Featured resources
5-minute read
APR vs. interest rate: What's the difference?
Interest rate and annual percentage rate are terms you’ll often see when comparing mortgages and other loans. Learn the difference between APR and inte...
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3-minute read
What is the NMLS, and how can I get my license?
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.
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8-minute read
What is Ginnie Mae (GNMA) and how does it work?
Discover how Ginnie Mae guarantees mortgage-backed securities, supports the housing market, and helps make homeownership more affordable.
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5-minute read
Co-borrower vs. co-signer: What's the difference?
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....
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7-minute read
Do you have an underwater mortgage? Here are your options
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.
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6-minute read
How a Fed rate drop affects home buyers and sellers
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.
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10-minute read
Contingent: What it means in real estate
In real estate, “contingent” refers to conditions that must be met for a sale to proceed as planned. Learn how contingencies protect potential ho...
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6-minute read
What is Fannie Mae's Community Seconds Program?
Need a little extra help covering your down payment or closing costs? A program like Fannie Mae's Community Seconds might be able to help.
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6-minute read
The appraisal waiver: What home buyers should know
Some buyers are able to skip the appraisal process when purchasing their home. Learn more about appraisal waivers and their benefits with our complete guide.
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4-minute read
What is a desktop appraisal and how does it work?
A desktop appraisal is a property valuation that is completed remotely by a professional appraiser. Find out whether a desktop appraisal is right for you.
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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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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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5-minute read
Get a leg up on the competition with Verified Approval
A Verified Approval allows you to confidently make an offer knowing that your financing is rock solid. Read on for details!
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4-minute read
What is the power of sale in a mortgage note, and how does it affect foreclosure proceedings?
The power of sale allows a lender to sell a home – without judicial review – if a borrower defaults on a mortgage. Learn more about how the power...
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7-minute read
CARES Act mortgage forbearance: FAQs and updates
The CARES Act provides mortgage forbearance and other relief to those suffering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read on for updates on the CARES A...
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6-minute read
Tenancy by entirety: Defined and explained
Tenancy by entirety allows married couples to each own 100% of the property – as one entity. Learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of this type o...
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4-minute read
Property title search: What it is and how it works
A property title search examines public records to confirm a property’s rightful, legal owner. See how title searches work and reasons to be aware of them...
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