Resources

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act becomes law this week without Trump's signature. Here's what's different from earlier drafts, and what it means for buyers and renters.

Yes, you can switch lenders after locking your rate. But whether you should depends on where you are in the process, what it will cost you, and whether you’re buying...

If cryptocurrency is part of your asset picture, you could still qualify for a mortgage loan, but crypto is treated differently from cash or traditional investments, and the rules vary...

We compared home prices, incomes, mortgage rates, and lending access in 1976 and 2026 using matched methodology to see who really has it harder.

Changing jobs can complicate the mortgage process, but it doesn't always have to jeopardize approval. A lot depends on the nature of the job change.

Have $100k in home equity? Find out exactly how much HELOC you can access based on your home value, mortgage balance, and CLTV. With scenario tables and a step-by-step calculation.

New rules effective August 3, 2026, change how condo loans are reviewed and approved. Here's what buyers need to know before making an offer on a condo.

Homeowners pulled a record $47B in equity in Q1 2026. Before you tap yours, here's how to choose between a cash-out refi, HELOC, or doing nothing — and what each...

Lenders don’t all count student loans the same way. Learn how conventional, FHA, and VA loans treat your student debt in DTI calculations — and which method works best for...

A record 242 U.S. cities now have starter homes priced at $1 million or more. See which metros are most affected, what that means for your monthly payment, and the...

Most lenders require an accepted offer before they’ll lock your rate — but lock-and-shop programs are an exception. Here’s how rate locks work, when you can actually lock, and what...

More couples are buying homes before marriage — or instead of it. Here’s what changes on your mortgage application when you’re not married, how to protect both partners, and what...

Yes, you can qualify for a mortgage on a contract job, but lenders evaluate contract income differently than a W-2 salary. Here’s exactly what they look for and how to...

ARM share is at its highest since 2023. A 7/6 SOFR ARM sits at 6.27% vs. 6.58% for the 30-year fixed. Here’s the honest framework for who should consider one...

A new bill introduced June 1, 2026 would raise the capital gains exclusion to $1 million for homeowners 65+ who've lived in their home for 25+ years. Here's what the...

A nosebleed seat at Madison Square Garden costs around $4,000 — enough for a 3% down payment in several U.S. markets. Here's how little you actually need to buy a...

Velocity banking promises to pay off your mortgage in years, not decades. Here's what the math actually shows — and when a HELOC makes more sense.

The May 2026 median existing-home price hit a record $429,300. Here’s what that number means for buyers — and what it actually buys in six representative markets across the country.

Variable income doesn't disqualify you from a mortgage. Learn exactly how lenders calculate seasonal pay and commissions — and how to put your strongest application forward.

A mortgage inquiry can temporarily lower your credit score but by less than most people fear. Here’s exactly what happens, for how long, and how to shop multiple lenders without...

Learn what manual underwriting is: how it works, when it’s used, how it compares to automated underwriting, and what to expect across different loan types.

How to write a compelling letter to the seller of a home, what to include or avoid, plus tips and examples to help your offer stand out in a competitive...

Learn what a floating interest rate is, how it works, and how it compares to fixed rates. Explore pros, cons, and calculation tips to make informed decisions.

Learn how a tri-merge credit report combines Equifax, Experian & TransUnion data to help lenders assess risk, streamline approvals, and guide your loan choices.

Learn how to flip a house profitably. Discover the steps, pros and cons, common mistakes, and expert tips to succeed in your first house flipping project.

Learn what mortgage curtailment is, how it works, its benefits, types, and key considerations to help you pay off your home faster and save on interest.

Wondering how much house I can afford with a 70k salary? Learn budgeting tips, loan options, and key factors that impact home affordability on a $70K income.

Learn what ownership interest in a property means, the types, your rights, and how it can impact mortgage transactions, titles, and real estate ownership.

Discover what an escrow shortage is, what causes it, how it can raise your mortgage payments, and the most effective steps to handle, reduce, or avoid it.