Featured resources

6-minute read

How long does an appraisal take?

How long does an appraisal take, and why?  See the home appraisal timeline, what can delay the report and what happens before closing.

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8-minute read

What does a real estate broker do?

A real estate broker typically supervises buyer’s and seller’s agents within a brokerage, ensuring transactions are handled professionally and accur...

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9-minute read

Real estate scams: 7 warning signs and how to avoid them

Learn how real estate scams work, warning signs to watch for and steps to protect your money before you buy, sell, rent or refinance. Read now.

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5-minute read

What constitutes a bedroom in a house?

Learn what constitutes a bedroom in a house, from square footage to egress and heat requirements. Check key rules before you buy, sell, or renovate.

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7-minute read

Reasonable requests after home inspection: What to ask for

Learn what’s a reasonable request to make after the home inspection, what sellers may fix, when to ask for credits, and how to negotiate confidently.

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5-minute read

What is a purchase agreement for a house?

Learn what a purchase agreement for a house includes, who prepares it and what happens after signing. Read the guide before you close.

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9-minute read

How long does it take to refinance a house?

How long does it take to refinance a house? See the 30 – 45 day timeline, key delays, loan types, and steps to prepare so you can refinance with confidenc...

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10-minute read

Second mortgage: How it works, rates and requirements

Learn how a second mortgage works, what it costs and when it may make sense. Compare options, risks and requirements before you apply.

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11-minute read

Mortgage refinance requirements: What you need to qualify

Learn mortgage refinance requirements for credit, equity, income, DTI, documents, and closing costs so you can prepare before applying. Get started.

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6-minute read

Can you refinance an ARM loan to a fixed-rate mortgage?

Yes, you can refinance an ARM loan. You may even be able to get a fixed-rate loan instead. But before you refinance, consider these key factors.

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6-minute read

What is an automated valuation model (AVM)?

Learn how an automated valuation model estimates home value, what data it uses, how accurate AVMs are, and when to use one before buying or refinancing.

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11-minute read

14 questions to ask a mortgage lender

Learn the right questions to ask a mortgage lender and the mortgage loan questions to ask so you can compare rates, fees, loan options, and timelines.

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10-minute read

Can you buy a foreclosed home with an FHA loan?

Can you buy a foreclosed home with an FHA loan? Learn FHA property rules, repair options, and where to find eligible homes before you apply. Start here.

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11-minute read

A complete guide to the Fannie Mae HomeStyle loans for renovations

Learn how a Fannie Mae HomeStyle renovation loan works, including borrower eligibility, rates, renovation financing options, and FHA 203(k) comparisons.

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6-minute read

What are conforming loans and what do they mean to borrowers?

A conforming loan is a mortgage that meets FHFA loan limits, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac guidelines. Learn how it works, the limits, and pros and cons.

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13-minute read

Houseboat loans: Financing options and requirements

Learn how houseboat loans work, including financing options, credit score needs, down payments, and ownership costs. Compare choices before you apply today.

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9-minute read

How to buy land and build a house

Learn how to buy land and build a house, from financing and zoning to permits, utilities, and construction steps. See what to check before you break ground.

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5-minute read

Nonconforming loans: What are they and how do they work?

Wondering what a nonconforming loan is and how one works? Learn about your mortgage options and see whether a nonconforming loan is the best option for you.

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