Home Loans, Mortgages and Equity Lines
01. Home Mortgages
This section describes what a mortgage is, different loan formats and some of the legal considerations of the home loan process. We've also provided some guidelines on finding the best mortgage...
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02. The Home Purchase Process
The purchase section guides you through the typical home buying process and includes information on settlement statements, rate lock-ins, mortgage insurance, title insurance and loan servicing regulations...
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03. Low Down Payment Mortgages
This section describes how families can get into their own homes with little cash up front. It explains mortgage insurance and how it works, and looks at the two options -- private mortgage insurance and government mortgage insurance...
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04. Refinancing Your Home
Our guide to Refinancing Your Home will help you decide if refinancing is right for you. It includes information comparing fixed and adjustable rates, the fees involved, and your right to cancel a mortgage...
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05. Second Mortgages
The Second Mortgages section briefly explains the variety and complexity of home equity loans and lines of credit that may currently be available in your area...
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06. Home Equity Line of Credit
All you need to know about the Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC), business lines of credit, fees, comparisons and shopping for a line of credit...
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Equity Line of Credit
Frequently Asked Questions: Home
Equity Line of Credit
07. Construction Loans
The section devoted to Construction Loans tries to clarify the financing process used when building a home from the ground up. It covers loans used to purchase raw land, short-term construction financing and permanent loans...
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08. Buying a Condominium
Condominiums are a popular, and often more affordable, alternative to the typical family home. Check this section for a thorough discussion of Home Owners Associations, CC&Rs and insurance...
Learn more about Buying a Condominium
09. Manufactured Homes
Manufactured Homes have become tremendously popular in the last few years. Here we try to explain the special conditions required by lenders when qualifying for the best interest rates. We've also included a guide to help you in buying a manufactured home...
Learn more about Manufactured Homes
10. Reverse Mortgages
If you're 62 or older and own your home, our section on Reverse Mortgages explains an interesting financing option that can help increase your income...
Learn more about Reverse
Mortgages
Frequently Asked Questions: Reverse
Mortgages
See Also: Reverse Mortgages
- Get the Facts before Cashing In
11. Financing an Energy-Efficient Home
The average homeowner spends close to $1,300 a year on utility bills. But an energy-efficient home—with such features as proper insulation, high efficiency heating and cooling systems, and energy-efficient windows—can lower your utility bills by...
Learn more about Financing an Energy Efficient Home