Featured resources

Older couple signing a home contract, potentially finalizing a property transaction.

5-minute read

A guide to real estate closing documents for buyers

Not sure which documents to expect at closing? Learn more about the documents you will need to sign, approve and review to close on a real estate deal.

Read more

Loan officer reviewing mortgage paperwork with smiling couple.

5-minute read

Is a mortgage secured or unsecured debt?

A mortgage is a type of secured debt, meaning it’s backed by your home as collateral. Learn how secured loans differ from unsecured ones.

Read more

Family moving into a home, unloading boxes and settling into their new living space.

8-minute read

How to get a mortgage in 7 steps

Getting a mortgage can feel daunting if you’re a first-time home buyer. Learn the steps you must take to prepare for and successfully apply for a mortgage...

Read more

Man on phone getting mortgage pre-approval.

2-minute read

How long does mortgage preapproval last?

How long a mortgage preapproval lasts will depend on the lender, but it’s usually 60 – 90 days. Uncover more about how long mortgage preapprovals la...

Read more

A woman looking possibly looking at her good investments in real estate on laptop.

8-minute read

How are mortgage rates determined?

Discover what determines interest rates with our in-depth analysis. Explore how economic trends, credit scores, and more impact mortgage rate decisions.

Read more

Front door of brick ranch house with topiary shrubs on either side.

6-minute read

Historical mortgage rates: 1971 to 2025

See how current mortgage rates compare to historical mortgage rates. Rates are among the highest of the decade but relatively low compared to the 1980s.

Read more

A man potentially explaining real estate or taxes to a female from an iPad.

6-minute read

What are title fees and how much are they?

Most home buyers and sellers should anticipate title fees as a part of closing costs. We’ll help you estimate the title-related expenses you’ll have...

Read more

Man talking to a businesswoman in an office.

7-minute read

Letter of explanation: Why it’s important and how to write one

A letter of explanation can be important in the mortgage underwriting and application process. Learn when and how you’ll need to write an explanation l...

Read more

A couple who may have experienced a scam, potentially related to real estate or financial matters.

8-minute read

7 dangerous real estate scams and how to avoid them

Buyers and sellers must take the threat of real estate scams seriously. Here are 7 of the most common fraudulent real estate schemes to watch out for.

Read more

A woman enjoying a cup of coffee while thinking about something.

5-minute read

Adjustable-rate mortgages: The pros and cons

Adjustable-rate mortgages start with lower interest rates that later adjust, affecting your monthly payment. Learn more about the pros and cons of an ARM.

Read more

A man and two children sharing a heartfelt embrace in a cozy living room.

7-minute read

What is homeowners insurance and how does it work?

Mortgage lenders require homeowners insurance, which reimburses you if your home is damaged or destroyed. Learn how to choose the right policy for your home.

Read more

A couple on a couch with a laptop, potentially engaging in real estate-related activities or discussions.

7-minute read

Why mortgage rates are still rising and how you can still buy in 2025

Wondering why mortgage interest rates are so high in 2025? Learn what’s driving up rates and how smart strategies can help you find a home you can afford.

Read more

A white house exterior, illustrating a residential property with a classic design.

4-minute read

How bonds affect mortgage rates

The bond market and the mortgage market are closely connected. Read our article to learn what bond loan interest rates are and how they affect mortgage rates...

Read more

Image of a pensive woman, possibly considering real estate or financial decisions.

8-minute read

How bankruptcy affects your mortgage: A guide

Wondering how bankruptcy affects a mortgage? Learn what happens to a mortgage if you file for bankruptcy and what it could mean for future home loans.

Read more

A young man sitting on his home couch looking at something on his laptop.

7-minute read

Common mortgage scams and how to avoid mortgage fraud

Mortgage fraud impacts every aspect of the home buying process. We’ll go over common mortgage scams and how you can avoid or spot them.

Read more

Patio outside home with sliding glass doors outside living room.

6-minute read

How to find liens on a property: A home buyer's guide

Looking to find liens on a property you want to buy? Discover how title searches and combing through county records can help.

Read more

A couple talking with a mortgage lender, potentially in a home buying process.

6-minute read

Getting a mortgage with a new job: What to know

Getting a mortgage with a new job or in between jobs can be challenging, but not impossible. Learn how to approach the mortgage process with confidence.

Read more

A pregnant Asian woman browsing or working on a computer, possibly researching or organizing information online.

5-minute read

Applying for a home loan while on maternity leave: A guide

Wondering if maternity leave affects your ability to get a mortgage? Learn what to expect when applying for a home loan while on maternity or parental leave.

Read more

6 of 8