Rates & Closing Costs
What Are Mortgage Points and Are They Worth Buying?
Mortgage points let you pay upfront to lower your rate. Learn what one point costs, how to find your break-even month, and when buying points makes sense.
Rates & Closing Costs
Points, PMI, APR, escrow and the line items on your Loan Estimate.
Rates & Closing Costs
Closing Costs Explained: A Line-by-Line Guide to Your Closing Disclosure
Understand every page of your Closing Disclosure, from loan terms to cash to close, which fees can change, and what to check during your three-day review.
Rates & Closing Costs
How to Get Rid of PMI on a Conventional Loan
PMI on a conventional loan can be dropped at 80% loan-to-value and ends automatically at 78%. Learn four ways to remove PMI sooner and the rules servicers use.
Rates & Closing Costs
APR vs. Interest Rate: Why the Two Numbers Differ
Your interest rate sets your payment; APR adds fees and points to show the total cost of borrowing. Learn how APR works and how to use it to compare loans.
Rates & Closing Costs
Mortgage Rate Lock: How Long to Lock and What a Float-Down Is
A rate lock protects your mortgage rate while your loan closes. Learn common lock periods, extension fees, how float-down options work, and when to lock.
Rates & Closing Costs
Escrow Accounts: Why Your Mortgage Payment Changed This Year
Your mortgage payment can rise on a fixed-rate loan because of property taxes and insurance. Learn how escrow analysis works and what to do about it.
Rates & Closing Costs
How to Compare Loan Estimates From Three Lenders
Compare mortgage Loan Estimates side by side using the right sections: rate, points, lender fees, cash to close and five-year costs. Includes an example.
Rates & Closing Costs
Seller Concessions: How to Get the Seller to Pay Closing Costs
Seller concessions can cover thousands in closing costs. See the limits for conventional, FHA, VA and USDA loans, how to ask, and how they affect your offer.