Basics
Are Mortgage Discount Points Worth It in 2026? Break-Even Math When Rates Are Falling
Should you buy mortgage discount points in 2026? Break-even math, falling-rate risk, tax rules, and smarter alternatives — a plainspoken decision framework.
Featured guide
Are Mortgage Discount Points Worth It in 2026? Break-Even Math When Rates Are Falling
Should you buy mortgage discount points in 2026? Break-even math, falling-rate risk, tax rules, and smarter alternatives — a plainspoken decision framework.
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Cash-Out
Conventional Cash-Out Refinance in 2026: LTV Limits, Rates & When It Beats a HELOC
Conventional cash-out refinance in 2026: 80% LTV cap, seasoning rules, why cash-out rates run higher, and when a cash-out refi beats a HELOC for your equity.
Rate & Term
Conventional Rate-and-Term Refinance in 2026: Rules, Rates, and When It’s Actually Worth It
2026 conventional rate-and-term refinance guide: Fannie/Freddie rules, $832,750 limit, current rates, break-even math, and when it actually pays off.
VA & IRRRL
VA IRRRL Funding Fee in 2026: The 0.5% Charge, Exemptions, Financing Math, and Refunds
VA IRRRL funding fee is a flat 0.5% in 2026. See who's exempt, whether to finance it, recoupment math, and how to claim a refund after a disability rating.
Cash-Out
FHA Cash-Out Refinance in 2026: Rules, LTV Limits, and True Cost of MIP
FHA cash-out refinance rules for 2026: 80% LTV limit, 580 credit minimum, MIP costs explained, and when it beats a conventional cash-out refi.
Cash-Out
VA Cash-Out Refinance in 2026: Rules, Rates, and When It’s Worth It
VA cash-out refinance in 2026 lets veterans access up to 100% LTV — but it replaces your first mortgage rate. Here's what it costs and when it's worth it.
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