Obvious Signs of Life in Mortgage Apps Thanks to Rate Rally

Mortgage applications jumped 9.2% last week, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association’s survey for the week ending September 5, 2025. The results included an adjustment for the Labor Day holiday. “Mortgage rates declined for the second consecutive week as Treasury yields moved lower on data ind

Cheapest Way to Sell a House: 5 Proven Methods To Save Big

When you’re ready to move on from your current home, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask yourself is: What is the cheapest way to sell a house? Selling a property is a complex process, and between real estate commissions, closing costs, and home preparation expenses, many homeowners are s

What Happens If You Sell Your House for Less Than You Owe?

Selling a home isn’t always straightforward, especially when you owe more on your mortgage than the property is worth. Homeowners often ask, “Can I sell my house for less than I owe?” The short answer is yes, but the process can be complicated, and the financial consequences vary depending on your s

What Is an Escrow Holdback in Real Estate? A Seller’s Guide

Key takeaway: An escrow holdback temporarily retains a portion of seller funds after to cover lender-required repairs. Once repairs are verified, the funds are released to the seller. An escrow holdback is a financial agreement, approved and monitored by the lender, that enables a home sale to proce