Erik Sherman, contributor

Can you buy a house with no credit? The answer may be yes, if you know which type of loan to use. Here's how to get approved with no credit score.

Most homeowners opt for a fixed-rate mortgage. But for the right buyer, a 7-year ARM can offer serious savings with relatively little risk.

FHA loan guidelines are flexible about downpayments. The funds can come from a number of sources besides the buyer's own bank account.

A mortgage calculator should let you determine much more than a monthly payment. Look at all affordability factors with these little-known features.

Home buyers often don't know how much they can afford. Using a mortgage calculator is an important step to finding a comfortable home price.

You might be able to buy a free-standing home for the same monthly cost as a condominium. Use an HOA dues-enabled mortgage calculator to find out.

Not every mortgage calculator is created equal. Use one that can tell you what you are likely to afford based on your income.