Home Insights

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Closing on a house: What to expect

Finding a home and making a successful offer may take time, but so does closing on a house. Here's what to expect and how to prepare for the closing process.

Getting approved for a mortgage is the lengthiest part of closing on a house.

What to know before buying a foreclosed home

Foreclosure homes offer buying opportunities at bargain prices if you understand the market.

Foreclosures often attract those who enjoy the work of remodeling or renovating a property and have the necessary cash to spend on repairs.

How to apply for a mortgage

You've found your dream home. Now you just need to finance it. Here's how.

It helps to get quotes from several lenders before you apply for a mortgage. That's because interest rates, closing fees and other loan terms can vary enough to make a difference.

Complete guide to down payments

Learn more about mortgage down payment requirements.

Down payment requirements for a mortgage may be far more flexible than you imagine.

Homebuyer's glossary of mortgage terminology

This glossary includes definitions for more than 130 terms you'll encounter during the homebuying and mortgage underwriting process.

Learn the terms you'll hear throughout the loan process.

What type of mortgage is right for you?

Here's what to consider when shopping for a mortgage, from your budget to your long-term financial goals.

Most mortgages are conventional mortgages, which are loans made through a private lender and not part of any specialized government program.

FHA versus conventional loans

Here's everything you need to know about FHA loans, from pros and cons to eligibility requirements.

For those who may struggle to qualify for a conventional mortgage loan, FHA loans can offer a promising path to homeownership.

Things to consider before you relocate in retirement

There's more to moving than simply finding your dream home.

Just because you don't have a job with a regular paycheck doesn't mean you can't qualify for a mortgage if you need one.

What to consider when buying a second home

Learn how buying an investment or vacation home differs from purchasing a primary residence.

Second homes and investment properties require higher reserves and more of a down payment than a primary home, and you need to be prepared for that upfront.

ARMs versus temporary buydowns

When looking for a lower interest rate on a loan, shop around and consider all options before deciding.

Not all loans are created equal.

How do home construction loans work?

Home construction loans are quite different from standard mortgages.

Unlike a mortgage, a construction loan acts more like a short-term line of credit.

Ensure a smooth home renovation with smart budgeting

Establishing a budget and sticking to it is essential for any home renovation project.

One good way to estimate your home renovation budget is to base it on the total value of your home.

Fall home maintenance checklist

Grab a pumpkin spice coffee and check out this handy fall home maintenance checklist.

With extreme weather events becoming more common, it's a good idea to make additional preparations for potentially severe situations.

Pros and cons of home renovations

Remodeling your home may be better than buying, but be aware of possible complications.

If you buy on the open market, you're often stuck with some of your wish list but not everything.

The basics of flood insurance

Here's what you need to know if you've ever wondered what flood insurance actually covers.

Insurers define a flood as an excess of water in normally dry land that covers at least two acres and affects at least two properties.

How alternative energy can improve your home

An alternative energy source better secures your home during a power outage.

The good news is that many states and municipalities support alternative energy sources with rebates, grants and other financing programs.

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This material is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be an offer, specific investment strategy, recommendation or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or insurance product, and should not be construed as legal, tax or accounting advice. Please consult with your legal or tax advisor regarding the particular facts and circumstances of your situation prior to making any financial decision. While we believe that the information presented is from reliable sources, we do not represent, warrant or guarantee that it is accurate or complete.

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