Featured resources

Young couple laughing together while looking at computer and planning a budget together.

8-minute read

Does consolidating debt affect home buying?

Are you considering consolidating your debt before buying a home? Learn about how debt consolidation affects mortgage approval and how to make a wise decision.

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A young woman packing boxes, daughter moving out of parents' home.

8-minute read

How to move out: A guide to leaving your parents’ house

Getting ready to move out of your parents’ house? Learn how to transition to renting, build credit and real-life experience, and save for future housing g...

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A cozy house with a charming garden and a lovely deck, perfect for relaxation and outdoor gatherings.

9-minute read

How to know when to buy a house

Knowing when to buy a house takes market knowledge and insight into your personal finances. Here are some tips for knowing you’re ready.

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A woman working on a computer with papers scattered around.

8-minute read

Online house auctions: What are they and how do they work?

An online home auction lets buyers bid on properties digitally. This is how online auctions work, plus the risks, benefits, and what to expect when bidding.<...

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Woman looking off into distance smiling softly.

6-minute read

Letter to home seller from buyer: What to include

If you find your dream home in a competitive market, appealing directly to the seller may help your offer. This house offer letter sample gives you a s...

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Construction platforms next to an old rural home for repairs.

6-minute read

How to find houses to flip: A complete guide

Here’s how to find houses to flip and what factors matter most when choosing the right home, including price, condition, location, and market insights.

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Aerial view of a suburb and culdesac in New Jersey.

6-minute read

What is an HOA fee?

Homeowners associations (HOAs) require members to pay fees to help cover various costs in the community. Learn about what an HOA fee is and how much it costs.

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

5-minute read

How long does an appraisal take? The home appraisal timeline

How long does an appraisal take, and why? They can take anywhere from a few days to weeks, depending on timing, scheduling, and a home's complexity.

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A man working on a home foundation, possibly related to construction or repair work.

10-minute read

Home foundation problems: What to consider before you buy

Home foundation problems can be alarming. Learn what to do when buying a house with foundation issues and how to decide if the property is still a good fit.

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Multigenerational Asian family smiling and socializing in their living room.

5-minute read

Multigenerational homes: What it's like living in one

Multigenerational homes have people of multiple generations living under one roof. Learn what it's like to live in a home that unifies different generations.

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House in field with snow-capped mountains in the background.

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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Neighborhood development, possibly illustrating a newly constructed residential area.

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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Couple holding paintbrush starting at paint samples in kitchen.

9-minute read

Renovating vs. moving: How to decide which is right for you

When you’re deciding whether to renovate or move, consider the key costs, timelines, and lifestyle factors to confidently choose the best path for you.

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Woman opening door to brick house smiling.

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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A modern ranch-style home, potentially depicting a contemporary residential property.

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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Woman snuggling fluffy dog on couch.

8-minute read

Can you avoid capital gains by paying off your mortgage? How home sale taxes really work

There are a number of strategies to avoid or reduce capital gains tax on a home sale. Learn more about exclusions, exceptions, and basis rules.

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A condo complex with HOA, indicating community living and homeowners' association in real estate.

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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A father doing laundry with his sons, representing family life or household activities.

5-minute read

A guide for buying home warranty plans

Home warranties help you cover the cost of repairing or replacing appliances and home systems for a premium. Here's how they can protect your home and assets.

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