Mortgages
News, insights and expert analysis on mortgages from the team at Kiplinger.
Latest
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Can You Afford a Million-Dollar Home on a $250,000 Salary?
It’s more than the sticker price — mortgage rates, down payments, taxes and debt all factor into whether a million-dollar home fits your budget.
By Paige Cerulli
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Lock or Float? How to Decide on Your Mortgage Rate
Mortgage rates move daily, here’s how to know if you should lock in a rate now or let it float until closing.
By Dori Zinn
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The Role of a Mortgage Underwriter in Buying a Home
From fast-track approvals to manual reviews, here’s what to expect (and how to avoid delays) in the underwriting process.
By Dori Zinn
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How Home Appraisals Work — and What the Final Value Means
From comps to contingencies, here’s what a home appraisal reveals about your property’s true worth.
By Dori Zinn
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The 28% Rule for Housing: Does It Still Work in Today’s Market?
Rising home prices and stubborn mortgage rates put this long-standing rule to the test.
By Paige Cerulli
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The Ultra-Rich Don't Always Pay Cash: Why Mark Zuckerberg Took Out a Mortgage
Some of the wealthiest Americans opt for mortgages as a strategic way to preserve liquidity, leverage investments and reduce tax exposure.
By Laura Gariepy
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Check Your Mailbox: Wells Fargo Settlement Payments Have Begun
Wells Fargo settlement customers whose mortgages were placed in forbearance without their permission should keep an eye on the mail, as checks are going out.
By Paige Cerulli
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The True Costs of Owning a Second Home
What to consider before buying a vacation home, including mortgages, insurance, taxes, and upkeep.
By Dori Zinn
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How Refinancing a Home Loan Works. Is It Right For You?
Refinancing a mortgage works by replacing your current mortgage with a new one. It can save you money or let you tap the equity in your home, but it can take time to break even after upfront costs.
By Kathryn Pomroy
