Featured resources

Front porch with potted plants of large home in Alabama.

10-minute read

Average closing costs in Alabama

Alabama closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your new home.

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Top of a house in the process of being constructed.

7-minute read

FHA Construction-to-permanent loans: A guide

Learn how FHA construction-to-permanent loans fund your build and convert to a mortgage with flexible credit and low down payments. Compare options and apply.

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Mother looking at baby being held by father in their cozy home.

9-minute read

What credit score do you need to buy a house?

Wondering what credit score you need to buy a house? There’s often no hard answer, but higher scores will always mean more options. Check out practical ad...

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Young family of three sitting on front steps of a house.

8-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.

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Large home with solar panels at sunset with geese flying overhead.

10-minute read

What is an FHA Energy Efficient Mortgage?

Learn how an FHA Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) can finance cost‑effective upgrades, lower utility bills, and boost comfort. See requirements and get started.

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Woman in kitchen reviewing paperwork with open laptop nearby.

7-minute read

FHA student loan guidelines

Learn 2025 FHA student loan guidelines: How lenders count payments, DTI examples, IBR and deferment rules, and approval tips. Start now. Get preapproved today.

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A kitchen with updated appliances, showcasing modern amenities in a household setting.

7-minute read

A guide to home equity loan closing costs

Home equity loan closing costs typically range from 3% to 6% of your loan amount. Explore t...

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Woman doing dishes in her kitchen, smiling.

7-minute read

Home equity line of credit: Defined and explained

A HELOC allows you to tap into your home equity for many purposes. Learn how it works, how to qualify, and how to know if it’s the right option for you.

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A woman writing something on paper possibly working on taxes or finance.

8-minute read

7 ways to refinance a mortgage if you have ‘bad’ credit

If you’re looking to refinance, you’ll typically need to meet credit requirements. But it’s still possible to refinance with bad credit.

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Young woman at desk in studio apartment searching for a home on her laptop.

8-minute read

How to buy a house with no money down

Some mortgages allow you to buy a house with no money down. Learn how to buy a house with n...

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Couple embracing while looking at home.

7-minute read

Step-by-step FHA loan process

Learn the step-by-step FHA loan process – from preapproval to closing –with timelines, requirements, and costs explained. Prepare and apply wit...

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Woman looking through a clothes rack.

7-minute read

FHA income and employment rules

Understand FHA income and employment rules, from job history and gaps to self-employment and VOE. See what lenders verify to qualify and get ready to apply now.

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A couple discussing finances or mortgages with an agent.

4-minute read

Understanding fully amortized loans

A fully amortized loan isn’t as confusing as it may sound. Read about how fully amortized loans work, what they’re for and what the payments consist...

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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.

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A couple with a real estate agent, potentially engaging in property discussions or viewings.

10-minute read

14 questions to ask a mortgage lender

The best way to pinpoint the right mortgage lender for you is to ask plenty of questions. Read through these 14 essential ones to get you started.

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A woman in a blue shirt enjoying the view from her balcony.

5-minute read

Can you make principal-only payments on your mortgage?

Making principal-only payments on your mortgage can save you on interest over time. Learn how to make a principal-only payment and pay off your loan faster.<...

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Couple sitting on a couch, having a conversation or relaxing together while looking at something on the tablet.

7-minute read

Should you pay off your mortgage early?

Paying off your mortgage early reduces the amount that you’ll pay over time, but is it a good idea? Figure out if paying your mortgage early is worth i...

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Couple sitting on the floor of their home side by side and smiling together.

8-minute read

How to find rent-to-own homes: A guide

Are you on the hunt for a rent-to-own home? Read our helpful guide on the different ways you can go about finding a rent-to-own home that fits your needs.

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