Featured resources

A couple reviewing escrow documents, possibly related to a real estate transaction or property purchase.

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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Roommates having breakfast together, indicating shared living arrangements.

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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Young couple moving into new home, smiling and carrying boxes and a houseplant.

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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Mother and daughter laughing while baking, depicting a cheerful moment during a baking activity.

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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A man looking at a contract or document, potentially in a business or legal context.

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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An account advisor showing papers to a client, indicating a professional interaction or financial consultation.

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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Homes in fall, portraying residential properties during the autumn season with foliage and trees.

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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A well in front of a house, adding a rustic and traditional touch to the property's exterior.

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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A person in thought, possibly contemplating mortgage or financial decisions.

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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Lake houses or waterfront properties along a serene lake.

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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Woman in orange top typing on laptop.

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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Two-story beige house with large paved driveway, manicured shrubs and red front door.

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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Mother in kitchen cooking while father feeds child in high chair in dining room.

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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Information or imagery related to real estate partnerships, potentially discussing collaborations in the real estate industry.

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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Two women sitting at a table calculating finances.

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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Large two-story house with a garage and car parked on driveway.

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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Image showing a young businesswoman contemplating while sitting in front of an open laptop.

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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Couple reviewing documents on laptop, possibly home related.

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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