Mortgage Basics

Homebuyers
June 4, 2026

Mortgage Discount Points: How They Can Lower Your Interest Rate and Potentially Save You Money

Mortgage discount points can be purchased by homebuyers to “buy down” the interest rate on a mortgage from the outset of the loan.

Homebuyers
May 21, 2026

Are Price Cuts on Homes Deals—or Red Flags?

While a home with with a slew of markdowns may be a red flag, it can also create an opportunity for homebuyers to negotiate a great deal.

Homebuyers
May 19, 2026

How Down Payment Assistance Programs May Help You Buy a Home Sooner

Thousands of down payment assistance programs across the country help buyers cover upfront costs. This is typically done with grants or low-cost loans tailored to first-time homebuyers or specific professions and regions.

Homebuyers
May 13, 2026

How FHA Loans May Make City Homebuying More Affordable (Even on a Tight Budget)

FHA loans were designed to help prospective homebuyers close the deal without a huge down payment or impeccable credit. And they can be used in cities, even large ones.

Homebuyers
May 8, 2026

Mother-Daughter Homes: What To Know About This Multigenerational Living Arrangement

With home prices high and caregiving demands on the rise, many families are turning to mother-daughter homes as a form of multigenerational living.

Homebuyers
May 7, 2026

Does Getting Prequalified or Preapproved for a Mortgage Hurt Your Credit Score?

The good news is not all credit pulls affect your score. Even when hard inquiries are made for home loans, credit scores typically only drop by a few points and may recover in as little as a few months.