Home buying process

Featured resources

Woman in empty new construction home holding phone and clipboard.

5-minute read

Your guide to blue tape walk-throughs

The blue tape walk-through of your newly constructed home is an important step before you move in. Learn more about what it entails and what to check for.

A man looking at a contract or document, potentially in a business or legal context.

6-minute read

Breaking a lease to buy a house: Can (and should) you do it?

Breaking a lease to buy a house can be tricky. Learn how to get out of a lease, how much it might cost you, the pros and cons, and weigh the alternatives.

An easement road leading to a house in the distance, indicating a legal right of way or access to a property.

5-minute read

Right of way vs. easement: What’s the difference?

A right of way easement allows you to use a pathway on a neighboring property. Other easements also give property access. Learn what the differences are here.

A couple looking at a laptop together, potentially engaging in activities such as browsing or working online as a team.

7-minute read

What does “coming soon” mean on real estate listings?

Some real estate agents will list a home as “coming soon” before it hits the market. Learn about “coming soon” real estate listings and ...

A young couple with an agent in a living room, potentially discussing a property.

8-minute read

How long does it take to sell a house?

How long it takes to sell a house varies depending on market conditions, your asking price, how long your home’s been on the market, and its overall condi...

Image depicting the duration before selling, likely discussing the time frame or considerations before selling a property.

7-minute read

Selling a house after a year: How soon can I sell?

You’re thinking about selling your home after a year or maybe less. Are there disadvantages? Consider the taxes, costs, and penalties before you sell.<...

A bustling city street lined with houses and trees, capturing the essence of urban living.

3-minute read

Utility easements, explained

A utility easement is what allows public utilities like sewage, electricity, water and more to exist. Learn about how utility easements can impact homeowners.

A woman signing a contract, suggesting engagement in a real estate agreement or mortgage-related documentation.

10-minute read

What is a real estate purchase agreement, and why is it important?

A real estate purchase agreement is a contract covering the details of a real estate transaction. Learn more about purchase agreements and their key componen...

Buying a house for sale by the owner, symbolizing a direct purchase from a homeowner.

9-minute read

FSBO meaning: Buying a house that’s for sale by owner

Buying a house that's listed as for sale by owner (FSBO) is different from buying through a real estate agent. Discover the process of buying a FSBO home.

A family in front of a porch, depicting a home setting and family-oriented lifestyle.

4-minute read

Can I look at a house without mortgage preapproval?

While you can tour homes without it, mortgage preapproval makes it easier to find a real estate agent and it can persuade sellers to take your offer seriously.

Two people discussing something while drinking coffee.

6-minute read

What to expect from non-arm’s length transactions

Non-arm’s length transactions involve buying property from someone you know. These transactions have unique tax and legal implications you need to be awar...

A couple showing a key in front of a house possibly indicating they bought their new home.

6-minute read

What is the right of first refusal in real estate and how does it work?

In real estate, right of first refusal reserves your place at the front of the line to make an offer on, buy, or pass on purchasing a specific property.

Home inspector standing in front of a window, possibly inspecting a property with a clipboard in hand.

6-minute read

What does a home inspector do?

A home inspector’s job is to review a property’s systems and structures to ensure they are safe and working correctly. Learn what a home inspector l...

A woman working from home with a Shiba Inu dog next to her, indicating a remote work setup in a comfortable environment.

4-minute read

What does caveat emptor mean?

Caveat emptor is Latin for “let the buyer beware.” In real estate, it’s similar to buying a home as-is. Learn about buying a home sold as cave...

A young couple smiling and looking at the laptop screen.

10-minute read

A guide to bank statements for your mortgage

Are you self-employed or a freelancer who wants to buy a home? If you have income but it isn’t reflected on a W2, a bank statement loan could be right ...

Woman at home checking status of loan on her smartphone.

6-minute read

Your mortgage fell through on closing day? What to do now

Did your mortgage fall through on closing day? Don’t panic! Learn why it may have happened, the steps you can take to fix it, and how to get back on tr...

A beige single-family home, potentially showcasing a residential property in a serene neighborhood.

5-minute read

How to identify overpriced homes: 5 signs to look out for

Wondering how to tell if a house is overpriced? Read our guide to learn the best techniques for identifying overpriced homes in the real estate market.

A couple looking at some information on their laptop while sitting on their home couch.

8-minute read

Bidding wars: 6 tips for home buyers on how to win

Preparation and planning are key when you’re making an offer on a hot property and a bidding war breaks out. Here are 6 tips to help your bid come out on ...