HELOCNovember 4, 2022How the Fed and the prime rate affect HELOC ratesHELOC rates move in tandem with the prime rate and can go up when the Fed meets. Here's what it means for HELOCs when the Fed raises rates.
Mortgage StrategyNovember 3, 2022Cash-out refinance vs. home equity loan: Pros and consA cash-out refinance or home equity loan can be a cheap way to access your home's cash value. But which loan makes more sense for you?
RefinanceNovember 3, 2022The mortgage refinance process in 6 steps: Timeline to closeLearn how the mortgage refinance process works. This step-by-step guide takes you from application to closing day.
Mortgage RatesNovember 2, 2022Fed makes fourth 75-point hike. Will mortgage rates rise?The Federal Reserve hiked the fed funds rate by another 75 basis points in November to fight inflation. Will mortgage rates surge in response?
Home EquityNovember 2, 2022Home equity loan closing costs: How much will you pay?See a full list of home equity loan closing costs and learn how much you can expect to pay in upfront fees.
Buying a homeNovember 1, 2022Hacks for buying a house in a high-rate market (Podcast)High interest rates are putting the squeeze on home buyers. But these nine tips can help you succeed regardless of the interest market.
Mortgage NewsNovember 1, 2022FHFA cuts upfront mortgage fees for about 1 in 5 home buyersThe FHFA is eliminating risk-based loan fees for many first-time home buyers. Here's what it might mean for you.
FICO & Credit ScoresOctober 31, 2022FHFA lending rule will help low-credit and no-credit home buyersThe Federal Housing Finance Agency announced a new credit scoring model that will grant equitable mortgage access to more borrowers.
About MortgagesOctober 28, 2022What Is a Good Debt-to-Income Ratio for a Mortgage?Most mortgage lenders consider 43% or lower to be a good debt-to-income ratio. But a higher DTI may be OK, too. Here's what you should know.
Cash Out RefinanceOctober 28, 2022Cash-out refinance examples: How to use your home equityCash-out refinancing can be a great idea when rates are low and home values are up. Here are 6 cash-out refinance examples to show you why.
First-Time Home BuyersOctober 27, 2022Upfront costs that surprise first-time home buyers (Podcast)Every home buyer knows to save for a down payment. But other upfront costs take many first-time buyers by surprise. Here's what to expect.
UncategorizedOctober 26, 2022Smart uses for your home equity this holiday seasonExperts don't advise tapping equity for holiday spending. But there are wise uses for home equity that can improve your finances this season.
Real Estate NewsOctober 25, 2022Equity just hit a record high: $300K per homeowner on averageBorrowers collectively gained $3.6 trillion in home equity from 2021 to 2022, an average year-over-year increase of $60,200 per homeowner.
Homeownership TopicsOctober 25, 2022Second mortgage guide: How does a second mortgage work?A second mortgage lets you cash out home equity without refinancing. Learn about second mortgage options and how they work.
Mortgage NewsOctober 24, 2022New Freddie Mac rule makes it easier to buy a house in 2022A new Freddie Mac rule in 2022 could make it easier for many home buyers to qualify for a mortgage. Here's how.
Mortgage NewsOctober 24, 2022Will mortgage rates go up after the November Fed meeting?With the Federal Reserve expected to raise its fed funds rate in November to combat inflation, mortgage rates will probably grow as well.
About MortgagesOctober 21, 2022Lender credits: How mortgage lenders can pay your closing costsLender credits are an arrangement where the mortgage lender pays some or all of your closing costs in exchange for a higher interest rate.
Mortgage NewsOctober 20, 2022Can student debt relief help you buy a house? Experts weigh inThe Biden student debt forgiveness program is now taking applications. Will debt relief make a difference for home buyers?
Buying a homeOctober 20, 2022How to apply for a mortgage in 3 steps (and tips to get approved)This simple three-step guide shows you how to apply for a mortgage. It also includes six tips to help your chances of approval.
Buying a homeOctober 19, 2022Pro-level home buying tips that “no one talks about” (Podcast)Everyone knows home-buying mantras like "start saving early." But these seven lesser-known tips could give you a more competitive edge.