Preparing to buy

Featured resources

Couple standing in front of their new home, expressing excitement and happiness.

8-minute read

The pros and cons of buying a house

The more you know about the pros and cons of buying a house, the easier it’ll be to make the right decision for you. Check out our guide to learn more....

Cobbled driveway leading to a large brick home set back in the woods.

6-minute read

What salary do I need to afford a $1 million home?

How much house you can afford is determined by a number of factors. Learn how much income you need to afford a $1 million home.

Small Norwegian-style cabin with front porch.

7-minute read

How much house can I afford on $50K?

Ever wondered how much house you can afford on a $50K salary? Find out how much you can spend with an annual income of $50,000.

8-minute read

How much do I need to earn each year to afford a $550,000 home?

How much house you can afford is determined by a number of factors. Learn how much income you need for a $550K home.

Large white house with colorful landscaping on a hill.

7-minute read

How much house can I afford on $120K?

Ever wondered how much house you can afford on a $120K salary? Find out what you can spend with an annual income of $120,000.

Small grey house with large windows, a garage, and a garden.

6-minute read

How much house can I afford on a $70K salary?

Starting your home buying journey with a salary of $70,000 a year? Find out your mortgage options and how much house you can afford on $70,000.

Woman reviewing her credit score on her phone in a cafe.

6-minute read

Does credit score affect mortgage rate?

Credit scores are a key factor in mortgage lending decisions. Learn how credit scores affect mortgage rates and what credit score you need to get a home.

Front view of white bungalow with autumn wreath and pumpkin on top step.

12-minute read

How much house can I afford on $60K?

Ever wondered how much house you can afford on a $60,000 salary? Find out how much house you can buy on $60,000 a year.

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

6-minute read

Buying 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. Follow our guide on how long it takes and how to get started on this pr...

A teacher helping her student in researching student loans on laptop.

5-minute read

Getting a mortgage while you have student loans

If you have student loans, you might be wondering if it’s still possible to get a mortgage for a new home. Here’s everything you need to know abo...

Depiction of relocation during a recession, potentially associated with moving due to economic downturns.

8-minute read

How a recession can affect mortgage rates

Do mortgage rates go down in a recession? They can, but even if they don’t, it could still be a good time to buy a house. Learn why here.

A mother and father holding their smiling baby outside of their home.

7-minute read

Rent-to-own homes: How it works and what to consider

Rent-to-own homes let you put part of your monthly rent toward a down payment on the property. Explore what a rent-to-own home is and how it works.

Woman on laptop and phone with coffee cup on desk.

8-minute read

How much income do I need to buy a house?

Debating if you have the funds to purchase a home? Learn how much income you’ll need to buy a house and what lenders consider when reviewing applications.

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

9-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.

Relaxed brunette woman in sweats curled up reviewing financial paperwork binder on living room sofa.

4-minute read

Do you need renters insurance? Factors to consider

Wondering if you need renters insurance? Whether or not your landlord requires it, insurance can protect you and your possessions.

Couple searching rental listings together on a phone.

4-minute read

Is now a good time to buy a house? What to know in 2024

Is now a good time to buy a house? Explore current market conditions and other factors to consider as you decide if now is a smart time to buy a house.

A couple involved in remodeling, possibly related to home improvement or renovations.

7-minute read

Building a house: A breakdown of how much it costs

Thinking of building your own home? The average cost to build a house in the U.S. is $317,786. Learn more about house-building prices and see your options.

A couple with a baby in a new home, symbolizing the joy of starting a family in a new place.

8-minute read

Will home prices ever go down?

Median home prices hit record highs in 2024, but will house prices ever go down? It’s unlikely anytime soon, barring unforeseen circumstances. Learn w...