Preparing to buy

Featured resources

Couple holding paintbrush starting at paint samples in kitchen.

9-minute read

Renovating vs. moving: How to decide which is right for you

When you’re deciding whether to renovate or move, consider the key costs, timelines, and lifestyle factors to confidently choose the best path for you.

Couple signing papers to close on a home.

5-minute read

When is the best part of the month to close on a house?

Closing your mortgage on the first of the month may have different tax and payment implications than closing on the 15th or 30th.

Image of a woman sitting in a yellow chair, with a dog in her lap, working on a laptop.

8-minute read

Buying a house with low income: Loan options, assistance programs, and tips

Becoming a homeowner is still possible with a low income. See what low-income house buying programs and strategies can help when applying for a mortgage.

A couple moving into a new home, symbolizing the process of relocation and homeownership.

6-minute read

How much money do you need to buy a house?

Ready to buy a home? Explore different home buying costs, such as the down payment and closing fees, to determine how much money you need to buy a house.

Young Latino family happily settled in their forever home, expressing contentment and stability.

12-minute read

Starter home or forever home: Which is right for you?

A starter home is a small, affordable home for first-time buyers. Find out if it makes sense to buy a starter home or if a forever home is right for you.

9-minute read

How much income do I need for a $600K home?

How much house you can afford depends on numerous factors, including your income and credit score. Learn how much income you need for a $600K mortgage.

St. Louis cityscape with the Gateway Arch being visible.

6-minute read

Average closing costs in Missouri

Missouri’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your new ...

7-minute read

Cheapest ways to build a house: 12 tips for affordable home building

Building a home doesn’t have to break the bank. Explore these 12 ways to build a budget-friendly house, from a simpler layout to opting for cheaper materi...

Aerial view of houses along a lake in Oklahoma during an autumn sunset.

6-minute read

Average closing costs in Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your new ...

Waterfront in Tacoma, Washington, with Mt. Rainier in the background.

5-minute read

Average closing costs in Washington

Washington’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your ne...

Large house with porch on hill overlooking the Appalachian mountains in Showshoe, West Virginia.

5-minute read

Average closing costs in West Virginia

West Virginia’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your...

Bison grazing on plains in Medora, North Dakota, with a large, white house in the background.

7-minute read

Average closing costs in North Dakota

North Dakota’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your ...

Cityscape of downtown Omaha lit up with orange lights.

7-minute read

Average closing costs in Nebraska

Nebraska’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your new ...

Marina in Portland, Oregon, full of houseboats with Mt. Hood in the background.

7-minute read

Average closing costs in Oregon

Oregon’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your new ho...

9-minute read

Average closing costs in Kentucky

Kentucky’s closing costs are lower than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your new h...

Large house in New Orleans with a mossy tree in the foreground.

8-minute read

Average closing costs in Louisiana

Louisiana’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your new...

Aerial view of Ogden City in Utah featuring a large park and distant mountains.

6-minute read

Average closing costs in Utah

Utah’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your new home...

Downtown Saint Paul seen from Harriet Island with bridge in view.

6-minute read

Average closing costs in Minnesota

Minnesota’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar amount. Learn what you can expect to pay when you close on your new...