Mortgage NewsApril 15, 2021No foreclosures until 2022? CFPB seeks to extend foreclosure moratoriumCFPB has proposed extending the foreclosure moratorium through Dec. 31, 2021. That would mean no COVID-related foreclosures until 2022. Learn more here.
About MortgagesApril 13, 2021How to calculate commission income for a mortgageCommission income is usually accepted by lenders if you have a 2-year earnings history. See how lenders calculate commission income for mortgage qualifying.
Buying a homeApril 9, 2021How to get approved as a self-employed, first-time home buyerSelf-employed first-time home buyers face obstacles other buyers don't. Learn what to expect and how to get mortgage-approved.
Mortgage StrategyApril 8, 2021Gift letter for mortgage: How to give or receive a down payment giftUse these step-by-step instructions for accepting a cash downpayment gift on a home, including a ready-to-use mortgage gift letter template.
Mortgage NewsApril 6, 2021Five reasons it’s not a “horrible time to buy a house”Many experts are saying it's a horrible time to buy a house. But that's not true for everyone. Here are 5 reasons it could be a great time to buy a home.
Mortgage ProductsMarch 30, 2021How the Fannie Mae HomeStyle Loan works: Process and requirementsThe Fannie Mae HomeStyle loan lets you buy a home and carry out renovations with one mortgage. Learn about HomeStyle rates and requirements here.
RefinanceMarch 29, 2021Is there a conventional streamline refinance? Conventional loan refi optionsIs there a conventional Streamline Refinance? No, but you can use a different refinance option to get similar Streamline benefits. Here's how.
About MortgagesMarch 24, 2021What is an assumable mortgage and how does it work? Pros and consAn assumable mortgage lets you take over an existing loan at its current interest rate and terms. When is an assumable mortgage a good idea?
Buying a homeMarch 18, 2021Buying a condo vs. renting: Which is better for you?Buying a condo vs. renting can be a tough decision. Renting offers flexibility, but buying a condo builds wealth. See more pros and cons here.
Mortgage NewsMarch 16, 2021New rule means higher fees for investment property mortgages and second homesA new rule from FHFA caused a sharp increase in investment property mortgage and second home mortgage fees. Here's what you need to know.
Federal ReserveMarch 15, 2021How mortgage rates move when the Federal Reserve meetsThe Fed adjourns from a 2-day meeting Wednesday. The group doesn't set mortgage rates but it can influence them. How this week's meeting could affect your refinance and purchase mortgage rate.
Mortgage NewsMarch 11, 2021COVID-19 stimulus programs for homeowners and renters [Updated for 2021]Current list of government and private relief programs to help homeowners and renters economically affected by COVID-19.
About MortgagesMarch 10, 2021What is home equity and how can you use it?What is home equity and how does it work? Learn how to calculate your home equity and how having equity can benefit you.
Mortgage NewsMarch 9, 2021Home buyer grants are helping first-time buyers during CovidHome buyer grants can help first-time buyers who had a financial setback during Covid. Learn about current assistance programs and how to qualify.
Mortgage RatesMarch 9, 2021Why are mortgage rates going up? And how high will they go?Mortgage rates moved up last week, and it looks like they'll keep rising in 2021. But how high will rates go? Should you try to lock in now?
Buying a homeMarch 4, 2021How to buy a house with $0 down in 2025: First time buyer6 low- and no-down-payment mortgage options for today's home buyers. Find out how you can buy a house with no money down and a low interest rate.
About MortgagesMarch 3, 2021How Long Does Underwriting Take?Mortgage underwriting can take days or weeks depending on your lender and application. Here's what to expect from underwriting and what to do about delays.
Real Estate NewsMarch 2, 2021Texas disaster relief programs for homeownersIf your home was damaged during winter storm Uri, you might be eligible for federal aid. Here's a list of current Texas disaster relief programs.
Mortgage StrategyFebruary 23, 2021Can you use a 203k loan for an investment property?You may be able to use a 203k loan for an investment property but only in certain circumstances. Learn about 203k loan rules for investors here.
Mortgage Lender ReviewsFebruary 22, 2021The 8 best USDA lenders for 2025Compare the best USDA lenders to get a great deal on your home loan. USDA loans require zero down payment and have below-market interest rates.