post image

My Wife Confessed to $4,500 of Debt Right Before We Applied for a Mortgage

A newly married couple had found the home they wanted, but when they started applying for a mortgage, they had a problem: secret credit card debt.

Credit Tools

Credit report card

Free credit score and credit report snapshot

Get your free score

Calculators

Tools to help you take control of your financial goals

Calculate your savings

Free credit repair assessment

Ensure you have an accurate credit report

Learn more

All Mortgage posts

My Wife Confessed to $4,500 of Debt Right Before We Applied for a Mortgage
mortgage

My Wife Confessed to $4,500 of Debt Right Before We Applied for a Mortgage

A newly married couple had found the home they wanted, but when they started applying for a mortgage, they had a problem: secret credit card debt.

Christine DiGangi

Can a Timeshare Hurt My Credit?
mortgage

Can a Timeshare Hurt My Credit?

With summer upon us, I often get questions from friends about timeshares. Is it a good idea? How will it affect my credit? What should I watch out for?

Jeanne Kelly

12 Things You Should Always Negotiate On
mortgage

12 Things You Should Always Negotiate On

Not negotiating could be costing you lots of money. Here are twelve things you should ask for better deals on.

Abby Hayes

4 Credit Mistakes New Homeowners Make
mortgage

4 Credit Mistakes New Homeowners Make

The relief that comes with finalizing a home purchase can spur a false sense of security. Here’s a look at four common credit mistakes new homeowners make.

Chris Birk

What Will a Bad Credit Score Cost You on a Home?
mortgage

What Will a Bad Credit Score Cost You on a Home?

When you're looking for a home, your mind may not be on your credit score, but it should be. Here's how much a bad credit score can cost you on a mortgage.

Gerri Detweiler

How a Credit Report Dispute Could Stop You From Buying a Home
mortgage

How a Credit Report Dispute Could Stop You From Buying a Home

Have you ever had a disagreement with a creditor? If yes, you may want to think twice about filing a credit report dispute if you plan to buy a home.

Scott Sheldon

5 Signs You're Ready to Be a Homeowner
mortgage

5 Signs You're Ready to Be a Homeowner

No one can tell you when you’re ready to become a homeowner. But it’s probably fair to say a lot of first-time buyers wish otherwise.

Chris Birk

How to Finance Your Mortgage Closing Costs
mortgage

How to Finance Your Mortgage Closing Costs

Whether you’re buying a home or refinancing, mortgage closing costs are an inevitable part of the transaction. Here are some ways to absorb the costs.

Scott Sheldon

How Do I Compare Mortgage Rates?
mortgage

How Do I Compare Mortgage Rates?

Here's how to use a table to compare mortgage rates. The actual rate you pay is influenced by factors such as equity or down payment, and credit scores.

Gerri Detweiler

What Is a Qualified Mortgage?
mortgage

What Is a Qualified Mortgage?

Rules are changing for so-called "qualified mortgages," which are FHA-insured home loans. The intent is to protect consumers from loans they can't afford.

Christine DiGangi

Top contributors

All contributors