Learning Center
Your complete guide to mortgages, home buying, and financial success
Featured Articles
First-Time Home Buyer's Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about buying your first home, from budgeting to closing day.
Understanding Different Types of Mortgages
Compare conventional, FHA, VA, and jumbo loans to find the right fit for your situation.
How Much House Can You Afford?
Learn to calculate your home buying budget using the 28/36 rule and other key factors.
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12 articles found
First-Time Home Buyer's Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about buying your first home, from budgeting to closing day.
Understanding Different Types of Mortgages
Compare conventional, FHA, VA, and jumbo loans to find the right fit for your situation.
How Much House Can You Afford?
Learn to calculate your home buying budget using the 28/36 rule and other key factors.
Pre-Qualification vs Pre-Approval: What's the Difference?
Understand the key differences and why pre-approval gives you a competitive edge.
How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Buying
Actionable steps to boost your credit score and qualify for better mortgage rates.
Fixed vs. Adjustable Rate Mortgages Explained
Compare the pros and cons of fixed-rate and ARM loans to make an informed decision.
When Should You Refinance Your Mortgage?
Discover the best times to refinance and how to calculate if it makes financial sense.
Understanding Closing Costs: A Complete Breakdown
Learn about all the fees involved in closing and how to prepare for them.
What is PMI and How Can You Avoid It?
Everything about Private Mortgage Insurance and strategies to eliminate it.
Home Inspection Checklist: What to Look For
Essential items to check during your home inspection to avoid costly surprises.
Debt-to-Income Ratio: Why It Matters
Learn how lenders calculate DTI and what ratio you need to qualify.
Cash-Out Refinance: Is It Right for You?
Explore the benefits and risks of tapping into your home equity through refinancing.
Free Resources & Tools
Downloadable guides and interactive tools to help you succeed
Home Buyer's Toolkit
Downloadable checklist and worksheets for first-time buyers
Mortgage Terminology Dictionary
Complete glossary of mortgage and real estate terms
Video: The Mortgage Process Explained
Step-by-step video walkthrough of getting a mortgage
Interactive Calculator Suite
Affordability, payment, and refinance calculators
Quick Answers
Common questions answered in under a minute
How much do I need for a down payment?
Down payment requirements vary by loan type. Conventional loans typically require 5-20%, FHA loans require as little as 3.5%, VA loans can be 0% down, and first-time buyer programs may offer assistance.
How long does the mortgage process take?
The typical mortgage process takes 30-45 days from application to closing. This includes time for underwriting, appraisal, and final approval. Pre-approval can speed up the process.
What credit score do I need to buy a house?
Minimum credit scores vary by loan type: Conventional (620+), FHA (580+ for 3.5% down, 500+ for 10% down), VA (no minimum but lenders typically want 620+), and Jumbo loans typically require 700+.
Should I pay points to lower my interest rate?
Paying points can make sense if you plan to stay in the home long enough to recoup the upfront cost through monthly savings. Generally, it takes 5-7 years to break even.
Ready to Start Your Home Buying Journey?
Apply what you've learned and get pre-approved today