The Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System, or NMLS, is a database of licensed mortgage loan originators. Learn more about the NMLS and how to get a license.

Annual percentage rate (APR) is the rate your loan will accrue interest at over the repayment term. See how APR works on a mortgage and why it’s important...

Want to protect yourself from higher mortgage rates? Read our article to learn all about the float-down option and how it can work with a mortgage rate lock....

Discover how Ginnie Mae guarantees mortgage-backed securities, supports the housing market, and helps make homeownership more affordable.

If you need help getting a mortgage, a co-borrower or co-signer can bolster your application. Learn more about buying a home with a co-borrower or co-signer....

You have an underwater mortgage if you owe more than your home is worth. Learn the early indicators and what to do if your mortgage is upside down.

A lien gives a lender or creditor the ability to claim a property to pay off a debt. Learn how they work and about other types of property debt.

Home buyers sometimes confuse contingent versus pending. Learn the difference between pending and contingent and what the two statuses mean in real estate.

The 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.

A house deed is a physical document legally transferring ownership of real estate. Learn more about how house deeds affect sellers and buyers.

Underwriting is a crucial part of the loan approval process. Learn about what underwriting is, how long it can take, and tips for a successful experience.

Transfer tax is a one-time fee for the transfer of property ownership. Learn how transfer tax is assessed, rules by state and local governments, and how it work...

The prime rate is an index that helps determine rates on loans. But how does that work? In our guide, you’ll learn how the prime rate affects your wall...

Mortgage rates tend to fluctuate, but certain indicators can signal they’re going to drop. Learn when experts predict home interest rates to go down.

What’s the impact on home buyers and sellers when the federal funds rate drops? Learn how a Fed rate drop impacts interest rates and home loans.

The Truth iokay now let's see if that worked n Lending Act (TILA) protects consumers from unfair lending practices. Find out what TILA requires and how it ca...

Mortgage prequalification gives you an estimate of the amount you can borrow to buy a house. Learn more about the loan prequalification process here.

Preforeclosure is the first legal step toward foreclosure. Uncover tips on how to avoid foreclosure and discover some options available to homeowners.