mortgages

Borrowers looking to capitalize on historically low interest rates to refinance or buy homes are discovering those rates are often out of reach -- and not necessarily because of their credit scores. Understaffed banks, rigid rules, and low-ball appraisals are costing customers the best deals.

The Obama administration is revamping a program that's designed to let more homeowners refinance their mortgages even if they don't have any equity. This isn't a new program, but instead attempts to turbo-charge an existing federal initiative called the Home Affordable Refinance Program. Here's a look at some frequently asked questions.

It doesn't look like the housing market will come roaring back anytime soon, but with historically low interest rates, now's a good time to buy. The hard part is that banks in the post-bubble era are notoriously stingy with that cheap money, so figuring out how to get a smile out of a mortgage lender is task No. 1.

It's no secret that now seems like a good time to buy a home: Affordability is high and interest rates are low. But those positives aren't translating into sales. Why? Mortgage issues and down payments remain choke points for buyers.

Nicholas, 60, is a paralegal who has been jobless for more than a year, and is worried about the possibility of losing his home in rural Pennsylvania. If he depletes his savings and cashes out of a life insurance policy, he can pay off his mortgage. But is that the smartest move?

If you lost your job, how long could you continue to pay your mortgage? For two out of three homeowners, the answer is: Not as long as the average time it takes to find a new employer. If you're one of them, we have expert advice on building up a safety net that will help you stay ahead of the falling economy.

With the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage down to 4.09%, -- another record low -- it's a great time to refinance. But before you go running off to your lender to catch the best rates since 1951, avoid making these major mistakes that can cost you dearly.

The death of the American Dream has been greatly exaggerated -- just ask Sofiya Cherni. Since she arrived in North Dakota from the Ukraine 14 years ago, the 28-year-old has earned a college degree, found a good job, and bought and then paid off her first home -- by working hard, spending wisely, and keeping a sharp eye on the numbers.

A reader from New York recently asked DailyFinance personal finance columnist Laura Rowley for advice on whether she should refinance her mortgage, get a home equity line of credit or a home equity loan for home renovations. Take a peek inside for Rowley's advice.

With the historically low interest rates, many homeowners with 30-year mortgages have been leaving their loans for younger models. According to a new report from Freddie Mac, more homeowners are refinancing into 15- and 20-year mortgages than ever before.