Like a learner's permit, a pre-qual letter will get you on the road to homeownership, but there are going to be some limitations on how you can get from Point A to Point B. With a preapproval letter, you’re in the fast lane.

An escrow account is money held by a third party until all legally required conditions have been met. That trusted third party might be a real estate title company, an attorney’s office or an escrow agent. Once conditions are met, the money is distributed to the recipient(s).

The first homebuying document you may see — in what will ultimately be a high pile of paperwork — is typically an official loan application form. Even if you complete the loan application process online, the required information and presentation are essentially the same.

You can be your own worst enemy when it comes to getting that preapproval. Don't make these mistakes.

Just because you WANT to refinance doesn't mean you CAN. Don't get caught unaware.

How to have your cake and eat it, too!

A refinance could save you thousands. Just make sure you're doing it the right way.

Is it a good idea to pay off your house as soon as possible — or should you refinance your mortgage to take advantage of lower interest rates, reduce your monthly payment and use the extra money for other needs, such as contributing to retirement accounts?

Homeowners can use this money in a variety of ways, including paying off debt or paying for their children’s college expenses. But is it a good idea to use this extra cash for home repairs or renovations?

We asked Forrest Baumhover — a financial planner in Tampa, Florida, and a member of NerdWallet’s Ask an Advisor network — about the key factors homeowners should consider when deciding whether they should refinance.

But what if you’re close to retirement — does refinancing carry any special risks? We asked financial advisor Laura Scharr-Bykowsky, a member of NerdWallet’s Ask an Advisor network, about the pros and cons of this strategy.

If you are a borrower considering an interest-only mortgage, whether for a refinance or an initial loan, it’s critically important to weigh the significant risks and drawbacks against possible benefits for your situation.

What you spend the money on matters as well. Here are five uses for home equity that can make sense.

Is this a good time for you to open a HELOC? Let’s consider the pros and cons.

It all depends on your decisions before you head to the Big Real Estate Market In The Sky.

These people could be your very best friends. Or your worst nightmare.

Are you on track to retire well? You could be with a better credit score. Find out here.

Here are four home improvements that usually don’t recoup costs, along with alternatives that offer a better bargain.

You can age gracefully in your own home and still be comfortable. Find out how.

There’s something appealing about the idea of a do-it-yourself home improvement project. By tackling a job yourself, you can save money on labor costs and enjoy work that’s been done with your own hands.