Real estate

Featured resources

A Federal-style brick building, potentially representing historic architecture.

5-minute read

What is a federal style house, and should I buy one?

A Federal-style house emulates ancient Roman architectural forms and was popularized by Thomas Jefferson. Learn more about the Federal architectural style.

A real estate agent holding an iPad standing in front of a house possibly advertising it for sale.

7-minute read

What does a buyer's agent do?

A buyer’s agent represents you and your best interests in the home buying process. Learn more about the role of a buyer’s agent and if you should work with one.

A Planned Unit Development (PUD) condo, depicting a specific type of residential property.

3-minute read

PUD (Planned Unit Development): What Iit is and how it differs from other types of housing

A PUD, or planned unit development, is a small community of single-family homes. Read on to learn about living in a PUD and how it differs from other housing.

Image of distressed grey ranch-style family house with an unkempt overgrown lawn in disrepair.

5-minute read

Distressed property: Everything you need to know

A distressed property is a house that’s on the verge of foreclosure or has been reclaimed by a lender. Learn more about investing in distressed homes here.

Business investor analyzing financial data or investment opportunities.

4-minute read

Dual agency: What to know before you buy

Dual agents work for the buyer and seller in real estate transactions. Learn more about how this works and how to decide if dual agency is right for you.

Equal Opportunity Neighborhood - Stately Homes

10-minute read

Equal opportunity housing: What you need to know

Equal opportunity housing protects buyers from discrimination in housing. Learn more about what equal opportunities mean for you and how they’re enforced.

Image displaying a row of townhouses on a sunny day in North Carolina, showcasing real estate or property.

6-minute read

Duplex vs. townhouse: What are the main differences?

A duplex shares one wall while a townhome usually shares two. Find all the differences between duplexes and townhouses and see which style seems best for you.

A big blue-grey house, potentially representing a residential property.

7-minute read

Double closing: A real estate investment strategy you need to know

The double close strategy lets a real estate investor have two private deals – one with the seller and one with the end buyer. Learn more about double closings.

Stock image displaying a mobile home at a camping site, showcasing vacation living or mobile home lifestyle.

6-minute read

Ways to customize your mobile home

Do you want to customize your mobile home? Learn about the different interior and exterior features you can customize, how much it might cost and more.

Architects in discussion, reviewing plans and blueprints in an office setting.

3-minute read

What is the Design Approval Primary Inspection Agency (DAPIA)?

The Design Approval Primary Inspection Agency, or DAPIA, inspects and approves manufactured home designs. Learn this process before buying a manufactured home.

Conversation or discussion about speaking to an agent regarding closing costs in a real estate transaction.

5-minute read

What are carrying costs in real estate?

Carrying costs in real estate are ongoing expenses property owners must budget for. Learn more about which carrying costs to expect and how much they are.

Image potentially related to renting a home, featuring a couple in a housing context.

4-minute read

How economic occupancy can help you maximize rental income

Economic occupancy helps real estate investors see whether their properties’ earnings match the full income potential. Find out about this key metric here.

An image of a traditional neighborhood setting, depicting houses in a residential area.

8-minute read

Comparative market analysis (CMA): A guide

A comparative market analysis (CMA) is a tool real estate agents use to estimate the value of a property. Learn what goes into a comparative market analysis.

A white house nestled among trees in a suburban area.

6-minute read

Buying a condo vs. a house: A guide on how to decide

Are you trying to decide between buying a condo versus a house? Let’s explore what each type of real estate property offers you and your future lifestyle.

A contemporary home, potentially depicting modern architectural design where a new family just moved in.

5-minute read

What is a contemporary home? A guide to design

Contemporary houses incorporate design elements that are popular at the time when they’re built. Use our guide to learn more about this architectural style.

Possibly two real estate agents talking about something with a view of commercial real estate buildings from the window.

5-minute read

Cap rate: Defined and explained

Cap rate is a handy tool for estimating the rates of return on multiple commercial real estate properties. Learn how to calculate cap rates using our guide.

A house against a rolling hill, showcasing a serene residential setting.

7-minute read

Cash-on-cash returns: Explained

Cash-on-cash return is a metric real estate investors use to measure how profitable an investment is. Learn how it works and how to calculate it.

A tan-colored house, possibly representing a residential property with a simple and elegant design.

6-minute read

What are capital gains taxes and how do they work with rental property?

Owners pay capital gains on rental properties when they sell. Learn how these taxes work and how to reduce what you owe when you sell an investment property.