Smart Borrower Center - Tools & advice to help you borrow better

• Home Affordable Refinance Program HARP 2.0: Same Song, Second Verse
• FHA may raise 3.5% down payment Home buyers might need to put down more than 3.5% to get an FHA-insured mortgage loan.
• Economy ready for growth Federal Reserve says ‘economic activity has continued to pick up.’
• 6 Mortgage shopping myths Why shopping for a loan shouldn’t hurt your credit score--and other myths debunked.
• Have home prices hit bottom? Some economists say home prices won’t get any lower.

Read more Mortgage News

• Qualifying to refinance your mortgage Lenders will review your income, home value and credit score to determine whether you qualify for a mortgage refinance.
• 5 tips to save money every day Saving money doesn't have to be hard. Here are five ways you can save every day.
• Buried Alive How to get out from under that mountain of debt.
• Mortgage refinancing basics Weigh the costs and benefits of mortgage refinancing to see if you'll come out ahead.
• Finding the best mortgage for you There are dozens of mortgage products available. Here's help in picking the loan that's right for you.

• 7 ways to save on back-to-school shopping 'Tis the second-biggest season for spending.
• Credit bureaus and trigger leads Borrowers who inquire about a loan may be inundated with unsolicited loan offers due to bureaus selling trigger leads.
• Tips to raise your credit score Raising your credit score can help you get a better loan rate.
• Five key auto finance terms Be an informed consumer -- make sure you know key terms before purchasing and financing your next car.
• Buying your first home Understanding all that is involved can help you through the purchase of your first home.