Mortgage guide

Featured resources

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 y...

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....

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.<...

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 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 approv...

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.

A couple looking at an iPad in a kitchen.

5-minute read

How to lower your mortgage payment

Lowering your mortgage payments can offer you financial flexibility for other things. Learn all the ways you can lower your monthly mortgage payment.

Couple looking at homes together on a tablet while snuggling on their couch.

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.

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 ...

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

6-minute read

How (and when) to change your mortgage lender

Has your mortgage been sold, or are you seeking a better offer than what your initial lender provided? Learn about how and when you can change lenders.

11-minute read

How to buy a house with no money down

If you’re struggling to come up with a down payment, you may still be able to qualify for a home loan. See your options for buying a house with no money d...

A brick home in Texas, depicting a traditional residential property in a specific location.

11-minute read

How rising fed interest rates can affect home buyers and sellers

The Fed rate hikes have raised mortgage interest rates in 2022. See how higher Fed interest rates affect home buyers and sellers and what borrowers can do ne...

Man writing finances in a notebook, indicating budgeting or financial planning.

6-minute read

How to calculate your monthly mortgage payment: A guide

Are you wondering how much your estimated monthly payment would be on a mortgage? Check out our guide and learn how to calculate your mortgage payment.

A family moving into a new home, illustrating a family's relocation or moving process.

8-minute read

Gift letters for your mortgage: A guide

A gift letter for a mortgage shows your lender that you don’t need to repay gift money toward your down payment. Use our mortgage gift letter template and...

A young woman working on a laptop, possibly in a home or office setting.

6-minute read

What is total debt service and the debt service coverage ratio (DSCR)?

Lenders use total debt service to measure your ability to repay a mortgage. Learn what a debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) is and how to calculate it yourself.

A couple pointing at a laptop, suggesting discussions or decisions related to real estate or finances.

6-minute read

How to shop for a mortgage: 5 steps

Planning to buy a house? One of the first steps in the process is securing a home loan. Learn how to shop for a mortgage and find the best rate here.

A tan two-story home, showing a two-story house with a tan exterior.

8-minute read

Selling a house with a mortgage: A guide

Selling your home while you’re still paying off your mortgage can be difficult to navigate. Learn how to prepare to sell your house and pay off your mo...

An image showing grey and off-white house possibly a good real estate investment.

9-minute read

How to get the best mortgage rate: 9 tips

Home buyers can get the lowest mortgage rate available, even when market rates are trending high. Uncover 9 tips for how to get the best mortgage rate.