Knowledge to borrow with confidence
Helpful guides, plain-English definitions, and answers to the questions we hear most — so you understand every step of your loan.
Secure Loan Application
Complete your 1003 mortgage application online — borrower, property, employment, and asset details in a secure, step-by-step form.
Learn moreFirst-Time Buyer's Guide
Everything you need to know before buying your first home in Maryland — from saving for a down payment to making a strong offer.
Learn moreCalculators
Estimate your monthly payment, see how much house you can afford, compare refinancing savings, and weigh renting vs. buying — all in one place.
Learn moreMortgage Glossary
Plain-English definitions of the terms you'll see on your application, your estimate, and your closing disclosure.
Learn moreDocument Checklist
A printable list of the documents you'll need to apply, so you can gather everything in advance.
Learn moreNewsletters
Get mortgage rate updates, market insights, and home-buying tips delivered to your inbox — straight from our local loan officers.
Learn moreMortgage glossary
The terms you'll see, defined simply.
APR
Annual Percentage Rate — the yearly cost of your loan including interest and fees.
Closing Costs
Fees paid at closing, including title, taxes, and lender charges — typically 2–5% of the loan amount.
Down Payment
The portion of the home price you pay upfront; the loan covers the rest.
Escrow
A neutral third party holding funds and documents until all conditions of the sale are met.
LTV
Loan-to-Value ratio — your loan amount divided by the home's value or price.
PMI
Private Mortgage Insurance — required on conventional loans with less than 20% down.
Points
Optional upfront fees paid to lower your interest rate, also called discount points.
Underwriting
The lender's review of your finances and the property to approve the loan.