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Mortgage education

Guides & resources.

We teach first. Straight answers on how mortgages actually work — especially for self-employed buyers and investors.

Market News · 5 min read

What Do the New Mortgage Credit Score Models Mean for You?

Fannie and Freddie just took a concrete step toward modernizing the credit scores behind mortgage approvals. Here's what's actually changing — and what it means if you're planning to buy.

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Market News · 5 min read

Housing Inventory Is Splitting by Region — What It Means for Where You Buy

National inventory growth has slowed to a crawl — but the real story is regional. Some markets have more homes than they've had in years; others are still tight. Here's what that means for you.

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VA Loans · 5 min read

How Do VA Loans Work? Benefits for Veterans and Military Buyers

A VA loan is one of the strongest financing tools available to those who've served — often no down payment and no monthly mortgage insurance. Here's how it works and who qualifies.

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Refinancing · 5 min read

What Is a HELOC? How to Tap Home Equity Without Refinancing

A HELOC turns your home equity into a flexible line of credit you draw from as needed. Here's how it differs from a cash-out refinance and when each makes sense.

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Buying · 6 min read

Can You Get a Mortgage If You're Self-Employed? Yes — Here's How

Self-employment doesn't disqualify you from a mortgage — it just changes how you qualify. Here are the paths, from conventional to non-QM.

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Buying · 6 min read

Conventional vs. FHA Loans: How to Choose

The two most common loans for buyers, side by side — down payment, credit, mortgage insurance, and which one actually costs less over time.

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Non-QM · 6 min read

How Do Bank Statement Loans Work? A Guide for Self-Employed Borrowers

If your tax returns don't reflect what you really earn, a bank statement loan can qualify you on your deposits instead. Here's exactly how they work.

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Non-QM · 5 min read

Mortgages for ITIN and Foreign National Borrowers

No SSN or green card? ITIN and foreign national programs make U.S. homeownership and investing possible. Here's the overview.

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Investing · 5 min read

What Is a DSCR Loan? How Investors Qualify on Rental Income

A DSCR loan qualifies investors on the property's cash flow, not their personal income. Here's how the ratio works and when to use one.

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Non-QM · 5 min read

What Is an Asset Depletion Loan? Qualifying on Your Savings

Cash-rich but income-light? Asset depletion loans turn your savings and investments into qualifying income. Here's how.

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