News & Research
Here you can keep up with information and regulations that may affect your homebuying process, mortgage or refinancing options, as well as check out our research recaps of the most recent and relevant studies to the mortgage and real estate markets.
2023 VA Loan Study: Rate Disparities & Trends
2023 update to HMDA-backed study revealing wide VA loan rate and fee disparities, see how Veterans may overpay and why shopping lenders can save thousands.
Study: Homebuyers Confused About Mortgages and Bias
Survey: homebuyers are confused, fear bias, and often overpay. Own Up provides transparent, anonymous mortgage offers plus unbiased guidance.
Most Affordable States to Buy and Own a Home
Find the 12 U.S. states where buying and owning a home is most affordable, ranked by price, living costs and median income to show where your dollar goes furthest.
Top Homebuyer and Mortgage Questions From Reddit AMA
Straightforward answers from our Reddit AMA on title insurance, refinancing, rates, and whether to buy—practical mortgage guidance to help you decide.
What to Expect on a Mortgage Review Call
7-minute call delivers personalized mortgage guidance, pre-approval clarity, and a dedicated advisor to help you secure a better rate.
2023 VA Loan Study: Rate Disparities & Trends
2023 update to HMDA-backed study revealing wide VA loan rate and fee disparities, see how Veterans may overpay and why shopping lenders can save thousands.
Lender Grader: Compare Mortgage Rates Across Lenders
Lender Grader shows how lenders' mortgage rates compare to your state average and how those gaps could save you thousands.
Raizlabs XLR8 Case Study: Building Own Up's MVP
Founder story: how Own Up evolved from an XLR8 startup to securing lower mortgage rates via direct lenders—saving one customer $500/month and 15 years.
Meet Our Unbiased Home Advisors
Meet Own Up’s licensed, unbiased Home Advisors — a dedicated co-pilot who guides you through mortgage options, compares offers, and helps save money.
Home Renovation ROI: 9 Popular Projects
Compare ROI for 9 common renovations, find which projects recoup the most (garage door, hardwood, windows) to prioritize remodel spending.
Why Local Lenders Outperform Big-Box Mortgage Companies
Own Up got a last-minute preapproval in 10 minutes, matched local lenders, and secured a rate that saved the buyers $38,000.
How Mortgage Companies Are Paid: Fee Transparency
We disclose exactly how lenders pay us (0.40% fee, $600-$3,000) so borrowers pay nothing and get lower rates and potential savings on mortgages.
4 Simple Tips for Stress‑Free Home Buying
Nervous about house hunting? Cristina found a home in one day and saved thousands — practical tips to reduce stress and lower your mortgage costs.