When Does It Make Sense to Pay Off Your Mortgage Early?
Financial experts offer differing perspectives, so find out what makes sense for your individual budget and long-term goals.
personalfinance
Personalfinance articles
Tax Returns and the Mortgage Application Process
As part of the mortgage underwriting process, you’ll often be asked to produce your prior tax returns. Here’s what to expect, and why:
A Guide to Negative Equity
Referred to as negative equity, being “underwater”, or an “upside-down” mortgage, this home finance challenge affects millions of homeowners. Find out what it is and how to avoid it.
Protecting Yourself from Fraud
Like any financial transaction in 2022, real estate transactions are a major target for cyberattacks. We dive into how you can protect yourself – and your money – from mortgage fraud.
Should You Buy a Foreclosed Home?
If you’re bargain-hunting for your next home, you may stumble across foreclosed homes at great prices. Here’s what you need to know before you commit.
Mortgage Lender vs. Mortgage Servicer: Who Does What?
What is the difference between these two entities, and how can you ensure that you’re working with each as effectively as possible?
The 411 on 1031 Exchanges
The 1031 tax-deferred exchange offers a host of opportunities for savvy investors to shift markets or categories, develop more robust portfolios, and control tax strategies. This primer is designed to help you learn more about the 1031 exchange so that you can put it to work for you.
Six Reasons Lenders Reject Mortgage Applications
Find out how mortgage applications fall short and how you might be able to strengthen your application to ensure you’ll qualify.
Should You Pay Your Mortgage Biweekly?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of paying off your mortgage biweekly, and how do you determine if it’s right for you?
Applying for a Mortgage? Here’s What Not to Do.
You’ve been diligently saving, found the home of your dreams, and are ready to seal the deal by applying for a mortgage. High five! When you’re this close to the finish line, it’s important not to grow complacent and lose sight of the end goal—that means avoiding any hurdles that could trip you up and set you back several steps!
