Featured resources

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7-minute read

Understanding current jumbo loan rates

Considering whether to refinance your jumbo loan? Learn more about the refinancing process, plus how to compare today’s jumbo refinance rates.

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A couple leaving their house probably leaving for their jobs.

7-minute read

A guide to the home inspection contingency

A home inspection contingency allows buyers to respond to results within a specific time frame. Learn how to successfully navigate and reply to an inspection.

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Image showing vibrant buildings with balconies in a row possibly indicating good investment opportunities.

5-minute read

What is a vacancy rate and how is it calculated?

A vacancy rate is a metric used in real estate investing that shows how many available units in a property are unoccupied. Learn more about vacancy rates here.

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Two people discussing something while drinking coffee.

6-minute read

What to expect from non-arm’s length transactions

Non-arm’s length transactions involve buying property from someone you know. These transactions have unique tax and legal implications you need to be aware of.

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A black man in a blue plaid shirt looking at his phone on a sunny day.

4-minute read

Opening new doors to homeownership with a Jumbo Smart loan

Our Jumbo Smart loan simplifies the process of qualifying for a jumbo mortgage. Read on for details!

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A woman smiling and thinking about something possibly an investment.

5-minute read

What is a cash-in refinance?

A cash-in refinance is a type of refinancing that occurs when a lump-sum payment is made, lowering the principal. Here’s how to decide if it's right for you.

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A modern apartment building in an urban area.

7-minute read

What is rent control and how does it work?

Rent control is a legal provision capping how much landlords can charge in rent for some rental units. Learn about rent control law and how rent control works.

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Smiling family with baby in front of new home.

7-minute read

Cash-out refinance vs. HELOC: Which is best for you?

Cash-out refinances and HELOCs can help homeowners secure funds when they need them. Learn the difference between the two and choose which is best for you.

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Modern open sofa living room, showcasing contemporary interior design and home decor.

5-minute read

Secured Overnight Financing Rate defined and explained

What is SOFR, and how does it affect your mortgage interest rate? Learn more about how lenders use the Secured Overnight Financing Rate to set interest rates.

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A couple analyzing mortgage rates, possibly comparing options for home financing.

5-minute read

Fixed-rate HELOCs: What they are and how they work

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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Man on phone getting mortgage pre-approval.

2-minute read

How long does mortgage preapproval last?

How long a mortgage preapproval lasts will depend on the lender, but it’s usually 60 – 90 days. Uncover more about how long mortgage preapprovals last.

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An illustration showing a hand holding a credit card for payment.

9-minute read

The lowest credit score to buy a house: How bad credit affects loan options

Considering buying a home with bad credit? Discover the lowest credit score to buy a house, learn about home loans for bad credit, and find credit score tips.

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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 they mean.

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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 guide.

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A family enjoying moments in their lounge and playing video game.

5-minute read

What are the benefits of refinancing your home loan?

From shorter loan terms to monthly savings, there are several benefits of refinancing your mortgage. Learn whether you should refinance a home loan.

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Townhouses in New York City while it snows in winter.

5-minute read

New York CEMA loans: Everything you need to know

If you’re refinancing a home in New York state, a CEMA loan may save you thousands of dollars in mortgage taxes. Learn more about CEMA loans and how they work.

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A woman multitasking on a phone call and computer, potentially related to mortgage or real estate inquiries.

5-minute read

Prequalified vs. preapproved: what’s the difference?

A prequalification estimates how much you can afford, while a preapproval gives a better estimate and verifies your financial info for a loan. Learn more.

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