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.

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 works.

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 wallet.

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.

Collateral is any asset a lender accepts to secure a loan. Explore different types of collateral loans, their pros and cons, and how to get one.

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.

The Truth iokay now let's see if that worked n Lending Act (TILA) protects consumers from unfair lending practices. Find out what TILA requires and how it can protect you.

Mortgage prequalification gives you an estimate of the amount you can borrow to buy a house. Learn more about the loan prequalification process here.

Preforeclosure is the first legal step toward foreclosure. Uncover tips on how to avoid foreclosure and discover some options available to homeowners.

Real property is any land or anything attached to it that gives it value. Here’s how this concept works and why it matters to homeowners.

In real estate, “contingent” refers to conditions that must be met for a sale to proceed as planned. Learn how contingencies protect potential home buyers.

The assessed value of a home helps determine its worth for property tax purposes. Discover how a home’s value gets assessed and why this matters.

Conventional loans are a traditional mortgage option. Learn what a conventional home loan is, how it works and common lender requirements in our guide.

Need a little extra help covering your down payment or closing costs? A program like Fannie Mae's Community Seconds might be able to help.

Buydowns are methods used by buyers and sellers to lower interest rates in the early years of a new mortgage. Find out if a buydown is right for you.

For homeowners dealing with financial hardship, relief options include forbearance and deferment. Learn more about mortgage forbearance versus deferment.

A mortgage contingency is a clause that sets up certain conditions for a real estate transaction. Learn how this can protect both home buyers and home.

A mortgage recast is when you make a lump-sum payment toward your principal balance to reduce your monthly payments. Learn how mortgage recasting works.