Featured resources

7-minute read

10 questions to ask when refinancing your mortgage

While you’re comparing rates, speak with lenders and get answers to your questions. Use our list of questions to help guide your conversation.

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4-minute read

Mortgage par rates: What are they and how do they work?

Your mortgage par rate is essentially the baseline rate offered to you by a lender. You may be able to bring this rate down through discount points and more.

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4-minute read

How to remove a name from a mortgage

If you’re going through a divorce or you purchased a home with a fellow investor, there may come a time when you need to remove a name from a mortgage. We...

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10-minute read

15 first-time home buyer tips

Purchasing your first home can be overwhelming. These first-time home buyer tips can help you tackle the process with more confidence.

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9-minute read

How to find fixer-upper homes: Everything you need to know

Are you searching for a fixer-upper to be your dream home or your next fix-and-flip? Learn how to find and buy a fixer-upper that won’t turn into a mon...

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10-minute read

What is a purchase-money mortgage?

This type of financing is unique because a purchase-money loan allows the buyer to finance the seller. Her...

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5-minute read

The appraisal waiver: What home buyers should know

Appraisals are often mandatory during a real estate transaction. However, sometimes an appraisal waiver makes sense, can save you money, and expedite your sale.

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5-minute read

A guide to understanding bundle of rights in real estate

A bundle of rights in real estate refers to the legal rights associated with property ownership: the rights of possession, control, enjoyment, disposition, a...

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6-minute read

What is condemnation in real estate?

What is condemned property? Condemnation occurs when the government uses eminent domain to take property. Learn what condemnation can mean for homeowners.

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4-minute read

Can you get an ARM for an investment property?

Adjustable-rate mortgages have pros and cons for investors. You may benefit from a lower rate at first, but non-owner-occupied rates are still higher.

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7-minute read

Restrictive covenants explained

A restrictive covenant limits how you can use a property. Learn what it is, common examples, legal limits, and how it affects buyers.

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8-minute read

Does consolidating debt affect home buying?

Are you considering consolidating your debt before buying a home? Learn about how debt consolidation affects mortgage approval and how to make a wise decision.

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8-minute read

How to move out: A guide to leaving your parents’ house

Getting ready to move out of your parents’ house? Learn how to transition to renting, build credit and real-life experience, and save for future housing g...

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6-minute read

What is house hacking and is it something you should be doing?

House hacking incorporates a variety of ways you can use your house to pay living expenses. Learn what house hacking is and how you can make it work for you....

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9-minute read

How to know when to buy a house

Knowing when to buy a house takes market knowledge and insight into your personal finances. Here are some tips for knowing you’re ready.

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8-minute read

Online house auctions: What are they and how do they work?

An online home auction lets buyers bid on properties digitally. This is how online auctions work, plus the risks, benefits, and what to expect when bidding.<...

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8-minute read

Buydown: A way to reduce interest rates

Buydowns are methods used by buyers and sellers to lower interest rates in the early years of a new mortgage. Find out if a buydown is right for you.

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6-minute read

USDA construction loan requirements: Everything you need to know

A USDA home building loan can help you construct a loan in an approved rural area. If you qualify, this type of loan has many benefits.

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