Featured resources

Cabin house on rural land, representing rural or countryside living.

4-minute read

What is hazard insurance for homes: A homeowners guide

Hazard insurance protects your home from natural disasters. Learn what it is, what is covered under hazard insurance and how it’s different from homeowner...

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A woman painting a home in green, illustrating a woman painting the exterior of a house in green color.

5-minute read

What is home appreciation and how is it calculated?

Home appreciation tracks how a property increases in value over time. Learn how appreciation works and how you can raise your home's value before selling.

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An upscale kitchen with a white island bar and wall shelving, potentially depicting interior design or real estate features.

3-minute read

Understanding appraisal vs. assessment

If you’re preparing to buy a home, it’s important to understand the difference between an appraisal and an assessment. Read on to learn how they ...

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Image indicating a worried couple possibly by taxes or some other information written on the paper.

4-minute read

What is mortgage delinquency?

Concerned that you’re falling behind on your mortgage payments? Learn how to avoid mortgage delinquency, plus how to get out of it with help from your ...

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Middle aged couple sitting on couch, holding a tablet and looking at each other.

8-minute read

How long does it take to get a home equity loan?

It takes time to apply and get approved for a home equity loan. Find out about how long the process takes from start to finish, as well as what to expect.

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An Asian couple carrying boxes while moving into a new home.

6-minute read

The costs of buying a house that first-time home buyers should prepare for

Purchasing your first home is a major achievement – so make sure you're financially ready for it. There are several costs to consider when buying a hou...

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White condos with small porches, depicting a residential complex or condominiums.

6-minute read

HOA special assessment: What it is and how to handle it

Moving to a neighborhood with an HOA? You should be prepared to pay some extra, unexpected feed. Here's what you need to know about special assessments.

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Group of people discussing mortgage options and paperwork.

8-minute read

Mortgage statements: What are they and how long should you keep them?

Some mortgage documents contain important info you should hold onto for tax purposes. But how long should you keep mortgage statements? Find the answer.

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Middle-aged man applying for a loan while sitting on couch.

6-minute read

Earnest money and VA loans: What you need to know

Discover the role of earnest money deposits with VA loans. Learn how earnest money affects your VA loan offer so you can make informed decisions when buying a h...

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A Scandinavian-style dining area, showcasing interior design or home decor ideas.

5-minute read

FHA adjustable-rate mortgage: What it is and how it works

An FHA adjustable-rate mortgage is designed for borrowers who want to make an easier transition to homeownership. Learn how it works, plus pros and cons.

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A woman smiling  alone with a cup of tea in a new house, while engaged in unpacking and shifting.

6-minute read

Buying a house as a single woman: A how-to guide

Are you interested in becoming a homeowner but have a single income? Read our guide to learn more about what to expect when buying a house as a single woman....

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Lovely house with a porch and stairs, ideal for a peaceful and relaxing lifestyle potentially indicating good real estate investment.

5-minute read

Reverse mortgage foreclosure: Everything you need to know

At risk of foreclosure on your reverse mortgage? Learn more about the reverse mortgage foreclosure timeline and how you can avoid foreclosure on your home.

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An older couple on a couch with a book, depicting relaxation or leisure time at home.

5-minute read

FHA minimum property standards checklist: What you should know

Planning on purchasing a home with an FHA loan? Make sure it can be FHA-approved with our useful FHA minimum property standards checklist.

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A woman managing bills or finances, possibly organizing payments or budgeting.

9-minute read

House poor: What it means and how to avoid it

Being house poor means most of your income goes toward your mortgage. See how people become house poor and learn how to keep it from happening to you.

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A foreclosed house for sale, depicting a distressed property.

5-minute read

What is a zombie foreclosure?

Zombie foreclosures demonstrate the risks of leaving before foreclosure ends. Understand these homes and their potential to resurface and create problems lat...

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Manufactured home in the forest.

8-minute read

Can you get a home equity loan on a manufactured home?

As a manufactured homeowner, you may be wondering if you can tap into your home equity. Learn how to take out a home equity loan on a manufactured home.

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A house with green grass and bushes, indicating a well-maintained property with landscaping.

4-minute read

What is a government-sponsored enterprise (GSE)?

A government-sponsored enterprise (GSE) is a federally backed entity that boosts credit in the mortgage market. Learn about GSEs and how they work here.

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A man sitting on a chair with his dog in front of a laptop, working comfortably from home.

11-minute read

What is a short sale in real estate? A guide to the process

A short sale happens when a homeowner in financial trouble sells their home for less than they owe on the mortgage. Learn more about the short-sale process.<...

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