An appraisal gap happens when a home appraises for less than your offer. Learn how appraisal gap coverage works and options to help keep your deal on track.

Discover how forbearance affects your credit score, refinancing options, and long-term financial health. Learn the difference between forbearance and deferment.

How often you can refinance your home depends on the loan type and lender rules. Learn about waiting periods, costs, and when refinancing again makes sense.<...

A short-term mortgage lets you pay off your home much faster, but it comes with higher payments. If you can afford it, though, you'll save huge on interest.

Are you wondering, "Are adjustable-rate mortgages bad for my short-term ownership plans?" Find out whether an ARM is worth it and see a year-by-year breakdown.

FHA down payment assistance comes from state, local, and nonprofit programs, as well as employers and lenders. Learn how it works, and where to find programs.

Refinancing after bankruptcy may be possible. Learn about typical waiting periods and steps to improve approval odds after Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

Applying for a condo loan? Learn how condo financing works, what lenders review about the HOA and building, and which loan programs can help you qualify.

A CMO is a type of mortgage-backed security that pools mortgage loans and sells them as investments. Here's how a collateralized mortgage obligation works.

A natural hazard disclosure report (NHD) shows whether a property is in a flood, fire, earthquake, or dam inundation zone. Learn how to use it before closing...

Joint tenancy is a way to co-own property with the right of survivorship. Learn how joint tenants share ownership and what happens if one owner dies.

Prescriptive easements are held by people who gain a right to use someone else’s property. Find out if you should buy property encumbered with easement...

A home appraisal is an important part of many mortgage refinances. Use our refinance appraisal checklist to prepare and increase your chances of a good result.

A kick-out clause allows sellers who’ve accepted an offer to continue showing their home. Learn about other features of a kick-out clause in real estat...

A tax deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of a property that has gone into foreclosure. Read more about how tax deeds work and how to invest.

Mortgage forbearance can be a lifeline for many homeowners struggling to make their mortgage payments. Find out whether mortgage forbearance is a good idea.

Real estate scams are becoming more common – and more sophisticated. Learn what to be on the lookout for and how to protect yourself from real estate scam...

Absentee homeowners own property but don’t live in or manage it. This is a passive investment approach that can prove effective when risks are understood.