Featured resources

7-minute read

Native American home loans: What you need to know

Native Americans looking to buy a home on tribal land may qualify for specialized government loan programs. Explore these and other mortgage financing options.

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13-minute read

Requesting repairs after a home inspection: What to request (and what’s reasonable)

Learn how to handle home inspection repairs and request repairs after a home inspection. See what’s reasonable to ask for, negotiation options, and tips.

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6-minute read

Can an LLC buy a house?

Yes, an LLC can buy a house, but lenders have specific requirements. Plus, it can be risky. Here’s what you should know before applying for a mortgage....

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10-minute read

What is a fixed-rate mortgage?

A fixed-rate mortgage has an interest rate that never changes. Learn more about how these loans work and how they compare with adjustable-rate mortgages.

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5-minute read

Second mortgage vs. home equity loan: What's the difference?

Home equity loans are a type of second mortgage, but not the only one. Explore the differences between second mortgages and home equity loans in this article.

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5-minute read

How economic occupancy can maximize your rental income

Economic occupancy helps real estate investors see whether their properties’ earnings match the full income potential. Find out about this key metric here...

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7-minute read

What credit score do mortgage lenders use?

Mortgage lenders use several credit scores to qualify borrowers and determine the interest rate they offer. Learn more before you start the home buying journey.

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6-minute read

40-year mortgage: An explanation and the pros and cons

A 40-year mortgage can lower monthly payments, but it costs more and isn’t widely available. Learn how a 40-year home loan works, pros and cons, and al...

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6-minute read

Fixed rate history: Mortgage rate history from 1971 to present

See the 30-year fixed mortgage rate history from 1971 to the present, including averages and trends by decade. Learn how rate cycles affect buying and refinanci...

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5-minute read

Can you break a fixed-rate mortgage?

A fixed-rate mortgage has many benefits, including a reliable payment for the entire term. If you want to end your contract prematurely, it may cost you.

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6-minute read

Home loan options for seniors

You can take out a home loan at any age. Mortgage loans for seniors range from conventional loans to asset-backed funding.

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7-minute read

6 questions unmarried couples should ask before buying a house

Buying a house as an unmarried couple is a huge milestone, but may come with a few extra hurdles. You can protect yourself with some paperwork.

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4-minute read

Wraparound mortgages explained: Everything you need to know

Wraparound mortgages offer the convenience of seller-backed financing, but they aren’t without risk. Learn more about this mortgage loan type here.

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6-minute read

The mortgage constant explained

The mortgage constant is the annual principal-and-interest cost as a percent of your loan. You can use it to compare fixed-rate loans and debt service costs.

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12-minute read

Refinancing: What is it and how does it work?

Learn what mortgage refinancing is, how the refinance process works, and when it might make sense. Compare refinance options to see which one fits you best.

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7-minute read

Property title search: How does it work?

A property title search examines public records to confirm a property’s rightful, legal owner. Learn how it works and what types of issues it can uncover.

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9-minute read

Understanding power of sale, mortgage notes, and foreclosure proceedings

A power of sale clause means that the homeowner faces a speedier foreclosure but walks away without a deficiency judgment on their record.

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9-minute read

What is a refinance appraisal? How the process works

Learn what a refinance appraisal is, why lenders require it, what appraisers look for, and tips to help your appraisal refinance go smoothly.

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