Featured resources

Couple smiling in empty open living room with fireplace.

6-minute read

Final walk-through checklist: What to look for

The final walk-through is often the last step before closing on your home. Learn how it works, what to watch out for during it, and what to do if you find is...

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Multiple houses in a row, representing a residential area or neighborhood.

8-minute read

Real estate investing: How many mortgages can you have?

Are you looking to expand your real estate portfolio? There is technically no limit to how many mortgages you can have, but lending rules still apply.

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Woman reviewing multiple pages of loan agreement with eye glasses in her hand.

6-minute read

Understanding loan estimates, or 'good faith estimates'

A loan estimate, or a “good faith estimate,” is a standardized document detailing your loan’s terms. Here’s how to use one before get...

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Aerial shot of a neighborhood, showcasing houses, streets, and community living.

11-minute read

Deed in lieu of foreclosure: What is it and is it right for you?

A deed in lieu of foreclosure is an option that could allow you to stay in your home and protect your credit. Here’s how it works.

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A woman in an office working on a loan application on a laptop.

6-minute read

Conditional approval for a mortgage: What it means and what to do next

Conditionally approved for a mortgage? Learn what it means, common lender conditions, what can still derail approval, and how to reach clear to close.

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A woman multitasking on a phone call and computer, potentially related to mortgage or real estate inquiries.

6-minute read

Preapproval vs. prequalification: What’s the difference?

Preapproval and prequalification are both important steps toward getting a mortgage, but what’s the difference? Learn when you need each and what to do ne...

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Swan inner tube in private pool with desk and garden at luxury property.

5-minute read

How a jumbo loan works

Jumbo loans offer financing for properties that exceed conventional conforming mortgage limits. Before applying, borrowers should check out our guide.

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Middle-aged couple with teen son on front porch of new home.

7-minute read

How to strengthen your mortgage application before you apply

Getting ready to apply for a mortgage? Learn how to strengthen your application, understand what lenders look for, and have the best shot at loan approval.

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Row of detached houses with trees in the foreground.

5-minute read

What is a probate sale in real estate?

A probate sale takes place when an owner dies without a legal will. Learn how to buy a probate property and see if probate real estate makes sense for you.

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A couple on a couch with a laptop, potentially engaging in real estate-related activities or discussions.

8-minute read

Why are mortgage rates still going up, and how can you buy in 2026?

Many factors can determine whether you qualify for a mortgage. Learn what influences your mortgage qualification and how you can improve your chances at the rig...

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A women likely worried possibly after hearing some news on the phone.

6-minute read

Mortgage forbearance: What it is and how it works

Mortgage forbearance lets you pause or reduce payments during financial hardship. See how it works, what it covers, and what to expect when the pause ends.

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A row of bungalows, illustrating a series of single-story residential homes or a housing complex.

7-minute read

A cost segregation study: What it is and how it works

Cost segregation is a method of tax planning that can help real estate owners increase their cash flow. Learn about cost segregation studies and how they wor...

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Two girls smiling and laughing on a bed.

6-minute read

Prepayment penalty: What it is and how to avoid it

A lender may charge a prepayment penalty when you pay off your mortgage early. Find out what triggers the penalty, how much it can cost, and how to avoid it.

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A man inspecting the underside of a kitchen sink while holding a clipboard.

5-minute read

A guide to new construction phase inspections

New construction phase inspections can help ensure your new home is built to last. Explore the three phases, their costs and why they’re important.

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Family with five daughters and large dog, possible a military family, in front of grey home.

9-minute read

Can you refinance a VA loan?

Are you considering refinancing a VA loan? Learn about VA-backed and conventional refinance options and requirements to determine which works best for you.

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Man in suit jacket with clipboard appraising a home while standing in the living room.

9-minute read

How long after an appraisal do you close?

Wondering how long after the appraisal you can close on your house? Learn how appraisals impact your loan and closing timeline, and key factors to consider.

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An image showing a couple discussing finances, possibly related to financial planning or discussions.

4-minute read

A guide to broker price opinion (BPO)

A broker price opinion (BPO) estimates a property's value based on comparable sales. Learn when a BPO is often used and how it differs from an appraisal.

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Beachfront home against a blue sky, representing luxurious coastal properties.

6-minute read

What is rental property depreciation and how does it work?

Real estate depreciation is a rental tax break available to landlords. The IRS assumes a property will depreciate by 3.6% per year and lets you deduct the lo...

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