Finance articles
Mortgages, loans, taxes, investing, and everyday money decisions - explained simply.
Blog posts
- Jun 24, 2026
Build an Amortization Schedule in Excel (Free Template) 2026
Build a free amortization schedule in Excel with PMT, IPMT, and PPMT formulas, or export a ready CSV from our online calculator. Step-by-step, 2026.
- Jun 24, 2026
DTI & Mortgage Prequalification Guide (2026)
Learn front-end and back-end debt-to-income (DTI) ratio limits for mortgage prequalification. Free DTI calculator with the 28/36 rule. CFPB-sourced guide.
- Jun 24, 2026
FHA Loan Qualifications & Requirements (2026)
See FHA loan qualifications for 2026: 580 credit score, 3.5% down, debt ratio limits, and mortgage insurance costs. Free FHA loan calculator included.
- Jun 24, 2026
How to Find & Vet a Mortgage Lender (2026)
Rising 'mortgage near me' searches answered: how to compare lenders, read Loan Estimates, and avoid costly mistakes. Free tools inside.
- Jun 24, 2026
Pay Off Mortgage Early - Extra Payments (2026)
Learn how extra monthly and lump-sum mortgage payments cut interest. Enter your balance and extras to see payoff date and interest saved. Free.
- Jun 24, 2026
Jumbo Mortgage Rates Guide (2026)
2026 jumbo loan guide: the conforming limit, rate premiums, down payment rules, and payment examples. Free jumbo mortgage calculator.
- Jun 24, 2026
Mortgage Rate Lock Timing Guide (2026)
Learn when to lock a mortgage rate, how float-down options work, and what extensions cost. Companion to our mortgage and refinance calculators.
- Jun 24, 2026
Mortgage Recast vs Refinance - Compare (2026)
Compare mortgage recast and refinance: costs, payment reduction, and break-even. Enter your lump sum or new rate to see savings. Free calculators.
- Jun 24, 2026
Student Loan Amortization Schedule Explained (2026)
See how student loan payments split between interest and principal. Compare standard vs income-driven plans. Free student loan calculator.
- Jun 24, 2026
VA Home Loan Eligibility & Funding Fee Guide (2026)
Instantly check VA loan eligibility, 2026 funding fee tiers, and 0% down payment rules. Estimate monthly payments with our free VA calculator.
- Jun 24, 2026
What Is a Reverse Mortgage? How HECM Works (2026)
Learn how reverse mortgages work, HECM costs, eligibility, and who they suit. Free educational reverse mortgage calculator. HUD sources cited.
- Jun 24, 2026
When Will Mortgage Rates Go Down? 2026 Outlook
Understand what moves mortgage rates in 2026, Freddie Mac PMMS trends, and when buyers might see relief. Planning guide - not live rate quotes.