Zombie foreclosures demonstrate the risks of leaving before foreclosure ends. Understand these homes and their potential to resurface and create problems later.

The prime rate is a desirable borrowing interest rate offered by lenders to creditworthy applicants. Here’s what mortgage applicants need to know.

Mortgage discount points can be purchased to lower the interest rate on a new loan. Use this guide to help you decide if you should buy them.

A short sale may be a solution when a homeowner is in a dire financial situation and needs to sell their home for less than they owe. Learn about this option.

A mortgage loan term is the time it takes a borrower to pay off their loan when making regular payments. Learn how to pick the right term for your goals.

Knowing the difference between appraised value vs. market value is key when purchasing a home. Learn more about the role each plays in real estate transactio...

A promissory note is a repayment agreement between a borrower and lender, but how does it differ from a loan? Read on to see how promissory notes affect you.

Collateral is an asset used to secure a loan. If a borrower defaults, the lender can take the collateral to recover losses.

Learn what assessed value means, how it's calculated, and how it affects property taxes. Know the differences between assessed, appraised, and market values.

Mortgage delinquency means that a borrower’s payment is at least 30 days overdue. Understand how late payments affect your credit and your financial futur...

A forbearance agreement allows borrowers to temporarily suspend mortgage payments during unexpected financial hardship. Learn if it’s the right option for...

When you buy a home, you want to be sure that no one but you and your lender hold claim to the property. Find out how a warranty deed protects you.

A floating interest rate fluctuates over your loan’s term, changing your mortgage payment amount. Read on to learn about floating rates and how they wo...

Mortgage insurance protects lenders against default on home loans. Learn about the different types of mortgage insurance, typical costs, and ways to avoid this ...

Renting a house is different from renting an apartment. If you aren’t ready to buy, here’s what you should know before leasing a house.

If you're preparing to buy a home, it's important to understand the difference between an appraisal and an assessment. Read on to learn how they compare.

Regulation Z, or the Truth in Lending Act, requires lenders to disclose key loan details like terms, interest rates, and annual percentage rates (APRs).

Liens and encumbrances both relate to legal claims against properties. Learn how they can affect buying, owning, and selling your house.