How to Read a Loan Estimate
Review loan terms, projected payments, closing costs, cash to close, comparison figures and service-shopping sections on the standardized form.
Guide collection
Property and Closing
Review the property, appraisal, inspection, title, insurance, disclosures and closing process.
How to Read a Closing Disclosure
Compare final terms and costs with the latest Loan Estimate during the required review period before most covered mortgage closings.
Mortgage Appraisals Explained
Understand the appraiser’s role, lender use, value concerns, reconsideration questions and why an appraisal is not a home inspection.
Home Inspection vs. Appraisal
Separate the buyer’s property-condition investigation from the lender’s collateral valuation and program property requirements.
Title Search and Title Insurance
Review ownership records, liens, exceptions, lender and owner policies, survey matters and local closing practices.
Homeowners Insurance and the Mortgage
Confirm coverage, deductibles, replacement-cost assumptions, effective date, lender requirements and exclusions before closing.
Flood Insurance and Flood Zones
Understand lender requirements, federal maps, private policies, waiting periods, contents coverage and risks outside mapped high-hazard areas.
Property Taxes and Special Assessments
Research current bills, reassessment risk, exemptions, special districts and how tax changes can affect escrow and monthly payment.
Condo and HOA Mortgage Review
Examine budgets, insurance, reserves, litigation, owner occupancy, special assessments, project eligibility and recurring dues.
Mortgage Closing Documents
Prepare to review the note, mortgage or deed of trust, deed, affidavits, title documents, insurance evidence and settlement records.
Avoiding Mortgage Closing Wire Fraud
Independently verify wiring instructions, resist last-minute email changes and use known contact information before sending funds.
Mortgages for New-Construction Homes
Coordinate builder contracts, deposits, completion dates, rate locks, appraisals, inspections and closing delays.