Preparing to buy

Featured resources

House on beach with palm trees in Hawaii.

9-minute read

Average closing costs in Hawaii

Hawaii’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 hom...

Taos New Mexico historic traditional adobe home with bright blue doors and hanging ristra.

5-minute read

Average closing costs in New Mexico

New Mexico’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar...

Aerial view of large home in Cookville, Tennessee in a wooded valley with mountains in the distance.

7-minute read

Average closing costs in Tennessee

Tennessee’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...

9-minute read

Average closing costs in Iowa

Iowa’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 home.

Luxury homes along Rhode Island coastline.

7-minute read

Average closing costs in Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the doll...

8-minute read

Average closing costs in Vermont

Vermont’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar am...

Large yellow colonial-style house in a wintry field in New Hampshire.

7-minute read

Average closing costs in New Hampshire

New Hampshire’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...

Natural wood sided home surrounded by large trees on a clear, winter day.

6-minute read

Average closing costs in Montana

Montana’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 h...

Contemporary ranch style home in Wisconsin.

7-minute read

Average closing costs in Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s closing costs are higher than in several other states, based on the dollar ...

Family returning home from walking their dog.

7-minute read

How much income do I need to afford a $250K house?

How much house you can afford depends on factors such as your income, credit score, and existing debts. Learn about the income needed for a $250K mortgage.

A young family moving in, indicating a new chapter in home ownership or relocation.

7-minute read

Lease purchase agreements and lease-to-own agreements: What you should know

Learn the key differences between lease purchase and lease-to-own agreements, including benefits, risks, and what to consider before signing.

A white house with a spacious lawn and trees surrounding it.

9-minute read

Buying a house with a septic tank: Pros and cons

Buying a house with a septic tank can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Read on to learn about the pros and cons of using a home’s se...

A couple with a real estate agent, engaged in discussion, possibly viewing a property or discussing home options.

7-minute read

12 questions to ask when buying a house

It may be hard to know what questions to ask when buying a house. Use this checklist to make sure you get all the important information you need.

A women possibly enjoying a cup of coffee while looking outside the window.

7-minute read

Can you buy a house after bankruptcy? What you need to know

If you're wondering if you can buy a house after bankruptcy, the answer is yes. Learn more about how long it takes and how to get started with this process.<...

A mature couple looking through their bills while using a digital tablet, possibly managing finances or household expenses.

7-minute read

How much house can you afford with a VA loan?

Are you wondering how much house you can afford with a VA loan? Use our VA loan affordability calculator and take a look at a few of the determining factors....

Couple sitting at the kitchen table and staring intently at a laptop.

7-minute read

How much income do I need to afford a $150K house?

How much home you can afford depends on factors such as your income, credit score, and existing debts. Learn about the income needed to purchase a $150K hous...

Young girl running along beach on Atalantic Ocean with properties in the distance.

4-minute read

Average closing costs in North Carolina

Closing costs in North Carolina are generally lower than the national average. Learn more about what's included in these costs and who pays them.

Family with young kids snuggling on sunny beach together.

4-minute read

Average closing costs in California

Higher home prices in California mean you can expect to pay more in closing costs. Learn more about typical closing costs when buying a home in California.