Home buying process

Featured resources

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 for you.

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 track.

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.

An image indicating an offer date in real estate, possibly illustrating a deadline or time-sensitive property offer.

5-minute read

Offer dates in real estate: What buyers and sellers need to know

In some real estate transactions, the seller decides to set an offer review date for their home. Learn about what this means for buyers and sellers.

Newly built modern single-family tan home with landscaping, representing construction loans.

9-minute read

What to look for when buying a house: A guide for home buyers

If you’re about to begin the home buying process, there are some things you should keep in mind. Read on to learn about what to look for when buying a house.

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 top.

A couple signing divorce papers, suggesting a legal process related to property or asset division.

10-minute read

Divorce and home loans: Your guide to buying a home after divorce

If you’re looking to buy a home or refinance your mortgage after divorce, here’s what you need to know.

Neighborhood development, possibly illustrating a newly constructed residential area.

4-minute read

What are zoning laws and how do they work?

Zoning laws dictate how a property can or cannot be used within a certain geographical area. Learn about common types of zoning laws and how they work.

Mixed race couple shaking hands with real estate agent.

4-minute read

Grantor vs. grantee: What's the difference?

The transfer of ownership from a grantor to a grantee is an important part of many real estate transactions. Learn more about grantors vs. grantees here.

A businessman in a suit focused on his smartphone, multitasking in a modern world.

6-minute read

How to prepare a real estate counteroffer

Sellers don’t have to reject a buyer’s offer: you can negotiate with a counteroffer. Here’s how to create one that works best for everyone.

Couple exploring a new home with a realtor, examining or considering a property.

8-minute read

How to buy a house with cash in 2025 and beyond

Buying a house with cash can streamline the home buying process, but it can also come with a few downsides. Learn how to buy a house with cash here.

The image shows young female couple pointing at a home, possibly considering it for purchase.

9-minute read

Closing on a house: Your step-by-step guide

The closing process is the final step in the home buying journey. Learn some of the best ways to prepare for closing on a house with our step-by-step guide.

A person in a yellow shirt working on taxes, possibly related to homeownership or property taxes.

7-minute read

Are closing costs tax-deductible?

Some of your closing costs may be tax-deductible. Get answers about which closing costs you can deduct on your taxes after buying a home.

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7-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? After finding your dream home, you can expect the process to take about 2 – 3 months. Check out this timeline that breaks it down from start to finish.

Run-down house in a suburban-rural area for flipping.

4-minute read

How to find houses to flip: A complete guide

Learn how to find houses to flip and what to consider when selecting the right house.

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

4-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.

A view of a park in a city with track and benches.

4-minute read

What is property tax and how to calculate it

Property taxes are paid to local governments to help cover the cost of community services. Discover how to calculate property taxes with our guide.

Hands holding a smartphone photographing a house, possibly related to real estate or property viewing.

4-minute read

What is a drive-by appraisal and how accurate is it?

A drive-by appraisal is a type of home appraisal that only inspects a property’s exterior. See when and why drive-by appraisals are used and how they work.