Featured resources

5-minute read

What’s the average mortgage payment in Alaska?

Looking for a home in Alaska? Your mortgage payment changes based on where in AK you choose to live. We break it down.

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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.

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6-minute read

Quitclaim deed: A complete guide

A quitclaim deed is a legal document that transfers real estate without title or ownership guarantees. Find out how it works and when you may need to use one...

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6-minute read

What is a lease option and how does it work?

If you want to give a home a test drive, consider an option-to-purchase lease agreement. This contract allows part of your rent to go to a future sale.

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9-minute read

Homeowners association (HOA): What it means and how it works

A homeowners association (HOA) manages community rules, fees and amenities in a planned neighborhood or complex. Our guide goes over how HOAs work.

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7-minute read

A guide to the home inspection contingency

A home inspection contingency allows buyers to respond to results within a specific time frame. Learn how to successfully navigate and reply to an inspection.

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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.

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6-minute read

Final walk-through checklist: What to look for

The final walk-through is often the last step before closing on your home. Learn how it works, what to watch out for during it, and what to do if you find is...

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6-minute read

Conditional approval for a mortgage: What it means and what to do next

Conditionally approved for a mortgage? Learn what it means, common lender conditions, what can still derail approval, and how to reach clear to close.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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5-minute read

When is the best part of the month to close on a house?

Closing your mortgage on the first of the month may have different tax and payment implications than closing on the 15th or 30th.

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6-minute read

California property tax guide for homeowners

California has a lower effective property tax rate than many other states. Learn about how the California property tax system works and what you may owe.

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12-minute read

17 states that offer property tax relief for seniors

Many states offer property tax relief for seniors. Find out which states have no property tax for seniors, plus what exemptions and relief programs are availabl...

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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...

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4-minute read

Real estate taxes vs. property taxes: What’s the difference?

Preparing to pay taxes on your home? Learn the difference between real estate and property taxes, how they’re calculated, and what they mean for homeow...

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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.<...

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