Mortgage ProductsOctober 20, 2021Fixed vs. adjustable-rate mortgage: What’s better in 2024?Learn about the differences between a fixed vs. adjustable rate mortgage, including interest rates, monthly payments, pros and cons for each loan type.
Buying a homeOctober 18, 2021How can I buy a house with student loan debt? (Podcast)It's definitely possible to buy a house with student loan debt. Learn how to work around student loan debt and qualify for a mortgage more easily.
Mortgage StrategySeptember 15, 2021Should I use my builder’s preferred lender? Pros and consIf you're buying a new construction home, the builder may have a preferred mortgage lender. Should you work with this company? Here are the pros and cons.
Mortgage ProductsSeptember 15, 2021FMERR 2024 guidelines and eligibility: The Freddie Mac Enhanced Relief Refinance ProgramFMERR – the Enhanced Relief Refinance Program – allows homeowners to refinance into a lower rate with little or no home equity. Do you qualify?
Mortgage StrategySeptember 1, 2021How inflation affects investments and real estate (Podcast)How does inflation affect investments — and in particular, real estate? Learn about housing and inflation, and whether it makes sense to buy right now.
Cash Out RefinanceAugust 24, 2021U.S. homeowners have $153K “tappable” home equity on averageAmerican homeowners have never before had so much home equity. But how do you take equity out of your home? And should you? Learn more here.
Mortgage ProductsAugust 17, 202115 vs. 30-Year Mortgage: Which is best?What's better, a 15-year or 30-year mortgage loan? Explore the pros and cons of 15 vs. 30-year mortgages and compare rates and costs.
Mortgage StrategyAugust 6, 2021Can you buy a house or get a mortgage on unemployment?Most people cannot buy a house on unemployment. But many can qualify very soon after going back to work. Learn how to get a mortgage after unemployment.
Mortgage StrategyJuly 27, 2021Pros and cons of a 20 percent down payment (Podcast)You don't need 20 percent down to buy a house. And even if you have the cash, putting 20 down might not be the best move. Explore your options here.
RefinanceJune 24, 2021My home appraised below purchase price. What now?What happens if your home appraisal is lower than the purchase price? Or your refinance appraisal comes in too low? Here are your next steps.
First-Time Home BuyersJune 18, 2021First-time home buyer loans: Low or no money down (Podcast)This podcast covers low- and zero-down first-time home buyer loans. Get advice for home buying and paying closing costs with very little out of pocket.
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 27, 2021Should I lock a mortgage rate today? Rate lock strategiesWhen should you lock a mortgage rate? Ideally, after you're approved for the loan and found the lender offering your lowest rate.
RefinanceMay 24, 2021How refinancing affects your credit score, and vice versaDoes refinancing hurt your credit? Done correctly, the effects of refinancing should be tiny. But you need to know how to protect your score.
Real EstateApril 22, 20215 Things to Know Before Buying a CondoBuying a condo can be a great idea. But there are certain risks and costs that come with condo ownership. See the pros and cons of buying a condo here.
Mortgage StrategyApril 21, 2021Historic home renovations: How to qualify for historic home grants and loansHistoric home renovations can be expensive. Luckily, there are loans, grants, and tax breaks that can make the renovation process more affordable.
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 StrategyApril 8, 2021Gift letter for mortgage: How to give or receive a down payment giftUse these step-by-step instructions for accepting a cash downpayment gift on a home, including a ready-to-use mortgage gift letter template.
Mortgage NewsMarch 11, 2021COVID-19 stimulus programs for homeowners and renters [Updated for 2021]Current list of government and private relief programs to help homeowners and renters economically affected by COVID-19.