Resources

Learn what manual underwriting is: how it works, when it’s used, how it compares to automated underwriting, and what to expect across different loan types.

How to write a compelling letter to the seller of a home, what to include or avoid, plus tips and examples to help your offer stand out in a competitive...

Learn what a floating interest rate is, how it works, and how it compares to fixed rates. Explore pros, cons, and calculation tips to make informed decisions.

Learn how a tri-merge credit report combines Equifax, Experian & TransUnion data to help lenders assess risk, streamline approvals, and guide your loan choices.

Learn how to flip a house profitably. Discover the steps, pros and cons, common mistakes, and expert tips to succeed in your first house flipping project.

Learn what mortgage curtailment is, how it works, its benefits, types, and key considerations to help you pay off your home faster and save on interest.

Wondering how much house I can afford with a 70k salary? Learn budgeting tips, loan options, and key factors that impact home affordability on a $70K income.

Learn what ownership interest in a property means, the types, your rights, and how it can impact mortgage transactions, titles, and real estate ownership.

Discover what an escrow shortage is, what causes it, how it can raise your mortgage payments, and the most effective steps to handle, reduce, or avoid it.

Try this refinance calculator to understand how much you could save if you refinance your mortgage.

Wondering “How much does it cost to refinance?” Here’s your guide to the short- and long-term costs of refinancing your mortgage.

Better compiled a list of 15 events and milestones in the history of the American mortgage system, using information from news articles, encyclopedias, and historical literature.

Better analyzed U.S. Census Bureau data to determine how homeownership rates have changed over the past 25 years.

With mortgage rates on the rise and suburban competition heating up, discover smart strategies to navigate today’s dynamic and fast-moving housing market.

Refinance appraisal higher than expected? Understand the appraisal process, associated costs, and what it means for your refinancing options and mortgage terms.

Here are the counties where mortgage payments have jumped the most in the past 2 years.

Conventional loans are the most common mortgage type in the US. Here we explain what makes them different from other mortgage options and how to get one.

Can I use a 401 (k) to buy a house without regrets? Learn how it works, what it costs, and whether this strategy fits your homebuying goals and timeline.

A doctor and single parent, forced to downsize after divorce, navigates debt and damaged credit to provide a safe home for her family.

Why wait, save, and pay rent to your landlord when you could be paying off your own home. See why smaller down payments can unlock the door to homeownership.

Refinancing your mortgage? You may want to buy down your interest rate by purchasing points, which can save you thousands over the life of your loan.

Want to buy a home for the first time? More affordable homes are hitting the market now, giving first-time buyers more choices and a better shot at ownership.

A guide to navigating first time homebuyer loans, grants, and programs to make sure you get the most bang for your buck.

A new announcement from the Federal Reserve could mean the end of low rates—but that may not be bad news for buyers and homeowners.

Try this interactive amortization calculator to find the amortization schedule for any fixed-rate mortgage.

Can you still buy a home if you have student loan debt? Turns out you have some options. Here’s what you should know about getting a mortgage.

A lot goes into making an offer on a home. Here are the 6 steps—from determining your price to sealing the deal.

Home prices continue to rise, but the holiday season could spell opportunity for some. See multiple ways first-time buyers can get a competitive edge.

Buying your first home? Don’t fall into these 6 common mistakes. Get expert advice to help you make better choices from the start.