Resources

Starter homes are disappearing — but a new wave of AI-powered mortgage technology is making it easier and cheaper to get a loan on a smaller home. Here's what first-time...

Mortgage reserves are savings you keep after closing — lenders use them to verify you can cover payments if your income is interrupted. Learn how much you need, what counts,...

Loan to value ratio (LTV) compares your mortgage balance to your home's value. It affects your interest rate, whether you need PMI, and how much equity you can borrow against....

An ARM loan starts with a fixed interest rate for a set number of years, then adjusts periodically based on a market index. Learn how ARM rates work, what the...

A down payment is the portion of a home's purchase price you pay upfront out of pocket. It reduces your loan amount, affects your interest rate, and determines whether you...

What are mortgage rates today? The 30-year fixed is 6.29%, the 15-year fixed is 5.91%, and the ARM is ~6.07% on April 21, 2026. See what is moving rates and...

The government is moving to ban large institutional investors from buying single-family homes. Here's what the data actually says about whether that will lower prices — and what will.

Mortgage rates are near their lowest levels in over a month as Middle East tensions ease and bond markets strengthen. Here's what rates look like today and what it means...

Cash to close is the total amount you need to bring to closing when you refinance. Here's what's included, how much to expect, and how to reduce it.

Refinancing from an FHA loan to a conventional loan can eliminate lifetime mortgage insurance and lower your monthly payment. Here's how it works and whether it makes sense for you.

The credit score you need to refinance depends on your loan type. Conventional refinances start at 620. FHA and VA refinances start at 580. Here's how your score affects your...

A prepayment penalty is a fee some lenders charge when you pay off your mortgage early. Here's how it works, what triggers it, and how to avoid it.

NYC just proposed a first-of-its-kind annual surcharge on second homes worth $5 million or more. Here's what a pied-à-terre tax is, who it affects, and what it could mean for...

Mortgage rates are holding near four-week lows on April 16, 2026. See today's rates across loan types, what's driving them, and what borrowers should do right now.

Learn how homeowners can use a home equity loan, HELOC, or cash-out refinance to consolidate debt — and how to avoid debt relief scams. Compare costs, risks, and which option...

What are mortgage rates today? See current 30-year, 15-year, and ARM rates for April 15, 2026 — plus what's moving them and whether now is a good time to lock.

Looking for the best cities to buy your first home in 2026? See where affordability, job markets, and quality of life actually add up — and how the math compares...

Thinking about buying a home with your parents? Learn how multigenerational mortgages work, who qualifies, how to split ownership, and what to watch out for.

See today's mortgage rates for April 14, 2026. The average 30-year fixed rate is 6.40% — here's what's moving rates and what it means for your home purchase or refinance.

Today's mortgage rates, what's moving them, and what homebuyers and refinancers should know right now. Updated daily by Better Mortgage.

Understanding APR costs helps you avoid hidden mortgage fees. Learn key fees, rates, and tips to compare and secure the best loan for your needs.

Learn how to remove someone from a mortgage with or without refinancing. Explore pros and cons, costs, FAQs, and common methods to simplify the process.

With the government shutdown canceling economic data reports, economists will have to make more blindfolded decisions that affect mortgage borrowers.

What is down payment assistance? Learn how it works, find types and eligibility, plus where to search, how to apply, and practical alternatives today.

Compare VA loan vs FHA to see eligibility, down payment rules, pros, cons, and more. Learn which mortgage option works best for your homebuying needs.

Learn how to avoid tax on a second home: key deductions, personal vs rental rules, capital gains, and legal strategies to lower taxes with smart planning.

Government shutdowns can create paradox for borrowers. Rates may decline, but processing may stall as lenders face bottlenecks in a reduction of government support.

Learn how to evaluate, finance, and manage an Airbnb investment property. Understand their pros and cons, the steps to buy one, tips, alternatives, and FAQs.

Learn how an interest-only mortgage works, see pros and cons, qualification criteria, and alternatives to decide if it’s the right option for home financing.

What is a HUD home? Learn how the buying process works, and the benefits and risks to consider so you can spot value and opportunities with confidence.

Buying a short-sale home can save you money if you know the process. Learn key steps, expert tips, and strategies to secure a smooth, successful purchase.

How does a VA cash-out refinance work? Learn key requirements, costs, pros, cons, and scenarios when tapping your home equity may be a smart move for Veterans.

How long does a seller have to respond to an offer on a house? Understand why delays happen, key signs of acceptance, and ways to make your offer stronger.

Explore VA loan pros and cons to see if it’s the right mortgage choice. Learn about benefits, drawbacks, eligibility, and when a VA loan works best for you.

Understand what a VA appraisal is, how it works, fees, property requirements, and what to do if the appraisal comes in low when buying with a VA loan.

Learn who pays Relator fees, how commissions work, what’s negotiable, and how FSBO impacts buyer’s agent costs. Clear FAQs help buyers and sellers plan.

What is a VA cash-out refinance? Explore how it works, its main benefits, and eligibility requirements so you can decide if it’s the right choice.

Learn what an escrow refund is, why you might get one after an escrow analysis, how the payout works, smart ways to use it, and other common FAQs.

Learn how many times you can use a VA loan, the benefits of reusing it, and key situations where getting a second VA loan could be the right choice for...

A new law bans mortgage trigger leads, protecting home buyers from spam and giving them more control over their data. Here’s what it means for you.