Featured resources

A woman looking at a deed, potentially involved in property ownership or real estate matters.

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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Couple discussing a CMT loan or adjustable-rate mortgage with a financial advisor.

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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Husband and wife working on taxes together, indicating financial management or tax preparation.

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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Same-sex female couple with a broker, potentially representing a diverse couple working with a real estate broker.

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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Exterior view of a gray ranch-style home with a driveway and surrounding greenery.

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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Family enjoying a leisure time possibly on a picnic.

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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Mother and daughter playing in kitchen of home.

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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A rural cottage nestled in the mountains, suggesting a serene and remote living environment.

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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A beautiful house with a green front yard.

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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House with a brick path, highlighting architectural details and landscaping in a residential setting.

5-minute read

What is a lien and how does it work?

A lien gives a lender or creditor the ability to claim a property to pay off a debt. Learn how they work and about other types of property debt.

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A brick olive-colored house, depicting a residential property.

5-minute read

Contingent vs. pending: What's the difference?

Home buyers sometimes confuse contingent versus pending. Learn the difference between pending and contingent and what the two statuses mean in real estate.

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Woman using a phone and a MacBook, potentially managing finances or conducting research online.

6-minute read

Loan principal definition and basics

The principal is the amount you borrowed for your loan, while interest is the fee for use of the loan. Learn how each makes up your monthly payment.

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Colonial-style house in Massachusetts with a white exterior and greenery.

6-minute read

House deed: Defined and explained

A house deed is a physical document legally transferring ownership of real estate. Learn more about how house deeds affect sellers and buyers.

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A charming row of houses with a white picket fence, creating a picturesque neighborhood scene.

6-minute read

Underwriting in the mortgage process, explained

Underwriting is a crucial part of the loan approval process. Learn about what underwriting is, how long it can take, and tips for a successful experience.

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Two men going over paperwork together.

3-minute read

What is a transfer tax?

Transfer tax is a one-time fee for the transfer of property ownership. Learn how transfer tax is assessed, rules by state and local governments, and how it work...

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A stylish young man with tattoo sleeves working on a computer.

5-minute read

What is the prime rate and how does it work?

The prime rate is an index that helps determine rates on loans. But how does that work? In our guide, you’ll learn how the prime rate affects your wall...

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Man in suit reviewing stock market charts and numbers.

12-minute read

When will mortgage rates go down?

Mortgage rates tend to fluctuate, but certain indicators can signal they’re going to drop. Learn when experts predict home interest rates to go down.

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Woman sorting letters at a desk.

6-minute read

How a Fed rate drop affects home buyers and sellers

What’s the impact on home buyers and sellers when the federal funds rate drops? Learn how a Fed rate drop impacts interest rates and home loans.

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