Learn

Featured resources

Neighborhood block, showcasing houses and streets in a residential area.

5-minute read

Is property tax included in your mortgage payment?

Learn how factors like property taxes and insurance can change your monthly home payment.

Run-down house in a suburban-rural area for flipping.

4-minute read

How to find houses to flip: A complete guide

Learn how to find houses to flip and what to consider when selecting the right house.

Man in suit reviewing stock market charts and numbers.

12-minute read

When will mortgage rates go down?

Mortgage rates tend to fluctuate, but certain indicators can signal they’re going to drop. Learn when experts predict home interest rates to go down.

Patio outside home with sliding glass doors outside living room.

6-minute read

How to find liens on a property: A home buyer's guide

Looking to find liens on a property you want to buy? Discover how title searches and combing through county records can help.

A man inspecting the underside of a kitchen sink while holding a clipboard.

4-minute read

A guide to new construction phase inspections

New construction phase inspections can help ensure your new home is built to last. Explore the three phases, their costs and why they’re important.

A yard with flowers, representing a beautiful home exterior.

5-minute read

What does collateral mean and how does it work?

Collateral is any asset a lender accepts to secure a loan. Explore different types of collateral loans, their pros and cons, and how to get one.

Father holding young son while he does paperwork at home.

7-minute read

Is a HELOC a good idea? How to decide

Wondering if a home equity line of credit (HELOC) is a good idea for you? Find out what you should consider before choosing this financing option.

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.

A view of a park in a city with track and benches.

4-minute read

What is property tax and how to calculate it

Property taxes are paid to local governments to help cover the cost of community services. Discover how to calculate property taxes with our guide.

A cozy house with a charming porch and a well-maintained lawn.

5-minute read

Truth in Lending Act (TILA): Defined and explained

The Truth iokay now let's see if that worked n Lending Act (TILA) protects consumers from unfair lending practices. Find out what TILA requires and how it can protect you.

Two individuals discussing a mortgage prequalification.

6-minute read

Mortgage prequalification: What is it and how does it work?

Mortgage prequalification gives you an estimate of the amount you can borrow to buy a house. Learn more about the loan prequalification process here.

5-minute read

2024 Fed rate guide

The Fed rate hikes of 2023 have slowed while rate drops dominate the 2024 market. Explore how the rate hikes and changes affect home buyers.

A mother and father holding their smiling baby outside of their home.

7-minute read

Rent-to-own homes: How it works and what to consider

Rent-to-own homes let you put part of your monthly rent toward a down payment on the property. Explore what a rent-to-own home is and how it works.

A couple at home with a laptop, suggesting online activities related to homeownership or finances.

5-minute read

FHA gift funds: Definition and guidelines

FHA gift funds are a way borrowers can get some outside help with a down payment. Explore FHA gift funds guidelines and best practices.

Young couple standing in their kitchen together looking over papers on the counter.

7-minute read

Mortgage fees to avoid

Knowing what fees to watch out for before and after you close your loan can save you money. Learn how to recognize fees you can avoid.

Woman on laptop and phone with coffee cup on desk.

8-minute read

How much income do I need to buy a house?

Debating if you have the funds to purchase a home? Learn how much income you’ll need to buy a house and what lenders consider when reviewing applications.

Hands holding a smartphone photographing a house, possibly related to real estate or property viewing.

4-minute read

What is a drive-by appraisal and how accurate is it?

A drive-by appraisal is a type of home appraisal that only inspects a property’s exterior. See when and why drive-by appraisals are used and how they work.

A person talking on phone while also working on his laptop.

6-minute read

Does mortgage forbearance affect refinancing? What homeowners need to know

Mortgage forbearance can be a crucial lifeline for homeowners in need of assistance with their loan. But how does mortgage forbearance affect refinancing?

Take the first step toward the right mortgage

Apply online for expert recommendations with real interest rates and payments

I want to buy a home

I’d like to refinance