![Cash-Out Refi With a Low Rate: Why It’s a Trap [2026],Alex Lange](https://img.chime.me/image/fs/chimeblog/844564950552528/169161/20260529/16/w600_original_56c2e3b4-ceb4-4ba8-ad3a-01d3c97e332b-jpeg.webp)
Cash-Out Refi With a Low Rate: Why It’s a Trap [2026]
A cash-out refi replaces your entire mortgage at today's rate, not just the cash-out amount. If you have a low rate, the math almost never works for you.
![HELOC vs Home Equity Loan With a Low Mortgage Rate [2026],Alex Lange](https://img.chime.me/image/fs/chimeblog/844564950552528/169161/20260529/16/w600_original_697dc94f-0343-4531-9e34-8b75eea5f463-jpeg.webp)
HELOC vs Home Equity Loan With a Low Mortgage Rate [2026]
Both a HELOC and home equity loan preserve your low first mortgage rate. See how to pick the right second lien for your renovation...
![HEL vs HELOC for Phased Renovation Projects [2026],Alex Lange](https://img.chime.me/image/fs/chimeblog/844564950552528/169161/20260529/16/w600_original_2aa3a51b-ce86-4905-974e-564c2c5b5e2f-jpeg.webp)
HEL vs HELOC for Phased Renovation Projects [2026]
Borrow a lump sum or draw as you go for a phased renovation? Your project timeline changes which home equity product costs less. Here's how to decide.
Is Zillow a public utility? Attorneys weigh in on MRED, Compass suit
For many in the real estate industry, Zillow’s announcement that it had filed an antitrust lawsuit against Midwest Real Estate Data (MRED) and Compass International Holdings earlier this month came with a sense of deja vu. Bradley Weber, the co-chair of Troutman Pepper Locke’s antitrust practice gr