Home buying

Featured resources

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

5-minute read

Restrictive covenants in real estate: What they are and how they affect you

Restrictive covenants limit how a homeowner can use their property, usually for the purpose of maintaining property value. See how these agreements work.

A senior man seated at a table, possibly reviewing bills or managing finances.

6-minute read

Buying a house during inflation: What you need to know

Buying a house during inflation can be challenging, but it’s possible. Learn what to consider when deciding whether to buy a house during inflation.

A young couple smiling and looking at the laptop screen.

7-minute read

A guide to bank statements for your mortgage

Analyzing bank statements is an important part of the mortgage underwriting process. Learn more about the bank statements you’ll need to get a home loan.

A woman on phone possibly talking to a client or a customer.

9-minute read

The final walk-through: Checklist of what to look for

Our final walk-through checklist can help secure your peace of mind before closing. Verify repairs and ensure your new home is move-in ready.

Contemporary home with wood panelled exterior and glass floor to ceiling windows.

5-minute read

Buying a flipped house: What you need to know

Watching experts flip a house is exciting, but would you want to actually move in? Learn what to look for before buying a flipped property.

7-minute read

Are closing costs negotiable?

When buying or refinancing a house, it’s important to know that closing costs are negotiable. Learn what fees are negotiable and how to bring them down.

A college student using a laptop, representing education loans.

10-minute read

Buying property as a student: Can you get a home loan in college or graduate school?

Buying a house while in college may be a viable option if you have the financial means and meet lender requirements. Learn how to buy a house as a student.

Exterior of a red house, illustrating the exterior appearance of a red-colored house.

5-minute read

Price per square foot: Why it matters and how it's calculated

A home’s price per square foot is calculated by dividing the listing price by the home’s square footage. Learn more about this metric and why it matters.

A woman enjoying a cup of tea while sitting on a cozy couch possibly thinking about real estate investment or this choice between renting or buying a house.

4-minute read

Rent vs. buy: A guide to help you decide

Deciding between buying or renting your next home? Learn more with our guide, including how to use a rent vs. buy calculator to help you make a decision.

A modern house with a garage, showcasing a contemporary residential property with a garage.

8-minute read

How to make an offer on a house in 5 steps

You’re approved for a loan, you’ve found the perfect home and you’re ready to put in an offer. Learn the five steps to making an offer on a house.

A couple viewing information together on a laptop.

5-minute read

The Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) explained

RESPA protects prospective home buyers by increasing lender transparency and outlawing certain predatory real estate practices. Find out more here.

Cabin house on rural land, representing rural or countryside living.

4-minute read

What is hazard insurance for homes: A homeowners guide

Hazard insurance protects your home from natural disasters. Learn what it is, what is covered under hazard insurance and how it’s different from homeowners insurance.

A woman painting a home in green, illustrating a woman painting the exterior of a house in green color.

5-minute read

What is home appreciation and how is it calculated?

Home appreciation tracks how a property increases in value over time. Learn how appreciation works and how you can raise your home's value before selling.

An Asian couple carrying boxes while moving into a new home.

6-minute read

The costs of buying a house that first-time home buyers should prepare for

Purchasing your first home is a major achievement – so make sure you're financially ready for it. There are several costs to consider when buying a house.

White condos with small porches, depicting a residential complex or condominiums.

6-minute read

HOA special assessment: What it is and how to handle it

Moving to a neighborhood with an HOA? You should be prepared to pay some extra, unexpected feed. Here's what you need to know about special assessments.

A woman smiling alone with a cup of tea in a new house, while engaged in unpacking and shifting.

6-minute read

Buying a house as a single woman: A how-to guide

Are you interested in becoming a homeowner but have a single income? Read our guide to learn more about what to expect when buying a house as a single woman.

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

5-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 the pros, cons and potential risks. Read on to learn more about moving into a flood zone.

A woman managing bills or finances, possibly organizing payments or budgeting.

9-minute read

House poor: What it means and how to avoid it

Being house poor means most of your income goes toward your mortgage. See how people become house poor and learn how to keep it from happening to you.

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