Getting a Mortgage

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The vast majority of home buyers don't pay cash for the entirety of the property, but take out a loan from a bank or other institutional lender. Find out how to research options and qualify for the best available home mortgage.

Getting the Best Mortgage

Mortgage Basics FAQ
Where to shop, when to pay points, government-assisted financing options, and answers to more questions.
Qualifying for a Mortgage
How lenders evaluate your income, credit history, and overall financial situation when deciding whether to offer you a mortgage, and on what terms.
Where to Shop for a Mortgage
Ads, online searches, and brokers are among your options when mortgage shopping.
Stricter Mortgage Requirements for Homebuyers
How the 2008 Truth in Lending Rules affect your mortgage search.
How to Choose and Work with a Mortgage Broker
Learn how a mortgage broker can help you find the best loan for the house you want to buy.
How Fast Can Home Buyers Improve Their Credit Score?
Don't wait until the last minute to make sure your credit score is as high as it can be.
Five Reasons to Make a Large Down Payment
If you can go higher than 20%, there are some excellent reasons to do so.

Comparing Mortgage Options

Fixed Rate Vs. Adjustable Rate Mortgages
Which is better in the current real estate market?
Comparing Mortgages: Points, Interest Rates, and Fees
How to avoid getting overwhelmed by the apples-and-oranges aspects of mortgage comparison.
Home Loan from Mom and Dad
Do your homework before asking family or friends for financial help buying a house.
Money Gifted from Mom and Dad
How to prepare paperwork to use the money gifted from mom and dad to buy a house.
Sample Gift Letter
Your bank needs a written letter to prove that the money gifted is in fact a gift, not a loan.
Home Buyers: What You Can Learn From the Truth-In-Lending Disclosure
How the TILA will help you figure out exactly what to expect in the way of immediate and long-term loan costs.
Home Buyers: What You Can Learn From the Good Faith Estimate (GFE)
How the GFE helps you compare the costs and benefits of the available loan products before choosing.
Deducting Mortgage Points When You Buy a House
Not all mortgage points are tax deductible

Seal the Mortgage Deal

Mortgage Rate Locks: How They Work
Making sure the mortgage you want will still be there for you at the home's closing.