Michele Lerner, contributor

Buying down your mortgage rate costs more upfront but generates long-term savings. Here's how to decide if buying down your rate is worth it.

Compare 5/1 ARM rates vs. 15-year fixed rates. Find out which loan program, 5/1 ARM or 15-year FRM, is best in today's economy.

You may be able to buy a home on $50,000 a year with today's low interest rates and special mortgage programs. Learn more here.

Can you get a mortgage with a 640 credit score? Yes, if you follow these guidelines and choose the right mortgage lender.

Here's how the 15-year refinance mortgage can get you a lower rate and shorten your your loan term, even when interest rates are rising.

The mortgage interest deduction is a tax break for those who itemize their deductions on a Schedule A. Here's how the mortgage interest deduction helps you.

Home affordability depends on your mortgage payment. Here are several ways to keep your mortgage payment as low as possible.

What is the debt-to-income ratio for FHA home loans? It's pretty flexible, and higher than you're likely to get with other programs without fantastic credit and a big down payment.

Homebuying tips: How to choose your next neighborhood. New and old school search methods to check out your next location.