Mortgage Basics

Common Mortgage Terms

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Application Checklist

When you apply for a loan, you’ll be asked for some documents. Here’s a handy list for when the time comes. Don’t worry — we’ll walk you through every step to move your application along smoothly!

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Credit

Credit history is information about your past and current credit used to compile a credit score. Read about credit, how it works and how to improve your credit score.

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Closing Costs

A closing cost is a payment required to finalize a home loan and is separate from a down-payment. Read about closing costs, their purpose, how you can pay them and more.

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Appraisals

An appraisal is an estimate of a property's fair market value, it is required by a lender to ensure the loan amount is not more than the property value. Learn more about appraisals, how they work, ownership and more.

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Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)

Private Mortgage Insurance (or PMI) is insurance that protects a lender from increased risk when a borrower is putting less than 20% down on a house. To find out about PMI, how it works, cost and more - click below.

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Refinance

Refinancing your mortgage is a common practice used to lower monthly payments after you've closed on your home. 

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Glossary of Terms

A full list of mortgage terms.

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Foreclosure

Foreclosure is when a lender seizes a property due to violation of the terms in the mortgage contract (ie: non-payment). Learn how to avoid foreclosure and more by clicking below.

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