Condo vs Co-op: Differences, Pros and Cons Explained
February 4, 2026 | 4 min read | The mortgage process
When comparing a condominium vs. a cooperative, the most important difference comes down to ownership structure. This distinction affects how you finance your home, what you pay monthly, and how much flexibility you have as an owner.
Understandin...
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Understanding When a Refinance Makes Sense
January 28, 2026 | 4 min read | The mortgage process
Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart financial move. Understanding when a refinance makes sense can help you potentially lower your monthly payment, reduce long-term interest, or access your home’s equity.
If you are wondering how to know w...
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Mortgage Process Do’s and Don’ts: What to Do (and Avoid) During the Mortgage Process
January 21, 2026 | 3 min read | The mortgage process
Applying for a mortgage can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure what actions could impact your approval. Understanding the mortgage do's and don’ts—and what not to do when applying for a mortgage—can help you navigate the process ...
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Jumbo Loans: What They Are and How They Work
January 12, 2026 | 3 min read | The mortgage process
If you’re buying a home in a high-cost market like New York City, you may encounter the term jumbo loan. Understanding how jumbo loans differ from a conventional mortgage can help you make more informed financing decisions.
What Is a Jumbo Loan...
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How Much to Put Down on a House
November 3, 2021 | 6 min read | The mortgage process
If you are thinking about buying a home, a great place to start is planning for a mortgage down payment. Many often wonder how much money they should have saved for a down payment on a house.
You do not need a 20% down payment to buy a house. D...
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What Not to Do During the Mortgage Process
October 29, 2021 | 3 min read | The mortgage process
Upon submitting a mortgage application and providing some brief documentation, you will receive a mortgage pre-approval. Pre-approvals are based on your current financial and credit information, so it is important to avoid things that may negatively...
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What is a Mortgage Note and Why is it Important?
October 28, 2021 | 2 min read | Owning a home, The mortgage process
A mortgage note is a legal document signed by the borrower at the closing, promising to repay your mortgage. Mortgage notes are contractual documents filed with the local government that state the agreed-upon terms of your loan and outline the prop...
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How Does a Cash-Out Refinance Work and When Does It Make Sense?
October 20, 2021 | 6 min read | Refinance, The mortgage process
A cash-out refinance lets you access some of the equity you have built in your home. Your existing mortgage is replaced with a new, larger mortgage, and you receive a portion of the difference in cash after applicable costs and adjustments.
Homeo...
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Mortgage Pre-Approval Expiration: How Long It Lasts and What to Do Next
October 12, 2021 | 7 min read | The mortgage process
In today’s competitive real estate market, pre-approvals are more crucial than ever. Before you start the home buying process, it’s essential to understand the basics of the mortgage pre-approval process and how it may help you purchase your dre...
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What is Included in a Mortgage Payment?
October 8, 2021 | 3 min read | The mortgage process
If you are thinking about buying a home or reviewing your current loan terms, you may be wondering what is included in your monthly mortgage payment. Your monthly payment will consist of the principal, interest, taxes, and insurance, and w...
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