Home buying process

Featured resources

A large brick house surrounded by tall trees.

8-minute read

Your best home-buying checklist

The process of buying a home can be full of unknowns, especially for first-time buyers. Find peace of mind with this easy-to-follow home-buying checklist.

A smiling Asian woman in a clay-colored sweater working on a laptop near windows, potentially in a work or home office setting.

6-minute read

What does microflipping mean in real estate?

House flipping requires lots of labor and skill, but you can get into microflipping if you’re tech-savvy. Explore how it works and how to get started.

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

6-minute read

Coming soon real estate listings, explained

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

An image depicting an unmarried couple, potentially related to housing decisions or relationships.

7-minute read

6 questions unmarried couples should ask before buying a house

For unmarried couples buying a house, there are a few important things to consider before signing on the dotted line. Learn what questions to ask here.

Close-up image of a pest inspection officer holding a clipboard.

4-minute read

Pest inspection: Is it a requirement to get a mortgage?

A pest inspection may be required or advisable when buying a home. Learn when a pest inspection is needed and what a pest inspector will look for.

Two people discussing something while drinking coffee.

8-minute read

A non-arm's length transaction: Buying a house from someone close to you

Buying a house from someone you know? That could be a non-arm’s length transaction with tax and legal implications. Learn about buying a house from a family member or friend.

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

4-minute read

How long should you live in a house before selling?

Wondering how long you should live in a house before selling? The 5-year rule is a good start, but you should consider other guidelines and factors.

An asian woman looking at some information possibly related to real estate on her laptop.

4-minute read

What is a CLUE report in real estate?

A CLUE report is a detailed overview of a property’s insurance claims history. Learn the importance of CLUE reports in real estate transactions here.

A woman appraising a home, indicating property assessment or valuation in real estate.

10-minute read

What is a home appraisal and how much does it cost?

A home appraisal determines the value of a home. Learn how this process works for those who are buying, selling or refinancing a home.

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

7-minute read

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

Breaking a lease to buy a house can be a tricky process. Learn more about how to get out of a lease, the pros, the cons and alternatives to consider.

6-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.

A young couple smiling and looking at the laptop screen.

7-minute read

A guide to bank statements for your mortgage

Analyzing bank statements is an important part of the mortgage underwriting process. Learn more about the bank statements you’ll need to get a home loan.

A woman on phone possibly talking to a client or a customer.

9-minute read

The final walk-through: Checklist of what to look for

Our final walk-through checklist can help secure your peace of mind before closing. Verify repairs and ensure your new home is move-in ready.

7-minute read

Are closing costs negotiable?

When buying or refinancing a house, it’s important to know that closing costs are negotiable. Learn what fees are negotiable and how to bring them down.

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

5-minute read

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

A home’s price per square foot is calculated by dividing the listing price by the home’s square footage. Learn more about this metric and why it matters.

A modern house with a garage, showcasing a contemporary residential property with a garage.

8-minute read

How to make an offer on a house in 5 steps

You’re approved for a loan, you’ve found the perfect home and you’re ready to put in an offer. Learn the five steps to making an offer on a house.

A couple possibly putting their credit card or some company card information on a laptop.

4-minute read

What to bring to closing: A buyer's checklist

Alleviate some of the stress that comes with closing day by preparing the items you’ll need to bring to the closing table ahead of time. Read to learn more.

Smiling businessmen shaking hands, symbolizing a successful business deal or partnership.

5-minute read

Highest and best offer in real estate, explained

A highest and best offer might be requested by a seller who has received multiple offers on their home. Learn more about this offer and its potential impact.