Featured resources

Senior woman engaged in financial tasks, possibly related to mortgage or property planning.

7-minute read

Homestead xemption, explained

If you qualify for a homestead exemption, you can protect yourself from bankruptcy, property taxes and creditors. Learn about this exemption and its benefits.

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Woman looking out a window holding curtains.

8-minute read

House hunting tips on how to find a house to buy

From getting a mortgage approval to viewing houses in person, the house shopping process involves several major steps. Get familiar with them all here.

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Two women sitting at a table calculating finances.

3-minute read

A guide to the housing expense ratio

Wondering how mortgage lenders calculate the housing expense ratio? Learn how to find your results by comparing your housing expenses to your pretax income.

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A couple discussing underwriting with a lawyer, possibly related to a mortgage process.

7-minute read

How long does underwriting take?

How long is the underwriting process? The process typically takes about 30 – 45 days on average. Learn more about the underwriting timeline.

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An older couple enjoying lunch together, potentially depicting retirement or leisure time at home.

6-minute read

How to qualify for a mortgage after retirement

Looking to purchase a home after retirement? Here’s how to successfully organize your income and assets to get approved.

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Home inspector on a roof performing an inspection.

5-minute read

A guide to home inspection costs in 2023

Home inspections typically cost $300 – $500, but the final cost depends on factors like the size of the home. Learn more about budgeting for a home inspection.

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A family inspecting or looking at a house, potentially in the context of home buying or renting.

6-minute read

How big of a house do you need? Tips for calculating your ideal home size

How big of a house do you need? Learn about the recommended square footage per person and other important factors to consider during your home search.

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Probably a women calculating her taxes or finances.

15-minute read

Closing costs: What are they, and how much will you pay?

For a home buyer, closing costs are typically 3% – 6% of the loan amount. Learn more about how to calculate your closing costs and what’s included in them.

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Aerial view of a suburb and culdesac in New Jersey.

3-minute read

HOA fees: What are they and what do they cover?

Homeowners associations (HOAs) require members to pay fees to help cover various costs in the community. Learn how HOA fees are used and how much they can be.

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The front of a smaller house, depicting the facade of a relatively smaller residential property.

5-minute read

A guide to freehold estates: Different types and how they work

A freehold estate is a type of property ownership that can be held indefinitely and passed on forever. Learn more about the types of freehold estates here.

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A happy couple moving into their new place surrounded by boxes.

5-minute read

First-time home buyers classes: A guide

A first-time home buyers class can help you feel better-prepared for the home buying process. See what you can expect from a class for first-time home buyers.

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Couple snuggling and laughing together on couch.

9-minute read

A guide to first-time home buyer programs, loans and grants

If you’re a first-time home buyer interested in a loan or grant, there are several government programs to help you. Discover your options and see if you qualify.

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A happy African-American family unpacking, portraying diversity in the context of homeownership and moving into a new house.

7-minute read

2023 First American Home Warranty reviews and coverage

Looking for coverage options for your home appliances? Explore the reviews to see whether First American Home Warranty is the best company for your new home.

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A close-up of a stylish fixture of a kitchen or home decor element, showcasing its design and details, possibly used to enhance interior aesthetics.

6-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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Multiple generations of a family smiling outdoors, portraying family bonding and unity across different age groups.

5-minute read

Life state: What does it mean and how does it work?

A life estate is a legal way to pass the ownership rights of your home to another person. Learn about how a life estate works, how to create one and more.

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Federal Reserve concept, potentially related to economic discussions or mortgage rates.

3-minute read

Federal Reserve press release in plain English - February 2023

The Federal Reserve raised the target for the federal funds rate by 0.25%. Get the details on this and where members see interest rates headed in the future.

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Downtown skyline of Fort Myers, Florida.

13-minute read

The top 15 fastest-growing cities in the US

Wanting to move to a busy city with a rapidly growing population? Explore the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. and discover why people are flocking there.

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The Federal Reserve building, representing a financial institution.

4-minute read

Federal reserve press release in plain English - May 2023

Continued stress in the banking sector and some mixed economic signals have characterized the last few weeks. How did the Federal Reserve react?

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