These free financial resources about real estate, mortgages and home equity are provided by the FTC, a reliable and unbiased advocate for consumer rights. Below are the descriptions with links to each item on the FTC site. The majority are in PDF format, feel free to download, use and share them.
- A Note to Homeowners Bookmark: Bookmark with tips to homeowners on how to avoid scams targeting people having trouble paying their mortgage. Homeowners can call 1-888-995-HOPE for free personalized advice from HUD-certified housing counseling agencies.
- For Homeowners (Flyer): Flyer with tips to homeowners on how to avoid scams targeting people having trouble paying their mortgage. Homeowners can call 1-888-995-HOPE for free personalized advice from HUD-certified housing counseling agencies.
- High-Rate, High-Fee Loans (HOEPA/Section 32 Mortgages): Explains The Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act of 1994, what loans are covered, what disclosures are required and what practices are prohibited.
- Home Equity Credit Lines: Lenders offer home equity credit lines in a variety of ways. The questions and answers listed may help you decide if a home equity line of credit is right for you.
- Home Equity Loans – Borrowers Beware!: Explains common abusive lending practices and how to avoid becoming a victim and possibly losing your home.
- Home Sweet Home Improvement: Steps to finding a competent and reliable contractor for your home improvement project. Lists tip-offs to potential rip-offs.
- How to Manage Your Mortgage If Your Lender Closes or Files for Bankruptcy: Publication to help consumer evaluate what to expect in today’s mortgage market.
- Looking for the Best Mortgage: Explains steps that can help you save money on a mortgage or home loan. Includes a mortgage shopping worksheet.
- Mortgage Discrimination – A Guide to Understanding Your Rights & Taking Action: Explains your rights under Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) and the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and what to do if your loan is rejected.
- Mortgage Payments Sending You Reeling? Here’s What to Do: For consumers who may be having trouble paying their mortgage. Explains options to help save their homes and how to recognize and avoid foreclosure scams.
- Reverse Mortgages – Get the Facts Before Cashing in on Your Home’s Equity: Explains how reverse mortgages can help older homeowners who are ‘house-rich but cash-poor’ remain in their homes and still meet their financial obligations.
- Saving Starts @ Home – The Inside Story on Conserving Energy: Whether you’re buying a refrigerator, thinking about ways to reduce your home heating and cooling bills, or trying to save money on gas, the FTC has important information that can save you money in every room of your home.
- Selling Your Home? Tips for Selecting a Real Estate Professional: Explains the differences between real estate brokers and agents and exclusive right-to-sell and exclusive agency listing contracts. Also provides questions to ask when interviewing real estate professionals.
- Time and Time Again – Buying and Selling Timeshares and Vacation Plans: Describes the different forms of timeshares and vacation ownership and offers tips on buying and selling them.
