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A woman hugging her father in front of a property possibly in woods.

5-minute read

Step-Up In Basis Defined: How Does It Work?

If you’re deciding between gifting your home or bequeathing it, you may want to weigh the tax implications first. Learn how a step-up in basis benefits heirs.

10-minute read

What is a home equity agreement?

A home equity agreement is a contract that gives homeowners money in exchange for their home equity and future appreciation. Learn more here.

Family with young boy smiling in front of new home.

3-minute read

Lock today and save tomorrow with Rate Drop Advantage

Have you been waiting to purchase or refinance thinking rates might drop? With Rate Drop Advantage, you can make the move today and still save in the future!

Someone painting the outside of a house, symbolizing sweat equity in home improvement.

6-minute read

Sweat equity in real estate: What is it and how to leverage it

Sweat equity is the official unpaid time and effort an individual puts into a project. Discover how it works to leverage it best.

Small cottage home with stone walls, chimney and a front bay window.

4-minute read

How much house can I afford on $80K?

Starting your home buying journey with a salary of $80,000 a year? Find out your mortgage options and how much house you can afford on $80,000.

Illustration depicting refinancing for home improvements such as by paints.

9-minute read

Refinancing for home improvements: A guide

Are you considering making home improvements? Learn how to refinance your mortgage for home improvements, the benefits of refinancing and more with our guide.

Middle-aged couple creating a budget, possibly discussing refinancing costs or financial planning.

8-minute read

How much does it cost to refinance a mortgage?

The cost to refinance a mortgage depends on your closing fees, which can be 2% – 6% of the loan balance. Learn more about average refinancing costs.

A couple looking towards a house possibly the one they just bought and thinking of starting a new chapter in it.

6-minute read

Kit homes: What you should know before buying

Kit homes are mail-order homes delivered in parts and built right on your property. Explore the pros and cons of building one and how much it could cost you.

Couple exploring a new home with a realtor, examining or considering a property.

8-minute read

How to buy a house with cash in 2025 and beyond

Buying a house with cash can streamline the home buying process, but it can also come with a few downsides. Learn how to buy a house with cash here.

The image shows young female couple pointing at a home, possibly considering it for purchase.

9-minute read

Closing on a house: Your step-by-step guide

The closing process is the final step in the home buying journey. Learn some of the best ways to prepare for closing on a house with our step-by-step guide.

Prefabricated home, potentially showcasing a modern manufactured or pre-built house.

5-minute read

What is a prefab home?

A prefab home is a home constructed from factory-made pieces. Learn whether or not a prefab home would be a more cost-effective housing option for you.

A woman relaxing at home, suggesting a comfortable and serene atmosphere in a residential setting.

5-minute read

Can you get a mortgage without a job?

Lenders want to see proof of employment before they’ll approve a mortgage, but can you get a mortgage without a job? Learn about some special circumstances.

A condo complex with HOA, indicating community living and homeowners' association in real estate.

10-minute read

Homeowners association (HOA): What it means and how it works

A homeowners association (HOA) manages community rules, fees and amenities in a planned neighborhood or complex. Our guide goes over how HOAs work.

A kitchen with updated appliances, showcasing modern amenities in a household setting.

7-minute read

A guide to home equity loan closing costs

Home equity loan closing costs typically range from 3% – 6% of your loan amount. Explore the closing costs you can expect now.

A couple sitting on a couch shaking hands, possibly symbolizing agreement or partnership in a home-related context.

4-minute read

Real estate broker vs. agent: Differences explained

The main difference between an agent and a broker is the number of responsibilities they’re able to take on. Explore this difference in greater detail.

Woman working with a laptop on a couch, potentially managing finances or exploring real estate options online.

11-minute read

What is a rate-and-term refinance?

Are you looking to adjust your interest rate or loan term? Learn about the rate-and-term refinance to determine whether it’s a good option for you.

A countryside mobile home or trailer, depicting a rural housing option or alternative living arrangement.

8-minute read

How a mobile home refinance works

A mobile home refinance is possible for those looking to consolidate their existing loan. Read more about how the manufactured home refinance process works.

A focused image of a man engrossed in working with paperwork, indicating involvement in real estate transactions, financial planning, or administrative tasks related to home buying or mortgage processes.

8-minute read

VA loan entitlement: Everything you need to know

VA loan entitlement is the amount of money the VA will pay if a VA loan borrower defaults on their mortgage. Learn about VA loan entitlement and how it works.

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