Cookies Use
Our site uses cookies. If you don't agree to this, you can learn how to change your cookies settings. Read more about cookies here. Further use of this site will be considered consent.

Mortgage Article Library

Learn the mortgage process, rates, credit scores and loan programs that may apply to you. Happy reading, easy choosing!

This site is a free online resource that strives to offer helpful content and comparison features to its visitors. Please be advised that the operator of this site accepts advertising compensation from companies that appear on the site, and such compensation impacts the location and order in which the companies (and/or their products) are presented, and in some cases may also impact the rating that is assigned to them. To the extent that ratings appear on this site, such rating is determined by our subjective opinion and based on a methodology that aggregates our analysis of brand market share and reputation, each brand's conversion rates, compensation paid to us and general consumer interest. Company listings on this page DO NOT imply endorsement. We do not feature all providers on the market. Except as expressly set forth in our Terms of Use, all representations and warranties regarding the information presented on this page are disclaimed. The information, including pricing, which appears on this site is subject to change at any time.

10 Questions to Ask Your Mortgage Lender

10 Questions to Ask Your Mortgage Lender

10 Questions to Ask Your Mortgage Lender

Jan. 26, 2021
You’ve narrowed your search down to a short list of lenders, or perhaps you’ve even been pre-qualified for a mortgage. The next part is beginning y...
Read more
Should You Tap into Your Home Equity to Help Your Kids Buy A Home?

Should You Tap into Your Home Equity to Help Your Kids Buy A Home?

Should You Tap into Your Home Equity to Help Your Ki...

Jan. 26, 2021
Thanks to secondary loans like home equity loans, you can use your home equity to help your kids buy into the property market.
Read more
Closing on a Mortgage From the Convenience of Your Lock-Down

Closing on a Mortgage From the Convenience of Your Lock-Down

Closing on a Mortgage From the Convenience of Your L...

Jan. 26, 2021
COVID-19 has changed the way we do business. Purchases and transactions that used to require in-person interactions have been replaced with simple ...
Read more
Home Equity Loans vs. Parent PLUS Loans

Home Equity Loans vs. Parent PLUS Loans

Home Equity Loans vs. Parent PLUS Loans

Jan. 26, 2021
HELs and PLUS loans are just 2 of the ways parents can borrow the money needed to put their children through college. Compare the pros and cons and...
Read more
Tougher Mortgage Requirements? Learn How You Can Qualify

Tougher Mortgage Requirements? Learn How You Can Qualify

Tougher Mortgage Requirements? Learn How You Can Qua...

Jan. 26, 2021
As mortgage lenders are raising the bar on their requirements for borrowers, getting a mortgage becomes harder and harder. Now is the time for home...
Read more
3 Second Mortgage Lenders to Look at in {year}

3 Second Mortgage Lenders to Look at in 2021

3 Second Mortgage Lenders to Look at in 2021

Jan. 26, 2021
Own a home and in need of a loan? One of the most convenient ways to secure the large amount of cash you need to fund that renovation, medical bill...
Read more
Understand Your VA Home Loan

Understand Your VA Home Loan

Understand Your VA Home Loan

Jan. 26, 2021
If you are an armed forces veteran and are planning to apply for a mortgage on a new home or refinance an existing loan, you might be eligible to s...
Read more
Refinance Rates Reach 50 Year Low, Don't Miss Your Chance to Save

Refinance Rates Reach 50 Year Low, Don't Miss Your Chance to Save

Refinance Rates Reach 50 Year Low, Don't Miss Your C...

Jan. 26, 2021
Mortgage rates are the lowest they’ve been since they started tracking them in 1971!
Read more
3 Recommended VA Mortgage Lenders for {year}

3 Recommended VA Mortgage Lenders for 2021

3 Recommended VA Mortgage Lenders for 2021

Jan. 26, 2021
VA loans make purchasing a first home or getting a second mortgage easier for those currently serving in the armed forces, reservists, veterans, an...
Read more
3 Home Equity Mortgage Lenders to Consider in {year}

3 Home Equity Mortgage Lenders to Consider in 2021

3 Home Equity Mortgage Lenders to Consider in 2021

Jan. 26, 2021
If you own a property, the value of that property minus the outstanding mortgage is known as equity. With a home equity loan (HEL), you put that eq...
Read more
3 Jumbo Mortgage Lenders to Consider in {year}

3 Jumbo Mortgage Lenders to Consider in 2021

3 Jumbo Mortgage Lenders to Consider in 2021

Jan. 26, 2021
A jumbo mortgage is exactly what is sounds like: A huge loan to buy a house. But “jumbo” is not just in the eye of the beholder; rather, a loan is ...
Read more
Mortgage Refinancing 101

Mortgage Refinancing 101

Mortgage Refinancing 101

Jan. 26, 2021
Why do homeowners decide to refinance their mortgage? Well, there’s a few reasons. Refinancing your mortgage could mean locking-in a lower interest...
Read more
Purchase, Refinance, or Sit Out: How the Fed’s Rate Cut Will Affect Mortgage Costs

Purchase, Refinance, or Sit Out: How the Fed’s Rate Cut Will Affect Mortgage Costs

Purchase, Refinance, or Sit Out: How the Fed’s Rate ...

Jan. 26, 2021
Mortgage rates hit all-time lows after the Federal Reserve dramatically slashed the benchmark interest rate in March 2020. What’s more, rates will ...
Read more
Don’t Make These Common Young Homebuyer Mistakes

Don’t Make These Common Young Homebuyer Mistakes

Don’t Make These Common Young Homebuyer Mistakes

Jan. 26, 2021
The time has finally come. You’ve worked hard, you’ve saved up some money and you’re finally ready to put down some roots. It’s time for you to rea...
Read more
The Complete Guide to Cash-Out Refinance

The Complete Guide to Cash-Out Refinance

The Complete Guide to Cash-Out Refinance

Jan. 26, 2021
If you’re a homeowner, one way to convert some of that equity into actual cash is with a cash-out refinance.
Read more
Is Refinancing Your Mortgage the Right Move for You?

Is Refinancing Your Mortgage the Right Move for You?

Is Refinancing Your Mortgage the Right Move for You?

Jan. 26, 2021
Times change, so why shouldn’t your mortgage? Mortgage refinancing (sometimes referred to as taking out a second mortgage) can help you save money,...
Read more
Is Now the Time to Refinance Your Mortgage?

Is Now the Time to Refinance Your Mortgage?

Is Now the Time to Refinance Your Mortgage?

Jan. 26, 2021
Over the years your budget and lifestyle might have changed, meaning your mortgage may no longer be a perfect fit. If, for example, you have an adj...
Read more
3 Recommended FHA Lenders for {year}

3 Recommended FHA Lenders for 2021

3 Recommended FHA Lenders for 2021

Jan. 26, 2021
FHA mortgage loans are an attractive option for first-time homebuyers. If you’re looking for your first home and don’t have 20% of the home purcha...
Read more
FHA Loans: Your Guide to Getting a Loan with Low Credit

FHA Loans: Your Guide to Getting a Loan with Low Credit

FHA Loans: Your Guide to Getting a Loan with Low Credit

Jan. 26, 2021
If you want to buy a new home, but have a low credit rating or don’t have a lot of cash, you may consider applying for a Federal Government-backed ...
Read more
3 Excellent Mortgage Lenders for First Time Buyers

3 Excellent Mortgage Lenders for First Time Buyers

3 Excellent Mortgage Lenders for First Time Buyers

Jan. 26, 2021
If you’ve decided it's time for a first-time home buyer mortgage and you fit the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) definition of ...
Read more
Which 15-Year Mortgage Lender is Right for You?

Which 15-Year Mortgage Lender is Right for You?

Which 15-Year Mortgage Lender is Right for You?

Jan. 26, 2021
So, you’re in the market for a house? You’ve probably been reading up on all there is to know about taking out a mortgage. The basics are pretty st...
Read more
Pay Little to No Down Payment With These Mortgage Lenders

Pay Little to No Down Payment With These Mortgage Lenders

Pay Little to No Down Payment With These Mortgage Le...

Jan. 26, 2021
So, you’re ready to become a homeowner? How exciting! But there’s one small problem - you don’t have the funds to make a down payment. Don’t worry,...
Read more
3 Recommended 30-Year Mortgage Lenders for {year}

3 Recommended 30-Year Mortgage Lenders for 2021

3 Recommended 30-Year Mortgage Lenders for 2021

Jan. 26, 2021
Shopping for a mortgage can be stressful. It’s hard to wrap your head around the various loan types, terms and lenders. It’s time to get down to ba...
Read more
Mortgage vs. Mortgage Refinance - What's the Difference?

Mortgage vs. Mortgage Refinance - What's the Difference?

Mortgage vs. Mortgage Refinance - What's the Differe...

Jan. 21, 2021
The more you understand about your home and the mortgage you pay, the easier it will be to sort through your finances and have realistic expectatio...
Read more
How to Get a Home Loan When You Have Bad Credit

How to Get a Home Loan When You Have Bad Credit

How to Get a Home Loan When You Have Bad Credit

Jan. 21, 2021
Bad credit may seem like it stands between you and a new home purchase. Fortunately, there are ways to get a mortgage even with bad credit.
Read more
7 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mortgage

7 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mortgage

7 Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mortgage

Jan. 21, 2021
When purchasing a home, a mortgage is almost always an inevitability. To ensure the best outcome, it’s important to plan ahead and make a decision ...
Read more
Understanding Common Mortgage Terms

Understanding Common Mortgage Terms

Understanding Common Mortgage Terms

Jan. 21, 2021
Applying for a mortgage involves a lot of confusing numbers, but it's actually the words around those numbers that you should be focused on. Learni...
Read more
Mortgage 101: Breaking Down the Basics

Mortgage 101: Breaking Down the Basics

Mortgage 101: Breaking Down the Basics

Jan. 20, 2021
Ready to put down a welcome mat and call a place home? Congratulations! Buying a new home can be daunting, but also very exciting. These eight step...
Read more
Managing Your Mortgage During a Housing Boom: Financial Professionals Weigh in

Managing Your Mortgage During a Housing Boom: Financial Professionals Weigh in

Managing Your Mortgage During a Housing Boom: Financ...

Jan. 12, 2021
The mortgage market is thriving thanks to record low rates. But what should you do? Refinance your mortgage, go into forbearance, or maybe renovate...
Read more
Professional Tips on How to Manage Your Money During Chaotic Times

Professional Tips on How to Manage Your Money During Chaotic Times

Professional Tips on How to Manage Your Money During...

Jan. 12, 2021
We gathered four leading on personal finance professionals to discuss the state of the economy, how it affects American households and what you can...
Read more
3 Recommended Mortgage Refinance Lenders for {year}

3 Recommended Mortgage Refinance Lenders for 2021

3 Recommended Mortgage Refinance Lenders for 2021

Dec. 27, 2020
For those looking to refinance their mortgage there are a lot of lenders to choose from and a number of factors to consider. Each lender has their...
Read more
What's It Really Like to Get a Mortgage Online? 3 Borrowers Tell All

What's It Really Like to Get a Mortgage Online? 3 Borrowers Tell All

What's It Really Like to Get a Mortgage Online? 3 Bo...

Dec. 27, 2020
Traditionally, people take out mortgages at the local banks where they already have an account or through a local mortgage broker that has access t...
Read more
How to Get Low Mortgage Rates in {year}

How to Get Low Mortgage Rates in 2021

How to Get Low Mortgage Rates in 2021

Dec. 06, 2020
Mortgage rates are little numbers that are a big deal for anyone looking to purchase or refinance a home. Interest rates are a percentage of the ov...
Read more
Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early?

Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early?

Should You Pay Off Your Mortgage Early?

Dec. 01, 2020
If you have a) a mortgage and b) some spare cash, it might be tempting to use the cash to pay off your mortgage early. After all, who wouldn’t want...
Read more
Top Resources For Millennial Homebuyers

Top Resources For Millennial Homebuyers

Top Resources For Millennial Homebuyers

Nov. 28, 2020
Although the popular image of millennials is of long-term renters who shy away from buying a property, recent market surveys show that this isn’t t...
Read more
The Mortgage Hack That Can Save You Tens of Thousands of Dollars

The Mortgage Hack That Can Save You Tens of Thousands of Dollars

The Mortgage Hack That Can Save You Tens of Thousand...

Nov. 15, 2020
When it comes to mortgages, lenders generally let you choose the repayment term but not the frequency of payments. Most mortgage lenders offer a ch...
Read more
How Can I Get A Mortgage When I’m Self-Employed?

How Can I Get A Mortgage When I’m Self-Employed?

How Can I Get A Mortgage When I’m Self-Employed?

Nov. 15, 2020
More and more people in the US self-employed, whether freelancers, entrepreneurs, or small business owners. The advantages of being self-employed a...
Read more
To Rent or Buy: How Do I Know?

To Rent or Buy: How Do I Know?

To Rent or Buy: How Do I Know?

Nov. 12, 2020
Almost everybody will face the question at some stage in their lives of whether to rent or buy a property. We all need somewhere to live, and while...
Read more
The Alternatives to HARP Refinancing

The Alternatives to HARP Refinancing

The Alternatives to HARP Refinancing

Nov. 12, 2020
The Home Affordable Refinance Program, commonly referred to as HARP or the Obama Refinance Program, is a federal government-backed refinance progra...
Read more
Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Mortgage

Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Mortgage

Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Mortgage

Nov. 12, 2020
Unless you're one of the lucky few that can purchase a home for cash, you're likely to need some kind of a loan to realize your dream of home owner...
Read more
Refinance Without Closing Costs - Is it Right for You?

Refinance Without Closing Costs - Is it Right for You?

Refinance Without Closing Costs - Is it Right for You?

Nov. 12, 2020
With interest rates low, now might be a good time to consider refinancing your mortgage. Before agreeing to a new deal at the lowest rate, it is wo...
Read more
Self Employed? Compare These Top-Tier Lenders

Self Employed? Compare These Top-Tier Lenders

Self Employed? Compare These Top-Tier Lenders

Nov. 12, 2020
About 10% of Americans are self-employed as small business owners, entrepreneurs, or freelancers. You probably know about the many advantages of be...
Read more
A Guide to Lowering Your Monthly Mortgage Payments

A Guide to Lowering Your Monthly Mortgage Payments

A Guide to Lowering Your Monthly Mortgage Payments

Nov. 12, 2020
​Your mortgage has been approved, you’ve made your down payment and paid all closing costs, and you’re ready to move into your new home. But your b...
Read more
In Need of a Mortgage Loan? Check Out These 3 Lenders

In Need of a Mortgage Loan? Check Out These 3 Lenders

In Need of a Mortgage Loan? Check Out These 3 Lenders

Nov. 10, 2020
The American mortgage industry is competitive, with around 12,000 institutions offering home loans at last count. With so much choice, it can be ha...
Read more
Bad Credit? Check Out These Options

Bad Credit? Check Out These Options

Bad Credit? Check Out These Options

Nov. 09, 2020
Times have changed in the world of mortgages. Having less than perfect credit is no longer a big red “X” against you when applying for a mortgage. ...
Read more
The Top Mortgage Refinance Companies of {year}

The Top Mortgage Refinance Companies of 2021

The Top Mortgage Refinance Companies of 2021

Nov. 09, 2020
If you’ve been paying a mortgage for some time now and would like to get more favorable loan terms, then you may want to consider refinancing your ...
Read more
Urban vs Suburban: Where Should I Buy My First Home?

Urban vs Suburban: Where Should I Buy My First Home?

Urban vs Suburban: Where Should I Buy My First Home?

Nov. 08, 2020
The bright lights of the city or the wide, open spaces of the suburbs? It’s one of the biggest dilemmas faced by first-time home buyers. This guide...
Read more
How Much Does it Cost to Refinance Your Mortgage?

How Much Does it Cost to Refinance Your Mortgage?

How Much Does it Cost to Refinance Your Mortgage?

Nov. 05, 2020
Refinancing can be an easy way to afford large expenses like home renovations or college, to lower your interest rates (and therefore payments) or ...
Read more
What You Can Do if You Suspect Mortgage Discrimination

What You Can Do if You Suspect Mortgage Discrimination

What You Can Do if You Suspect Mortgage Discrimination

Oct. 21, 2020
If you believe you’ve been ‘redlined’ because of your race, religion, age, or sex, there are a number of ways you can deal with it. Contact your le...
Read more
What is a Reverse Mortgage: the What, How and Who

What is a Reverse Mortgage: the What, How and Who

What is a Reverse Mortgage: the What, How and Who

Oct. 21, 2020
If you’re retired or semi-retired, own your own home, and are looking for extra income to fund a home renovation, medical costs, or other significa...
Read more
Good News For Home Buyers: Mortgage Approval Rates Are Higher Than Ever

Good News For Home Buyers: Mortgage Approval Rates Are Higher Than Ever

Good News For Home Buyers: Mortgage Approval Rates A...

Aug. 05, 2020
Some good news to brighten the day of prospective homebuyers: you’re more likely to be approved for a mortgage than ever before. Total denial rates...
Read more
Mortgage Pre-Approval: The Basics

Mortgage Pre-Approval: The Basics

Mortgage Pre-Approval: The Basics

Aug. 05, 2020
What does pre-approval mean when you’re looking to buy a home? Understand how it can help you and how to apply for pre-approval, which can give you...
Read more
LendingTree's Home Valuation Tool

LendingTree's Home Valuation Tool

LendingTree's Home Valuation Tool

Aug. 05, 2020
LendingTree’s Home Valuation Tool helps you make an informed decision for when it’s a good time to sell, or hold onto, you home. Learn about your h...
Read more
The Ultimate First-Time Home Buyer Guide

The Ultimate First-Time Home Buyer Guide

The Ultimate First-Time Home Buyer Guide

Aug. 05, 2020
Buying a home for the first time can involve a lot of unfamiliar numbers and terms. Here’s what you need to know about payments, parts of a mortgag...
Read more
Know Your Rights: Prevent Mortgage Discrimination

Know Your Rights: Prevent Mortgage Discrimination

Know Your Rights: Prevent Mortgage Discrimination

Aug. 05, 2020
The dream of buying a house is one that many can relate to. For many of us, saving the money for a down payment can seem like the most difficult pa...
Read more
LendingTree vs Quicken Loans: Choosing the Right Lender for You

LendingTree vs Quicken Loans: Choosing the Right Lender for You

LendingTree vs Quicken Loans: Choosing the Right Len...

Aug. 05, 2020
When shopping around for a mortgage, is it recommended to start your search with a marketplace or by going straight to a direct lender? Put this to...
Read more
6 Ways to Get a Mortgage When You Have Student Loan Debt

6 Ways to Get a Mortgage When You Have Student Loan Debt

6 Ways to Get a Mortgage When You Have Student Loan ...

Aug. 05, 2020
Many millennials dream of buying their own home, but feel held back by their student loan debt. Although student loan debt is a burden, it doesn’t ...
Read more
What Kind of Home Should I Buy?

What Kind of Home Should I Buy?

What Kind of Home Should I Buy?

Aug. 05, 2020
Buying a house isn’t only the biggest financial decision most people make - it’s also the most personal. There is no one-size-fits-all house, espec...
Read more
What Type of Mortgage is Right for Me?

What Type of Mortgage is Right for Me?

What Type of Mortgage is Right for Me?

Jun. 22, 2020
As you shop for a mortgage, it’s important to understand what each option means for you and your budget. The top mortgage lenders offer a range of ...
Read more
How to Take Advantage of Falling Mortgage Rates

How to Take Advantage of Falling Mortgage Rates

How to Take Advantage of Falling Mortgage Rates

Jun. 15, 2020
For millions of Americans, buying a home or refinancing an existing mortgage is about to get easier. Here's some background about the current mortg...
Read more
COVID Crisis Is a Financial Wake up Call for Millennials and Gen Zers

COVID Crisis Is a Financial Wake up Call for Millennials and Gen Zers

COVID Crisis Is a Financial Wake up Call for Millenn...

Jun. 07, 2020
We began 2020 in a fairly healthy economy—stock market prices were high and unemployment rates were low. The COVID crisis derailed financial securi...
Read more
How I Saved Thousands Negotiating My Mortgage Terms

How I Saved Thousands Negotiating My Mortgage Terms

How I Saved Thousands Negotiating My Mortgage Terms

Mar. 30, 2020
Buying a house is an exciting time, but it isn’t a stress-free process. Part of the process is getting approved for a mortgage to help pay for the ...
Read more
How Much Will the Fed’s Near-Zero Rates Actually Help Borrowers?

How Much Will the Fed’s Near-Zero Rates Actually Help Borrowers?

How Much Will the Fed’s Near-Zero Rates Actually Hel...

Mar. 24, 2020
Here is proof that even the darkest clouds have a silver lining. As humanity faces its greatest challenge this century, one small upshot is that bo...
Read more
What to Consider as Rates Rise in {Year}

What to Consider as Rates Rise in 2021

What to Consider as Rates Rise in 2021

Feb. 27, 2020
In its final decision for 2018, the Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate from 2.25% to 2.50% but lowered its forecast for 2019 from 3...
Read more
Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest in Over a Year

Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest in Over a Year

Mortgage Rates Drop to Lowest in Over a Year

Feb. 27, 2020
US home prices have risen 7% in the past year, yet it’s cheaper to buy now than at certain points in the last 12 months. How could this possibly be...
Read more
These Simple Steps Can Help You Improve Your Credit Score

These Simple Steps Can Help You Improve Your Credit Score

These Simple Steps Can Help You Improve Your Credit ...

Feb. 26, 2020
Applying for a term loan can be difficult and tedious, not to mention all the different eligibility criteria. Applying for a mortgage? Be aware of ...
Read more
HELOC Popularity Rises with Household Home Equity: Know the Pros and Cons

HELOC Popularity Rises with Household Home Equity: Know the Pros and Cons

HELOC Popularity Rises with Household Home Equity: K...

Apr. 23, 2019
Most homeowners have heard of home equity loans and cash-out refinance, but neither of these is the most popular product when it comes to home equi...
Read more