Mortgage guides and homebuyer resources
Plain-language answers from the oNEST Lending Solution team, with links to the official sources behind every claim.
- Getting started
How to get pre-approved for a mortgage
A plain-language guide to mortgage pre-approval: what it is, the documents lenders ask for, and how to prepare so you can make a confident offer.
5 min read · Read the guide - Loan programs
FHA vs conventional loans: how to choose
Compare FHA and conventional mortgages: credit flexibility, mortgage insurance, property standards and which borrowers each program tends to suit.
5 min read · Read the guide - Market updates
2026 conforming and FHA loan limits, explained
The 2026 baseline conforming loan limit is $832,750 for a one-unit home, with a ceiling of $1,249,125 in high-cost areas. Here is what that means for buyers.
4 min read · Read the guide - First-time buyers
First-Time Homebuyer Help in VA, MD, NC, CT, PA and NH
Each state we serve has a housing finance agency with homebuyer programs. Here is where to start in VA, MD, NC, CT, PA and NH.
6 min read · Read the guide
Articles are general information, not financial or legal advice, and are not an offer to lend or a commitment to lend.