Featured resources

A woman on the phone reviewing a document, potentially related to financial or property matters.

3-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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A man speaking to a financial advisor, potentially discussing financial planning related to real estate or homeownership.

5-minute read

What is correspondent lending?

Correspondent lending happens when a lender originates and funds a mortgage, but then sells it. Read more about correspondent lending and how it works.

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A house featuring a large porch in a suburban setting.

2-minute read

Netting escrows: What does it mean and should you net escrow?

Should you net escrow on your refinance? Read our guide to learn what netting escrow means, how it affects your refi and its benefits and drawbacks.

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A woman standing in front of a window, engrossed in her phone.

6-minute read

What are mortgage points and should you buy them?

A mortgage point is a fee you pay to help lower the interest rate on a mortgage. Using this guide, learn more about discount points and how they work.

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9-minute read

The final walk-through: Checklist of what to look for

Our final walk-through checklist can help secure your peace of mind before closing. Verify repairs and ensure your new home is move-in ready.

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A man working on paperwork, potentially related to mortgage documents or financial planning.

8-minute read

How to get a home equity loan with bad credit: A guide

Wondering how to get a home equity loan with bad credit? It’s possible but more difficult than it is to get one with good credit. Learn how to possibly se...

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A house under construction, showcasing the building process with construction materials and equipment.

9-minute read

Construction loans: Everything you need to know

Always dreamed of building a custom-tailored home? A construction loan could help to make that a reality. Learn what construction loans are and how they work...

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An image showing balcony of a house with a green view suggesting good real estate investment.

6-minute read

Everything you need to know about loan estimates or 'good faith estimates'

A Loan Estimate lists the key details of a mortgage, like closing costs and interest rates. Find out what other critical loan terms and costs are in the form...

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Contemporary home with wood panelled exterior and glass floor to ceiling windows.

5-minute read

Buying a flipped house: What you need to know

Watching experts flip a house is exciting, but would you want to actually move in? Learn what to look for before buying a flipped property.

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6-minute read

What is the minimum VA loan credit score for a home purchase or refinance?

VA home loans are an affordable mortgage option for current and former service members who qualify. Learn about the minimum credit score needed to qualify for a...

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Couple going through a list, potentially related to a property checklist or planning details.

5-minute read

What is an appraisal contingency and when should I use it?

An appraisal contingency can give home buyers peace of mind about a home's purchase price. Learn how appraisal contingencies work and when to use one.

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A picturesque home with a spacious front yard, showcasing its beauty and inviting ambiance.

4-minute read

What is the alienation clause in real estate and how does it work?

The alienation clause, or due-on-sale clause, requires all mortgage payments be made at the time of sale. Learn how it impacts borrowers and real estate.

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Exterior of a red house, illustrating the exterior appearance of a red-colored house.

5-minute read

Price per square foot: Why it matters and how it's calculated

A home’s price per square foot is calculated by dividing the listing price by the home’s square footage. Learn more about this metric and why it mat...

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Family sitting at the table outside cheers-ing with summer drinks and smiling.

5-minute read

Program provides qualified Detroiters with up to $25,000 in down payment assistance

Are you a Detroiter trying to buy a home, but lacking the funds for a down payment? A city program provides qualified residents with up to $25,000.

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Father spending quality time with his daughter, possibly engaged in a learning or creative session.

3-minute read

Freddie Mac BorrowSmart® Accessâ„  expands home afffordability

Freddie Mac BorrowSmart® Accessâ„  offers a credit toward the down payment or closing costs of qualified buyers in certain areas. Read on...

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A man working on multiple computers simultaneously, indicating multitasking or tech-related work.

3-minute read

What is an automated valuation model (AVM)?

An automated valuation model (AVM) is a data-based tool real estate sites use to offer estimated property value on searched properties. Explore how it works....

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A diverse group of individuals gathered around a table, engrossed in conversation.

7-minute read

VA loan limits for 2025: What you need to know

Loan limits cap the amount you can borrow for a mortgage, but VA loans usually don't have a limit. Learn when a loan limit might apply and how they work.

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A kitchen under construction, indicating a renovation or remodeling project.

8-minute read

Buying a fixer-upper house: Pros and cons

You can buy fixer-upper houses at lower prices and renovate them to enjoy or sell. Learn how this works – and uncover the pros and cons of buying a fixer-...

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