Mortgage guide

Featured resources

Neighborhood block, showcasing houses and streets in a residential area.

5-minute read

Is property tax included in your mortgage payment?

Learn how factors like property taxes and insurance can change your monthly home payment.

5-minute read

How the federal funds rate affects mortgage rates

The federal funds rate helps regulate the U.S. economy, but it can also affect mortgage rates. Learn how it can affect you as a home buyer and homeowner.

Patio outside home with sliding glass doors outside living room.

6-minute read

How to find liens on a property: A home buyer's guide

Looking to find liens on a property you want to buy? Discover how title searches and combing through county records can help.

Young couple standing in their kitchen together looking over papers on the counter.

7-minute read

Mortgage fees to avoid

Knowing what fees to watch out for before and after you close your loan can save you money. Learn how to recognize fees you can avoid.

Man on phone getting mortgage pre-approval.

4-minute read

How long does a mortgage preapproval last?

How long a mortgage preapproval lasts will depend on the lender, but it’s usually 60 – 90 days. Uncover more about how long mortgage preapprovals last.

A couple talking with a mortgage lender, potentially in a home buying process.

6-minute read

Getting a mortgage with a new job: What to know

Getting a mortgage with a new job or in between jobs can be challenging, but not impossible. Learn how to approach the mortgage process with confidence.

A man with a credit card, potentially symbolizing financial transactions or purchases related to homeownership.

4-minute read

Does mortgage preapproval affect your credit score?

Worried that getting preapproved for a mortgage will hurt your credit score? Learn how preapproval impacts your credit, including by how much and for how long.

Family moving into a home, unloading boxes and settling into their new living space.

8-minute read

How to get a mortgage: A step-by-step guide

Wondering how to get a mortgage? Our guide will walk you through the key steps to getting a mortgage and what lenders are looking for.

Image illustrating a business handshake, potentially representing a financial agreement or collaboration.

8-minute read

What parties are Involved when getting a mortgage and buying a house?

A variety of parties are involved when it comes to acquiring a mortgage and buying a home. Learn about the key players in a real estate transaction.

A pregnant Asian woman browsing or working on a computer, possibly researching or organizing information online.

3-minute read

Applying for a home loan while on maternity leave: A guide

Wondering if maternity leave will affect your ability to get a mortgage? Learn what to expect when applying for a home loan while on maternity leave.

Two women looking over mortgage documents together at signing.

7-minute read

How does mortgage interest work? Everything you need to know

If you’re buying a home, you’ll need to know how mortgage interest will work with the loan you choose. Learn the basics of mortgage interest and why it matters.

A woman enjoying a cup of coffee while thinking about something.

4-minute read

Adjustable-rate mortgage: The pros and cons to consider

Adjustable-rate mortgages come with pros and cons, the primary tradeoff being a lower initial interest rate that increases later. Find out more here.

An image possibly related to the LIBOR (London Interbank Offered Rate) financial concept.

6-minute read

The London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), defined and explained

Until recently, LIBOR was a longstanding benchmark interest rate for adjustable-rate mortgages and other loans. Learn about LIBOR and its replacement.

Two women going over paperwork in an office setting, potentially related to real estate or finances.

4-minute read

What is the average mortgage payment?

Wondering what you can expect for your monthly mortgage payments? Learn about the average mortgage payment and the factors that affect it.

Young woman with tattoos and short white hair working on a laptop with paperwork, indicating financial or work-related tasks.

7-minute read

Rolling student loans into a mortgage: The pros, cons and alternatives

Rolling your student loans into a mortgage can make it easier to manage your finances. Learn your options for reducing or consolidating student debt.

Young couple standing before a new house at sunset.

8-minute read

How to choose a mortgage lender: Steps, tips & FAQs

With many financing options available, home buyers should be savvy when picking a mortgage lender. Learn how to choose a mortgage lender that will work for you.

Father spending quality time with his daughter, possibly engaged in a learning or creative session.

3-minute read

Freddie Mac BorrowSmart® Accessâ„ expands home afffordability

Freddie Mac BorrowSmart^® Accessâ„ offers a credit toward the down payment or closing costs of qualified buyers in certain areas. Read on for details!

A woman looking possibly looking at her good investments in real estate on laptop.

7-minute read

How are mortgage rates determined? A comprehensive look at mortgage rates

How are mortgage rates determined? A combination of the economic climate and personal factors. Learn how you can make the most of the current rates.