Featured resources

Couple on couch drinking coffee and petting their dog.

6-minute read

How much are closing costs on a VA loan?

VA loans have reduced fees, but you still need some cash to close. VA loan closing costs depend on your down payment and whether it's your first loan.

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A country-style home with a wrap-around deck, showcasing its exterior and architectural design.

4-minute read

VA loan down payment requirements

VA loans have different down payment terms compared to other types of mortgage loans. Use this guide to learn about the requirements for VA loan down payment...

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A couple possibly signing the final documents of their new home.

7-minute read

Should you make or accept a backup offer on a home sale?

A backup offer on a home guarantees you a contract with the seller if the first offer fails. Find out if buyers and sellers should try this home sale strateg...

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A picturesque neighborhood with a row of charming houses, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

6-minute read

What are conforming loans and what do they mean to borrowers?

A conforming loan is a mortgage that meets FHFA loan limits, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac guidelines. Learn how it works, the limits, and pros and cons.

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A picturesque neighborhood with well-maintained houses, lush lawns, and neatly trimmed shrubs.

9-minute read

Refinancing your mortgage: Requirements explained

Refinancing your mortgage requires a brand-new loan application. You can increase your chances of approval with good credit and regular income.

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Someone painting the outside of a house, symbolizing sweat equity in home improvement.

6-minute read

Sweat equity in real estate: What is it and how to leverage it

Sweat equity is the unpaid time and effort someone puts into a project. Here’s how it works and how to leverage it in real estate to help boost your re...

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A middle aged man working from home on the laptop and talking on the phone.

5-minute read

Mortgage payoff statement: Everything you need to know

A mortgage payoff statement tells you exactly how much you’ll need to fully repay your loan. Learn how to get it before you make your final mortgage payme...

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A professional appraiser meticulously inspects a property, examining its features and documenting findings.

7-minute read

Home equity loan appraisal: What you need to know

Do you need an appraisal for a home equity loan? You will most likely need an appraisal, so explore our guide to learn more about home equity loan appraisals.

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Home improvement, potentially related to renovation or home improvement concepts.

7-minute read

How to increase your home value: 9 tips

You can increase your home's value and maximize your return on investment with several renovation and remodeling projects. Learn about nine strategies.

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Couple looking at finances in their home while snuggling.

5-minute read

What is compound interest and how is it calculated? A guide

What is compound interest, and how does it work? Learn more about how compound interest differs from simple interest and which financial products use it.

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A father hugging his young son, in their home.

8-minute read

VA loans: Benefits, eligibility requirements, and more

VA loans are a way for current and former service members to secure home loans with no down payment. Learn more about the benefits and how to qualify.

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Illustration of a field side with a road beside and stream flowing.

8-minute read

2026 USDA eligibility map: A guide for home buyers

The USDA eligibility map helps home buyers find properties that can be financed with a USDA loan. Learn more about the USDA eligibility loan map and how to use ...

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An image depicting a co-op townhouse, potentially showcasing a shared housing or cooperative living arrangement.

6-minute read

What is a co-op and how does it work?

A housing co-op is similar to condo living, but with unique ownership and financing requirements. Explore what a co-op is and who should buy one.

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A modern house in twilight, showcasing the architectural design of a modern residence.

5-minute read

Real property: Definition and examples

Real property refers to the rights of ownership that are attached to a property. Your real property rights can affect everything from privacy to leasing.

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Modern house with a large pool, emphasizing a luxurious residential property.

5-minute read

What is home value and how do you determine it?

Knowing how much your house is worth helps you set a realistic sale price and more. Learn more about estimating your current home value.

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Realtor and client hugging in front of home.

5-minute read

What is an assumable mortgage and how does it work?

An assumable mortgage lets a buyer take over the owner’s mortgage payments. Learn more about how an assumable mortgage works and if it’s ideal for y...

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Person in front of computer monitors tracking stock charts.

3-minute read

Federal Reserve statement explained – March 2026

The target for the federal funds rate remained unchanged today in the range of 3.5% – 3.75%. Here’s what officials are thinking about and what it me...

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A couple discussing underwriting with a lawyer, possibly related to a mortgage process.

7-minute read

How long does underwriting take?

Learn how mortgage underwriting works, how long the process usually takes, and steps you can take to speed...

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