Resources

The housing market hasn't been "normal" since before 2008. Here's what normal actually means, how we got here, and when experts think it could return.

See today's average mortgage rates for 30-year fixed, 15-year fixed, 7/6 SOFR ARM, and refinance loans, plus what's moving rates this week.

The Fed isn't expected to cut rates July 28-29. Here's what buyers can actually control instead - from credit score to lender comparison.

Home insurance premiums are climbing for a 5th straight year, now averaging over $3,000. See how much it adds to your mortgage payment and how to manage it.

Waiting for a housing crash before buying? Here's the real dollar cost of waiting, why most economists don't expect a 2008-style crash, and what to check instead.

Having $250,000 in equity doesn’t mean you can automatically borrow $250,000 with a HELOC. Lender caps and your credit profile will help set your credit line.

Buying a vacation home before a primary residence is possible, but it costs more upfront and can affect future buying power. Here's the tradeoff breakdown.

An ARM loan starts with a fixed interest rate for a set number of years, then adjusts periodically based on a market index. Learn how ARM rates work, what the...

Loan to value ratio (LTV) compares your mortgage balance to your home's value. It affects your interest rate, whether you need PMI, and how much equity you can borrow against....

Refinancing makes sense in 2026 when the math works for your specific rate, balance, and timeline. Here's how to tell — with today's market context.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act becomes law this week without Trump's signature. Here's what's different from earlier drafts, and what it means for buyers and renters.

Yes, you can switch lenders after locking your rate. But whether you should depends on where you are in the process, what it will cost you, and whether you’re buying...

If cryptocurrency is part of your asset picture, you could still qualify for a mortgage loan, but crypto is treated differently from cash or traditional investments, and the rules vary...

We compared home prices, incomes, mortgage rates, and lending access in 1976 and 2026 using matched methodology to see who really has it harder.

Changing jobs can complicate the mortgage process, but it doesn't always have to jeopardize approval. A lot depends on the nature of the job change.

Have $100k in home equity? Find out exactly how much HELOC you can access based on your home value, mortgage balance, and CLTV. With scenario tables and a step-by-step calculation.

New rules effective August 3, 2026, change how condo loans are reviewed and approved. Here's what buyers need to know before making an offer on a condo.

Mortgage rates climbed Wednesday after the Fed's updated dot plot signaled a higher-for-longer rate path. The average 30-year fixed is 6.62% today. Here's what moved rates and what buyers should...

Homeowners pulled a record $47B in equity in Q1 2026. Before you tap yours, here's how to choose between a cash-out refi, HELOC, or doing nothing — and what each...

Lenders don’t all count student loans the same way. Learn how conventional, FHA, and VA loans treat your student debt in DTI calculations — and which method works best for...

Understanding APR costs helps you avoid hidden mortgage fees. Learn key fees, rates, and tips to compare and secure the best loan for your needs.

Learn how to remove someone from a mortgage with or without refinancing. Explore pros and cons, costs, FAQs, and common methods to simplify the process.

With the government shutdown canceling economic data reports, economists will have to make more blindfolded decisions that affect mortgage borrowers.

What is down payment assistance? Learn how it works, find types and eligibility, plus where to search, how to apply, and practical alternatives today.

Compare VA loan vs FHA to see eligibility, down payment rules, pros, cons, and more. Learn which mortgage option works best for your homebuying needs.

Learn how to avoid tax on a second home: key deductions, personal vs rental rules, capital gains, and legal strategies to lower taxes with smart planning.

Government shutdowns can create paradox for borrowers. Rates may decline, but processing may stall as lenders face bottlenecks in a reduction of government support.

Learn how to evaluate, finance, and manage an Airbnb investment property. Understand their pros and cons, the steps to buy one, tips, alternatives, and FAQs.

Learn how an interest-only mortgage works, see pros and cons, qualification criteria, and alternatives to decide if it’s the right option for home financing.

What is a HUD home? Learn how the buying process works, and the benefits and risks to consider so you can spot value and opportunities with confidence.

Buying a short-sale home can save you money if you know the process. Learn key steps, expert tips, and strategies to secure a smooth, successful purchase.

How does a VA cash-out refinance work? Learn key requirements, costs, pros, cons, and scenarios when tapping your home equity may be a smart move for Veterans.

How long does a seller have to respond to an offer on a house? Understand why delays happen, key signs of acceptance, and ways to make your offer stronger.

Explore VA loan pros and cons to see if it’s the right mortgage choice. Learn about benefits, drawbacks, eligibility, and when a VA loan works best for you.

Understand what a VA appraisal is, how it works, fees, property requirements, and what to do if the appraisal comes in low when buying with a VA loan.

Learn who pays Relator fees, how commissions work, what’s negotiable, and how FSBO impacts buyer’s agent costs. Clear FAQs help buyers and sellers plan.

What is a VA cash-out refinance? Explore how it works, its main benefits, and eligibility requirements so you can decide if it’s the right choice.

Learn what an escrow refund is, why you might get one after an escrow analysis, how the payout works, smart ways to use it, and other common FAQs.

Learn how many times you can use a VA loan, the benefits of reusing it, and key situations where getting a second VA loan could be the right choice for...

A new law bans mortgage trigger leads, protecting home buyers from spam and giving them more control over their data. Here’s what it means for you.