Featured resources
6-minute read
Mortgage amortization schedule: What it is and how to calculate yours
A mortgage amortization schedule shows a breakdown of your monthly mortgage payment over time. Figure out how to calculate your mortgage amortization.
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4-minute read
Tenancy in common (TIC): What is it and how does it work?
Tenancy in common is when two or more people share ownership of a property. Learn more about tenants in common and how they compare to other tenancy types.
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8-minute read
What is PMI? Private mortgage insurance defined and explained
Private mortgage insurance can be a tricky subject, so we broke down what PMI is, how much it costs, and how to tell whether it's the right option for you.
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4-minute read
What is the loan-to-value ratio and how is it calculated?
Your loan-to-value ratio measures your loan amount against the value of the home you’re buying. Figure out how your LTV ratio is calculated.
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12-minute read
What is a mortgage? Loan basics for beginners
Mortgages help people buy homes, allowing millions to achieve a coveted milestone. Explore what a mortgage loan is, how it works and how to get one.
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28-minute read
Mortgage terms: Defined and explained
There are many unfamiliar terms to learn when you’re buying a home and need to apply for a mortgage. Here’s a list of common mortgage terms and what...
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7-minute read
What is an acceleration clause in real estate?
An acceleration clause in a mortgage means that your mortgage balance becomes due if you default on payments. Learn how a mortgage acceleration clause works.
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10-minute read
Closing Disclosure: What it is and how to read the form
Your Closing Disclosure is an important mortgage document, but it can be difficult to interpret. We broke down the essential components in this complete guid...
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8-minute read
Mortgage fraud: What you need to know to avoid it
Mortgage fraud occurs when someone lies or omits information to get loan approval or favorable loan conditions. Learn about common types of mortgage fraud here.
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5-minute read
Deed vs. title: Know the difference
It’s a misconception that a house’s title and deed are the same, but they aren’t. Learn the differences to be prepared for your home sale o...
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4-minute read
How the constant maturity Treasury rate affects your mortgage
The Constant Maturity Treasury rate plays a key role in determining adjustable-rate mortgage interest rates. Learn how the CMT rate impacts mortgage payments...
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5-minute read
APR vs. interest rate: What's the difference?
Interest rate and annual percentage rate are terms you’ll often see when comparing mortgages and other loans. Learn the difference between APR and inte...
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3-minute read
What is the NMLS, and how can I get my license?
The Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System, or NMLS, is a database of licensed mortgage loan originators. Learn more about the NMLS and how to get a license.
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6-minute read
What is annual percentage rate and how does it work in real estate?
Annual percentage rate (APR) is the rate your loan will accrue interest at over the repayment term. See how APR works on a mortgage and why it’s important...
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8-minute read
What is Ginnie Mae (GNMA) and how does it work?
Discover how Ginnie Mae guarantees mortgage-backed securities, supports the housing market, and helps make homeownership more affordable.
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6-minute read
Float-down option: Can it lower your mortgage rate?
Want to protect yourself from higher mortgage rates? Read our article to learn all about the float-down option and how it can work with a mortgage rate lock....
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5-minute read
Co-borrower vs. co-signer: What's the difference?
If you need help getting a mortgage, a co-borrower or co-signer can bolster your application. Learn more about buying a home with a co-borrower or co-signer....
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7-minute read
Do you have an underwater mortgage? Here are your options
You have an underwater mortgage if you owe more than your home is worth. Learn the early indicators and what to do if your mortgage is upside down.
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