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Mortgage Articles

Buying a home is probably your life's most costly undertaking. Learn how to find the best lenders and get the best interest rates and you can save tens of thousands of dollars.

Recent Articles

April 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Signs an FHA Loan Isn't Right for You

Tempted by an FHA loan? Read on to see why you may want to go another route.
April 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

64% of Americans Say It's Best to Pay Off a Mortgage ASAP. Here's Why They're Wrong

In some situations, it's best to get ahead of a mortgage. But read on to see why that advice may not apply to you.
April 25, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's What Happens When You Apply for a Mortgage and You're Self-Employed

It's by no means impossible to get a mortgage when you're self-employed, but it can be harder than if you're a salaried employee. Read on to learn more.
April 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Signs You're Not Ready to Buy a Home This Year

It may not be the best time for you to buy a home. Read on to see how to tell.
April 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Never Overlook This When Applying for a Veterans Mortgage

One of the biggest perks of a VA loan may also be a huge drawback. Read on to learn what to consider with this kind of mortgage.
April 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Common Mistakes Veterans Make When Applying for a Mortgage

Buying a home as a veteran comes with special considerations and a few potential pitfalls. Read on to find out how to avoid them.
April 24, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

I Want to Buy an Airbnb -- How Much Do I Need for a Down Payment on the Mortgage?

Airbnb rentals can be an excellent way to invest in real estate and have a vacation home for your family to enjoy. Find out the down payment you'll need.
April 24, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

How Low Will Mortgage Rates Go in 2024? Here's What We Know So Far

Mortgage rates are expected to fall later in 2024. Just how far they fall is the big question. Read on to learn more.
April 23, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's How Much You Might Save on a $300,000 Mortgage if You Pay It Off in 15 Years

A 15-year mortgage is a lot cheaper than a 30-year one -- if you can afford the higher monthly payments. Read on to learn more.
April 22, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

My Spouse Has Poor Credit. Is a Joint Mortgage Out of the Question?

Getting a joint mortgage could be tough when one person's credit needs work. Read on to learn more.
April 21, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Times a Mortgage Refinance Absolutely Doesn't Pay

Refinancing a mortgage could save money -- but only under the right circumstances. Read on to learn more.
April 21, 2024 | By Kailey Hagen

Thinking About Buying a Home This Year? Do This Right Now

Finding an affordable home is tough these days. But there's one step you can take to help your offer stand out from others.
April 21, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's What Happens When You Put 50% Down on a Home

Making a higher down payment on a home could leave you with smaller mortgage payments. But read on to see why you may not want to put down too much.
April 21, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Here's What Happens When You Put 30% Down on a Home

Making a higher down payment could make your mortgage more affordable on an ongoing basis. Read on to learn more.
April 21, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Seniors Are Often Told to Pay Off Their Homes Before Retirement. Here's Why That's Bad Advice Today

Don't assume that paying off your home ahead of retirement is the right move. Learn why this decision should hinge on what your mortgage is costing you.
April 20, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

Warren Buffett's $31,000 House Is Now Worth $1.4 Million -- but He Still Says Renting Would've Made Him Wealthier

Real estate has the potential to gain value over time. But you might do even better for yourself by investing. Read on to learn more.
April 20, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Second Home vs. Investment Property: What's the Difference?

These might sound like the same thing, especially if you're buying an Airbnb. But they aren't. Read on to learn more.
April 20, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

1 in 4 Parents Think They Can Help Their Kids Buy a Home. But Here's the Danger in Doing That

It's nice to want to help your children purchase a home. But read on to see why you may want to think twice.
April 20, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Signs a 15-Year Mortgage Isn't Right for You

You might save on interest with a 15-year loan. But read on to see why this option may not be a good idea for your finances.
April 16, 2024 | By Ashley Maready

4 Things Every Home Buyer Needs to Know in 2024

Buying a home this year feels like going to battle. Keep reading for a few tips from the front lines of the housing market.
April 16, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Can You Get a Mortgage for an Airbnb Rental Property?

You can finance a short-term rental property, but it can be harder than buying a home to live in. Here's what you need to know.
April 16, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

3 Great Perks of Buying a Home as an Empty Nester

If your kids have left home, it may be a great time to buy a new home. Here are a few key perks of purchasing a property of your own as an empty nester.
April 16, 2024 | By Matt Frankel, CFP®

Could House Hacking Be the Best Way to Buy Your First Home in 2024?

Does owning a home seem out of reach financially? Here's one technique that could help.
April 15, 2024 | By Maurie Backman

3 Signs a New Construction Home Is Wrong for You

Interested in buying new construction? Read on to see why you may want to think twice.
April 15, 2024 | By Christy Bieber

Buying a House? This Is the Single Most Important Number to Focus On

It's critical that potential homeowners don't devote too large a percentage of income to their mortgage costs. Read on to learn why.