Featured resources

Young family of three sitting on front steps of a house.

8-minute read

Rent-to-own homes: How it works and what to consider

Rent-to-own homes let you put part of your monthly rent toward a down payment on the property. Explore what a rent-to-own home is and how it works.

Read more

Couple embracing while looking at home.

7-minute read

Step-by-step FHA loan process

Learn the step-by-step FHA loan process – from preapproval to closing –with timelines, requirements, and costs explained. Prepare and apply wit...

Read more

Young woman at desk in studio apartment searching for a home on her laptop.

8-minute read

How to buy a house with no money down

Some mortgages allow you to buy a house with no money down. Learn how to buy a house with n...

Read more

Woman in kitchen reviewing paperwork with open laptop nearby.

7-minute read

FHA student loan guidelines

Learn 2025 FHA student loan guidelines: How lenders count payments, DTI examples, IBR and deferment rules, and approval tips. Start now. Get preapproved today.

Read more

Woman looking through a clothes rack.

7-minute read

FHA income and employment rules

Understand FHA income and employment rules, from job history and gaps to self-employment and VOE. See what lenders verify to qualify and get ready to apply now.

Read more

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% to 6% of your loan amount. Explore t...

Read more

Woman doing dishes in her kitchen, smiling.

7-minute read

Home equity line of credit: Defined and explained

A HELOC allows you to tap into your home equity for many purposes. Learn how it works, how to qualify, and how to know if it’s the right option for you.

Read more

A woman writing something on paper possibly working on taxes or finance.

8-minute read

7 ways to refinance a mortgage if you have ‘bad’ credit

If you’re looking to refinance, you’ll typically need to meet credit requirements. But it’s still possible to refinance with bad credit.

Read more

A couple discussing finances or mortgages with an agent.

4-minute read

Understanding fully amortized loans

A fully amortized loan isn’t as confusing as it may sound. Read about how fully amortized loans work, what they’re for and what the payments consist...

Read more

Two girls smiling and laughing on a bed.

7-minute read

Prepayment penalty: What it is and how to avoid it

A prepayment penalty is a fee some lenders charge when you pay all or part of your loan off early. Find out what triggers the fee and how to avoid it.

Read more

Blue house with pink cherry blossom tree in background.

6-minute read

How long does FHA approval take?

How long does FHA approval take? See a clear timeline from preapproval to closing, what affects speed, and tips to fast-track your loan approval. Start now.

Read more

A couple with a real estate agent, potentially engaging in property discussions or viewings.

10-minute read

14 questions to ask a mortgage lender

The best way to pinpoint the right mortgage lender for you is to ask plenty of questions. Read through these 14 essential ones to get you started.

Read more

A woman in a blue shirt enjoying the view from her balcony.

5-minute read

Can you make principal-only payments on your mortgage?

Making principal-only payments on your mortgage can save you on interest over time. Learn how to make a principal-only payment and pay off your loan faster.<...

Read more

Couple sitting on a couch, having a conversation or relaxing together while looking at something on the tablet.

7-minute read

Should you pay off your mortgage early?

Paying off your mortgage early reduces the amount that you’ll pay over time, but is it a good idea? Figure out if paying your mortgage early is worth i...

Read more

Couple sitting on the floor of their home side by side and smiling together.

8-minute read

How to find rent-to-own homes: A guide

Are you on the hunt for a rent-to-own home? Read our helpful guide on the different ways you can go about finding a rent-to-own home that fits your needs.

Read more

Couple signing documents and smiling, indicating a positive real estate transaction.

6-minute read

7/6 ARM: Definition and how it works

Are you looking for a lower initial interest rate and not planning on staying in your home long? A 7/6 ARM could be just the ticket for you.

Read more

Exterior of a southern home with large pink flowers on bushes.

8-minute read

How to buy a house in Tennessee

Are you considering a move to the Volunteer State? Learn about Tennessee’s current real estate market, the home buying process, and the top cities to live...

Read more

A man and a women looking at the laptop and smiling.

6-minute read

Should I pay off my mortgage or invest?

Deciding whether to pay off a mortgage or invest can be tricky. Get familiar with all of the potential financial risks and rewards before making this decision.

Read more

9 of 75

Take the first step toward the right mortgage

Apply online for expert recommendations with real interest rates and payments