Headshot of Joel Reese

Joel Reese

Contributing writer

Joel Reese is a freelance writer who has written about real estate, higher education, sports, and myriad other subjects. He has been published in The Best American Sports Writing series, Details, Spin, Texas Monthly, Huffington Post, Chicago magazine, and many other outlets. His website, ReeseWrites.net, features several samples of his work.

Expertise

Real Estate

Recent Articles

Young man talking to his grandfather, possibly about their military service experiences, while sitting in rocking chairs on the porch.

6-minute read

A complete guide to property tax benefits for veterans

Do veterans pay property taxes? It depends on where you live and your disability status. Learn more with the Rocket Mortgage guide.

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Overhead view of Naples, Florida with homes along waterways.

5-minute read

Florida property tax guide for homeowners

Florida has a lower effective property tax rate than many other states. Learn about how the Florida property tax system works and what you can expect to owe....

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An Asian family enjoying family moments outside a white house.

7-minute read

What is Freddie Mac's Home Possible® loan?

Freddie Mac’s Home Possible® program offers low down payments and fees for low-income buyers. Learn if the Home Possible program can help you buy a...

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Farmhouseexterior

8-minute read

How long it takes to buy a house: A purchase timeline from preapproval to closing

Wondering how long it takes to buy a house? You can expect the process to take about 2 – 3 months. Check out how this timeline breaks down from start to f...

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Couple making dinner in kitchen.

6-minute read

The pros and cons of buying a house

The more you know about the pros and cons of buying a house, the easier it’ll be to make the right decision for you. Check out our guide to learn more....

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Backyard of a house with dog in backyard.

7-minute read

Refinance to pay off debt: Is it right for you?

Looking to pay off your credit cards or other high-interest debt? With enough home equity, you might be able to refinance your house to consolidate your debt.

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Young woman checking phone at desk with open laptop.

5-minute read

How your credit score affects your mortgage

Credit scores are a key factor in mortgage lending decisions. Learn how credit scores affect mortgage rates and what credit score you need to get a home.

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Woman in kitchen holding a cup of coffee.

7-minute read

Property taxes by state: Ranked from highest to lowest in 2025

Compare property tax rates in all 50 U.S. states. Find out where taxes are highest and lowest in 2025, and see how much you might pay based on home value and lo...

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A family gathered around a table, eating and drinking together.

6-minute read

How to be a good neighbor

New to the neighborhood? Being a good neighbor improves quality of life for everyone in an area, and it could even keep your property safer. Here are some ti...

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