Featured resources

Probably a women calculating her taxes or finances.

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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Friends living together, suggesting a group of friends sharing a living space or residence.

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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Three people working together at a table, surrounded by papers.

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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A man and women unboxing cardboard boxes after moving into the new residence.

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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Two men smiling in front of home.

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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A couple discussing real estate investment or mortgage with an agent.

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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Calculating mortgage payments, representing financial planning or budgeting.

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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A woman wearing glasses stands at a desk, working on a laptop computer and looking on a piece of paper.

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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Two men in suits discussing contracts with folded hands.

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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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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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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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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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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