Featured resources
4-minute read
What is chain of title and why is it important?
Chain of title represents the complete and unbroken ownership of a property. Learn more about chain of title in real estate and why it’s important.
Read more
4-minute read
Defeasance clause: Definition and overview
Defeasance clauses assure buyers that they’ll get the title once they meet all payment conditions. Learn more about the impact of defeasance on your mo...
Read more
5-minute read
Assessed value vs. market value: Your questions answered
What’s the difference between assessed value and market value? One is the home’s tax-assessed value; the other is what buyers are willing to pay....
Read more
5-minute read
Basis points (BPS): A complete guide
Basis points are units of measurement that assess percentages. Learn how this financial tool can determine your mortgage cost and its potential monthly changes.
Read more
6-minute read
Homeowners insurance deductible: What it is and how to choose
Not sure how to choose the right homeowners insurance deductible? Check out our guide to find out how to weigh short-term finances against long-term savings.
Read more
5-minute read
Pros and cons of mortgage forbearance
Mortgage forbearance can be a lifeline for many homeowners struggling to make their mortgage payments. Find out whether mortgage forbearance is a good idea.
Read more
4-minute read
What is HUD and what does it do?
HUD is an acronym for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Learn how HUD works, what it does and how it helps aspiring home buyers.
Read more
4-minute read
Selling mortgages: How it affects you and what to do next
How does selling mortgages work? Find out why lenders sell mortgages to investors, how the process works and how it affects you.
Read more
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...
Read more
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.<...
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
6-minute read
How to beware of mortgage wire fraud during closing
Wiring money for closing costs can leave you vulnerable to fraud and scams. Learn how you can protect yourself from real estate fraudsters.
Read more
7-minute read
What is manual underwriting and how does it work?
Manual underwriting is one of the ways a lender can review your loan application for approval. Learn more about what this means for you and your loan.
Read more
4-minute read
What are mortgage servicing rights?
Mortgage servicing rights (MSR) are often transferred to a third-party that takes over the administrative tasks of servicing a mortgage in exchange for a fee...
Read more
5-minute read
Deficiency judgment: What is it and how does it work?
Read our guide to find out what deficiency judgments are in real estate, how they work in foreclosures and what mortgage borrowers should know about them.
Read more
8-minute read
What is loss mitigation?
Loss mitigation is the process in which borrowers and lenders work to create a plan to avoid foreclosure. Learn more about loss mitigation options here.
Read more
7-minute read
What are seller concessions?
Seller concessions are closing costs that the seller has agreed to pay, but is it a reasonable request? Learn more about seller concessions and how they work.
Read more