Mortgage Basics
5 mortgage loans for homebuyers
These days, homebuyers have fewer home loan options. We explain what they are and how they work.
All about USDA mortgages
USDA loans require no down payment and are designed for low- to moderate-income homebuyers.
First-time homebuyer loans
Assistance for new buyers can make homeownership more affordable and accessible.
How to get the best mortgage rate
Ready to buy a house? With rates near historic lows, this may be a great time to take the plunge.
Editor's Picks
Latest Articles
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Property taxes trip up naive homebuyers
Property taxes can add up to a hefty amount for homebuyers. It pays to know how they are calculated, and what to do to prepare for them.
5 min read May 08, 2008
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Someone’s tragedy your golden opportunity
This may be your big chance and seem a golden opportunity, but it’s no place for amateurs.
7 min read May 05, 2008
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Upside down on home? Take a deep breath
Don’t let the fear of being upside down on a loan force you into foolish decisions, says Dr. Don Taylor.
2 min read Apr 29, 2008
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Property value adjustment
Local assessors won’t automatically adjust property value on the tax rolls, says the Real Estate Adviser.
2 min read Apr 27, 2008
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Sinking CD yields may not pay mortgage
A homeowner counting on CD yields to pay the mortgage is right to worry, says Dr. Don Taylor.
2 min read Apr 04, 2008
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Property line disputes
Couple closes on a home, but the neighbor claims the driveway is his. Not so fast, says The Real Estate Adviser.
2 min read Mar 30, 2008
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Inflation to complicate the Federal Reserve’s task
At today’s Federal Reserve meeting, the Fed will be weighing the turmoil in the credit markets against the risks of inflation when deciding the size of today’s rate cut.
2 min read Mar 18, 2008
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Can you refi when you’re upside down?
Many people now find they owe more than their home appraisal. What should they do? Senior reporter Holden Lewis, who covers mortgages and writes the Mortgage Matters blog, answers another batch of common [...]
4 min read Feb 13, 2008
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Does it make sense to refi?
Senior reporter Holden Lewis, who covers mortgages and writes the Mortgage blog, answers the most common questions from readers.
3 min read Jan 28, 2008