Featured resources

An image showing balcony of a house with a green view suggesting good real estate investment.

6-minute read

Everything you need to know about loan estimates or 'good faith estimates'

A Loan Estimate lists the key details of a mortgage, like closing costs and interest rates. Find out what other critical loan terms and costs are in the form...

Read more

Contemporary home with wood panelled exterior and glass floor to ceiling windows.

5-minute read

Buying a flipped house: What you need to know

Watching experts flip a house is exciting, but would you want to actually move in? Learn what to look for before buying a flipped property.

Read more

Realtor showing clients around loft.

7-minute read

Are closing costs negotiable?

When buying or refinancing a house, it’s important to know that closing costs are negotiable. Learn what fees are negotiable and how to bring them down...

Read more

A red brick colonial home in fall, depicting a colonial-style house in an autumnal setting.

4-minute read

What is a warranty deed?

When you buy a home, you want to be sure that no one but you and your lender hold claim to the property. Find out how a warranty deed protects you.

Read more

A picturesque home with a spacious front yard, showcasing its beauty and inviting ambiance.

4-minute read

What is the alienation clause in real estate and how does it work?

The alienation clause, or due-on-sale clause, requires all mortgage payments be made at the time of sale. Learn how it impacts borrowers and real estate.

Read more

Exterior of a red house, illustrating the exterior appearance of a red-colored house.

5-minute read

Price per square foot: Why it matters and how it's calculated

A home’s price per square foot is calculated by dividing the listing price by the home’s square footage. Learn more about this metric and why it mat...

Read more

Couple going through a list, potentially related to a property checklist or planning details.

5-minute read

What is an appraisal contingency and when should I use it?

An appraisal contingency can give home buyers peace of mind about a home's purchase price. Learn how appraisal contingencies work and when to use one.

Read more

People of different races enjoying dinner on the dining table.

6-minute read

What is the minimum VA loan credit score for a home purchase or refinance?

VA home loans are an affordable mortgage option for current and former service members who qualify. Learn about the minimum credit score needed to qualify for a...

Read more

Family sitting at the table outside cheers-ing with summer drinks and smiling.

5-minute read

Program provides qualified Detroiters with up to $25,000 in down payment assistance

Are you a Detroiter trying to buy a home, but lacking the funds for a down payment? A city program provides qualified residents with up to $25,000.

Read more

A man carefully reviewing documents related to real estate or financial matters.

5-minute read

How much does title insurance cost? Estimates, requirements and savings tips

How much does title insurance cost? It varies, but the cost is generally 0.5% – 1% of the home’s sale price. Learn more about the cost of title i...

Read more

Father spending quality time with his daughter, possibly engaged in a learning or creative session.

3-minute read

Freddie Mac BorrowSmart® Accessâ„  expands home afffordability

Freddie Mac BorrowSmart® Accessâ„  offers a credit toward the down payment or closing costs of qualified buyers in certain areas. Read on...

Read more

A man working on multiple computers simultaneously, indicating multitasking or tech-related work.

3-minute read

What is an automated valuation model (AVM)?

An automated valuation model (AVM) is a data-based tool real estate sites use to offer estimated property value on searched properties. Explore how it works....

Read more

A diverse group of individuals gathered around a table, engrossed in conversation.

7-minute read

VA loan limits for 2025: What you need to know

Loan limits cap the amount you can borrow for a mortgage, but VA loans usually don't have a limit. Learn when a loan limit might apply and how they work.

Read more

A kitchen under construction, indicating a renovation or remodeling project.

9-minute read

Buying a fixer-upper house: Pros and cons

You can buy fixer-upper houses at lower prices and renovate them to enjoy or sell. Learn how this works - and uncover the pros and cons of buying a fixer-upp...

Read more

Photograph of contractors holding large house blueprints at a newly built construction site, related to construction or real estate development.

6-minute read

Do you need a real estate license to flip houses?

Do you need a real estate license to flip houses? Find out the truth as well as the pros and cons of a real estate license for house flipping.

Read more

Mother hugging her young son.

8-minute read

Native American home loans: What you need to know

If you’re a member of an indigenous community, you may have Native American home loan choices. We’ll take a look at these and other mortgage financi...

Read more

A man calculating his taxes or finances.

5-minute read

What is ROI on real estate investments and how do I calculate it?

Real estate investors rely on ROI to determine how much profit a property will return and how it compares to other properties. Learn how to calculate ROI.

Read more

A woman enjoying a cup of tea while sitting on a cozy couch possibly thinking about real estate investment or this choice between renting or buying a house.

4-minute read

Rent vs. buy: A guide to help you decide

Deciding between buying or renting your next home? Learn more with our guide, including how to use a rent vs. buy calculator to help you make a decision.

Read more

37 of 72

Take the first step toward the right mortgage

Apply online for expert recommendations with real interest rates and payments