Featured resources
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.
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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.
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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.
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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...
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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....
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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...
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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.
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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.
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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...
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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.
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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.
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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....
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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
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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...
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