Lendmire Learning Center
Learning Center

Everything you need to know about getting a mortgage.

Guides, articles, and resources covering every step of the process — from first-time buyer basics to advanced investor strategies.

Start With Pre-Approval
Featured Guide
Essential Reading · 8 Min Read

How to get pre-approved for a mortgage.

Before you begin your home search, talk to a lender about getting pre-approved. This is the most important step borrowers skip — and the one that shapes everything that follows. We’ll walk you through what to expect, what documents you’ll need, and how long the process takes.

Read the Guide
The Fundamentals

The six things every borrower should know.

If you read nothing else on this site, read these six guides. They cover the questions every mortgage borrower asks — and the answers that shape every loan decision that follows.

I

How to get pre-approved

What a pre-approval letter actually means, what documents you’ll need, and how long it takes.

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II

Down payment explained

How much you really need, program minimums, and when smaller down payments make sense.

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III

Cash to close

The difference between down payment and cash to close — and what to expect at the closing table.

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IV

Loan types compared

Conventional, FHA, VA, USDA, and jumbo — what each is for and how to choose the right fit.

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V

Rate buy-downs

How points work, when they make sense, and how to think about the break-even math.

Read
VI

The timeline

From first offer to closing day — what each phase looks like and how long it really takes.

Read
Learning Center

Know before you borrow.

Guides, market insights, and scenario breakdowns from our licensed loan officers.

  • Top 5 Most Common Mortgage Types

    Top 5 Most Common Mortgage Types

    When it comes to financing a home, choosing the right mortgage is crucial. With so many options available, it can feel overwhelming for first-time buyers and even experienced homeowners. Below are the top five most common mortgage options. 1. Conventional Fixed-Rate Mortgage A conventional fixed-rate mortgage is one of the most popular mortgage types. With…

  • What to Expect at a Real Estate Closing

    What to Expect at a Real Estate Closing

    After weeks (or even months) of house hunting, negotiations, and paperwork, the real estate closing is the final step in becoming a homeowner. Here is what you can expect on closing day. The closing typically takes place at a title company, attorney’s office, or escrow office, and all key parties are usually present: the buyer,…

  • How Rising Home Prices Impact Your Buying Power

    How Rising Home Prices Impact Your Buying Power

    Home prices have been on the rise, and this trend can significantly impact your ability to buy a home. Buyers often feel priced out of their desired neighborhoods or are concerned about stretching their budget. It’s essential to understand how rising prices affect not just what you pay upfront, but also your monthly payments and…

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Tools to move from reading to action.

Tool One

Mortgage calculator

Run the numbers on a purchase or refinance — including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance.

Calculate Tool Two

Get pre-approved

Start your pre-approval in under 30 seconds. A Lendmire specialist will follow up to finalize the details.

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Browse programs

See every loan program Lendmire offers — from conventional to DSCR — and find the right fit.

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Still have questions?

A Lendmire specialist will walk you through your scenario and help you find the right program — no commitment required.

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