Featured resources

A residential neighborhood with multiple houses, showing a suburban or urban living environment.

6-minute read

What are easements and how can they affect my property?

Easements grant non-property owners limited access to a part of your property. Learn the different types of easements and how they can affect your property.<...

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A land surveyor working in a field, illustrating a professional conducting a land survey.

6-minute read

How much does a land survey cost and how do I get one?

A land survey shows the shape and boundaries of a piece of property. Learn what it costs and what it can offer property owners.

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Exterior of a red house, illustrating the exterior appearance of a red-colored house.

4-minute read

Price per square foot: Why it matters and how it's calculated

Price per square foot is a metric that helps you compare similarly priced properties on the market. In short, it measures how much bang you can get for your buc...

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Exterior view of a gray ranch-style home with a driveway and surrounding greenery.

5-minute read

What is APR?

Annual percentage rate (APR) describes the total yearly cost of a mortgage. Learn how to calculate and compare favorable APRs while mortgage shopping.

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An elderly couple sitting and reading together having a good time.

6-minute read

Do I need mortgage protection insurance?

Mortgage protection insurance pays your mortgage if you die or become disabled. Learn how MPI works, what it covers, and whether it's right for you.

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Couple shaking hands with an agent, presumably after signing the paperwork laid out in front of them.

7-minute read

Understanding actual cash value vs. replacement cash value

It’s essential to understand the different costs and coverage of actual cash value and replacement cash value when choosing a homeowners insurance policy.

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Wooden architecture of a house door leading to a front porch and yard with green landscaping, portraying a welcoming entrance.

4-minute read

Gross rent multiplier: A guide for real estate investors

Using the gross rent multiplier (GRM) as an investor can help you evaluate the profitability of different multifamily properties. Learn more about its use.

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Older couple smiling and snuggling at small jade green kitchen table while having coffee.

9-minute read

Your guide to refinancing a HELOC

You can refinance a home equity line of credit (HELOC) in several ways to lock in a lower rate or fixed payments, but only if you meet the lender’s requir...

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Middle aged couple sitting on couch, holding a tablet and looking at each other.

9-minute read

How long does it take to get a home equity loan?

It takes time to apply and get approved for a home equity loan. Find out about how long the process takes from start to finish, as well as what to expect.

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Exterior view of an English-style red brick house with a garden and driveway.

7-minute read

Where should I live? 17 factors to consider

Choosing where you should live can feel overwhelming. This list of 17 questions to ask yourself will help you find where to move so you love where you live.

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A header image related to home loans specifically tailored for people with disabilities, possibly featuring accessibility adaptations or services provided.

13-minute read

Your ultimate guide to home loans for people with disabilities

Purchasing a home can present unique challenges for people with disabilities. Learn more about loan options and resources for home buyers with disabilities.

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Condo building against a beautiful sky, showcasing a condominium structure against a scenic sky backdrop.

9-minute read

Are condos a good investment?

Condos can be an attractive option for first time buyers, but are they a good investment? Read our guide to find out whether buying a condo makes sense for you.

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Showcasing a small house with an eye-catching Tiffany blue door.

7-minute read

What is Fannie Mae (FNMA)? A guide for home buyers

Fannie Mae is a government-sponsored enterprise that buys mortgages from lenders. It also determines conforming loan limits, which may impact your loan.

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Young couple inside their home with their baby.

10-minute read

Qualifying for a mortgage: The basics

Many factors can determine whether you qualify for a mortgage. Learn what factors affect your mortgage qualification and how you can improve your chances.

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A man and woman sitting on a couch, possibly researching or reviewing real estate information in a book.

6-minute read

How mortgage-backed securities and bonds work

A mortgage-backed security (MBS) is a group of aggregated mortgages that are sold to agencies or banks. Learn about mortgage bonds and how to invest.

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Exterior of white two-story countryside house with black shutters and roof.

7-minute read

FHA 203(k) loans: A complete guide

An FHA 203(k) loan allows you to buy and renovate a home in need of significant repairs with a single mortgage. Learn more about 203(k) loan qualifications.<...

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A woman looking at a computer up close, suggesting online research or financial planning.

5-minute read

What does a title company do?

A title company is a third party that works on behalf of both the lender and the buyer. Learn more about what title companies do in the home buying process.<...

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

12-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.

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