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A young family moving in, indicating a new chapter in home ownership or relocation.

7-minute read

Lease purchase agreements and lease-to-own agreements: What you should know

Learn the key differences between lease purchase and lease-to-own agreements, including benefits, risks, and what to consider before signing.

A beautiful brick home with tan stucco and a winding drive at sunset.

5-minute read

Contingent vs. pending: What's the difference?

Home buyers sometimes confuse contingent versus pending. Learn the difference between pending and contingent and what the two statuses mean in real estate.

Woman working with a laptop on a couch, potentially managing finances or exploring real estate options online.

8-minute read

What is a rate-and-term refinance?

A rate-and-term refinance allows you to replace your current mortgage with one that has better terms. Getting a lower rate or longer term can save you money.

A black man lying down, looking at his phone with a cat beside him.

5-minute read

Refinancing a second mortgage: What you need to know

Refinancing a second mortgage can help you save money on your loan. Learn how it works, the pros and cons, and how to know if it’s the right choice for yo...

Mother and young son swinging at park on a sunny day.

5-minute read

Are property taxes included in a mortgage?

Are property taxes included in your mortgage? Learn how factors like property taxes and insurance can change your monthly home payment.

An elegant home featuring a driveway and meticulously designed landscaping.

8-minute read

5/1 ARM loan: Everything you need to know

A 5/1 ARM offers home buyers a low introductory interest rate for the first 5 years of their loan. Learn more about how a 5-year ARM loan could work for you.

A woman standing in front of a row of houses, showcasing a peaceful neighborhood setting.

6-minute read

What is a real estate agent and what do they do?

Real estate agents make real estate transactions go much more smoothly than if you go it alone. Learn more about what an agent can do for you.

A women working from home on her laptop with her kid nearby.

4-minute read

What is the refinance break-even point?

The break-even point for a refinance shows homeowners how long it will take to recoup the costs of refinancing. Learn how to calculate your potential savings he...

Close-up of older couple in glasses reviewing financial documents at dining table.

5-minute read

Property tax exemptions: Seniors, veterans and others who qualify

Property tax exemptions help qualifying property owners by reducing or eliminating their property tax bill. Learn who qualifies for these exemptions and more...

Attorney dressed in white turtleneck and white blazer, smiling at client.

7-minute read

Real estate attorney: What they do and if you need one

A real estate attorney can help navigate the process of real estate transactions. Read our article to learn what real estate attorneys do and whether you nee...

An abandoned house surrounded by dense foliage.

7-minute read

How to buy abandoned properties: A guide

Learn how to buy abandoned properties by following these five steps. Invest in abandoned houses safely and with solid financial plans when you use this guide...

Hands pressing a calculator and writing on a notepad, signifying financial calculations or planning.

6-minute read

How to refinance an FHA loan to a conventional loan

Refinancing from an FHA loan to a conventional one offers several benefits. Learn how to refinance from an FHA loan, as well as the pros and cons.

A white house with a spacious lawn and trees surrounding it.

9-minute read

Buying a house with a septic tank: Pros and cons

Buying a house with a septic tank can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Read on to learn about the pros and cons of using a home’s se...

Woman reviewing financial graphs on laptop at kitchen table.

5-minute read

$350,000 mortgage: Total cost and how to manage it

The cost of a $350,000 loan depends on your interest rate, homeowners insurance premiums, and more. Here’s how to figure out what you can afford.

Business woman wearing reading glasses on phone and working on laptop.

4-minute read

What is a mortgagee? Definition, rights, and role when buying a house

A mortgagee is a financial institution that offers mortgages. Learn more about how it differs from a mortgagor and what you need to know about working with o...

A man speaking to a financial advisor, potentially discussing financial planning related to real estate or homeownership.

5-minute read

What is correspondent lending?

Correspondent lending happens when a lender originates and funds a mortgage, but then sells it. Read more about correspondent lending and how it works.