Featured resources

A woman signing a contract, suggesting engagement in a real estate agreement or mortgage-related documentation.

10-minute read

What is a real estate purchase agreement, and why is it important?

A real estate purchase agreement is a contract covering the details of a real estate transaction. Learn more about purchase agreements and their key componen...

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Ranch-style home with tan siding, stone accents and a beautifully manicured lawn.

9-minute read

How much house can you afford on $100K?

Starting your home buying journey with a salary of $100,000 a year? Find out your mortgage options and how much house you can afford with $100K.

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A bustling city street lined with houses and trees, capturing the essence of urban living.

3-minute read

Utility easements, explained

A utility easement is what allows public utilities like sewage, electricity, water and more to exist. Learn about how utility easements can impact homeowners.

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Woman snuggling fluffy dog on couch.

7-minute read

How to avoid capital gains taxes on real estate

There are several ways to defer capital gains taxes on real estate investments. The right one for you depends on your situation. Learn about your options.

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A woman and child sitting in a room, engrossed in conversation and surrounded by cozy furniture.

5-minute read

What is a down payment and how does it work?

A down payment is the percentage of a home's purchase price you pay up front. Learn how down payments work and how much you should put down on a house.

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A family in front of a porch, depicting a home setting and family-oriented lifestyle.

4-minute read

Can I look at a house without mortgage preapproval?

While you can tour homes without it, mortgage preapproval makes it easier to find a real estate agent and it can persuade sellers to take your offer seriously.

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Rooftops in a neighborhood, portraying a community or residential area.

6-minute read

Restrictive covenants explained

Restrictive covenants are rules in the deed that limit how the homeowner can use their property. Learn more about these rules and how they may affect you.

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Image representing a house in flood zone, potentially relating to real estate or insurance discussions.

6-minute read

A guide to buying a house in a flood zone

If you’re considering buying a house in a flood zone, you should weigh pros, cons, and potential risks. Read on to learn more about moving into a flood zo...

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A couple leaving their house probably leaving for their jobs.

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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Two people discussing something while drinking coffee.

6-minute read

What to expect from non-arm’s length transactions

Non-arm’s length transactions involve buying property from someone you know. These transactions have unique tax and legal implications you need to be awar...

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A modern apartment building in an urban area.

7-minute read

What is rent control and how does it work?

Rent control is a legal provision capping how much landlords can charge in rent for some rental units. Learn about rent control law and how rent control works.

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An illustration showing a hand holding a credit card for payment.

9-minute read

The lowest credit score to buy a house: How bad credit affects loan options

Considering buying a home with bad credit? Discover the lowest credit score to buy a house, learn about home loans for bad credit, and find credit score tips.

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An aerial view of buildings surrounded by trees.

7-minute read

What is condemnation in real estate?

What is condemned property? Condemnation occurs when the government uses eminent domain to take property. Learn what condemnation can mean for homeowners.

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A row of townhouses, representing real estate properties.

6-minute read

Can you buy a house with no credit? Tips and loan options for those with no credit score

Wondering if you can buy a house with no credit? Read on to learn if it’s possible to buy a house without a credit score or established credit history....

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A couple showing a key in front of a house possibly indicating they bought their new home.

6-minute read

What is the right of first refusal in real estate and how does it work?

In real estate, right of first refusal reserves your place at the front of the line to make an offer on, buy, or pass on purchasing a specific property.

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Young man talking to his older father.

7-minute read

Understanding right of survivorship: What you need to know

What is the right of survivorship? Learn how this legal principle affects joint property ownership and offers protection for surviving owners in this overvie...

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

4-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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Home inspector standing in front of a window, possibly inspecting a property with a clipboard in hand.

6-minute read

What does a home inspector do?

A home inspector’s job is to review a property’s systems and structures to ensure they are safe and working correctly. Learn what a home inspector l...

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