Homeownership

Featured Resources

A scenic view of an oak tree near a wooden fence, depicting a serene natural landscape.

6-minute read

Encroachment: Definition And What It Means In Real Estate

An encroachment occurs when part of one person’s property overlaps with another’s. See how an encroachment on your property can lead to problems in the future.

Couple looking at homes online on a tablet

8-minute read

Are Home Warranties Worth It? What To Consider

Are home warranties worth it? It depends on several factors. Learn about the pros and cons of getting a home warranty to determine whether you need one.

A young Asian man looking stressed while using a laptop, possibly in a home or work setting.

4-minute read

Home Title Theft: What You Should Know And How To Prevent It

Home title theft is when someone steals a homeowner’s identity and transfers the home title to their name. Figure out how to prevent title theft.

Illustration of a home renovation project with tools, paint, and a blueprint.

5-minute read

Home Remodel Costs And Estimation Template

The amount it costs to remodel a house can vary depending on the scale of the project. Learn the average costs associated with various kinds of remodels.

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.

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 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.

Young man smiling on the phone at a desk, possibly indicating work or communication.

5-minute read

How To Change Homeowners Insurance With Escrow: A Guide

Are you looking to change your homeowners insurance? Read through our complete guide on how to change your homeowners insurance with an escrow account.

Two men inspecting a house, potentially related to home inspection or real estate assessment.

6-minute read

What Is A Seller’s Pre-Inspection And Should You Get One?

Sellers may order a pre-inspection before listing to get a jump on repairs and avoid negotiations with buyers. Learn more about pre-listing inspections.

White and grey house with a teal front door.

9-minute read

Community Property: Definition, States That Follow It And More

Thanks to community property, any income or property acquired during marriage belongs equally to both spouses. Learn more about how community property works.

A woman using a calculator, possibly related to financial or real estate calculations.

5-minute read

Learn How To Calculate Home Equity

Want to learn how to calculate home equity? See how much equity you have in your home and find the best way to convert your home equity into cash.

A family gathered around a table, eating and drinking together.

7-minute read

How To Be A Good Neighbor

Living in a great neighborhood can improve your quality of life. Read to learn how to be a good neighbor as well as ways to celebrate and thank your community.

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

7-minute read

Homestead Exemption, Explained

If you qualify for a homestead exemption, you can protect yourself from bankruptcy, property taxes and creditors. Learn about this exemption and its benefits.

The front of a smaller house, depicting the facade of a relatively smaller residential property.

5-minute read

A Guide To Freehold Estates: Different Types And How They Work

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.

A happy African-American family unpacking, portraying diversity in the context of homeownership and moving into a new house.

7-minute read

2023 First American Home Warranty Reviews And Coverage

Looking for coverage options for your home appliances? Explore the reviews to see whether First American Home Warranty is the best company for your new home.

Multiple generations of a family smiling outdoors, portraying family bonding and unity across different age groups.

5-minute read

Life Estate: What Does It Mean And How Does It Work?

A life estate is a legal way to pass the ownership rights of your home to another person. Learn about how a life estate works, how to create one and more.

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

6-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.