Featured resources

Two story brick home with historic craftsmanship.

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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Woman in empty new construction home holding phone and cipboard.

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 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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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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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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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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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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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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Two women sitting at a table calculating finances.

2-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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Image showing a young businesswoman contemplating while sitting in front of an open laptop.

5-minute read

What credit score do mortgage lenders use?

Mortgage lenders use several credit scores to qualify borrowers and determine the interest rate they offer. Learn more before you start the home buying journey.

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A breathtaking aerial view of lush green fields and gently rolling hills in the serene countryside.

6-minute read

What is adverse possession in real estate?

Adverse possession can give trespassers the legal right to claim ownership of your property. Learn more about adverse possession and how to prevent it.

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Home improvement, potentially related to renovation or home improvement concepts.

5-minute read

9 tips to increase house value

Upgrading parts of your home is a great way to increase its value. Here are 9 tips about how to get started and finance your renovation projects.

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An easement road leading to a house in the distance, indicating a legal right of way or access to a property.

5-minute read

Right of way vs. easement: What’s the difference?

A right of way easement allows you to use a pathway on a neighboring property. Other easements also give property access. Learn what the differences are here.

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A San Francisco neighborhood scene.

3-minute read

Florida: Essential home buying resources

Looking to buy a home in Florida? Rocket Mortgage can help you get there. Find out what you need to know to become a homeowner in the Sunshine State.

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