Mortgage guide

Featured resources

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...

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...

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.

Sage green house with burnt orange door.

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.

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...

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...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

An image possibly related to the LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate) financial concept.

6-minute read

The London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), defined and explained

Until recently, LIBOR was a longstanding benchmark interest rate for adjustable-rate mortgages and other loans. Learn about LIBOR and its replacement.

Young woman with tattoos and short white hair working on a laptop with paperwork, indicating financial or work-related tasks.

7-minute read

Rolling student loans into a mortgage: The pros, cons and alternatives

Rolling your student loans into a mortgage can make it easier to manage your finances. Learn your options for reducing or consolidating student debt.

Father spending quality time with his daughter, possibly engaged in a learning or creative session.

3-minute read

Freddie Mac BorrowSmart® Accessâ„ expands home afffordability

Freddie Mac BorrowSmart^® Accessâ„ offers a credit toward the down payment or closing costs of qualified buyers in certain areas. Read on...

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.

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.

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^®