Featured resources

Middle-aged couple with teen son on front porch of new home.

7-minute read

How to strengthen your mortgage application before you apply

Getting ready to apply for a mortgage? Learn how to strengthen your application, understand what lenders look for, and have the best shot at loan approval.

Read more

Row of detached houses with trees in the foreground.

5-minute read

What is a probate sale in real estate?

A probate sale takes place when an owner dies without a legal will. Learn how to buy a probate property and see if probate real estate makes sense for you.

Read more

A man inspecting the underside of a kitchen sink while holding a clipboard.

5-minute read

A guide to new construction phase inspections

New construction phase inspections can help ensure your new home is built to last. Explore the three phases, their costs and why they’re important.

Read more

Man in suit jacket with clipboard appraising a home while standing in the living room.

9-minute read

How long after an appraisal do you close?

Wondering how long after the appraisal you can close on your house? Learn how appraisals impact your loan and closing timeline, and key factors to consider.

Read more

A couple engaging in a discussion with one other individual while signing paperwork.

4-minute read

7 common contingencies to include in a real estate offer

Learn the most important contingencies to include in your home offer and how they protect your finances, timeline, and peace of mind during the buying proces...

Read more

Couple smiling at one another while looking at documents on open laptop.

7-minute read

How long does it take to close on a house?

Closing typically takes 30 - 60 days, but delays can extend the timeline. Learn how long the process takes and how to ensure you close as quickly as possible.

Read more

A close-up of a stylish fixture of a kitchen or home decor element, showcasing its design and details, possibly used to enhance interior aesthetics.

5-minute read

What is fixture in real estate, and how is it determined?

Knowing what is and isn't a fixture in real estate can help you avoid disputes during a sale. Learn how a fixture is determined and about common gray areas.<...

Read more

Luxury Investment Property

5-minute read

Ownership interest: What it means for property owners

An ownership interest in a property refers to the real estate rights held by one or more owners. Learn more about the various types of ownership interest.

Read more

Image showing a young businesswoman contemplating while sitting in front of an open laptop.

5-minute read

What credit score do mortgage lenders use?

Mortgage lenders use several credit scores to qualify borrowers and determine the interest rate they offer. Learn more before you start the home buying journey.

Read more

A couple possibly signing the final documents of their new home.

7-minute read

Should you make or accept a backup offer on a home sale?

A backup offer on a home guarantees you a contract with the seller if the first offer fails. Find out if buyers and sellers should try this home sale strateg...

Read more

Couple biking in wooded trails.

6-minute read

How to buy a home in North Carolina

Learn how to buy a home in North Carolina with our step-by-step guide, including tips, financing options, and actionable advice.

Read more

A couple discussing underwriting with a lawyer, possibly related to a mortgage process.

7-minute read

How long does underwriting take?

Learn how mortgage underwriting works, how long the process usually takes, and steps you can take to speed...

Read more

Couple snuggling and eating pizza on floor of new home surrounded by unopened moving boxes.

9-minute read

How to buy a house: Your step-by-step guide to buying in 2026

Buying a house can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process makes it easier. Read this step-by-step guide to learn the stages from budgeting to closing.

Read more

Exterior of a red house, illustrating the exterior appearance of a red-colored house.

4-minute read

Price per square foot: Why it matters and how it's calculated

Price per square foot is a metric that helps you compare similarly priced properties on the market. In short, it measures how much bang you can get for your buc...

Read more

A land surveyor working in a field, illustrating a professional conducting a land survey.

6-minute read

How much does a land survey cost and how do I get one?

A land survey shows the shape and boundaries of a piece of property. Learn what it costs and what it can offer property owners.

Read more

Exterior view of an English-style red brick house with a garden and driveway.

7-minute read

Where should I live? 17 factors to consider

Choosing where you should live can feel overwhelming. This list of 17 questions to ask yourself will help you find where to move so you love where you live.

Read more

A family sitting on the porch with their pet having enjoyable moment.

7-minute read

What is cash to close?

Understand how to calculate a “cash to close” total and which fees make up this important figure before closing on your house.

Read more

Young couple sitting at a kitchen counter with a laptop, potentially discussing finances or real estate options.

6-minute read

Can you back out of a house offer? How to formally withdraw

Home buyers have many opportunities to back out of a deal. Learn about valid reasons to back out of buying a house before you make an offer.

Read more

2 of 13