Mortgage guide

Featured resources

An African American woman with glasses using a computer, possibly working in the real estate or mortgage industry.

6-minute read

How to increase your mortgage preapproval amount

Trying to get approved to buy a house but need a higher loan amount? Explore our guide to learn what might help increase your mortgage preapproval amount.

A young Asian couple smiles as they unpack cardboard boxes in a warmly lit living room, creating a cozy scene of settling into their new home.

5-minute read

Interest rate vs. home price: Which matters more?

If you’re a prospective home buyer, looking at interest rates vs. home price can help you decide your budget. Get familiar with what these metrics can impact.

A man and woman possibly discussing switching lenders or financial arrangements related to a property.

6-minute read

How (and when) to change your mortgage lender

Has your mortgage been sold, or are you seeking a better offer than what your initial lender provided? Learn about how and when you can change lenders.

11-minute read

How to buy a house with no money down

If you’re struggling to come up with a down payment, you may still be able to qualify for a home loan. See your options for buying a house with no money down.

A grey house with curb appeal, representing a house with aesthetic appeal from the curb.

6-minute read

Can you get a mortgage as a nonpermanent resident?

Are you a non-citizen U.S. immigrant looking to buy a home? Here’s what you need to know about the process of getting a mortgage as a nonpermanent resident.

A brick home in Texas, depicting a traditional residential property in a specific location.

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 next.

Woman sitting at kitchen table working on laptop.

6-minute read

How to calculate per diem interest

Borrowers can calculate per diem interest using a simple formula. Learn more about what per diem interest is and how it can be calculated on a mortgage loan.

Man writing finances in a notebook, indicating budgeting or financial planning.

6-minute read

How to calculate your monthly mortgage payment: A guide

Are you wondering how much your estimated monthly payment would be on a mortgage? Check out our guide and learn how to calculate your mortgage payment.

A family playing together in the lounge at home, showing family bonding and leisure time.

4-minute read

Home Mortgage Disclosure Act: Defined and explained

The Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) mandates public reporting around mortgage lending activities. Learn more about the HMDA and how it works.

A mother and her baby resting together on a cozy couch.

6-minute read

What is a homeowners insurance binder and when do you need one?

A homeowners insurance binder is temporary proof of coverage until an official policy is issued. Learn what an insurance binder includes and how to get one.

Couple sitting on couch and smiling at one another.

6-minute read

Historical mortgage rates: 1971 to the present

See how current mortgage rates compare to historical mortgage rates. They’re some of the highest of the 2000s, but relatively low compared to the 1980s.

A family moving into a new home, illustrating a family's relocation or moving process.

8-minute read

Gift letters for your mortgage: A guide

A gift letter for a mortgage shows your lender that you don’t need to repay gift money toward your down payment. Use our mortgage gift letter template and write yours.

A young woman working on a laptop, possibly in a home or office setting.

6-minute read

What is total debt service and the debt service coverage ratio (DSCR)?

Lenders use total debt service to measure your ability to repay a mortgage. Learn what a debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) is and how to calculate it yourself.

A couple pointing at a laptop, suggesting discussions or decisions related to real estate or finances.

6-minute read

How to shop for a mortgage: 5 steps

Planning to buy a house? One of the first steps in the process is securing a home loan. Learn how to shop for a mortgage and find the best rate here.

A tan two-story home, showing a two-story house with a tan exterior.

8-minute read

Selling a house with a mortgage: A guide

Selling your home while you’re still paying off your mortgage can be difficult to navigate. Learn how to prepare to sell your house and pay off your mortgage.

An image showing grey and off-white house possibly a good real estate investment.

9-minute read

How to get the best mortgage rate: 9 tips

Home buyers can get the lowest mortgage rate available, even when market rates are trending high. Uncover 9 tips for how to get the best mortgage rate.

A woman working on a computer, possibly related to remote work, finances, or digital activities.

4-minute read

How to get a mortgage when you're self-employed

Wondering how to get a mortgage when you’re self-employed? Learn what you need to qualify and how to put your best application forward to purchase a home.

A family enjoying dinner on dining table.

9-minute read

Co-signing a mortgage loan: What both parties need to know

Getting a co-signer can help make homeownership possible and can be a great option, but there are some risks to the co-signer. Here’s what you need to know.