Homeownership Hub

Homeownership Hub is an all-inclusive resource with content to assist in the home-buying process. Navigate all phases of the homeownership journey with trusted tips, strategies and resources. It’s your one-stop shop for information related to home buying or owning the home of your dreams.

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The Rising Appeal of New Construction Mortgages: A Smart Move in a Low Inventory Housing Market

Looking to buy a home but frustrated by low housing inventory? A new construction mortgage could be the perfect solution.

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Fairway Mortgage Helps Storm Victim

Nicole Richert is a Fairway loan officer whose house was destroyed by a tree during a huge storm in Houston in May of 2024. After learning she had made a mistake and had inadvertently let her insurance lapse, Nicole had no idea where to turn. Then her employer Fairway heard about her plight.

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Rate Buydowns Help with Affordability, but a Wide Portfolio of Mortgage Options Is the Ultimate Tool

A conversation with Fairway Branch Manager Paige Bowman on when an interest rate buydown works best, and how she starts the conversation with prospective buyers and Realtors®.

This Mortgage Program Empowers Renters To Become Homeowners — With an Extra Green Incentive

Renters can get up to $13K toward homeownership with HOPER’s incentive program combined with an FHA solar loan. Save on utilities, earn cash, and build equity—with little to no money out of pocket in many cases.

February 28, 2025

Should You Choose a 40-Year Mortgage? Pros, Cons and Savings Potential

Considering a 40-year mortgage? This extended loan term can lower your monthly payments, improve affordability, and offer more financial flexibility. But it comes at a cost. Is a 40-year term the right choice for you?

January 27, 2025

What Are Non-QM Home Loans, and Who Are They For?

Non-QM (Non-Qualified Mortgage) loans are flexible mortgage options designed for borrowers who may not meet traditional lending criteria, such as self-employed individuals or those with more unique income streams.

Fairway Team Stories: Providing REALTOR® Agents with Support for Exceptional Client Experiences

Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation's combination of teamwork and technology creates an ecosystem of support that benefits our borrowers and the REALTOR® agents they work with. Don't just take our word for it. Listen to REALTOR®, Ali Joyce, as she shares her experience working with Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation.

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HOA Pros and Cons: What You Need to Know Before Buying a Property With a Homeowners Association

Buying a house in community with an HOA has its pros and cons. This guide lays out the pros and cons and explains what to look for in an HOA.

How Does a Bridge Loan Work Closing the Gap Between Home Sales

How does a bridge loan work? Closing the gap between a home sale and home purchase can help you be a more competitive buyer.

Think You Know Your Mortgage Credit Score Check Again to Avoid Surprises

A survey finds knowing the difference between FICO vs Vantage credit scores can translate to thousands of dollars in home loan costs.

VA Home Loans: Everything You Need to Know in 2023

The VA home loan is a 0% down mortgage for eligible members of the military community.

6 Signs the Housing Market Has Reached a Tipping Point

The real estate has been on a meteoric rise through the pandemic. Here are 5 signs the housing market has tipped and changing course.

Townhouse vs Condo: What's the Difference?

This article explores the differences between owning and buying a townhouse vs a condo vs a single-family home.

Housing Affordability Propels Unlikely Markets To Top of Best Places to Live List

Affordable home prices propelled several cities up the Best Places to Live rankings for 2022-2023. Here are the unlikely beneficiaries.

A Bank Statement Loan Can Help You Buy a House If You're Self-Employed

A bank statement loan may be a suitable alternative to a typical mortgage if you're self-employed. Here's how it works.

Good Neighbor Next Door Program: 50 Percent Off Houses for Teachers, Firefighters, EMTs and Cops

The Good Neighbor Next Door program helps community heroes buy homes for half off the list price.

USDA Renovation Loan: How to Buy a Fixer-upper With No Down Payment

Can you use a zero percent down USDA renovation loan to buy a fixer-upper? Absolutely. See how it works and how to get started.

Can You Still Buy a House With Student Loan Debt

Yes, you can still buy a house even with student loan debt and in some states there are assistances to help you do just that.

Biden Announces Plan to Close Housing Shortfall, Make Homeownership More Attainable

The Biden administration released a five-prong plan to close the housing shortfall in five years. Here's what you need to know.

80-10-10 Piggyback Loan: Avoid PMI With Less Than 20 Percent Down

The 80-10-10 piggyback loan is a method of using two mortgages and 10% down to avoid private mortgage insurance. Here's how it works.

FHA MIP Refund Chart: See How Much You Could Save On an FHA Refinance

The FHA MIP refund chart shows how much of the upfront mortgage insurance premium homeowners can save when refinancing their FHA loan.

USDA Loan vs FHA: Which Mortgage is Right for You?

Choosing between a USDA loan vs FHA loan will most likely come down to your income level and where you're buying a home.

USDA Loan vs Conventional: What's the Difference? And Which Is Better?

Understanding the advantages of a USDA loan vs. conventional will help you choose the right mortgage for your needs.

Why Metaverse Real Estate Is Selling for Millions and Three of the Biggest Metaverse Real Estate Purchases Yet

The Metaverse is a digital frontier where people can buy and sell homes. Here's why Metaverse real estate is selling for millions.

FHA vs VA Loan: Which Mortgage Is Right for You?

Comparing FHA vs VA loan requirements may help you figure out which makes the most sense for your homebuying goals.

USDA Loan Rates 2022: How To Improve Your Mortgage Rate

While USDA loan rates fluctuate with the economy, they also depend on your buyer profile. Following these tips may improve your rate.

What is a Wallet Address and How Do You Get One

A wallet address is series of characters that is unique to a wallet that stores crypto and NFTs. Here's how to make one and keep it secure.

I've Spent My Career Helping Underserved Homebuyers - Here's How They Overcome Obstacles

Diana Rice-Wilkerson has dedicated her career to helping underserved homebuyers. Here are the most common obstacles and how to clear them.

Buyer's Guide to USDA Loan Credit Score Requirements

USDA loan credit score requirements are set by lenders, not by the Depart of Agriculture itself. See what it takes to qualify.

Can You Buy a House With Solana Using Cryptocurrency to Buy a Home

Cryptocurrency is become more commonplace in the housing market. Here's how you can buy a house with Solana.

5 Ways to Stand Out and Get Your Offer Accepted in Todays Real Estate Market

Well over 50% of real estate listings face multiple offers. Real estate coach Liz Brown shares 5 ways to get your offer accepted.

Reverse Mortgage Loan vs Home Equity Loan: Which One Suits You?

Compare reverse mortgage vs home equity loan to see which one method of tapping your home equity fits your financial situation and needs.

VA Loan Limits: No Maximum Loan Amounts in 2022

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs eliminated VA loan limits for many borrowers in 2020. See who qualifies for zero-down, no limit homebuying.

Conventional Loans vs FHA: Which Mortgage Is Better?

Here's what to consider regarding conventional loans vs FHA loans when you're buying a home.

The Good the Bad and the Ugly of the Feds Half Point Rate Hike

The Federal Reserve hiked rates by half a point and announced a plan to reduce its balance sheet. Here's the good, bad, and ugly of it all.

Generational Financial Trauma: How It Holds You Back From Your Goals and How You Can Break the Cycle

Generational financial trauma, like generational wealth, is passed down from our parents and grandparents. Here's how to break the cycle.

VA Home Loan Requirements 2022: Who Qualifies for This 100 Percent Financing Loan?

We take you through the basic VA home loan requirements so you know whether you might qualify for a VA mortgage.

Can You Buy a House With Ethereum The Basics of Buying a Home With Crypto

Can you buy a house with ethereum? This guide goes over the basics of buying a home with cryptocurrency and what to do ahead of time.

This Homebuying Group Capitalized on Record Low Rates Will Their Success Continue in 2022

Record low mortgage rates brought a wave of new buyers into the housing market. This group was especially successful during the pandemic.

USDA Loan Limits: What's the Most You Can Borrow?

Not all USDA loans have loan limits, though some do. Learn how USDA loan limits work and how they might affect you.

How Much House Can I Afford on $70,000 a Year?

Wondering, "How much house can I afford on $70,000 a year?" That depends on a few factors, such as your credits core, debt-to-income ratio, and down payment.

Pros and Cons of USDA Loans: Is This Zero Down Loan Right For You?

USDA loans offer unique advantages to qualified homebuyers. Weigh the pros and cons of USDA loans to see if this mortgage is right for you.

Sustainable Home Features Gain Ground in the Housing Market

Sustainable features are becoming more prevalent and sought after in the housing market. Here's what Realtors® are seeing on the ground.

One Stat That Should Have Renters Thinking About Buying a Home Even in This Market

In an era of rapid inflation and wage growth there's one stat that shows why homeownership is still a worthwhile investment.

Is A Reverse Mortgage Loan Safe In Todays Market? Yes, And It Can Make You A More Competitive Buyer

Not only is a reverse mortgage safe, this loan can give you a competitive edge if you are rightsizing into a new home in today's market.

First-Time Homebuyer VA Loan: 100 Percent Financing for Your First Home

For a first-time homebuyer, a VA loan takes away some of the biggest hurdles to becoming a homeowner. See how it works.

Freddie Mac Home Possible®: A Flexible, 3 Percent Down Loan for Homebuyers

Freddie Mac Home Possible is a conventional loan designed to help low- to moderate-income borrowers buy a home with 3% down.

FHA Streamline Refinance: What Is It and How Much Can You Save?

FHA streamline refinance is quicker and requires less paperwork than a regular refinance. See how it works and which borrowers it benefits.

USDA Loans: A Zero Down Loan For The Suburbs

USDA loans help you buy a home in less-dense areas with no down payment. This little-known program helps millions achieve homeownership.

Living and Buying a Home In the Education Hill Neighborhood in Redmond Washington

Education Hill is a neighborhood in Redmond, Washington with good schools and ample job opportunities. Here's what buying a home is like.

Rising Housing Costs Are Reversing This Pandemic Homebuying Trend

The early days of the pandemic created a desire for more space to learn, work, and play. That trend is reversing as costs rise.

Should You Pay Points for a Mortgage? Here's How To Calculate the Payoff

Should you pay points for a mortgage to reduce your rate? This guide shows you how to calculate whether it's worthwhile or not.

How Many Times Can You Use a VA Home Loan?

The VA does not set a limit on home many times you can use a VA home loan, but there are rules for using it multiple times. See how it works.

How Much House Can I Afford on $35,000 a Year?

Homebuying budgets depend on a variety of factors. Here's how to figure out how much house you can afford on an income of $35,000 a year.

Is it Worth Buying a Fixer-Upper? Here's What You Should Consider

Is it worth buying and renovating a fixer-upper? Use this guide to understand that risks and rewards that come with updating an older home.

The Truth About 5 Percent Mortgage Rates that No One Wants to Hear

5 percent mortgage rates are being painted as a nightmare for homebuyers, but they may be the best route back to a more balanced housing market.

Mortgage Wire Fraud 4 Ways To Protect Your Money and Your Data

Mortgage wire fraud is one of the biggest risks to look out for when you buy a home. Use these 4 steps to safeguard your money and data.

The Pros and Cons of 40Year FHA Loan Modifications

Proposed 40-year loan modifications could help thousands of borrowers stay current on their FHA backed mortgages. Here's how it works.

How Long Does It Take to Find a House? Sometimes A While Here's How to Jumpstart Your Home Search

How long does it take to find a house? That answer depends on your unique situation. Here are 9 tips for finding homes in today's hot market.

The Five Biggest Housing Market Questions of 2022 Answered

When is the housing market going to drop? Is there a bubble brewing in 2022? Why are home prices so high? You asked, we answered!

What Paperwork Do You Need for a Mortgage? Here's Your Homebuying Document Checklist

What paperwork do you need for a mortgage? This guide provides a screenshot-able checklist of the documents you may be asked to provide during the loan process.

What You Should Know About Reverse Mortgage Interest Rates

It's important to understand reverse mortgage interest rates and other costs before using this loan as a source of income.

VA Loans For Investment Property: Can It Be Done?

Can you use VA loans for investment properties? Sort of. This guide explains the ins and outs of buying an investment property with VA loans.

VA Loan Closing Costs: How Much Do You Really Need to Close?

Like all mortgages, a VA loans come with closing costs. However, VA borrowers may be able to reduce their have several options to reduce and rework these fees.

Can You Refinance a Reverse Mortgage Loan?

Can you refinance a reverse mortgage? Here's how and when to refinance your reverse mortgage loan to get the most out of your home equity.

Everything You Need to Know About the FHA 203k Loan

The FHA 203k loan bundles purchase and renovations costs into one mortgage, giving homebuyers another option for buying older homes in need of work.

Fannie Mae HomePath®: Ways to Find Homes for Less

Fannie Mae HomePath® is an online portal that lists properties acquired through foreclosure or forfeiture. Here's how it works.

4 Signs That the Whitehot Housing Market Is Beginning To Cool

Most homebuyers can't feel it yet, but the housing market is showing signs of cooling after a record-breaking stretch.

How Much House Can I Afford on $50,000 a Year?

If you wondering "How much house can I afford on $50,000 a year?", the answer depends on few variables. Use this guide to understand them.

How to Cancel FHA Mortgage Insurance 3 Ways to Get Rid of MIP

This article suggests three ideas for how to cancel FHA mortgage insurance to lower your monthly mortgage payment.

Your Guide to Buying a Home in Retirement

The process of buying a home in retirement is a little different than buying a home with employment income. This guide breaks down what to expect.

Why Financial Literacy Is Important and 5 Tips to Create the Right Mindset To Develop It

Two-time TedX speaker Natalie Torres-Haddad shares why financial literacy is important, and how to get in the right mindset to learn the language.

VA Renovation Loan: Buy and Renovate a Fixer-Upper With 0 Percent Down

A VA renovation loan allows eligible homebuyers to purchase and renovate a home with a single, no down payment mortgage.

Should FHA Lower Its Mortgage Insurance Premiums Industry Giants Weigh In

Is it time for the FHA to lower its mortgage insurance premiums? Mortgage industry giants share their opinions on the best course of action.

Why Are Home Prices Rising? 6 Reasons That Explain the Current Market

If you don't understand why home prices are rising, we're here to help. We unmask the price growth monster by identifying six sources of price growth.

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation Loans: Get Into Your Dream Home in a Tough Housing Market

Freddie Mac CHOICERenovation® loans allow you to buy and renovate a home with a single loan. See how it works and who is eligible.

What Are Closing Costs on a House And How Can You Lower Them

Closing costs on a house are additional fees and expenses that can add up to thousands of dollars. See what they are and how to lower them.

Redfin Search Trend Suggests Major Shift in Why People Move and Buy Homes

Search data from Redfin suggests a major shift in where and why people buy homes brought on by the pandemic and rising homebuying costs.

Fixer-Upper Loans: How to Pay For That Home That Needs Some Extra Love

Fixer-upper loans allow you to buy and renovate a house with one loan, not to mention sidestep competition in a hot market.

How to Find Cheap Houses: 6 Ways to Find a Home for Under $200,000

This guide gives 6 tips for how to find cheap houses, even in today's tight housing market.

Building a Real Estate Investment Team Here's Who You Need on Your Side

Building a real estate investment team is a crucial part of being a success investor. Here's who you need and what to look for.

FHA Loan Closing Costs: What You'll Pay and How To Save

FHA loan closing costs are a big factor in how much cash you need to buy a home. But there are ways to minimize your out of pocket expenses.

5 Ways to Decide If A Neighborhood Is Right For You

This guide coves the vast number of ways to tell if a neighborhood is safe when you're looking for places to buy a home.

How Much House Can I Afford on $100k a Year?

In the market for a home and wondering, "How much house can I afford on $100k a year?" Use this guide to understand how buying power works and how much you may have.

How To Use a Reverse Mortgage Loan to Purchase a Home

Using a reverse mortgage for purchase can help secure a new home while freeing up cash for other expenses. See how it works and who qualifies.

5 Takeaways from the 2022 Hispanic Real Estate Survey

The Hispanic homebuyer population is growing in size and influence. Here are 5 takeaways from Realtor.com's 2022 Hispanic Real Estate Survey.

Buying a House in the Current Market: It's Still a Good Time to Get a Forever Rate

Is buying a house in the current market a good idea? Seasoned loan officer Mike Kadair shares the benefit of locking in a "forever rate."

How Much Does a Manufactured Home Cost? Look Beyond the Sticker Price

Asking how much a manufactured home costs is less straightforward than you might think. Lots of factors affect how much you'll spend, including whether the home is new and where you plan to live.

Buy a Condo Townhome Now or Hold Out for a Single Family Home: 8 Things to Consider

Is it better to buy a condo now or keep renting while you save up for a single-family home? Here's 8 things to consider.

Can You Buy a Duplex as a First Home? Sure, But Consider the Pros and Cons

Can you buy a duplex as a first home? Absolutely, and it can be a great way to jumpstart your real estate portfolio. Get started with these pros and cons.

Buying an Old House Has Its Challenges. Here's How to Decide If Its Right for You

Buying an old house comes with a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Read on to find out if this homebuying option is right for you.

Use a VA Loan for a Second Home to Relocate in a Hurry

Understanding how to use a VA loan for a second home can make it easier for military servicemembers to move when they receive new orders.

White House Announces Plan to Root Out Racial Bias in Home Appraisals

The Task Force on Property Appraisal and Valuation Equity (PAVE) just released a 5-pillar plan to root out racial bias in home valuations.

How To Save Money During Inflation 8 Tips For Surviving Economic Uncertainty

From gas to groceries to housing, people are paying higher prices for nearly everything. Here's how to save money during inflation.

70% of Homebuyers Regret Waiting. Here Are 7 Expert Tips for Beating FOMO

Credit card and personal finance expert Beverly Harzog shares her expert advice for getting over homebuyer FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out).

How to House Hunt Like a Pro: 6 Tips for Making the Most of Your Time in Each Home

Wondering how to house hunt like a pro? Real estate agent Lauren Matera shares exactly what the pros wear and bring to shop for homes.

Homebuyers Get Welcome News About Inventory But Theres a Catch

The rate of single-family home completions increased 12% from January to February. Here's why that's good news, with a catch, for homebuyers.

What Is a Trigger Lead? And How Can You Opt Out Of Them?

Trigger leads are a marketing tool for lenders, credit card providers, and insurance companies. See how they work and how to opt out.

The Fed Just Hiked Rates for the First Time in 3 Years. Here's What That Means for Homebuyers

The Federal Reserve just announced its first rate hike in in three years. Here's what that means for homebuyers, in plain English.

5 Home Renovations That Increase the Value of Your Property

In addition to making your home more comfortable, stylish, and efficient, home renovations can increase your property value. Here's where to start.

FHA Manufactured Home Loans: Everything You Need to Know Before You Start Looking at Homes

FHA manufactured home loans have unique requirements. Before you start looking at properties, use this guide to understand your loan options.

Home Inspection Versus Appraisal: What's the Difference?

Use this guide to understand the difference between home inspection versus appraisal, and why it's recommended to have both done.

10 Most Affordable Metros to Buy a New Home

The cost to build and buy new homes and increased rapidly during the pandemic. But these 10 markets have been resilient to price growth.

How Many Mortgages Can You Have?

How many mortgages can you have? See how many properties you can finance at once and how to qualify for multiple mortgages.

The Russian Invasion is Putting Upward and Downward Pressure on Mortgage Rates Where Will They Land

Mortgage rates are being pulled in opposite direction by inflation and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Here's a breakdown.

FHA Appraisal Requirements: A Crash Course in What a Property Needs in Order to Qualify

FHA appraisal requirements assure buyers and lenders that the home is livable and accurately valued. Understanding the criteria may help your home search.

After Hitting the Jackpot Homeowners Cashed Out 275 Billion of Home Equity in 2021

Cash-out refinances had a moment in 2021 as home equity soared. Here's how they work and whether they'll remain popular in the 2022.