Learn About

Mortgages

Back to Page 1

Requirements for Self-Employed Mortgage Borrowers

Expect to show extra documentation to prove income and debt levels, and boost your chances by separating business and personal finances.

Taylor Getler's profile picture
Taylor Getler

Should You Refinance Back to a 30-Year Home Loan?

Refinancing back to a 30-year home loan may offer lower payments, but you'll pay more interest in the long run.

Holden Lewis's profile picture
2
Holden Lewis, Abby Badach Doyle

How to Get Preapproved for a Mortgage

Mortgage preapproval shapes your budget and how sellers view you — here’s what you need to know.

Taylor Getler's profile picture
2
Taylor Getler, Hal M. Bundrick, CFP®

Mortgage Refinance to Pay Off Debt

Taylor Getler's profile picture
Taylor Getler

Mortgage Brokers vs. Loan Officers: What’s the Difference?

A loan officer represents one lender. A mortgage broker can help you shop around with multiple lenders, for a fee.

Abby Badach Doyle's profile picture
Abby Badach Doyle

How Often Can You Refinance Your Mortgage?

You can refinance as often as it makes financial sense. Some lenders and loan types require a waiting period.

Abby Badach Doyle's profile picture
Abby Badach Doyle

Can I Refinance My Mortgage With Bad Credit?

You may be able to refinance a mortgage with a lower credit score. Credit requirements vary by lender and the type of loan.

Abby Badach Doyle's profile picture
Abby Badach Doyle

What Is a Conventional Loan?

Conventional mortgages aren't federally guaranteed. Qualifying can be tougher than with government loans, but the options fit a wider range of buyers and properties.

Kate Wood's profile picture
Kate Wood

6 Ways to Determine the Best Mortgage Loan for You

To get the best mortgage loan, know how much you can afford and shop like the bargain hunter you are.

Hal M. Bundrick, CFP®'s profile picture
2
Hal M. Bundrick, CFP®, Phil Metzger

How to Refinance a Mortgage: A Beginner’s Guide

Refinancing has upfront costs, but you can save over time — especially if you time it right (like when rates drop).

Abby Badach Doyle's profile picture
Abby Badach Doyle

Mortgage Rate Lock: When Do I Lock In My Interest Rate?

A mortgage rate lock freezes your interest rate until loan closing to protect your homebuying power from rate hikes.

Bella Angelos's profile picture
Bella Angelos

Why Was My Mortgage Sold?

What's happening when loans change hands and how to stay on top of your payments.

Phil Metzger's profile picture
Phil Metzger