Featured resources

A couple discussing finances, real estate investments or taxes on a laptop.

5-minute read

What is deed of trust?

A deed of trust is an agreement between home buyers and lenders at the closing of a property. Learn about trust deeds and how they differ from mortgages.

Read more

A document showing goods sold, income and other things in different years.

8-minute read

Proof of funds: What is a POF letter in real estate?

Proof of funds (POF) is a document that shows how much money a person or entity has available. Learn more about POF letters when getting a mortgage.

Read more

A Black man's hands signing a document on a desk at home, potentially related to paperwork or contracts.

5-minute read

Deed of reconveyance: Definition, process and FAQs

A deed of reconveyance is a document that transfers the property title from the mortgage lender to the borrower. Learn more about how a reconveyance works here.

Read more

A man reviewing paperwork at a laptop, possibly managing real estate or financial documents.

4-minute read

Mortgage loan term: What is it, and which option is best for you?

“Loan term” often refers to how much time it takes a borrower to pay off their mortgage when making regular payments. Learn more about loan term opt...

Read more

Possibly an image depicting occupancy or preparations related to property intent.

3-minute read

Intent to occupy letter: What it is and how to write one

To qualify for some mortgages, your lender may need a letter of your intent to occupy the property. Learn what the letter should include and how to write it....

Read more

Two women looking at different paint colors for their house.

4-minute read

What is a co-borrower? A beginner's guide

When you buy a home with a co-borrower, you typically share ownership of the loan and the home. Let’s explore the pros and cons of having a co-borrower...

Read more

A beautiful brick home, showcasing real estate or homeownership.

7-minute read

Clear to close: What to expect and what happens next

Being clear to close on a mortgage means you're almost done with the mortgage process. Learn how to become clear to close and what happens after.

Read more

The front door of a suburban home with flowers, showcasing curb appeal and home aesthetics.

4-minute read

What is chain of title and why is it important?

Chain of title represents the complete and unbroken ownership of a property. Learn more about chain of title in real estate and why it’s important.

Read more

A home exterior with red shutters on a sunny summer day, portraying a residential property's facade.

4-minute read

Defeasance clause: Definition and overview

Defeasance clauses assure buyers that they’ll get the title once they meet all payment conditions. Learn more about the impact of defeasance on your mo...

Read more

Aerial view of row houses, showcasing a neighborhood or residential area with row-style housing.

5-minute read

Basis points (BPS): A complete guide

Basis points are units of measurement that assess percentages. Learn how this financial tool can determine your mortgage cost and its potential monthly changes.

Read more

An image highlighting a kitchen mosaic tile design.

7-minute read

Mortgage insurance: Your quick guide to different types and cost

Mortgage insurance protects lenders against default on home loans. Learn more about the different types of mortgage insurance, how much it costs and more.

Read more

A backyard villa, showcasing an outdoor residential space or vacation property.

5-minute read

Assessed value vs. market value: Your questions answered

What’s the difference between assessed value and market value? One is the home’s tax-assessed value; the other is what buyers are willing to pay....

Read more

Hands calculating, potentially symbolizing financial calculations or planning related to real estate or mortgage.

3-minute read

Amortization in real estate: A complete guide and definition

Amortization schedules your mortgage payments and tracks what the money goes toward. Learn how amortization works in real estate for different loans

Read more

Colorful apartments in an urban city, depicting vibrant and colorful urban apartments.

4-minute read

What is HUD and what does it do?

HUD is an acronym for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Learn how HUD works, what it does and how it helps aspiring home buyers.

Read more

Two girls smiling and laughing on a bed.

7-minute read

Prepayment penalty: What it is and how to avoid it

A prepayment penalty is a fee some lenders charge when you pay all or part of your loan off early. Find out what triggers the fee and how to avoid it.

Read more

Woman on phone looking over financial documents.

3-minute read

Easement in gross: Defined and explained

An easement in gross gives a person the right to use a parcel of land owned by someone else. Read more about easements in gross and how they work.

Read more

People signing a mortgage note or document.

6-minute read

What is a promissory note? Definition and explanation

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 work.

Read more

Title insurance concept, symbolizing security and protection in property ownership.

Title insurance: What you need to know

A bad title can cause complications and turn your dream home into a nightmare. Use this guide to learn how title insurance can protect your property purchase...

Read more

8 of 9