Conventional Loan Requirements for 2026
Conventional loan requirements are generally stricter than government-backed mortgages.
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FHA Appraisal Guidelines: A Beginner’s Guide
You’ll need an FHA appraisal to buy or refinance with an FHA loan. Knowing what to expect makes it less intimidating.
What Is an FHA 203(k) Loan?
An FHA 203(k) loan combines a renovation loan with a primary mortgage. Because they’re government-insured, 203(k) loans have more lenient qualifications than conventional loans.
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No-Closing-Cost Mortgage: You Pay One Way or Another
A no-closing-cost mortgage can save you money upfront but cost more over the long term.
What Are the Closing Costs for a Home Seller?
Sellers can generally expect to pay some significant closing costs, including real estate agent commissions and transfer taxes and fees.
Mortgage Origination Fee: How To Compare Lender Charges
Compare fees and mortgage rates among lenders to find the best deal.
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What Is Mortgage Insurance? How It Works, When It’s Required
Mortgage insurance protects the lender. You’ll have to pay for it if you get an FHA mortgage or put down less than 20% on a conventional loan.
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Adjustable-Rate Mortgage: How an ARM Works, Who It’s For
Adjustable-rate mortgages have interest rates that can change over time. Here is how an ARM works.
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HomeReady and Home Possible Loans: Income Limits and More
Buy a home with just 3% down using Fannie Mae’s HomeReady or Freddie Mac’s Home Possible loans.
What Are VA Loan Closing Costs?
Closing costs are fees for the services required to complete a home loan.
FHA Mortgage Insurance
The annual FHA mortgage insurance premium varies from 0.15% to 0.75% of the loan amount. It usually remains for the life of the loan.
FHA Loan Requirements for 2026
FHA loan requirements include a minimum credit score of 500 as well as limits on your total monthly debt load.
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FHA Loans: What to Know in 2026
An FHA loan is a mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration. FHA loans are helpful for buyers with limited savings or lower credit scores.
FHA vs. Conventional Loans: Pros, Cons and Differences
FHA loans allow lower credit scores and are easier to qualify for. Conventional loans allow lower down payments.
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VA IRRRL vs. VA Cash-Out Refinance
An IRRRL can get you better loan terms, while a VA cash-out refinance lets you tap into your equity.
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VA Loan Limits for 2026
VA loan limits follow the conforming loan limits set by the Federal Housing Finance Authority.
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VA Loan Funding Fee Requirements
The VA Funding Fee is a one-time charge that replaces mortgage insurance and ranges from 1.25% to 3.3% of the total loan amount.
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VA Loan Requirements for 2026
VA loans typically don't require a down payment, but you still need decent credit and sufficient income to get approved.
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VA Loans vs. Conventional Loans
VA loans require no down payment, but conventional loans are worth considering, especially if you can put 20% down to avoid mortgage insurance.