Featured resources

View of downtown Charlotte skyline from water.

6-minute read

What is the average mortgage payment in North Carolina?

Discover the average mortgage payment in North Carolina, the factors influencing it, and how mortgage payments in the Tarheel State compare nationally.

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Couple Signing Mortgage

3-minute read

Refinancing with the same lender: Is it a good idea?

Should you refinance your loan with the same lender? It depends on your financial situation and what lenders are offering. Uncover pros and cons to consider....

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

5-minute read

2025 USDA eligibility map: What it is and how to use it

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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A couple sitting on the floor, engrossed in their work on a laptop, possibly related to the renovation of their new house.

10-minute read

Joint VA loan: What it is and how to apply

A joint VA loan is a government-backed loan for eligible military members and co-borrowers. Learn more about a joint VA loan to see if it’s right for you.

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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?

Conforming loans comply with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac rules and are thus eligible for purchase and resale to investors. Find out what that means for you.

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A family gathered around a table, eating and drinking together.

6-minute read

How to be a good neighbor

New to the neighborhood? Being a good neighbor improves quality of life for everyone in an area, and it could even keep your property safer. Here are some ti...

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A house ownership certificate.

6-minute read

Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC): How it can help you afford your mortgage payments

What is a Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC)? This federal tax credit can help first-time buyers save money. Learn how MCCs work, who qualifies, and how to apply...

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Contemporary minimalistic home with interest architectural details and xeroscape landscape.

6-minute read

Jumbo loan vs. conventional loan: What's the difference?

Jumbo loans are designed for high-value homes and differ from conventional loans in size, rates and requirements. Find out which loan type fits your needs.

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A family hanging out in the living room together.

6-minute read

How many times can you use a VA loan?

There’s no limit to the number of VA loans qualified borrowers can take out, but you usually can’t hold multiple VA loans at once. Let’s break...

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Man using power drill working on home improvement project.

10-minute read

These are the best ROI home improvements and renovations

Renovations and home improvement projects can add significant value to your house. Learn more about the best return-on-investment (ROI) improvements for a home.

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Interior frame of a new house under construction, showing the structural development of a new home.

8-minute read

Site-built homes: What you need to know

Site-built homes are constructed entirely at their final location. Discover how these homes are built, their cost, your financing options and the timeline.

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A house against a rolling hill, showcasing a serene residential setting.

8-minute read

Cash-on-cash returns: A guide for real estate investors

Cash-on-cash return is a metric used by commercial real estate investors to see how profitable an investment is. Learn how it works and how to calculate it.

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

7-minute read

Real estate investing: How many mortgages can you have?

Interested in multiple mortgages? Discover how many mortgages Fannie Mae allows, the borrowing requirements and alternative lending options to consider.

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Man with small dog on lap giving him kisses while he searches on laptop at desk in bright room surrounded by houseplants.

6-minute read

Low-income mortgages: What to know about the LIHTC program

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC program) is a tax incentive that provides affordable housing to low-income residents. Learn more about this tax credit.

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A cozy living room with a fireplace and elegant wood flooring, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

5-minute read

Holding a mortgage: Defined and explained

With a holding mortgage, a home seller acts as the lender to a buyer. Find out what a holding mortgage is in more detail, and discover its pros and cons.

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Raltor and client chatting by a large window of a home being shown for sale.

6-minute read

What are the pros and cons of FHA loans?

The benefits of an FHA loan include a low down payment and government backing. But before you choose this type of mortgage, consider the pros and cons.

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Couple looking at open laptop standing up in loft with housepants and exposed brick wall.

7-minute read

Escrow refund: What is it and when does it occur?

Learn what an escrow refund is, when it happens, and what to do with it so you can plan ahead and make the most of any surplus in your mortgage account.

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Woman reviewing financial graphs on laptop at kitchen table.

4-minute read

How to calculate per diem interest

Borrowers can calculate per diem interest using a simple formula. Learn more about what per diem interest is and how it can be calculated on a mortgage loan....

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