Featured resources
6-minute read
Escrow holdback: How it can help you close on time
Your lender can demand a repair if an appraisal reveals a problem with the home you’re buying. Learn how an escrow holdback can keep your closing day o...
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7-minute read
Buying a house with a friend: Pros, cons and how to get started
It’s becoming more common to split costs and achieve homeownership by buying a house with a friend, but is it right for you? See what you should consider.
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4-minute read
11 tips for buying a house out of state
Looking to buy a house out of state but not sure how the process works? Read our article on what you need to know when purchasing a home in a different state...
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8-minute read
FHA down payment assistance: Everything you need to know
Down payment assistance is available to home buyers with an FHA loan, but restrictions and requirements exist. Learn about FHA grants for down payments here.
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6-minute read
Breaking a lease to buy a house: Can (and should) you do it?
Breaking a lease to buy a house can be tricky. Learn how to get out of a lease, how much it might cost you, the pros and cons, and weigh the alternatives.
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7-minute read
How often do contingent offers fall through? What you should know
Learn about the different types of contingencies in real estate contracts and explore the common reasons these deals sometimes don’t make it to closing...
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3-minute read
Appraisal vs. inspection: A guide
Appraisals and inspections are critical steps in the home buying process. Learn how to identify the key differences in appraisals versus inspections.
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8-minute read
Buying a house with well water and how it works
Considering buying a house on well water? Before you do, read the pros and cons about houses with well water, and our tips for maintaining your water’s...
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6-minute read
Private mortgage: What you should know before you borrow
Considering applying for a private mortgage to finance your next home purchase? Weigh the pros and cons before borrowing outside of a traditional loan.
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10-minute read
How to find a cottage to buy: A step-by-step guide
How do you find the ideal cottage to buy? These small and cozy homes are ideal for minimalists. Here’s what you should know to buy a cottage or a cabin...
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5-minute read
How to increase your mortgage preapproval amount
Buying your dream home may be more realistic than you think. Explore our guide to learn what might help increase your mortgage preapproval amount.
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9-minute read
Mortgage default: Everything you need to know
Mortgage default can occur if you stop making payments, and it can lead to foreclosure. See how to avoid delinquency and what to do with a mortgage in default.
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12-minute read
15 first-time home buyer tips
First-time home buyers may find themselves overwhelmed by the process of purchasing property. Here are 15 tips to help you on your home buying journey.
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7-minute read
How real estate partnerships work: The pros and cons
Real estate partnerships allow investors to pool their money to purchase, develop, or lease real estate. Explore the pros and cons of this kind of venture.
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2-minute read
A guide to the housing expense ratio
Wondering how mortgage lenders calculate the housing expense ratio? Learn how to find your results by comparing your housing expenses to your pretax income.
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6-minute read
How to take out equity from your home and save money monthly
Home equity loans, HELOCs, and cash-out refinances let you use your home equity. Learn how to draw on your home equity and understand your equity loan options.
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5-minute read
What credit score do mortgage lenders use?
Mortgage lenders use several credit scores to qualify borrowers and determine the interest rate they offer. Learn more before you start the home buying journey.
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8-minute read
A guide to gifts of equity: What taxes to expect, how to write a gift letter and more
Curious about gifts of equity or already considering giving one? Learn about the process plus the pros and cons of giving the gift of home equity.
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