Featured resources

Lesbians walking with their children in a park.

5-minute read

What’s the difference between surface rights and mineral rights?

There are rights granted to homeowners, but surface and mineral rights can be severed. Here’s how surface and mineral rights work and how to secure them.

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

6-minute read

Homestead exemption: Definition, explanation, and how to qualify

A homestead exemption can potentially reduce your property taxes and help protect your home in tough times. Learn how it works, who qualifies, and how to apply.

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A modern neutral-colored living room with large windows and stylish furniture.

5-minute read

What to know about condo associations: Your guide to rules, fees and insurance

A condo association is a governing board composed of residents who live in the same housing development. Learn about condo association rules and fees.

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Young woman looking at papers in her hand while having a laptop in front of her.

5-minute read

Tax deed states: A complete guide for investors

In tax deed states, investors can buy auctioned properties from the government. Learn about the specific states and what’s involved with buying these prop...

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A vintage cottage-style brick home, highlighting its nostalgic and traditional appearance.

10-minute read

Buying auction properties: What to know before you bid

Are you thinking about buying a house that’s up for auction? Learn how the process works and get some tips for making a successful bid on an auction prope...

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Woman with glasses working at desk.

6-minute read

What are prepaid costs of buying a home?

Learn what prepaid costs are, why they matter, and how to plan ahead for them – so you can approach closing day with clarity, confidence, and no surprises...

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A large brick house surrounded by tall trees.

10-minute read

Checklist for buying your first house

The process of buying a home can be complicated, especially for first-time buyers. Make it simpler with this house buying checklist.

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A couple reading, potentially exploring information related to homeownership or mortgages.

6-minute read

What is the average down payment on a house?

The average down payment on a house isn’t 20%. How much you put down depends on your loan and situation. Here’s what to know before applying for a m...

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A service repairman, possibly indicating home maintenance or repair services.

10-minute read

What is a reasonable repair request to ask for after a home inspection?

Are you thinking about buying a home? Learn what is a reasonable repair request you can ask for after a home inspection and how to negotiate with the seller.

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A professional home inspector guiding a homeowner through a thorough inspection of their property.

5-minute read

Your guide to blue tape walk-throughs

The blue tape walk-through of your newly constructed home is an important step before you move in. Learn more about what it entails and what to check for.

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A retired man looking to renovate his house.

9-minute read

Capital improvements: When are your home renovations tax-deductible?

If you’re thinking about renovating your house before selling, these upgrades may qualify as capital improvements. Learn more about their tax deductibilit...

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A senior couple packing and labeling boxes in a kitchen, signifying moving or packing activities for relocation.

4-minute read

When should you consider selling your home as a senior?

If you’re a senior, you may wonder if it makes sense to sell your home and rent. Learn more about what’s important to consider before making this mo...

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A young family creating a symbolic roof over their daughter's head, possibly representing homeownership aspirations or planning.

8-minute read

Earthquake insurance: What does it cover, and do you need it?

Earthquake insurance covers damages that homeowners insurance and renters insurance don’t. See how much earthquake insurance costs and decide if you need ...

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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

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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Roommates having breakfast together, indicating shared living arrangements.

7-minute read

Buying a house with a friend: Pros, cons and how to get started

It’s becoming more common to split costs and achieve homeownership by buying a house with a friend, but is it right for you? See what you should consider.

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Young couple moving into new home, smiling and carrying boxes and a houseplant.

4-minute read

11 tips for buying a house out of state

Looking to buy a house out of state but not sure how the process works? Read our article on what you need to know when purchasing a home in a different state...

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A man looking at a contract or document, potentially in a business or legal context.

6-minute read

Breaking a lease to buy a house: Can (and should) you do it?

Breaking a lease to buy a house can be tricky. Learn how to get out of a lease, how much it might cost you, the pros and cons, and weigh the alternatives.

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An account advisor showing papers to a client, indicating a professional interaction or financial consultation.

7-minute read

How often do contingent offers fall through? What you should know

Learn about the different types of contingencies in real estate contracts and explore the common reasons these deals sometimes don’t make it to closing...

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