Home buying process

Featured resources

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.

An image showing a broken foundation of a house, highlighting structural issues or concerns in a property.

5-minute read

Foundation inspections: Defined and explained

Foundation inspections ensure homes are safe and free of foundation problems. Learn what inspectors will look out for and how to spot problems in a home.

A couple leaving their house probably leaving for their jobs.

7-minute read

A guide to the home inspection contingency

A home inspection contingency allows a buyer to make an offer contingent on the results of a home inspection. Learn more about this buyer protection.

Woman working on a computer, possibly managing real estate details or financial matters.

7-minute read

How to buy a house online: A quick guide

Looking to buy a house online? No matter if you’re moving near or far, an online home purchase is possible. Here’s what you need to know.

Two people sitting on a couch in a cozy living room, engaged in conversation and enjoying each other's company.

7-minute read

Maximize your home's appraisal value with these tips

Getting a home appraised doesn’t have to be stressful! Learn how to prepare for one whether you’re a buyer, seller or refinancer.

A street in USA, lined with trees and houses in full bloom.

6-minute read

Rent-back agreements: Pros and cons for buyers and sellers

A rent-back agreement allows sellers to rent their home from buyers for a set period of time, but it’s not without risks. Learn the pros and cons here.

8-minute read

Advice for second-time home buyers: What to know

Just because you’ve purchased a home before doesn’t mean the home buying process is always simple. Check out our advice for second-time home buyers.

Happy family standing in kitchen, parents may help kids buy home.

10-minute read

What you need to know about buying a house in the military

Buying a house in the military is possible. Learn what to expect and how to decide whether buying while you’re still serving is right for your situation.

Construction workers building the frame of a new home.

8-minute read

Is it cheaper to build or buy a house? What you need to know

Wondering if it’s cheaper to buy or build a house? Discover the costs of building a house versus buying and which option is more suitable for your finances.

RHB Assets From IGX: A row of painted ladies Victorian homes

8-minute read

How to find rent-to-own homes: A guide

Are you on the hunt for a rent-to-own home? Read our helpful guide on the different ways you can go about finding a rent-to-own home that fits your needs.

Man inspecting a home, indicating a property inspection process or assessment.

5-minute read

How to choose a home inspector

Hiring a qualified home inspector can save you thousands of dollars down the road. Learn what credentials to look for and how to find a good home inspector.

A woman multitasking on a phone call and a laptop maybe discussing a deal.

5-minute read

How do you find out who owns a property?

Wondering how to find out who owns a property? You have options. Here are nine ways to learn the answer.

An illustration showing a hand holding a credit card for payment.

7-minute read

Buying a house with bad credit: A guide to your home loan options

Considering buying a home with bad credit? Learn about home loans for bad credit, along with tips for improving your credit score to qualify for a mortgage.