Learning Center

Explore Pennymac's Learning Center for tips on mortgage rates, interest rates, home buying, refinancing & real estate. Stay informed to make smarter decisions.

 
Mortgage Escrow Accounts Explained: Taxes, Insurance and Monthly Payments

Managing your property taxes and insurance through an escrow account simplifies homeownership. Learn how escrow accounts work, how they affect your monthly payment and how to monitor your account.

May 22, 2026

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Mortgage Escrow Accounts Explained: Taxes, Insurance and Monthly Payments
Mortgage Escrow Accounts Explained: Taxes, Insurance and Monthly Payments

Managing your property taxes and insurance through an escrow account simplifies homeownership. Learn how escrow accounts work, how they affect your monthly payment and how to monitor your account.

May 22, 2026

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Fixed- vs. Adjustable-Rate Mortgage: What's the Difference?
Fixed- vs. Adjustable-Rate Mortgage: What's the Difference?

Buying or refinancing means choosing how your mortgage rate will work for you, today and over time. In this guide, you'll see how fixed-rate and adjustable-rate loans compare, what affects your interest rate and how to decide which structure fits your plans.

April 28, 2026

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First-Time Homebuyer Guide to Mortgages: Everything You Need to Know
First-Time Homebuyer Guide to Mortgages: Everything You Need to Know

Taking the first step toward buying a home feels even better when you understand the process. Learn how mortgages work, what impacts approval and how to prepare financially.

April 10, 2026

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What Is a USDA Loan and Who Qualifies?
What Is a USDA Loan and Who Qualifies?

USDA loans help expand access to homeownership for eligible borrowers in rural and suburban areas. Learn how these loans work and who qualifies.

April 10, 2026

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Self-Employed and Buying a Home? What Lenders Look for and How to Prepare
Self-Employed and Buying a Home? What Lenders Look for and How to Prepare

Getting a mortgage while self-employed? Learn what lenders look for, how to document income, and steps to prepare for buying or refinancing with Pennymac.

April 3, 2026

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Analyzing a Meaningful Month for Mortgage Policy

April 3, 2026

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VA Loan Requirements: Who Qualifies and What You’ll Need
VA Loan Requirements: Who Qualifies and What You’ll Need

For many who have served our country, the path to homeownership is paved with a significant benefit: the VA home loan. Learn who qualifies and what documentation you need.

March 26, 2026

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The Mortgage Pre-Approval Checklist for Homebuyers
The Mortgage Pre-Approval Checklist for Homebuyers

Before you jump fully into the search, it helps to know how much you may be able to borrow with a mortgage and what price range makes sense for your finances.

March 25, 2026

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How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
How to Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Shop for your new home with confidence. Get pre-approved for a mortgage so you can understand your buying power and start making offers.

February 26, 2026

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What is a Conventional Loan?
What is a Conventional Loan?

Conventional loans are a popular choice for both homebuyers and homeowners looking to refinance. Read on to learn why they’re so widely used and what that could mean for you.

February 25, 2026

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