Featured resources

8-minute read

What is a co-borrower?

What is a co-borrower? See how sharing a mortgage affects loan approval, home ownership, and credit – and how to decide if applying together is right for ...

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8-minute read

How to buy a house with no money down

Learn how to buy a house with no down payment using government-backed mortgages, assistance programs, and low-down payment loans. Compare your options.

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7-minute read

Escrow fees: What they are, who pays, and what they cost

Learn how escrow fees work, what they may include, who pays them, and how to review your Loan Estimate before closing. Start your mortgage journey.

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6-minute read

First lien vs. second lien: What’s the difference?

Second lienholders agree to be subordinate to the first if a borrower defaults or files for bankruptcy. Understanding this can help you manage your finances.

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9-minute read

Mortgage forbearance vs. deferment: Key differences

Mortgage forbearance vs. deferment can help during hardship. Compare how each works, pros and cons, credit impact, and next steps. Learn your options today.<...

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5-minute read

What is the NMLS, and why does it matter?

Learn what the NMLS is, why NMLS numbers matter, and how licensing works for mortgage loan originators. Use this guide before choosing a lender or applying.<...

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8-minute read

Mortgage interest deduction: A guide for the 2025 tax year

Learn how the 2025 mortgage interest deduction works, what qualifies, and whether itemizing or the standard deduction saves you more.

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6-minute read

What does collateral mean and how does it work?

Collateral is an asset used to secure a loan. If a borrower defaults, the lender can take the collateral to recover losses.

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10-minute read

What is a mortgage note and why is it important?

Learn what a mortgage note is, what terms it includes, and how it differs from a mortgage or deed. Find out where to locate yours and what if it gets sold.

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10-minute read

What is a short sale in real estate? A guide to the process

A short sale may be a solution when a homeowner is in a dire financial situation and needs to sell their home for less than they owe. Learn about this option.

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12-minute read

How bankruptcy affects your mortgage: A homeowner guide

Learn how bankruptcy affects your mortgage, whether you can keep your home, and when you can qualify for a new loan. Review your housing options today.

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9-minute read

What’s the average mortgage payment in Texas?

Learn the average mortgage payment in Texas, how costs vary by county, and what taxes, insurance, and rates can mean for your budget. Explore options today.

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4-minute read

Mortgage loan limits are on the rise

The Federal Housing Finance Agency updated conforming loan limits, which are rising 3.25% in 2026. Read on for details as well as FHA and VA loan limits...

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9-minute read

Manual underwriting: How it works for mortgages

Manual underwriting allows lenders to consider borrowers with thin credit, a high DTI, or unique finances. Learn how it works and what documents to prepare.

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9-minute read

Mortgage protection insurance: What it is and how it works

Mortgage protection insurance can help pay your home loan after death or certain other hardships. Learn costs, pros, cons and alternatives before you buy.

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7-minute read

When to lock mortgage rate: Today or wait?

Locking your mortgage rate can provide peace of mind and save you money. Learn when it makes sense to lock your rate and when it might be better to wait.

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8-minute read

House deed: What it is, types, and how to get a copy

Learn what a house deed is, how it’s different from a title, common deed types, how to record a deed, and how to get a copy. Review key steps before closi...

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7-minute read

What is chain of title in real estate?

Learn what chain of title in real estate means, why it matters, which documents it includes, and how title issues get fixed. Read before you close.

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