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A happy family on the property they own. Refinancing & Equity

Cash-Out Refinance vs Home Equity Loan vs HELOC: Which Is Best for You?

As a homeowner, what options do you have to borrow money? Cash-out refinance, Home Equity Loans, and Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) are all methods of financing using the equity in your home. How do these options compare?

A woman on the phone getting pre-approved for a home loan.
Home Buying

Should I Get Pre-Approved for a Home Loan?

If you're in the market for your next home, here's everything you need to know about whether or not you should get Pre-Approved.

A father playing with his daughter outside.
Home Buying / Refinancing & Equity / Credit and Budgeting

Who Is Onity Mortgage

Learn about our story, who we are, and why we are now Onity Mortgage.

Browse All Articles

Stay up-to-date with our most recent articles and guides. Our experts are constantly updating our knowledge base to help you navigate the ever-changing world of home financing.

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Home Buying
Refinancing & Equity
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Homeowner Tips

What It Means to Be an Onity Customer: Support That Goes Beyond Your Loan

Sep 18, 2026

Your mortgage doesn't end at closing, and neither should the value you receive from it.
When you take out a mortgage, you're not just choosing a rate. You're choosing a partner for your financial journey. 

A couple that just bought a new home.

What Credit Score is Needed to Buy a House in 2026?

Aug 06, 2023

See what credit score you need to buy a house in 2026 by loan type, what's changed with new scoring models, and how to strengthen your score before applying.

BlogsComboImage backyard grilling

Backyard & Outdoor Living Trends to Enjoy This Summer

Jun 16, 2026
Allison Austin

Explore popular outdoor living ideas and backyard upgrades that can help maximize your space, improve curb appeal, and create an inviting outdoor environment for warmer weather.

BlogsComboImage couple planning

How Much Does It Cost to Refinance? A Complete Breakdown of Fees

May 16, 2026
Allison Austin

Refinancing comes with its own closing costs, typically 2% to 6% of your loan amount. This guide breaks down exactly what you'll pay and shares practical ways to reduce your costs and decide if refinancing is right for you.

A woman drinking tea in her home, which she just moved into.

How Does Refinancing Work? A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners

Jul 20, 2026
Allison Austin

A step-by-step guide to refinancing: how to identify your goal, check your credit and equity, compare lenders, and navigate underwriting to closing.

What It Means to Be an Onity Customer: Support That Goes Beyond Your Loan

Sep 18, 2026

Your mortgage doesn't end at closing, and neither should the value you receive from it.
When you take out a mortgage, you're not just choosing a rate. You're choosing a partner for your financial journey. 

A couple that just bought a new home.

What Credit Score is Needed to Buy a House in 2026?

Aug 06, 2023

See what credit score you need to buy a house in 2026 by loan type, what's changed with new scoring models, and how to strengthen your score before applying.

BlogsComboImage backyard grilling

Backyard & Outdoor Living Trends to Enjoy This Summer

Jun 16, 2026
Allison Austin

Explore popular outdoor living ideas and backyard upgrades that can help maximize your space, improve curb appeal, and create an inviting outdoor environment for warmer weather.

BlogsComboImage couple planning

How Much Does It Cost to Refinance? A Complete Breakdown of Fees

May 16, 2026
Allison Austin

Refinancing comes with its own closing costs, typically 2% to 6% of your loan amount. This guide breaks down exactly what you'll pay and shares practical ways to reduce your costs and decide if refinancing is right for you.

A woman drinking tea in her home, which she just moved into.

How Does Refinancing Work? A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners

Jul 20, 2026
Allison Austin

A step-by-step guide to refinancing: how to identify your goal, check your credit and equity, compare lenders, and navigate underwriting to closing.

A happy family on the property they own.

Cash-Out Refinance vs Home Equity Loan vs HELOC: Which Is Best for You?

Aug 21, 2025
Allison Austin

As a homeowner, what options do you have to borrow money? Cash-out refinance, Home Equity Loans, and Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) are all methods of financing using the equity in your home. How do these options compare?

A happy couple that just got keys to their new home because of their credit.

Credit Explained

Mar 21, 2025
Allison Austin

Credit explained: Credit is an agreement to borrow money with the promise that you will pay it back.

BlogsComboImage couple improvement

Keep Your Home Cool This Summer: Simple Ways to Improve Comfort and Efficiency

Jul 02, 2026
Allison Austin

Learn practical ways to improve your home's energy efficiency during the summer months. Discover maintenance tasks that can help your HVAC system perform at its best while keeping cooling costs under control.

BlogsComboImage couple planning

Home Improvement Projects That May Increase Home Value

May 16, 2026
Allison Austin

Learn which home upgrades can improve your living space and potentially increase your property's value. From practical improvements to modern design updates, find tips to make the most of your investment.

BlogsComboImage mid year review

Mid-Year Financial Check-In for Homeowners

Jul 27, 2026

Complete a mid-year check-in ensures that your mortgage, equity, and finances align with your current goals.

A couple considering a cash-out refinance plan for their home

Can a Cash-Out Refinance be Used to Pay Off Credit Card Debt?

Oct 14, 2025
Allison Austin

If you have equity in your home, refinancing can be a powerful tool for paying off debt. Discover the ins and outs of credit card debt consolidation through cash-out refinancing. 

A woman on the phone getting pre-approved for a home loan.

Should I Get Pre-Approved for a Home Loan?

Nov 08, 2025
Allison Austin

If you're in the market for your next home, here's everything you need to know about whether or not you should get Pre-Approved.

A family on the porch of the house they have a mortgage for

Mortgage Loan Types Explained: A Comprehensive Guide

May 10, 2024
Allison Austin

In the market for your next home or looking to refinance your current mortgage, but overwhelmed by the mortgage types out there? We've got you covered. Your comprehensive guide to common loan types, weighing the pros and cons of each.

A homeowner couple working on a laptop.

Home Equity 101: A Guide to Home Equity and How to Leverage It

Apr 03, 2025
Allison Austin

Unlock your home's value! Learn all about home equity - how much do you have, how do you grow it, what does it mean for your net worth, and how you can use it for anything from paying off debt to remodeling your home.

A couple that just got pre-approved for a mortgage.

How to Get a Mortgage Pre-Approval for Buying a New Home

Mar 22, 2024
Allison Austin

 If you're in the market for your next home, this is a must-read. Getting Pre-Approved for your next home loan is a step you don't want to skip! 

A family getting their home ready to sell.

How Do I Get My Home Ready to Sell?

Feb 22, 2024
Allison Austin

Preparing to list your home, but wondering where to start? Read our 7 easy steps for getting your home ready to sell.

A woman holding a cup of coffee next to a desk with a laptop.

How to Use a Mortgage Calculator to Plan Your Home Purchase

Jan 09, 2024
Allison Austin

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and proper planning is key. A mortgage calculator can be your best friend when it comes to home loan planning

A couple changing a lightbulb in their home.

What is a Mortgage Rate Buydown and Can I Benefit?

Dec 14, 2025
Allison Austin

Discover how a temporary mortgage buydown can help you save money and make homeownership more affordable.

A couple having a good time in their yard.

Your Adjustable-Rate Mortgage: Is it Time to Refinance to a Fixed Rate?

Sep 26, 2023
Allison Austin

Let's review the differences between an adjustable and fixed-rate mortgage and how to know if it's the right time to make the switch to a fixed.

A couple that just bought a new home.

Tips on Buying a New Home from Real Estate Pros

Aug 06, 2023

If you think buying a new home is easy, you’ve probably been spending too much time watching HGTV. 

A couple who just got the keys to their new home.

What Are the Costs of Homeownership?

Jul 20, 2023

You have the down payment for your new home, you’re ready to start looking for the perfect house, but have you considering the other costs that come with owning a home?

A couple hanging a portrait in their new home.

What Is PMI and Why Am I Paying It?

Jun 12, 2023

Learn about PMI and the ways it can be removed from your monthly payments. 

A dancing couple in their house.

Top 4 Reasons to Refinance Your Mortgage in 2026

Jan 20, 2026
Allison Austin

Here are the top 4 reasons why refinancing your mortgage in 2026 could be a game-changer for your financial health.

A happy couple that just refinanced their home.

7 Essential Home Financing Tips

Jun 03, 2025
Allison Austin

There are certain things many homebuyers wish they had known before buying. Explore our top 7 tips.

A woman drinking tea in her home, which she just moved into.

10 Things to Know Before Refinancing Your Home

Nov 14, 2025
Allison Austin

Explore ten key factors you should consider before refinancing your home, from setting clear financial goals and understanding your loan options to knowing your potential closing costs.

A father playing with his daughter outside.

Who Is Onity Mortgage

Apr 23, 2026

Learn about our story, who we are, and why we are now Onity Mortgage.

What It Means to Be an Onity Customer: Support That Goes Beyond Your Loan

Sep 18, 2026

Your mortgage doesn't end at closing, and neither should the value you receive from it.
When you take out a mortgage, you're not just choosing a rate. You're choosing a partner for your financial journey. 

A couple that just bought a new home.

What Credit Score is Needed to Buy a House in 2026?

Aug 06, 2023

See what credit score you need to buy a house in 2026 by loan type, what's changed with new scoring models, and how to strengthen your score before applying.

A happy couple that just got keys to their new home because of their credit.

Credit Explained

Mar 21, 2025
Allison Austin

Credit explained: Credit is an agreement to borrow money with the promise that you will pay it back.

BlogsComboImage mid year review

Mid-Year Financial Check-In for Homeowners

Jul 27, 2026

Complete a mid-year check-in ensures that your mortgage, equity, and finances align with your current goals.

A couple considering a cash-out refinance plan for their home

Can a Cash-Out Refinance be Used to Pay Off Credit Card Debt?

Oct 14, 2025
Allison Austin

If you have equity in your home, refinancing can be a powerful tool for paying off debt. Discover the ins and outs of credit card debt consolidation through cash-out refinancing. 

A woman on the phone getting pre-approved for a home loan.

Should I Get Pre-Approved for a Home Loan?

Nov 08, 2025
Allison Austin

If you're in the market for your next home, here's everything you need to know about whether or not you should get Pre-Approved.

A family on the porch of the house they have a mortgage for

Mortgage Loan Types Explained: A Comprehensive Guide

May 10, 2024
Allison Austin

In the market for your next home or looking to refinance your current mortgage, but overwhelmed by the mortgage types out there? We've got you covered. Your comprehensive guide to common loan types, weighing the pros and cons of each.

A homeowner couple working on a laptop.

Home Equity 101: A Guide to Home Equity and How to Leverage It

Apr 03, 2025
Allison Austin

Unlock your home's value! Learn all about home equity - how much do you have, how do you grow it, what does it mean for your net worth, and how you can use it for anything from paying off debt to remodeling your home.

A couple that just got pre-approved for a mortgage.

How to Get a Mortgage Pre-Approval for Buying a New Home

Mar 22, 2024
Allison Austin

 If you're in the market for your next home, this is a must-read. Getting Pre-Approved for your next home loan is a step you don't want to skip! 

A family getting their home ready to sell.

How Do I Get My Home Ready to Sell?

Feb 22, 2024
Allison Austin

Preparing to list your home, but wondering where to start? Read our 7 easy steps for getting your home ready to sell.

A woman holding a cup of coffee next to a desk with a laptop.

How to Use a Mortgage Calculator to Plan Your Home Purchase

Jan 09, 2024
Allison Austin

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make, and proper planning is key. A mortgage calculator can be your best friend when it comes to home loan planning

A couple changing a lightbulb in their home.

What is a Mortgage Rate Buydown and Can I Benefit?

Dec 14, 2025
Allison Austin

Discover how a temporary mortgage buydown can help you save money and make homeownership more affordable.

A couple that just bought a new home.

Tips on Buying a New Home from Real Estate Pros

Aug 06, 2023

If you think buying a new home is easy, you’ve probably been spending too much time watching HGTV. 

A couple who just got the keys to their new home.

What Are the Costs of Homeownership?

Jul 20, 2023

You have the down payment for your new home, you’re ready to start looking for the perfect house, but have you considering the other costs that come with owning a home?

A couple hanging a portrait in their new home.

What Is PMI and Why Am I Paying It?

Jun 12, 2023

Learn about PMI and the ways it can be removed from your monthly payments. 

A happy couple that just refinanced their home.

7 Essential Home Financing Tips

Jun 03, 2025
Allison Austin

There are certain things many homebuyers wish they had known before buying. Explore our top 7 tips.

A father playing with his daughter outside.

Who Is Onity Mortgage

Apr 23, 2026

Learn about our story, who we are, and why we are now Onity Mortgage.

BlogsComboImage couple planning

How Much Does It Cost to Refinance? A Complete Breakdown of Fees

May 16, 2026
Allison Austin

Refinancing comes with its own closing costs, typically 2% to 6% of your loan amount. This guide breaks down exactly what you'll pay and shares practical ways to reduce your costs and decide if refinancing is right for you.

A woman drinking tea in her home, which she just moved into.

How Does Refinancing Work? A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners

Jul 20, 2026
Allison Austin

A step-by-step guide to refinancing: how to identify your goal, check your credit and equity, compare lenders, and navigate underwriting to closing.

A happy family on the property they own.

Cash-Out Refinance vs Home Equity Loan vs HELOC: Which Is Best for You?

Aug 21, 2025
Allison Austin

As a homeowner, what options do you have to borrow money? Cash-out refinance, Home Equity Loans, and Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) are all methods of financing using the equity in your home. How do these options compare?

A happy couple that just got keys to their new home because of their credit.

Credit Explained

Mar 21, 2025
Allison Austin

Credit explained: Credit is an agreement to borrow money with the promise that you will pay it back.

BlogsComboImage mid year review

Mid-Year Financial Check-In for Homeowners

Jul 27, 2026

Complete a mid-year check-in ensures that your mortgage, equity, and finances align with your current goals.

A couple considering a cash-out refinance plan for their home

Can a Cash-Out Refinance be Used to Pay Off Credit Card Debt?

Oct 14, 2025
Allison Austin

If you have equity in your home, refinancing can be a powerful tool for paying off debt. Discover the ins and outs of credit card debt consolidation through cash-out refinancing. 

A family on the porch of the house they have a mortgage for

Mortgage Loan Types Explained: A Comprehensive Guide

May 10, 2024
Allison Austin

In the market for your next home or looking to refinance your current mortgage, but overwhelmed by the mortgage types out there? We've got you covered. Your comprehensive guide to common loan types, weighing the pros and cons of each.

A homeowner couple working on a laptop.

Home Equity 101: A Guide to Home Equity and How to Leverage It

Apr 03, 2025
Allison Austin

Unlock your home's value! Learn all about home equity - how much do you have, how do you grow it, what does it mean for your net worth, and how you can use it for anything from paying off debt to remodeling your home.

A couple that just got pre-approved for a mortgage.

How to Get a Mortgage Pre-Approval for Buying a New Home

Mar 22, 2024
Allison Austin

 If you're in the market for your next home, this is a must-read. Getting Pre-Approved for your next home loan is a step you don't want to skip! 

A couple having a good time in their yard.

Your Adjustable-Rate Mortgage: Is it Time to Refinance to a Fixed Rate?

Sep 26, 2023
Allison Austin

Let's review the differences between an adjustable and fixed-rate mortgage and how to know if it's the right time to make the switch to a fixed.

A couple who just got the keys to their new home.

What Are the Costs of Homeownership?

Jul 20, 2023

You have the down payment for your new home, you’re ready to start looking for the perfect house, but have you considering the other costs that come with owning a home?

A couple hanging a portrait in their new home.

What Is PMI and Why Am I Paying It?

Jun 12, 2023

Learn about PMI and the ways it can be removed from your monthly payments. 

A dancing couple in their house.

Top 4 Reasons to Refinance Your Mortgage in 2026

Jan 20, 2026
Allison Austin

Here are the top 4 reasons why refinancing your mortgage in 2026 could be a game-changer for your financial health.

A woman drinking tea in her home, which she just moved into.

10 Things to Know Before Refinancing Your Home

Nov 14, 2025
Allison Austin

Explore ten key factors you should consider before refinancing your home, from setting clear financial goals and understanding your loan options to knowing your potential closing costs.

A father playing with his daughter outside.

Who Is Onity Mortgage

Apr 23, 2026

Learn about our story, who we are, and why we are now Onity Mortgage.

A woman drinking tea in her home, which she just moved into.

How Does Refinancing Work? A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners

Jul 20, 2026
Allison Austin

A step-by-step guide to refinancing: how to identify your goal, check your credit and equity, compare lenders, and navigate underwriting to closing.

A happy couple that just got keys to their new home because of their credit.

Credit Explained

Mar 21, 2025
Allison Austin

Credit explained: Credit is an agreement to borrow money with the promise that you will pay it back.

BlogsComboImage mid year review

Mid-Year Financial Check-In for Homeowners

Jul 27, 2026

Complete a mid-year check-in ensures that your mortgage, equity, and finances align with your current goals.

A couple that just got pre-approved for a mortgage.

How to Get a Mortgage Pre-Approval for Buying a New Home

Mar 22, 2024
Allison Austin

 If you're in the market for your next home, this is a must-read. Getting Pre-Approved for your next home loan is a step you don't want to skip! 

A family getting their home ready to sell.

How Do I Get My Home Ready to Sell?

Feb 22, 2024
Allison Austin

Preparing to list your home, but wondering where to start? Read our 7 easy steps for getting your home ready to sell.

A couple having a good time in their yard.

Your Adjustable-Rate Mortgage: Is it Time to Refinance to a Fixed Rate?

Sep 26, 2023
Allison Austin

Let's review the differences between an adjustable and fixed-rate mortgage and how to know if it's the right time to make the switch to a fixed.

A couple who just got the keys to their new home.

What Are the Costs of Homeownership?

Jul 20, 2023

You have the down payment for your new home, you’re ready to start looking for the perfect house, but have you considering the other costs that come with owning a home?

A couple hanging a portrait in their new home.

What Is PMI and Why Am I Paying It?

Jun 12, 2023

Learn about PMI and the ways it can be removed from your monthly payments. 

A happy couple that just refinanced their home.

7 Essential Home Financing Tips

Jun 03, 2025
Allison Austin

There are certain things many homebuyers wish they had known before buying. Explore our top 7 tips.

A father playing with his daughter outside.

Who Is Onity Mortgage

Apr 23, 2026

Learn about our story, who we are, and why we are now Onity Mortgage.

BlogsComboImage backyard grilling

Backyard & Outdoor Living Trends to Enjoy This Summer

Jun 16, 2026
Allison Austin

Explore popular outdoor living ideas and backyard upgrades that can help maximize your space, improve curb appeal, and create an inviting outdoor environment for warmer weather.

BlogsComboImage couple improvement

Keep Your Home Cool This Summer: Simple Ways to Improve Comfort and Efficiency

Jul 02, 2026
Allison Austin

Learn practical ways to improve your home's energy efficiency during the summer months. Discover maintenance tasks that can help your HVAC system perform at its best while keeping cooling costs under control.

BlogsComboImage couple planning

Home Improvement Projects That May Increase Home Value

May 16, 2026
Allison Austin

Learn which home upgrades can improve your living space and potentially increase your property's value. From practical improvements to modern design updates, find tips to make the most of your investment.

BlogsComboImage mid year review

Mid-Year Financial Check-In for Homeowners

Jul 27, 2026

Complete a mid-year check-in ensures that your mortgage, equity, and finances align with your current goals.

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