Featured resources

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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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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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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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 family looking at a house possibly their own resident.

5-minute read

No-closing-cost mortgage: Does it make sense for you?

Closing costs can sometimes present a financial barrier for home buyers. In cases like these, applying for a no-closing-cost mortgage can potentially help.

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Couple signing documents and smiling, indicating a positive real estate transaction.

6-minute read

7/6 ARM: Definition and how it works

Are you looking for a lower initial interest rate and not planning on staying in your home long? A 7/6 ARM could be just the ticket for you.

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A man and a women looking at the laptop and smiling.

6-minute read

Should I pay off my mortgage or invest?

Deciding whether to pay off a mortgage or invest can be tricky. Get familiar with all of the potential financial risks and rewards before making this decision.

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Exterior of a southern home with large pink flowers on bushes.

8-minute read

How to buy a house in Tennessee

Are you considering a move to the Volunteer State? Learn about Tennessee’s current real estate market, the home buying process, and the top cities to live...

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Interior of a wood cabin house, showcasing the interior design of a wooden cabin.

8-minute read

Top reasons not to refinance your home: When and why refinancing might be a bad idea

Refinancing can help homeowners secure better rates, but it might not be your best option. Here are nine reasons why refinancing might not make sense for you.

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A woman working on a computer, possibly related to remote work, finances, or digital activities.

10-minute read

How to get a mortgage when you’re self-employed

Wondering how to get a mortgage when you’re self-employed? Learn what you need to qualify and how to put your best application forward to purchase a home.

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Woman on laptop in office smiling.

7-minute read

What is ‘subject to’ in real estate?

A subject-to real estate transaction lets the buyer own the property while the seller keeps the mortgage in their name. Learn about how this arrangement works.

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A contemporary kitchen and living room with stylish furniture including a table and chairs.

9-minute read

Investment property loans: What are they and what are your options?

Considering buying an investment property? Learn what an investment property is, the types of properties you can invest in and how to get financing through a lo...

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Man tending to his garden.

6-minute read

A guide to buying a house with an LLC

There are pros and cons to putting a house under an LLC. Check out our guide for buying an investment property with an LLC.

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A young woman working on a laptop, possibly in a home or office setting.

6-minute read

What is total debt service and the debt service coverage ratio (DSCR)?

Lenders use total debt service to measure your ability to repay a mortgage. Learn what a debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) is and how to calculate it yourself.

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An illustration of a multifamily home, depicting residential housing for multiple families or tenants.

7-minute read

Non-owner-occupied mortgage rates: What investors need to know

Explore non-owner-occupied mortgage rates, key requirements, and financing options for your investment property goals to determine what’s best for you.

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Open concept minimalist kitchen with house plants opening up into outdoor area with green space.

6-minute read

Buying a short-sale home with an FHA loan

Buying a short-sale home with an FHA loan is possible if you meet the loan program’s requirements. Learn more about the rules, pros, and cons of this opti...

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A turquoise bicycle on a front porch, adding a decorative element to the entrance of a home.

6-minute read

Low housing inventory: How it affects the real estate market

Low housing inventory results from an increase in demand for houses without the supply to meet it. Understand how this affects the real estate market.

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