Mortgages.
Step-by-step guides to pre-approval, refinance, PMI, and getting the lowest rate.
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10 guidesHow to Apply for an FHA Loan
FHA loans require 3.5 percent down with a 580 credit score, or 10 percent with 500. Apply through any FHA-approved lender. The full process takes 30 to 45 days.
How to Buy a House With No Money Down
VA loans and USDA loans allow 0 percent down for eligible buyers. Down payment assistance programs can cover the rest. Closing costs still apply but are often negotiable.
How to Choose a Mortgage Lender
Compare 3 lenders across rate, APR, lender fees, and closing speed. The right pick saves $5,000 to $20,000 over a 30-year loan, not just the lowest advertised rate.
How to Compare Mortgage Offers
Compare Loan Estimates side by side using APR, total cash to close, lender fees, and 5-year cost. The lowest rate is rarely the cheapest loan.
How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
A pre-approval verifies your income, credit, and assets so sellers take you seriously. Apply with 2 to 3 lenders within 14 days to protect your credit score.
How to Lower Your Mortgage Payment
Lower your mortgage payment by refinancing, recasting, removing PMI, appealing taxes, or shopping insurance. Each lever saves $50 to $400 per month.
How to Pay Off Your Mortgage Early
Pay biweekly, add 1/12 of your payment monthly, recast after lump sums, or refinance to 15 years. Each cuts 4 to 15 years and saves $30,000 to $150,000 in interest.
How to Qualify for a VA Loan
VA loans require eligible military service, a 580 to 620 credit score from most lenders, and a Certificate of Eligibility. Zero down payment and no PMI.
How to Refinance Your Mortgage
Refinancing replaces your current mortgage with a new one. Refinance when rates drop 0.75 percent or more and you will stay long enough to recoup closing costs.
How to Remove PMI From Your Mortgage
Cancel PMI by requesting it at 80 percent LTV with an appraisal, waiting for auto-cancellation at 78 percent, or refinancing into a non-PMI loan. Saves $50 to $300 per month.
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