Homebuying

What is earnest money? It's a cash deposit that happens early in the home purchase process. Homebuyers can use it to get a leg up in competitive markets. Learn more.

Learn how a loan estimate reveals real mortgage costs, compares lenders, and highlights fees you can control. Explore its sections and compare offers clearly.

In the socially distanced world of 2020, Better helped 88,100+ new clients navigate their homeownership journey with ease, confidence, and a ton of savings.

Learn what the underwriting process timeline looks like, what underwriters review, common approval conditions, and how Better helps speed up the process.

Find out what makes Better a different kind of online mortgage lender. Our innovative technology, honest rates, and friendly humans are just the beginning.

Renting vs buying a home is a big decision. Learn the pros and cons of each—including upfront costs, monthly costs, and which option may be better in the long run.

Many different types of mortgage loans exist, including fixed-rate, adjustable-rate, jumbo, FHA, and more, each with advantages for different homebuyers.

Learn how to budget for your monthly mortgage payment with expert tips to manage finances, reduce stress, and stay in control of your homeownership costs.

Buying a house? Learn how your property type—primary residence, second home, or investment property—affects your mortgage rates, including investment property mortgage rates vs primary residence.

Thinking of applying for a home loan? Learn the pros and cons of a 15 year vs. 30 year fixed rate mortgage in a new article from Better Mortgage.

Learn the key homeownership lessons from a Better intern: insights that combine real estate expertise with early career development and first-time buyer tips.

Go from planning to closing with the complete home buying checklist—most of which can now be completed online with the help of Better.

Rent-to-own is an alternative to buying a home outright. For those who might not qualify for a traditional mortgage, rent-to-own offers a path to ownership.

Gifts letters are common in financing the down payment for a home. Find out the benefits and drawbacks of using gift funds towards your mortgage.

Online mortgage calculators may not be as reliable as you think. Find out how to get a Better idea of how much house you can really afford.

When you apply for a mortgage, your lender might ask for your tax returns. Here's why they’re requested and how they can affect your mortgage application.

More than half of homebuyers with children in school shop by school district. Here's what to know about the impact that can have.

Thinking of buying a home soon? Explore options & compare the pros and cons of renting vs. owning to see what fits your lifestyle, budget, and long-term plans.

Even with Coronavirus (COVID-19) concerns driving record-low interest rates, mortgage rates continue to fluctuate. Here’s a detailed breakdown of why.

If you’re a first-time homebuyer, you’ll want to start preparing to take out a mortgage well before you apply. Here’s a guide to getting yourself ready.