Articles by Gina Freeman - Page 2

Many borrowers wonder how HELOC repayment works when their loans reset. Here's how to create an exit strategy before your payments rise.

Many buyers only need to lock a mortgage rate for around 30 days. But extended rate locks could allow you to lock for up to a year.

A home equity loan lets you cash out your equity without replacing your current mortgage. Learn about home equity loans and HELOCs.

A no-closing-cost mortgage or refi saves you money upfront. But your total cost could be higher. Here are the pros and cons of no-closing-cost mortgages.

The national average time to close a mortgage is 48 days. But some borrowers close much faster. Learn how to speed up your closing.

Learn how to shop for a mortgage and find the lowest interest rate without hurting your credit score. Start here.

It may be possible to refinance without an appraisal, but only if you meet certain requirements. Learn about appraisal waivers and no-appraisal refinancing.

Complete guide to FHA loan requirements for first-time home buyers. Learn what you need to qualify for an FHA loan.

What credit score is needed to buy a house? You should qualify with a score of 580-620. Learn how your credit impacts your mortgage.

Do you get better mortgage rates from a mortgage broker, lender, or a bank? What's the difference? Find out which one is better for your situation.

Many home buyers wonder if they can get approved for a mortgage. Learn what lenders are looking for and how to increases your chances of mortgage approval.

It's not always better to refinance with your current lender. In fact, you may save money and get a lower rate when refinancing with a new lender.

Changing jobs probably won't jeopardize your mortgage approval, but switching careers might. Understand how lenders will view your move.

Wondering how to buy a mobile home? Financing older manufactured housing and mobile homes is a challenge, but not impossible.

A Community Seconds loan can cover your down payment and closing costs, putting you in a house with no money out of pocket.

Is using a cash-out refinance to invest a good strategy? That depends on the investment, the cost of refinancing, and your other assets.

The HARP program is expired. But other refinance programs could help you access today's low interest rates. Check your refinance eligibility today.

What happens if your home appraisal is lower than the purchase price? Or your refinance appraisal comes in too low? Here are your next steps.

The VA Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM) is a special loan program to finance the cost of energy-efficient improvements with low rates and zero down.

If you want to buy a home but can't get a mortgage, you might consider a lease option or "rent-to-own home." But these are risky. Here's what to know.