Mortgage basics

Featured resources

Woman on phone looking over financial documents.

3-minute read

Easement in gross: Defined and explained

An easement in gross gives a person the right to use a parcel of land owned by someone else. Read more about easements in gross and how they work.

Small American House In A Seaside Village

10-minute read

$350,000 mortgage: Total cost and other factors to consider

Considering a $350,000 mortgage for your home purchase? Learn about a mortgage this size, the upfront and monthly costs to expect, how to get one, and more.

6-minute read

A comprehensive guide to mortgage payments on a $300K loan

Curious if you can afford a $300K mortgage? Explore different loan terms and interest rate options so you’ll know before buying what your payments will be.

Smiling young couple using silver laptop while green houseplants sit on the wooden table behind them.

6-minute read

How to pay your mortgage easily

Making a mortgage payment on time is easier than ever. Read on to see which option fits your needs, from automated monthly payments to paying over the phone.

8-minute read

How to get a mortgage without 2 years of work history

Getting a mortgage without 2 years of work history is possible – but will involve extra paperwork. Learn everything you need to know to qualify for a home loan.

Housemates gathering in a living room, possibly portraying shared living or communal spaces.

8-minute read

Joint tenancy: Definition, pros and cons

Joint tenancy is a legal agreement where two or more people have equal rights and ownership interests in a property. Learn how it works and the pros and cons.

People signing a mortgage note or document.

6-minute read

What is a promissory note? Definition and explanation

A promissory note is a repayment agreement between a borrower and lender, but how does it differ from a loan? Read on to see how promissory notes work.

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

12-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 questions to ask a mortgage lender.

A family happily unpacking boxes in their new home, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

6-minute read

Types of assets to include on your mortgage application

Lenders examine your assets when assessing your mortgage application. Learn which types of assets should be included to improve your chances of approval.

A worried woman on a phone who probably just heard a concerning news.

8-minute read

Foreclosure defined: What it is, how to avoid it and what it means for you

Don’t get lost in a legal maze trying to detangle the ins and outs of foreclosure. Use our guide to confidently navigate the process and steer clear of scams.

Title insurance concept, symbolizing security and protection in property ownership.

Title insurance: What you need to know

A bad title can cause complications and turn your dream home into a nightmare. Use this guide to learn how title insurance can protect your property purchases.

A girl playing with cardboard boxes during the unboxing of things possibly after shifting into a new home.

9-minute read

Mortgage origination fee: The inside scoop

Ready to apply for a mortgage and wondering if you should pay an origination fee? Find out how this common charge can actually save you money in the long run.

A red brick home front with teal colored door and plant vines.

7-minute read

Earnest money: What is it and how much is enough?

Earnest money protects buyers and sellers in a real estate transaction. Learn how an earnest money deposit works and how it can also make your offer stand out.

Modular home, an image illustrating a modular home structure.

3-minute read

What is a chattel mortgage and how does it work?

A chattel mortgage is an option for purchasing a manufactured home where the home secures the loan. See how chattel loans differ from traditional mortgages.

An image related to the oil industry, possibly indirectly connected to mortgages or finance.

3-minute read

Do oil prices affect mortgage rates?

Oil prices are one of many factors that affect mortgage rates. Learn more about how oil prices indirectly affect mortgage rates in the U.S.

A young family at a kitchen table, possibly discussing household matters or finances.

6-minute read

Why does my mortgage keep going up? Factors that can change your monthly payments

Unexpected changes to your mortgage payment can be unsettling, especially if you don’t know why it happened. Learn some possible reasons for a change here.

A man working on calculations with a calculator, possibly related to finances or budgeting.

3-minute read

Interest rate floor: Definition and how it works

An interest rate floor is the lowest agreed-upon rate for floating-rate loan products. Learn how interest rate floors work and uncover some examples.

Two people discussing finances or some sort of payments.

6-minute read

Biweekly mortgage payments: Are they a good choice for you?

Biweekly mortgage payments help pay off your loan faster by applying an extra payment to the principal yearly. Find out if biweekly payments are right for you.

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