Complete Guide to Mortgages

Whether you are buying your first home or refinancing a mortgage, you will probably have many questions along the way. What's the best loan type? What does it take to qualify? What are my rights? How do I find a good lender?Is what the lender told me really true? How do I get the best deal?

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  2. Mortgages
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We help you answer those questions with smart tools and independent information, including straightforward explanations, Q&A with experts and comparison calculators that quickly get to the point. Find quick summaries and in-depth information about loan programs such as FHA, VA, USDA and reverse mortgages, homeowners insurance and how to find the best insurance option for you, along with step-by-step guides and a series of resources to help you as a homeowner or a homebuyer.

Mortgage Payment Calculator

We take you beyond the basics without drowning you in tables of numbers. You'll see not only your payments and balance over time but also extras like taxes for your area. Customized results are displayed in simple visuals that don't compromise on detail.

Calculate

Understand and Compare Loan Programs

Refinancing

Refinancing your home loan may sound like a no-brainer when you can get a lower rate. Often it's a great opportunity to save but there's much more to refinancing than just interest rates. Learn more about:

Refinance Calculator › FHA Refinance Calculator›
FHA Loans
Is an FHA Loan For You?

FHA loans can help many people become homeowners but they are not always the best choice. Check out our FHA vs. Conventional Loan Calculator to see which type of loan makes sense for you.

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USDA Loans

This is one of the few options available to buy a home without a down payment.

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VA Loans

These loans also offer 100 percent financing for eligible Veterans and service members.

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Is a Reverse Mortgage Right for You?

You've worked hard to build home equity. Reverse mortgages are a powerful way to make your home work for your changing financial needs.

Reverse Mortgage Calculators How much cash can I get from my home?› How would my loan balance grow?›
Get Informed

Don't let reverse mortgage myths rule your decision. We give you the facts, including:

  • How reverse mortgages work
  • How to qualify
  • What it means for estate planning
Learn more

How-to Guides

Want us to help you reach your goals? Check out our step-by-step guides for home loans in specific situations.

Rates

Accessing up-to-date mortgage rates is critical to weighing different loan types and estimating your borrowing costs with accuracy. Get a roundup of today's and learn how rate changes affect your loan.

Today's rates