Featured resources

4-minute read
Deed of reconveyance: Definition, process, and FAQ
A deed of reconveyance is a document that transfers title to a property from the mortgage lender to the borrower. Learn more about how a reconveyance works.<...
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8-minute read
What is a mortgage contingency?
A mortgage contingency in a purchase agreement allows you to back out of the home purchase if you can't secure financing. Learn more about how it works.
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6-minute read
What is a lien and how does it work?
If you have a mortgage, you already have one lien on your property. However, there are other types of liens, and some can make it harder to sell the property.
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7-minute read
What is fee simple ownership?
Fee simple ownership provides you with full, indefinite ownership of your private property and land. Learn more about how it works and which forms exist.
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4-minute read
What is a warranty deed?
When you buy a home, you want to be sure that no one but you and your lender hold claim to the property. Find out how a warranty deed protects you.
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7-minute read
How do bond rates affect mortgage rates?
Learn how bond rates affect mortgages and how the bond and mortgage markets are closely connected. See how bond and mortgage rates fluctuate and understand the ...
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9-minute read
What is homeowners insurance?
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4-minute read
Mortgage servicing rights (MSR): What they are and what they mean for homeowners
Mortgage servicing rights (MSR) explain who manages your loan after closing. Learn what mortgage servicing rights are, why lenders sell them, and what they chan...
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5-minute read
What is an abstract of title in real estate?
An abstract of title shows all legal documentation associated with a property. Learn why an abstract of title is important in real estate.
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7-minute read
What is an appraisal contingency, and when should I use it?
An appraisal contingency lets you renegotiate or walk away if a home appraises below your offer price. Learn how it works, and when waiving it may be risk...
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5-minute read
PITI: What it stands for and what it means
Your mortgage payment includes principal, interest, taxes, and insurance, also known as PITI. Learn how PITI can help you budget effectively for buying a home.
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6-minute read
Understanding the right of redemption in real estate
If you fall behind on payments and get a foreclosure notice, all hope is not lost. The right of redemption may allow you to keep your home.
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5-minute read
Why the 28/36 rule matters for home affordability
When you're buying a home, the 28/36 rule helps assess mortgage affordability by considering your housing costs, debt, and income. Learn why it's important.
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6-minute read
Is a mortgage secured or unsecured debt?
A mortgage is typically secured because your home serves as collateral. Learn how secured vs. unsecured debt works, what happens if you miss payments, and more.
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6-minute read
Should you make one extra mortgage payment per year?
Making an extra mortgage payment each year could help you save on interest. Use this guide to figure out how much difference it will make for your finances.
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6-minute read
Understanding loan estimates, or 'good faith estimates'
A loan estimate, or a “good faith estimate,” is a standardized document detailing your loan’s terms. Here’s how to use one before get...
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11-minute read
Deed in lieu of foreclosure: What is it and is it right for you?
A deed in lieu of foreclosure is an option that could allow you to stay in your home and protect your credit. Here’s how it works.
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6-minute read
Preapproval vs. prequalification: What’s the difference?
Preapproval and prequalification are both important steps toward getting a mortgage, but what’s the difference? Learn when you need each and what to do ne...
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