Homebuying

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Understand how long pre-approval remains valid, whether mortgage pre-approvals expire, and when you should start the process.

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about How long does a mortgage pre-approval last?

If you can’t afford to repair or replace what’s most important to you, it’s worth getting insurance. Learn about insurance for homeowners, renters, and pets.

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about All things insurance

For one local man, being able to live on the river is much more than a perk—it’s personal.

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about Finding Home: Fred

Learn what pre-approval is, how to get the best possible results, and—most importantly—why it’s essential for a smooth home buying process.

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about How to get pre-approved for a mortgage

Learn the differences between FHA and Conventional loans, and find out which is the best choice for you with our step-by-step guide.

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about FHA or Conventional: Which mortgage loan is best for you?

Before you can close on a home or refinance a property, an underwriter will need to verify your income, debts, and assets. See what docs they need and why.

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about Getting your mortgage docs in a row

They didn’t think homeownership was in the cards. Now they’re living a life of leisure in Florida.

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about Finding Home: Dan and Louise

An appraisal contingency helps prevent homebuyers from overpaying, but sometimes they cause offers to be rejected. Learn when to add it, when to waive it.

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about Appraisal contingency: Add it or waive it?

A guide to breaking down the federal and lender-specific requirements to qualify for an FHA loan and determining if this lending option is a good fit for you.

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about FHA loan requirements: A guide to understanding what it takes to qualify

Here’s an intro to how FHA loans work, how to qualify, and which types of borrowers might be a good match for this type of mortgage.

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about What is an FHA loan and what it does for you

Buying a home is an exciting experience, especially of you are a first-time homebuyer. Allow this handy infographic to guide you along the steps to buying a house.

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about 8 steps to buying a house

Tips for comparing the affordability of renting and buying a home, and deciding which one might be right for you.

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about Should I rent or buy a house?

Here’s what our underwriters take into consideration when reviewing applications from self-employed borrowers.

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about Self-employed? Here’s how to get a mortgage

Choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most important (and difficult) parts of buying a house. Here are some tips to help you make that decision.

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about How to decide where to buy a house

There is more to a mortgage than meets the eye. Here’s what a mortgage really is, how it works, and the different options available.

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about What is a mortgage

The fight against LGBTQ+ housing discrimination has turned a corner. Learn your rights with the Better.com infographic on LGBTQ+ homeownership.

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about The LGBTQ+ homeownership story in numbers

Discover the best places to live in New Jersey, what’s unique about the real estate market, how to find a New Jersey Realtor, plus 7 steps to buy a home.

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about How to stay sane when buying a home in NJ

Considering an out-of-state move? Don’t overlook these cities with lower costs of living and affordable homebuying options.

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about 10 of the most affordable cities in the US for homebuyers

Can you qualify for a mortgage? You might want to check your credit score. Learn how lenders handle your credit score and how you can improve it.

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about How your credit score affects your mortgage

From instant pre-approval letters to eliminating unnecessary costs, here’s how digital lenders make homebuying more convenient, transparent, and speedy.

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about Benefits of buying a house online
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