Refinancing

Learn what combined loan-to-value (CLTV) means, how it differs from LTV, why it's important for home equity, its formula, and ways to improve your ratio.

Learn how to finance home renovation with and without equity. Compare financing options, estimate project costs, and get tips to budget and plan confidently.

Find out the documents needed for mortgage pre-approval and special circumstances. Use our smart checklist to prepare, stay organized, and buy confidently.

Learn what an appraisal waiver is, how it works for buyers and lenders, key steps to qualify, and the pros and cons of skipping a traditional home appraisal.

Compare reverse mortgage vs. HELOC vs. home equity loans: who qualifies, how they work, costs, pros and cons, and when each option makes sense for your goals.

Explore the types of refinance options available to homeowners. Learn how rate-and-term, cash-out, and other refinance types can help you save or access equity.

Discover alternatives on how to get equity out of your home without refinancing. Learn about HELOCs, home equity loans, and other flexible financing options.

Discover how a VA IRRRL can cut your rate and payment with fewer documents, no appraisal, and rolled in costs. Start your streamlined veteran refinance today.

Every real estate transaction comes with fees, no matter how you pay. Learn what is included in closing costs, when they’re due, and what they all mean.

What is an escrow account? Learn how it works, and why it helps protect buyers, sellers, and lenders. Discover the types, rules, and their real estate benefits.

Learn how title and settlement services help you close on a home, from title searches to insurance, escrow, and signing, plus what to expect at every step.

Two ways that refinancing can benefit homeowners going through a divorce

Learn the pros and cons of a cash out refinance to help you decide if the financial move is right for you.

With a cash out refinance, you take out a new mortgage for more money than you owe on your current loan. The difference is paid to you in cash.

Better compiled a list of 15 events and milestones in the history of the American mortgage system, using information from news articles, encyclopedias, and historical literature.

Conventional loans are the most common mortgage type in the US. Here we explain what makes them different from other mortgage options and how to get one.

Try this interactive amortization calculator to find the amortization schedule for any fixed-rate mortgage.

Wondering what are points on a mortgage? Learn how they work, how buying points lowers your interest rate, and whether they can truly save you money over time.

See example scenarios of points and in action, to better understand how to make decisions with your own mortgage.

Explore the essentials of buying an Airbnb investment property with Better.com. Learn about market research, property types, financing options, and the pros and cons of Airbnb investments. Get expert tips...