Conventional Streamline Refinance | Guidelines & Rates 2026
A conventional refinance is any refinance loan that conforms to guidelines set by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. This type of refinance is available with as little as…
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Tim Lucas
Tim Lucas (NMLS #118763) was an editor of MyMortgageInsider.com. He has appeared on Time.com, Realtor.com, Scotsman Guide, and more.
Articles by Tim Lucas
Buying a Fixer Upper: What Kinds of Fixer Upper Loans are Available?
There are quite a few loan options available to buy fixer-upper homes. “By buying a fixer-upper, you can definitely increase the value of the home as it appreciates…
FHA vs Conventional Loan: Which Is Better?
Q: I have good credit of about 730. I meet the requirements for both FHA and Conventional 97. I plan to live in the home for 6+ years.…
When Is an Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) a Good Idea?
Why take an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM)? Why not just take a fixed rate and not worry about what rates might do in the future? That’s a fair question,…
5 Surprising Income Types Mortgage Lenders Allow
The news is inundated with stories of lenders making it tough for some borrowers to qualify for mortgage loans. But while that can be true, borrowers with unique…
The Best Way to Buy a Home for a Disabled Adult Child
Typically those who buy a home can only take advantage of the best interest rates and mortgage terms if it is an “owner-occupied” property, meaning they plan to…
Can I Use an FHA Refinance to Remove a Borrower?
The FHA streamline refinance allows borrowers to reduce their rate with no pay stubs, no W2s, and no appraisal. But is an FHA streamline possible while simultaneously removing…
How Long After a Foreclosure Can I Buy a Home?
Can you buy a home after a foreclosure? Buying again after a foreclosure, short sale, or deed-in-lieu of foreclosure can be done, with some hard work — and…
USDA Streamline Refinance Program Guidelines & State Chart 2026
Editor’s note: The USDA streamline refinance pilot program has been rolled out nationwide. It is now available in all 50 states and is called the USDA streamlined-assist refinance.…
5 Appraisal Problems That Can Affect Your Mortgage Approval
Most mortgages and refinance loans require a new home appraisal to find the fair market value of the home. A home appraisal helps a mortgage lender ensure the…