Featured resources

7-minute read
USDA vs. conventional loans: What's the difference?
The application process for USDA loans and conventional loans is quite different. USDA loans have a more narrow focus but flexible credit terms.
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5-minute read
Does mortgage preapproval affect your credit score?
Mortgage preapproval can cause your credit score to dip by a few points because it requires a hard inquiry on your credit report. Here's what you need to know.
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7-minute read
Your guide to buying a house after a divorce
Buying a house after a divorce requires re-evaluating your finances and credit and deciding whether to stay in your current home or move on to a new one.
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7-minute read
What to expect with a remote closing on a house
Are you planning to buy a home and want to minimize in-person meetings? Learn how a remote closing on a house works and why this type is becoming more common...
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8-minute read
First-time home buyer qualifications: What to know
See first-time home buyer qualifications, including credit score, DTI, down payment, and income limits, plus loan options and next steps for getting a mortgage.
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3-minute read
How long does mortgage preapproval last?
A mortgage preapproval letter shows you how much a lender has conditionally approved you for. It lasts for a few months and may strengthen your offer.
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6-minute read
What is a home equity agreement?
A home equity agreement is a contract that gives homeowners money in exchange for their home equity and future appreciation. Learn more here.
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7-minute read
10 tips for buying a house out of state
Making a long-distance move can be stressful, but virtual tours and closings can simplify things. Check out our tips for buying a home in another state.
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6-minute read
Selling a house after a year: How soon can I sell?
Is it too soon to sell? Learn how timing, equity, taxes, possible penalties, and your local market affect whether selling your home now makes financial sense.
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4-minute read
Fixed-rate HELOCs: Pros and cons
Lenders sometimes offer HELOC borrowers a choice between fixed-rate HELOCs and variable-rate HELOCs. Learn how fixed-rate options work and how to choose.
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5-minute read
Pest inspection: Is it a requirement to get a mortgage?
Checking for pests before you buy a home is always a good idea. If you have a government-backed loan, a pest inspection may be mandatory where you live.
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7-minute read
Reverse mortgage foreclosure: Everything you need to know
If an event triggers the foreclosure process on your reverse mortgage, you can still avoid losing the property. Learn more about the timeline and your options.
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10-minute read
13 common first-time home buyer mistakes and how to avoid them
First-time home buyers can run into many preventable setbacks throughout the purchase process. Learn 13 common home buying mistakes and how to avoid them.
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6-minute read
Tax lien investing: What you need to know
Tax lien investing involves purchasing property tax debt. Once you own the debt, the homeowner owes you their property taxes within a short time frame....
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7-minute read
A guide for understanding home improvement loans
Home improvement loans can help you finance anything from a few cosmetic changes to a major renovation. Figure out what loan option is right for you.
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6-minute read
What to consider before getting a home equity line of credit (HELOC)
A home equity line of credit can help you pay for home renovations or consolidate debt. However, there are pros and cons to a HELOC worth considering.
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5-minute read
What is depreciation recapture, and how can I avoid it?
If you deducted depreciation on an investment property and sell it for a profit, you may be subject to depreciation recapture. Learn more about the process.
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10-minute read
The pros and cons of bridge loans
A bridge loan is a short-term loan that lets a homeowner use the equity in their home when buying a new home. Learn about the pros and cons of bridge loans.
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