How it protects your offer When you make an offer on a home, one of the first financial steps you’ll take isn’t your down payment—it’s your earnest money deposit. This deposit plays a big role in showing the seller that …
PMI Explained: What It Is and How to Get Rid of It
A simple guide for first-time buyers For many first-time homebuyers, “PMI” is one of the most confusing parts of the mortgage process. But once you understand what it is—and how it works—it becomes much easier to plan for and manage. …
Zero-Down Mortgage Options: Your Guide to No-Money-Down Buying
Who qualifies and how they work For many hopeful buyers, the biggest roadblock to homeownership isn’t monthly affordability—it’s saving for a down payment. The belief that you must put 20% down keeps far too many people on the sidelines. The …
Choosing the Right Mortgage Lender: What Actually Matters
Rates matter, but service matters more Choosing a mortgage lender is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make during your homebuying journey. While it’s tempting to focus only on interest rates, the truth is that the lender you choose can …
How Long Does It REALLY Take to Close a Mortgage?
What slows deals down (and how to avoid it) If you’re preparing to buy a home, one of the biggest questions on your mind is probably: “How long will this take?” While the mortgage process may seem complicated from the …
What Credit Score You Need for a Mortgage in Today’s Market
Requirements by loan type Your credit score plays a major role in determining which mortgage programs you qualify for—and at what cost. But the good news is many buyers overestimate how high their score needs to be. Today’s mortgage guidelines …
Buying a Home with Student Loans: What You Need to Know
Why student debt isn’t a dealbreaker For many buyers, student loans feel like the biggest obstacle to homeownership—but in reality, millions of people purchase homes every year while still paying off their education. Lenders don’t automatically disqualify you for having …
Self-Employed? Here’s How You Get Approved for a Mortgage
What lenders really look for Being self-employed offers freedom, flexibility, and control—but when it comes to getting a mortgage, it also adds a layer of documentation most traditional W-2 borrowers never have to think about. The good news? Self-employed buyers …
Your Mortgage Pre-Approval Checklist
Documents to gather for a smooth start Getting pre-approved is the smartest way to begin the homebuying process—it gives you clarity, strengthens your offers, and helps you move quickly once you find the right property. But before the lender can …