Featured resources

Interior frame of a new house under construction, showing the structural development of a new home.

8-minute read

Site-built homes: What you need to know

Site-built homes are constructed entirely at their final location. Discover how these homes are built, their cost, your financing options and the timeline.

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A cozy living room with a fireplace and elegant wood flooring, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

5-minute read

Holding a mortgage: Defined and explained

With a holding mortgage, a home seller acts as the lender to a buyer. Find out what a holding mortgage is in more detail, and discover its pros and cons.

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Raltor and client chatting by a large window of a home being shown for sale.

6-minute read

What are the pros and cons of FHA loans?

The benefits of an FHA loan include a low down payment and government backing. But before you choose this type of mortgage, consider the pros and cons.

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Woman reviewing financial graphs on laptop at kitchen table.

4-minute read

How to calculate per diem interest

Borrowers can calculate per diem interest using a simple formula. Learn more about what per diem interest is and how it can be calculated on a mortgage loan....

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A couple reviewing closing documents, potentially associated with a property closing or finalization process.

9-minute read

Understanding Seller’s Disclosures

A Seller’s Disclosure is a document that requires sellers to reveal details about the property’s condition and its defects. Learn what’s in...

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Man with small dog on lap giving him kisses while he searches on laptop at desk in bright room surrounded by houseplants.

6-minute read

Low-income mortgages: What to know about the LIHTC program

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC program) is a tax incentive that provides affordable housing to low-income residents. Learn more about this tax credit.

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Couple looking at open laptop standing up in loft with houseplants and exposed brick wall.

7-minute read

Escrow refund: What is it and when does it occur?

Learn what an escrow refund is, when it happens, and what to do with it so you can plan ahead and make the most of any surplus in your mortgage account.

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Woman smiling, reviwing paperwork with open laptop in her living room.

8-minute read

A guide to the tax implications of a cash-out refinance

The interest accrued on a cash-out refinance can be deducted under specific circumstances. Use this guide to learn more about your tax responsibilities. 

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Young man looking at some documents while sitting in front of a laptop.

6-minute read

These 4 factors lead to a property tax increase

Property taxes are a core cost of homeownership, and these tax liabilities can increase over time. Learn the four factors that lead to a property tax increase.

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Two women taking a walk with their children in a park.

5-minute read

What’s the difference between surface rights and mineral rights?

There are rights granted to homeowners, but surface and mineral rights can be severed. Here’s how surface and mineral rights work and how to secure them.

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Small white home surrounded by tall trees on a large lawn.

10-minute read

Understanding real estate owned (REO) properties as investment opportunities

Real estate owned (REO) properties are often overlooked investment opportunities. Learn why buying a home from a lender may be the right strategy for you.

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A large brick home with a sprawling green lawn and well-tended landscaping.

7-minute read

USDA Streamline refinance: A complete guide

Discover how a USDA Streamline refinance can lower your mortgage rate and simplify the process when interest rates fall, along with a host of other benefits.

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A white brick house, illustrating residential architecture and exterior design.

8-minute read

Buying a second home with a VA loan

VA loans are designed to help military personnel, veterans, and their families buy a primary residence, but there are ways you can use one to buy a second home.

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A man working in his kitchen while his child sitting beside is looking at it.

8-minute read

11 questions to ask when refinancing your mortgage

Thinking about refinancing your mortgage? Get the best refinance for your borrowing needs by asking these questions before making a decision.

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A modern neutral-colored living room with large windows and stylish furniture.

5-minute read

What to know about condo associations: Your guide to rules, fees and insurance

A condo association is a governing board composed of residents who live in the same housing development. Learn about condo association rules and fees.

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A lady drinking coffee at home, representing relaxation or daily routines at home.

13-minute read

FHA vs. conventional loan: Definition and differences

Your first mortgage decision will likely be whether to apply for an FHA loan or a conventional loan. Learn the difference between these two types of mortgages.

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Senior woman engaged in financial tasks, possibly related to mortgage or property planning.

6-minute read

Homestead exemption: Definition, explanation, and how to qualify

A homestead exemption can potentially reduce your property taxes and help protect your home in tough times. Learn how it works, who qualifies, and how to apply.

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Two story brick home on wooded lot.

6-minute read

What’s the average mortgage payment in Michigan?

Wondering about the average mortgage payment in Michigan? Explore state-specific trends, interest rates, and what to expect when buying a home in the Great Lake...

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