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Home › Mortgage & Home Equity › Mortgage Basics

Mortgage Basics

Explore our mortgage basics guides, part of our Mortgage & Home Equity coverage. Independent, plain-English articles for US borrowers.

  • Down Payment Requirements by Loan Type

    Down payments range from 0% to 20% depending on loan type. Compare conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA down payment rules.

  • Closing Costs Explained: What Buyers Should Budget

    Closing costs typically run 2-5% of the home price. See what's included and practical ways to reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

  • Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): A Full

    PMI is required on many low-down-payment loans. Learn how it's calculated, what it costs, and how to remove it from your loan.

  • Fixed-Rate vs. Adjustable-Rate Mortgages Compared

    Compare fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages, including how ARMs reset and which option suits different homeowner goals.

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