Tools · Protect yourself
Things you didn't know you could do
A map of real borrower rights and options that nobody advertises — because most of them help you spend less or push back.
None of this gets advertised — because most of it helps you spend less or push back. All of it is real. The specifics vary by loan, state, and lender, so treat this as a map of what to ask about, then confirm yours.
Choose your own title company
Title and settlement are services you're allowed to shop for — pick your own and you can save real money.
Loan Estimate comparatorRate-shop without wrecking your credit
Multiple mortgage inquiries within about 14–45 days (model-dependent) count as a single inquiry — so shop several lenders.
Cancel PMI early
Request removal at 80% of the original value; it auto-cancels at 78%. Don't wait for the lender to bring it up — though since September 16, 2026, Fannie Mae lets servicers proactively tell you when a higher current value may qualify you. Fannie Mae Lender Letter LL-2026-07.
PMI removal trackerRecast instead of refinancing
A lump sum plus a recast lowers your payment at the same rate — no new loan, no fresh closing costs.
Recast calculatorDispute a low appraisal
Ask for a Reconsideration of Value and submit better comparable sales the appraiser may have missed.
Appeal your property taxes
If the assessed value (and your escrow) looks too high, appeal it with your local assessor.
Get non-taxable income grossed up
Social Security, disability, and child support can be counted at a higher effective amount to help you qualify.
Get a Loan Estimate within 3 business days
After you apply, the lender must give you a standardized Loan Estimate — built to compare line for line.
Loan Estimate comparatorWalk away after the estimate
A Loan Estimate doesn't lock you to that lender. Take it, shop it, and choose later.
Skip the trigger-lead flood
As of March 2026, bureaus can't sell your mortgage-inquiry data to lenders you haven't contacted.
Trigger-lead toolkitReview your Closing Disclosure 3 days early
You get the CD at least 3 business days before closing — check every number against your Loan Estimate before you sign.
Complain to a regulator for free
The CFPB will take your complaint and press the company to respond — at no cost.
CFPB complaint helperThese are real consumer rights and options, but thresholds, eligibility, and timing vary by loan program, state, and lender — confirm the specifics for your situation.
Related read: How to read a Loan EstimateTerms on this page
- Title insuranceA policy protecting you and the lender against title problems; you can shop for it.
- Closing Disclosure (CD)The final statement of your exact loan terms and costs; you must receive it at least three business days before closing.
- Loan Estimate (LE)A standardized form showing your loan's rate, payment, and costs; you get it within three business days of applying, built for comparing lenders.
- RecastPaying a lump sum toward principal and having the lender re-amortize, lowering your payment at the same rate.
- Private mortgage insurance (PMI)Insurance on a conventional loan when you put less than 20% down; cancellable as you build equity.
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