Mortgages
VA Loan Credit Scores: What Home Buyers Need to Know Before Applying
VA loans don't require a minimum credit score, but lenders do. Here's the practical reality for veterans seeking home loans.
▲Mortgages
Applying for a Mortgage
Co-Owning Real Estate With Friends Is Exploding — Here’s What to Know
More people are buying property with non-spouse partners. Before you sign, understand the costs and risks.
Mortgages
Joint VA Loans Let Non-Veterans Share Mortgage Benefits With Vets
Non-veterans can co-borrow on a VA mortgage, helping service members afford bigger homes.
Applying for a Mortgage
Closing Costs on a Credit Card: Smart Move or Costly Mistake?
Can you pay closing costs with a credit card? Here is what home buyers need to know before they try.
Mortgages
Should You Roll Renovations Into One Mortgage?
Fannie Mae's HomeStyle loan lets you finance home upgrades with one mortgage. Here is who qualifies, what it covers, and…
Mortgages
Freddie Mac Home Possible: Low-Income Mortgage Guide
Freddie Mac Home Possible lets low-income buyers put 3% down. Here is who qualifies, what it costs, and how it…
Mortgages
Energy-Efficient Mortgages: How They Work and Who Actually Qualifies
Curious about green mortgages? Here's how EEMs work with FHA, VA and conventional loans, what upgrades they cover, and the…
Applying for a Mortgage
The 28/36 Rule: How Much Mortgage Can Your Income Actually Handle?
Wondering how much of your income should go to your mortgage? The 28/36 rule and its alternatives explain the trade-offs…
Getting the Best Mortgage Rate
When Should You Lock Your Mortgage Rate?
A mortgage rate lock holds your rate between lock and closing. Here's when it pays off, what it costs, and…
Mortgages
Manufactured and Mobile Home Loans: Paths That Actually Close
Manufactured home financing is harder than a regular mortgage. Here are the routes that actually close and the approval gap…
Applying for a Mortgage
BorrowSmart Program: A Down Payment Lifeline Worth Knowing
Freddie Mac's BorrowSmart program gives eligible home buyers up to $2,500 toward closing costs. Here's how it works and who…
Mortgages
Home Loans for Teachers: 7 Programs That Cut the Cost
Teacher home loans include HUD's Good Neighbor Next Door, Teacher Next Door, and union programs. Here's what each offers and…