Mortgage Basics

Learn the fundamentals of mortgages. From terminology to how loans work, these articles cover everything you need to understand home financing.

158 articles

Mortgage Basics

Qualify for a mortgage - Understand key criteria

Qualify for a mortgage with 620+ credit, 43% DTI, stable income and enough for down payment. Learn what lenders look for and how to improve your chances.

David Thompson
Mortgage Basics

Mortgage CPL: Safeguard Your Closing Process

A CPL protects lenders and buyers against title agent fraud or errors at closing. See who issues them, what they cover and why you need one.

David Thompson
Mortgage Basics

Mortgage Professor - Access Free Financial Tools

The Mortgage Professor site offers free calculators, rate comparisons and unbiased advice from Wharton professor Jack Guttentag. See top resources.

Jennifer Adams
Mortgage Basics

Mortgage Without Tax Returns - Qualify with Ease

Bank statement loans use 12-24 months of deposits instead of tax returns. See rates, requirements and which lenders offer no-tax-return mortgages.

David Thompson
Mortgage Basics

Package Mortgage - Expand Your Loan Benefits

A package mortgage includes personal property like appliances and fixtures with the home loan. See when it makes sense and how it affects your rate.

Sarah Mitchell
Mortgage Basics

Find Your Mortgage Account Number: Quick Tips

Your mortgage account number is on your monthly statement, closing docs, coupon book or lender's online portal. Here's exactly where to look.

Jennifer Adams
Mortgage Basics

Mortgage loan transfers: Why do they happen?

Lenders sell servicing rights to free up capital. Your loan terms stay the same. See your rights during a transfer and what to watch for.

David Thompson