Resources

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.

Millions of homeowners with sub-3% mortgages are frozen in place by today's 6.37% rates. Here's the actual math for deciding whether to stay put or move — and when it...

Gen Z is rewriting the homebuying playbook — skipping starter homes, buying with friends, and renting out rooms to cover the mortgage. Here's how the new approach actually works.

Rates dipped after the US-Iran ceasefire — but economists call it a brief reprieve, not a pivot. Here's how to decide whether to lock your mortgage rate right now.

Mortgage rates are averaging 6.37% on a 30-year fixed as of April 10, 2026. See today's full rate table and what's driving rates this week.

Learn how to buy a second home, from assessing financial readiness to choosing the right mortgage. Explore cash-out refis and discover your path to ownership.

What is homeowners insurance? Discover how it works and what it covers. Learn about the different coverage types and find the right protection for your home.

Self-employed, freelance, or 1099? Here's exactly how lenders calculate your income — and what to do if your write-offs are working against you.

Today's mortgage rates, what's moving them, and what spring homebuyers need to know right now — April 9, 2026.

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.