Featured resources

5-minute read
What is a co-borrower? A beginner's guide
If you’re unable to get a mortgage on your own, adding a co-borrower may increase your chances of approval. Learn more about how adding a co-borrower can ...
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4-minute read
Deed of reconveyance: Definition, process, and FAQ
A deed of reconveyance is a document that transfers title to a property from the mortgage lender to the borrower. Learn more about how a reconveyance works.<...
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8-minute read
What is a mortgage contingency?
A mortgage contingency in a purchase agreement allows you to back out of the home purchase if you can't secure financing. Learn more about how it works.
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6-minute read
What is a lien and how does it work?
If you have a mortgage, you already have one lien on your property. However, there are other types of liens, and some can make it harder to sell the property.
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7-minute read
What is fee simple ownership?
Fee simple ownership provides you with full, indefinite ownership of your private property and land. Learn more about how it works and which forms exist.
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4-minute read
What is a warranty deed?
When you buy a home, you want to be sure that no one but you and your lender hold claim to the property. Find out how a warranty deed protects you.
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5-minute read
What is an abstract of title in real estate?
An abstract of title shows all legal documentation associated with a property. Learn why an abstract of title is important in real estate.
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7-minute read
What is an appraisal contingency, and when should I use it?
An appraisal contingency lets you renegotiate or walk away if a home appraises below your offer price. Learn how it works, and when waiving it may be risk...
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5-minute read
PITI: What it stands for and what it means
Your mortgage payment includes principal, interest, taxes, and insurance, also known as PITI. Learn how PITI can help you budget effectively for buying a home.
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6-minute read
Understanding the right of redemption in real estate
If you fall behind on payments and get a foreclosure notice, all hope is not lost. The right of redemption may allow you to keep your home.
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6-minute read
Understanding loan estimates, or 'good faith estimates'
A loan estimate, or a “good faith estimate,” is a standardized document detailing your loan’s terms. Here’s how to use one before get...
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11-minute read
Deed in lieu of foreclosure: What is it and is it right for you?
A deed in lieu of foreclosure is an option that could allow you to stay in your home and protect your credit. Here’s how it works.
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6-minute read
Mortgage forbearance: What it is and how it works
Mortgage forbearance lets you pause or reduce payments during financial hardship. See how it works, what it covers, and what to expect when the pause ends.
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6-minute read
Prepayment penalty: What it is and how to avoid it
A lender may charge a prepayment penalty when you pay off your mortgage early. Find out what triggers the penalty, how much it can cost, and how to avoid it.
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5-minute read
Assessed value vs. market value: Your questions answered
Confused about a property tax assessment vs. market value? The two similar terms both have to do with property value, but they are determined differently.
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7-minute read
Mortgage rate lock: A guide to protect you from rate fluctuations
A mortgage rate lock protects your interest rate from changing before you close. Learn what it is, how long it lasts, and how to use it to your advantage.
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7-minute read
What is manual underwriting and how does it work?
Manual underwriting is one of the ways a lender can review your loan application for approval. Learn more about what this means for you and your loan.
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6-minute read
Mortgage origination fee: The inside scoop
Ready to apply for a mortgage and wondering if you should pay an origination fee? Find out how this common charge can actually save you money in the long run...
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