Home buying process

Featured resources

A turquoise bicycle on a front porch, adding a decorative element to the entrance of a home.

3-minute read

How low housing inventory impacts the real estate market

A low housing inventory is caused by an increase in demand for houses without the supply to meet it. Understand how this impacts the real estate market.

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

10-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 they cost and what they can offer property owners.

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

7-minute read

Where should I live? 12 important factors to consider

From small towns to big cities, there's a perfect place for everyone. We’ve collected 12 factors to help you answer the question, “Where should I...

Houseboats floating on water, likely in a residential area.

5-minute read

Natural hazard disclosure report (NHD): What is it and what does it cover?

NHD reports are crucial to buying and selling a home in California. Learn what hazards the report covers and why it’s necessary to provide to buyers.

5-minute read

What is ownership interest in a property?

Ownership interest in a property refers to the real estate rights that one or multiple owners hold. Learn more about the various types of ownership interest....

Mailbox stuffed with junk mail, representing a common occurrence in daily life.

4-minute read

Lots of mail with your new mortgage? Here's what you should know

If you just closed on a new mortgage, let’s go over what you need to know about some of the communications you’ll be receiving in the coming mont...

A plumber conducting a sewer inspection or scoping a sewer system.

4-minute read

What is a sewer scope inspection and do I need one?

Did you get a sewer scope inspection this year? Here's what you need to know about sewer scope inspections and the signs you need an inspection done.

Getting a home appraised, possibly illustrating the process of evaluating a property's value.

3-minute read

How long is an appraisal good for?

An appraisal is only valid for a short time, depending on the type of loan you choose. Learn how long an appraisal is good for and how the market affects it.

6-minute read

Closing costs

One thing that catches a lot of first-time home buyers off guard? Closing costs. In this episode, we’re going to explain what closing costs are and what e...

A house adorned with flowers, portraying a picturesque residential setting or curb appeal.

5-minute read

Primary residence: What is it and why is it important?

A primary residence is a type of property classification. Learn the rules for primary residences and how they impact your mortgage rate and tax deductions.

12-minute read

The Red Desk: Home selling process

Selling your home may seem like an incredibly daunting process, especially if your house is for sale by owner. Our host walks you through how to get your hom...

Rows of houses along a suburban neighborhood street.

14-minute read

120 home buying and mortgage facts for 2023

We have compiled a list of the top need-to-know mortgage facts and home buying statistics to give buyers a better understanding of the 2023 real estate market.

Steps to Make an Offer in Activity Video

7-minute read

Five steps to make an offer on a house

Making an offer on a house should be exciting, not nerve-wracking. In this episode, we’re going to walk through the five most essential steps to make an o...

7-minute read

Property taxes explained

Taxes are just one of life’s little certainties — but is there any way to lower them? Learn everything you need to know about property taxes in this...