Mortgage RatesJune 22, 2021What are mortgage teaser rates? Teaser rates explainedA mortgage teaser rate is a low introductory rate that can rise later on. These interest rates offer great deals, but they can be risky. Learn more here.
About MortgagesJune 8, 2021Can stipend income be used to qualify for a mortgage?Stipend income typically doesn't count as income for a mortgage. But it might still help you qualify. Here's what to know before you apply.
Mortgage StrategyJune 1, 2021Is an ARM loan a good idea in 2021?Is an ARM loan a good idea right now? If you're thinking of getting one, you need to learn about the pros and cons of ARM loans in today's market.
Mortgage RatesMay 18, 2021Mortgage rates and inflation: Why are rates going up?What's the relationship between mortgage rates and inflation? Learn why high inflation might cause mortgage rates to go up this year.
About MortgagesApril 13, 2021How to calculate commission income for a mortgageCommission income is usually accepted by lenders if you have a 2-year earnings history. See how lenders calculate commission income for mortgage qualifying.
Mortgage ProductsMarch 30, 2021How the Fannie Mae HomeStyle Loan works: Process and requirementsThe Fannie Mae HomeStyle loan lets you buy a home and carry out renovations with one mortgage. Learn about HomeStyle rates and requirements here.
About MortgagesMarch 24, 2021What is an assumable mortgage and how does it work? Pros and consAn assumable mortgage lets you take over an existing loan at its current interest rate and terms. When is an assumable mortgage a good idea?
About MortgagesMarch 10, 2021What is home equity and how can you use it?What is home equity and how does it work? Learn how to calculate your home equity and how having equity can benefit you.
About MortgagesMarch 3, 2021How Long Does Underwriting Take?Mortgage underwriting can take days or weeks depending on your lender and application. Here's what to expect from underwriting and what to do about delays.
Mortgage Lender ReviewsFebruary 22, 2021The 8 best USDA lenders for 2025Compare the best USDA lenders to get a great deal on your home loan. USDA loans require zero down payment and have below-market interest rates.
About MortgagesFebruary 9, 2021APR vs. interest rate for mortgages: Which matters more?APR vs. interest rate: Both numbers are important for comparing mortgages. But which one matters more? That depends on your home buying goals.
FHA Home BuyingFebruary 8, 2021Biden administration could reduce FHA mortgage insurance premiums. Here’s what it means for youMany mortgage pros believe President Biden will cut FHA mortgage insurance premium (MIP) rates. Here's what that means for you.
About MortgagesJanuary 28, 2021Title insurance and owner’s title insurance explainedTitle insurance protects you against outside claims to your property. Lender's title insurance is required but you should get owner's title insurance, too.
FHA Home BuyingJanuary 25, 2021DACA home loans — FHA will now approve home loans for ‘Dreamers.’ Here’s how to get approvedThanks to a new policy, FHA is now accepting DACA home loans. Learn about the pros and cons of FHA loans and whether you qualify for financing.
About MortgagesJanuary 12, 2021Debt-to-income ratio, taxes, and insurance: How your DTI is calculatedDTI, your 'debt-to-income ratio,' includes taxes and insurance as part of your mortgage payment. Here's how to find your DTI with taxes and insurance.
Conventional LoansJanuary 5, 2021Conventional loan home requirements: Is an inspection required?Conventional loans have a few basic property standards, but no in-depth home condition requirements. You likely want a home inspection anyway.
About MortgagesDecember 30, 2020What is PITI? Mortgage payments explainedPITI stands for Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance: the 4 parts of your monthly mortgage payment. Find out why your PITI payment matters.
Homeownership TopicsDecember 30, 2020How the mortgage interest deduction helps homeownersThe mortgage interest deduction is a tax break for those who itemize their deductions on a Schedule A. Here's how the mortgage interest deduction helps you.
About MortgagesDecember 24, 2020Why real estate investors should consider a blanket mortgageA blanket mortgage lets real estate investors buy multiple properties with one loan. Find out how a blanket loan works, plus pros and cons.
Buying a homeDecember 23, 2020How to buy a house: Your guide to the home buying processIf you want to buy a house but don't know where to start, start here. We explain how to buy a house in 10 approachable steps. You can even do step 1 today.