Mortgage Education

FHA loans require down payments in case you default. Learn about the amount required to secure a home with an FHA loan.

Learn how escrow works with a mortgage and when and why you would need a mortgage escrow account or impound account.

Read our detailed guide on how homeowners associations work and the pros and cons of buying a house with an HOA.

FHA loans require a home appraisal that meets strict standards. Find everything you need to know about FHA appraisals.

Find out how credit affects borrowing power and learn about some of the best home loans you can get with low credit.

Find out when you have to pay PMI, how to calculate it and how to avoid it completely.

Using gift money towards a down payment on your home? Find out how it works, how much you can use, and what you need to use it.

Homeowners insurance is a must if you need a mortgage. Learn why you need it and what it covers.

Principal, interest, insurance and taxes, or PITI, make up your monthly mortgage payment. Learn how lenders use PITI.