Featured resources

8-minute read
What Is Fannie Mae (FNMA)? A guide for home buyers
The Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA), or Fannie Mae, purchases and backs mortgage loans for borrowers. Learn more about how Fannie Mae works.
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9-minute read
Qualifying for a mortgage: The basics
Many factors can determine whether you qualify for a mortgage. Learn what factors affect your mortgage qualification and how you can improve your chances.
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4-minute read
Variable interest rate: Should you get one?
Unlike a fixed interest rate, a variable interest rate changes over time based on a predetermined index. Learn how these rates work and why you might want on...
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11-minute read
How rising fed interest rates can affect home buyers and sellers
The Fed rate hikes have raised mortgage interest rates in 2022. See how higher Fed interest rates affect home buyers and sellers and what borrowers can do ne...
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8-minute read
Mortgage protection insurance explained: Does every homeowner need it?
Mortgage protection insurance is an insurance policy that helps the family of the policyholder make mortgage payments after they die. Read on to learn more.<...
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5-minute read
Get a leg up on the competition with Verified Approval
A Verified Approval allows you to confidently make an offer knowing that your financing is rock solid. Read on for details!
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5-minute read
Freddie Mac: What is the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC)?
Freddie Mac is a government-sponsored agency charged with keeping mortgage markets liquid. Learn more about FHLMC – and how it impacts home buyers and ...
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4-minute read
Fee simple: What is it in real estate and how does it work?
Fee simple refers to a landowner’s absolute ownership of real property. Read our article to learn about how fee simple determines real estate or land o...
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4-minute read
What is fair market value (FMV) in real estate and how is it calculated?
Fair market value (FMV) in real estate is an assessment of a property's worth in an open market. Learn how FMV is calculated and what it's used for.
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4-minute read
What is the power of sale in a mortgage note, and how does it affect foreclosure proceedings?
The power of sale allows a lender to sell a home – without judicial review – if a borrower defaults on a mortgage. Learn more about how the power...
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5-minute read
Guide to Form 1098 mortgage interest statement
Did you know your mortgage interest and insurance payments may be tax deductible? Read on to better understand what’s in your 1098 mortgage interest st...
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7-minute read
CARES Act mortgage forbearance: FAQs and updates
The CARES Act provides mortgage forbearance and other relief to those suffering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read on for updates on the CARES A...
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6-minute read
Tenancy by entirety: Defined and explained
Tenancy by entirety allows married couples to each own 100% of the property – as one entity. Learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of this type o...
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4-minute read
Property title search: What it is and how it works
A property title search examines public records to confirm a property’s rightful, legal owner. See how title searches work and reasons to be aware of them...
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5-minute read
What is an encumbrance in real estate?
An encumbrance is a claim against a property by someone who isn’t the property owner. Discover how encumbrances can affect how you can use your property.
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8-minute read
What Is PITI? Its meaning and what it stands for
PITI stands for principal, interest, taxes and insurance. Learn how each component of PITI affects your mortgage payment, and how to calculate each factor.
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7-minute read
What are easements and how can they affect my property?
Easements grant non-property owners limited access to a part of your property. Learn the different types of easements and how they can affect your property.<...
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7-minute read
Deed in lieu of foreclosure: What is it and is it right for you?
If you’re staring down the possibility of foreclosure, you might have options. Learn what a deed in lieu of foreclosure is and whether it’s right fo...
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