Featured resources

5-minute read

What are the pros and cons of FHA loans?

FHA loans have benefits and drawbacks, from flexible credit requirements and low minimum down payments to strict property requirements and low loan limits.

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9-minute read

Buying a foreclosed home: Pros, cons and a step-by-step guide

If you're wondering how to buy a home in foreclosure, read this step-by-step guide detailing what to check before you buy and how to finance your purchase.

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10-minute read

What to know when buying a home in a wildfire risk zone

Considering a home in a high-risk wildfire area? Learn what to know about insurance, mortgages, and mitigation before you buy.

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6-minute read

Don’t fall for these 7 mortgage myths: What first-time home buyers should know

To a first-time buyer, mortgage myths loom heavy. Do you really need to put 20% down? It’s time to start myth busting.

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3-minute read

What is a drive-by appraisal, and how accurate is it?

Learn what a drive-by appraisal is, how it works, how it differs from a regular one, and when lenders may choose one instead of a traditional appra...

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5-minute read

What you should know about tri-merge credit reports

Mortgage lenders use many factors when approving you for a mortgage, including the contents of a tri-merge credit report. This report contains your scores.

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8-minute read

What is an encumbrance in real estate?

Encumbrances limit the ways in which you can use your property. They range from zoning laws to utility easements, and some are inextricably tied to the land.

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7-minute read

How much does a 1% mortgage rate change affect your payment?

Is saving 1% on your mortgage interest rate worth it? Whether you’re shopping for a mortgage or refinancing your current loan, the savings are signific...

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3-minute read

Married people – especially men – are the most satisfied with their living situation

Married people – especially men – report much higher satisfaction with their living situation than singles, according to a Rocket Mortgage and Redfi...

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12-minute read

How buying a house with tenants works

Buying a house with tenants means earning income and assuming responsibility for maintaining it immediately. Find out what it means to buy a house with tenants.

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7-minute read

USDA vs. conventional loans: What's the difference?

The application process for USDA loans and conventional loans is quite different. USDA loans have a more narrow focus but flexible credit terms.

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5-minute read

Does mortgage preapproval affect your credit score?

Mortgage preapproval can cause your credit score to dip by a few points because it requires a hard inquiry on your credit report. Here's what you need to know.

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7-minute read

Your guide to buying a house after a divorce

Buying a house after a divorce requires re-evaluating your finances and credit and deciding whether to stay in your current home or move on to a new one.

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7-minute read

What to expect with a remote closing on a house

Are you planning to buy a home and want to minimize in-person meetings? Learn how a remote closing on a house works and why this type is becoming more common...

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6-minute read

What is a home equity agreement?

A home equity agreement is a contract that gives homeowners money in exchange for their home equity and future appreciation. Learn more here.

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7-minute read

10 tips for buying a house out of state

Making a long-distance move can be stressful, but virtual tours and closings can simplify things. Check out our tips for buying a home in another state.

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6-minute read

Selling a house after a year: How soon can I sell?

Is it too soon to sell? Learn how timing, equity, taxes, possible penalties, and your local market affect whether selling your home now makes financial sense.

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4-minute read

Fixed-rate HELOCs: Pros and cons

Lenders sometimes offer HELOC borrowers a choice between fixed-rate HELOCs and variable-rate HELOCs. Learn how fixed-rate options work and how to choose.

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