Fixed-rate loans
30 Year Fixed
Room to plan for the long term.
A 30-year repayment term with a fixed interest rate. Principal and interest payments stay consistent; taxes and insurance can change your total payment.
A question to bringHow does the total cost compare with a shorter term?
Read the 30 Year Fixed guide
Fixed-rate loans
15 Year Fixed
A shorter repayment timeline.
A fixed interest rate over 15 years. A shorter term generally means higher monthly principal and interest payments than a longer term for the same amount and rate.
A question to bringHow would the payment fit your monthly budget?
Read the 15 Year Fixed guide
Government-backed loans
FHA Loan
Get to know FHA financing.
An FHA loan is insured by the Federal Housing Administration. Mortgage insurance, property standards, and borrower requirements are part of the conversation.
A question to bringWhat upfront and ongoing mortgage insurance costs apply?
Read the FHA Loan guide
Government-backed loans
VA Loan
Explore a benefit tied to service.
VA-backed home loans are intended for eligible veterans, service members, and certain surviving spouses. Service history and other requirements need to be reviewed.
A question to bringWhat service documentation and fees should you discuss?
Read the VA Loan guide
Government-backed loans
USDA Loan
Look into location-based options.
USDA home loan programs have location and household income requirements. The property address and the particular program matter.
A question to bringIs the home in an eligible area under current guidelines?
Read the USDA Loan guide
Other financing options
Jumbo Loan
Understand financing above conforming limits.
Jumbo mortgages exceed the applicable conforming loan limit. Limits depend on location and can change; lender documentation and financing terms vary.
A question to bringWhat are the current limits and documentation requirements?
Read the Jumbo Loan guide
Other financing options
Adjustable Rate Mortgage
Understand how payments may change.
An adjustable-rate mortgage has an interest rate that can change after an initial period. Review its adjustment schedule and limits.
A question to bringCould your budget accommodate a higher future payment?
Read the Adjustable Rate Mortgage guide
Home equity options
Reverse Mortgage
Consider home equity in later life.
A reverse mortgage lets eligible homeowners borrow against home equity. Interest and fees can increase the balance. Taxes, insurance, maintenance, and occupancy obligations still matter, and failing to meet them can put the home at risk.
A question to bringHow do repayment events, counseling, and costs affect your plans?
Read the Reverse Mortgage guide
Home equity options
Home Equity Line of Credit
Learn about borrowing against equity.
A HELOC is a revolving credit line secured by your home. Rates and payments may change, and repayment terms differ from the draw period. Your home is at risk if you cannot repay.
A question to bringWhat happens to your payment when the draw period ends?
Read the Home Equity Line of Credit guide
Property-specific loans
Investment Property Loans
Plan for a property you intend to rent.
Financing a rental property involves different considerations from buying a primary residence. Discuss intended use, income documentation, reserves, and property costs before deciding on a financing approach.
A question to bringHow will vacancies, maintenance, and other costs affect your budget?
Read the Investment Property Loans guide
Property-specific loans
DSCR Loans
Understand a property’s income picture.
Debt service coverage ratio (DSCR) financing considers rental property income in relation to debt payments. How income is calculated, the required ratio, and other underwriting terms vary by lender.
A question to bringWhich rental income and expenses are included in the calculation?
Read the DSCR Loans guide
Property-specific loans
Manufactured Home Loans
The home and the land both matter.
Financing can depend on how a manufactured home is titled, its foundation, and whether land is included. Ask about the specific home before assuming a loan type will fit.
A question to bringWhat property documentation should you gather?
Read the Manufactured Home Loans guide
Property-specific loans
Condominium Loans
Look beyond the individual unit.
Condo financing can involve a review of the condominium project as well as the buyer. Association finances, insurance, and project details may be relevant.
A question to bringWhat information will be needed from the association?
Read the Condominium Loans guide
Keep learning.
Independent resources can help you prepare your questions.