US mortgage guides
The decisions around the calculators: when rules let you act, what each choice costs, and the order to do things in. Every example is calculated with the same engine as our calculators, and every rule links to its official source.
How to get rid of PMI
The 80% and 78% rules, how a new appraisal can end PMI sooner, FHA's different rules, and the letter to send.
How to remove FHA mortgage insurance
When MIP ends on its own (11 years or never), why extra payments don't end it, and the refinance that does.
Should you refinance your mortgage?
The break-even math, the rate drop you need, how long you'll stay, and the traps: a fresh 30 years and cash-out.
Mortgage recast vs refinance
One lowers your payment for a small fee, the other replaces your loan. A worked comparison, including just prepaying.
Should you pay off your mortgage early?
The order to do things in, the return that investing has to beat, and when paying down the loan wins.
Pay off your mortgage before retirement
The monthly extra it takes to be mortgage-free when you retire, the 401(k) and IRA tax traps, RMDs and other options.
How to make extra principal payments
Make sure extra money cuts your principal, not your next bill, check your statement, and why paying early saves more.