Featured resources

6-minute read
What are easements and how can they affect my property?
Easements grant non-property owners limited access to a part of your property. Learn the different types of easements and how they can affect your property.<...
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6-minute read
Do I need mortgage protection insurance?
Mortgage protection insurance pays your mortgage if you die or become disabled. Learn how MPI works, what it covers, and whether it's right for you.
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7-minute read
What is Fannie Mae (FNMA)? A guide for home buyers
Fannie Mae is a government-sponsored enterprise that buys mortgages from lenders. It also determines conforming loan limits, which may impact your loan.
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10-minute read
Qualifying for a mortgage: The basics
Many factors can determine whether you qualify for a mortgage. Learn what factors affect your mortgage qualification and how you can improve your chances.
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3-minute read
What is a transfer tax?
A transfer tax is a one-time fee for transferring property ownership. Learn how transfer tax is assessed, state and local government rules, and how it works.
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6-minute read
Mortgage principal definition and basics
The mortgage principal is the amount you borrowed for your loan, while interest is the fee for use of the loan. Learn how each makes up your monthly payment.
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4-minute read
What is fair market value (FMV) in real estate and how is it calculated?
The fair market value (FMV) of a home is defined primarily by how much someone would pay for it. Learn how...
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11-minute read
What are seller concessions?
Seller concessions are a way for home buyers to bring down their closing costs. However, concessions must be negotiated. Learn more about this process before yo...
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5-minute read
Contingent vs. pending: What's the difference?
Home buyers sometimes confuse contingent versus pending. Learn the difference between pending and contingent and what the two statuses mean in real estate.
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4-minute read
What is a mortgagee? Definition, rights, and role when buying a house
A mortgagee is a financial institution that offers mortgages. Learn more about how it differs from a mortgagor and what you need to know about working with o...
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5-minute read
What is correspondent lending?
Correspondent lending happens when a lender originates and funds a mortgage, but then sells it. Read more about correspondent lending and how it works.
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8-minute read
Mortgage recasting: What you should know before you reamortize
A mortgage recast is when you make a lump-sum payment toward your principal balance to reduce your monthly payments. Learn how mortgage recasting works.
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7-minute read
What is the process for mortgage underwriting?
Underwriting is when your lender reviews your finances to determine if you qualify for a mortgage. Learn how it works and tips for a smooth experience.
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8-minute read
Capital gains tax on real estate and home sales: A guide
Selling your home? Learn how capital gains tax on real estate works, how much you might owe, and strategies to reduce or avoid taxes when selling your home.
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7-minute read
Mortgage rate lock: A guide to protect you from rate fluctuations
A mortgage rate lock prevents changes to your interest rate as you prepare to close. Learn about the steps you can take to lock in your mortgage rate.
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5-minute read
Deed vs. title: Know the difference
Buyers encounter both deeds and titles when finalizing ownership of their new property. This guide dives into the subtle difference between deeds and titles.
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7-minute read
What is a conventional loan?
A conventional loan is a non-government-backed home mortgage. Learn more about down payment requirements, getting approved, and more.
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8-minute read
What is a house deed?
A deed is a document that transfers ownership of real estate from one party to another. Understand how this works, the types of deeds, and why it's important.
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