Featured resources
11-minute read
What is a short sale in real estate? A guide to the process
A short sale happens when a homeowner in financial trouble sells their home for less than they owe on the mortgage. Learn more about the short-sale process.<...
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5-minute read
Liens and encumbrances: What to know
Liens and encumbrances both relate to legal claims against properties. Learn how they can affect buying, owning and selling your house.
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6-minute read
What is compound interest and how is it calculated? A guide
Compound interest is the money you earn on the interest that accrues on an account, investment or loan. Learn how to calculate compound interest and more her...
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5-minute read
What is a mortgage note and why is it important?
A mortgage note is a legal document that defines the terms of the loan for the borrower and lender. Learn more about mortgage notes and why they’re imp...
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4-minute read
Mortgage par rates: What they are, how they work
A par rate is a rate charged to a borrower based on DTI and other factors. It doesn’t include discount points or other adjustments. Read on to learn mo...
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8-minute read
Mortgage forbearance: What it is and how it works
Mortgage forbearance allows you to pause payments on a mortgage. Read on to learn about how forbearance works and whether it’s right for you.
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4-minute read
What is mortgage curtailment?
Interested in shortening the life of your mortgage loan? Consider how a mortgage curtailment could benefit you in reducing your debt.
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7-minute read
What is a good debt-to-income ratio?
What is a good debt-to-income ratio and why does it matter when getting a mortgage loan? Explore the details to help get the best loan terms possible.
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4-minute read
What is a mortgage rate?
When you get a mortgage, you pay your lender interest based on your mortgage rate. Learn what a mortgage rate is, what determines it and how to get a good one.
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9-minute read
What does it mean to lease a house?
Not ready to buy your next home, yet tired of renting? You have other options available. Read further to understand the key components of leasing a house.
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6-minute read
What is a mortgage commitment letter and how can I get one?
Getting a mortgage commitment letter is an important first step in the home buying process. Read on to find out how you can get a loan commitment letter.
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4-minute read
What is a mortgage processor, and what do they do?
A mortgage processor guides borrowers through the loan application process by collecting documents and information. Learn how they help secure mortgage loans.
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8-minute read
Joint mortgage: A complete guide for borrowers
A joint mortgage is a home loan that multiple borrowers are responsible for paying. Learn more about joint mortgages, including their pros and their cons.
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8-minute read
What Is Fannie Mae (FNMA)? A guide for home buyers
The Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA), or Fannie Mae, purchases and backs mortgage loans for borrowers. Learn more about how Fannie Mae works.
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9-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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4-minute read
Variable interest rate: Should you get one?
Unlike a fixed interest rate, a variable interest rate changes over time based on a predetermined index. Learn how these rates work and why you might want on...
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7-minute read
Capital gains tax on real estate and home sales: A guide
Are you required to pay the capital gains tax on your real estate property? Review our guide to learn what the capital gains tax is, when to pay it and more....
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8-minute read
Mortgage protection insurance explained: Does every homeowner need it?
Mortgage protection insurance is an insurance policy that helps the family of the policyholder make mortgage payments after they die. Read on to learn more.<...
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