Preapproval & The Mortgage Process
A preapproval tells sellers you can close, which is why it comes before the offer. These articles separate preapproval from prequalification, lay out the documents underwriters ask for, and cover what complicates approval, self-employment, recent large deposits, and adding a co-borrower.

Co-Borrower Guide: 7 Essential Things You Need to Know in 2026
Understanding Co-Borrowers in Today's Mortgage Market Look, I talk to borrowers every single day who think they can't buy a...

Best Time to Buy a House in 2026: Seasonal Strategies & Market Insights
Timing is important in real estate, but not in the way you might think. For more than 20 years, I've...

Qualifying Direct Deposits in 2026: 10 Rules That Affect Your Bank Account and Your Mortgage Application
What a Qualifying Direct Deposit Means Right Now, and Why It Affects More Than Just Your Bank Account A direct...

Mortgage Fraud in 2026: What You Need to Know to Protect Yourself
Understanding Mortgage Fraud: Why This Matters to You Here's the deal. When you're buying a house, you're making probably the...

Why You Should Get Preapproved for a Mortgage in 2026
Buying a home is an exciting journey, and the right preparation can help you avoid surprises — like realizing a...

Prequalified vs. Preapproval for a Mortgage
What does it mean to be prequalified for a mortgage? Getting prequalified is an early step in the process to...

How to Get a Mortgage Loan When Self-Employed in 2026
If you're buying a home when self-employed, you'll likely have a more challenging path to getting a mortgage than someone...

Complete Guide on How to Get a Mortgage in 2026
1. Strengthen your credit score The strength of your credit score is a key factor in not just getting a...

Common Questions for First-Time Homebuyers in 2026
There are few things more exciting than exploring the world of homeownership. Perhaps after months of binge watching HGTV and...