finances.

Large multistory home in an expansive field of blue bonnets.

5-minute read

What’s the average mortgage payment in Texas?

Curious about the average mortgage payment in Texas? Explore monthly costs, state-specific trends, and what to expect when buying a home in the Lone Star State.

6-minute read

What is the average monthly mortgage payment in Ohio?

Discover the average monthly mortgage payment in Ohio, the factors influencing it, and how it compares nationally. Learn more about owning property in Ohio.

A family playing together in the lounge at home, showing family bonding and leisure time.

3-minute read

Home Mortgage Disclosure Act: Defined and explained

The Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) requires lenders to report on its lending activities to the public. Learn more about the HMDA and how it works.

Young couple standing in their kitchen together looking over papers on the counter.

5-minute read

Mortgage fees to avoid

Home loans come with a lot of fees, but you may be able to steer clear of some. Learn which mortgage fees to avoid.

Retired couple having coffee in their kitchen.

4-minute read

What happens when you pay off your mortgage

Paying off a mortgage is a great achievement that impacts your credit score, mix of accounts and utilization rate. Here are the facts to consider.

8-minute read

How the federal funds rate affects mortgage rates

The federal funds rate helps regulate the U.S. economy, but it can also affect mortgage rates. Learn how it can affect you as a home buyer and homeowner.

Sunset view of the Duquesne Incline and the three rivers in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

6-minute read

Buying by state: This is the average mortgage payment in Pennsylvania

The average mortgage payment varies by state. What is the average mortgage payment in Pennsylvania? Estimate what you might pay for a home in Pennsylvania.

Two women going over paperwork in an office setting.

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.

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

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.