Featured resources

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 inspec...

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A spacious house with a sizable yard, perfect for outdoor activities and ample space for a large family.

5-minute read

How much above asking price should I offer?

In a competitive housing market, you may ask, “How much above asking price should I offer?” Read on to learn tips for preparing to offer over ask...

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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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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 include...

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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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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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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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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 yo...

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

4-minute read

Federal Reserve press release in plain English - March 2023

It’s been a wild month in the financial sector. Find out how the Federal Reserve reacted in their latest meeting on interest rates.

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A couple having a discussion, potentially about new home prospects.

4-minute read

What is an escalation clause and when is the time to use one?

An escalation clause states a buyer is willing to raise their offer if a seller receives a higher offer. Read our guide on escalation clauses.

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A couple looking at a laptop together, possibly discussing or working on something collaboratively.

5-minute read

The implications of 'active under contract' in real estate

Active under contract means an offer has been accepted but certain conditions must be met. Learn how a status of “active under contract” works in...

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A real estate agent showing women a property possibly for the purpose of sale or rent.

4-minute read

How long does an appraisal take? The home appraisal timeline

Home appraisals can take anywhere from a few days to a week depending on timing, scheduling and a home's complexity. Learn how long an appraisal takes and wh...

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Front porch of a home with white wicker chairs and a blue front door.

4-minute read

Top home features buyers want in 2024

Rocket Mortgage’s 2024 home feature preferences study unveils buyer preferences for interior, exterior, technology and community features of a home.

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A neighborhood view with rows of suburban houses, tree-lined streets, and parked cars.

4-minute read

Zoom towns are on the rise: Is this lifestyle right for you?

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the rise of zoom towns as remote workers desired new living situations. Find out if buying a house in a zoom town is right for y...

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