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Katie Ziraldo

Former staff writer

Katie Ziraldo is a former writer for Rocket, focused on creating accurate, accessible and educational content for future generations of home buyers. Her portfolio of work also includes The Detroit Free Press and The Huffington Post.

Recent Articles

Three Victorian houses, possibly representing historic or classic home styles.

8-minute read

Buying an old house vs. a new house: The pros and cons

Debating between the freshness of a new house and the charm of an old house? We implore you to consider the financial differences before buying.

A couple inside a new house, engaged in the unpacking process.

5-minute read

Can I use a home equity loan to buy another house?

Wondering if you can use a home equity loan to buy another house? Read our article to learn how the process works and to explore both the pros and cons.

A man calculating his taxes or finances.

5-minute read

What is ROI on real estate investments and how do I calculate it?

Real estate investors rely on ROI to determine how much profit a property will return and how it compares to other properties. Learn how to calculate ROI.

A woman painting a home in green, illustrating a woman painting the exterior of a house in green color.

5-minute read

What is home appreciation and how is it calculated?

Home appreciation tracks how a property increases in value over time. Learn how appreciation works and how you can raise your home's value before selling.

An aerial view of Miami, depicting a cityscape or travel destination.

6-minute read

10 most expensive cities in the US

Curious about the most expensive cities in the U.S.? Learn about the most expensive places to live in the U.S. and some of their unique characteristics here.

A row of townhomes, illustrating residential complexes or real estate developments.

5-minute read

How much of your income should go to your mortgage?

Are you preparing to buy a house but are unsure how much income should go to your loan payment? Learn what percentage of income is needed for mortgage approv...

A spacious house with a sizable yard, perfect for outdoor activities and ample space for a large family.

5-minute read

How much above asking price should I offer?

In a competitive housing market, you may ask, “How much above asking price should I offer?” Read on to learn tips for preparing to offer over ask...

A Federal-style brick building, potentially representing historic architecture.

5-minute read

What is a federal style house, and should I buy one?

A Federal-style house emulates ancient Roman architectural forms and was popularized by Thomas Jefferson. Learn more about the Federal architectural style.

Condo building against a beautiful sky, showcasing a condominium structure against a scenic sky backdrop.

5-minute read

Are condos a good investment?

Condos can be an attractive option for first time buyers, but are they a good investment? Read our guide to find out whether buying a condo makes sense for you.