Featured resources

Young woman at work looking out window.

9-minute read

How much income do I need for a $600K home?

How much house you can afford depends on numerous factors, including your income and credit score. Learn how much income you need for a $600K mortgage.

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Family spending time together on the deck of their home.

5-minute read

Two-thirds of parents say raising kids costs more than they expected

How challenging is financial planning for a family? In a recent survey, two-thirds of parents say raising children is even more expensive than they anticipat...

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A house under construction, showcasing the building process with construction materials and equipment.

8-minute read

Construction loans: Everything you need to know

Have you dreamed of building a custom-tailored home? A construction loan could help to make that a reality. Learn what a construction loan is and how it works.

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A man signing a home document with a broker, depicting a real estate transaction.

8-minute read

House title: What you need to know

A house title indicates who has legal ownership of a property and the rights to use it any way they see fit. Learn more about how a house title works.

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Woman looking over graphs for investments in office overlooking city skyline.

6-minute read

What is a REIT? A guide to real estate investment trusts

If you want to get into real estate investing without managing a property, investing in a REIT could be for you. Learn more about this investment vehicle.

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Aerial view of luxury homes in Oregon with forested background near horizon.

6-minute read

Oregon property tax

Are you getting ready to buy a house in Oregon? Learn how Oregon property taxes work, average tax rates, exemptions, and what you should know before buying.

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A family sitting on the porch with their pet having enjoyable moment.

7-minute read

What is cash to close?

Understand how to calculate a “cash to close” total and which fees make up this important figure before closing on your house.

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Plumber Inspecting Sink In House

5-minute read

VA home loan inspection requirements: What to know

VA loans don't require a standard home inspection, but they do require a VA appraisal, and the home must meet minimum property requirements. Learn more.

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An illustration showing a hand holding a credit card for payment.

8-minute read

How to buy a house with ‘bad’ credit: Loan options, requirements, and credit-building steps

Learn how to buy a house with bad credit, including about the lowest possible credit score, home loan options for bad credit, and ways to boost your score.

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Upscale shed in backyard with double doors and windows with shutters, possibly being used as office space.

4-minute read

Adding value to your home with an outbuilding

Adding an outbuilding, like a garage or ADU, can increase your property value. Learn more about which outbuildings are a good investment.

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Couple looking at paperwork and looking pleased while sitting in a bright kitchen.

4-minute read

A homeowner’s guide to property tax in New Jersey

NJ property tax is getting higher. Learn more about where New Jersey taxes are highest, how to pay them, and more with our guide.

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A white fence with roses growing through, illustrating a picturesque fence adorned with roses.

4-minute read

Property lines: Everything you need to know

Property lines define the legal boundaries of a plot of land or unit within a building. Knowing where your property ends can help you avoid disputes.

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An image of a kitchen with modern appliances in wood style design.

7-minute read

Surprising factors that can affect a home appraisal

Your home’s location, layout, and curb appeal can all affect your appraisal. Here’s what you need to know about your appraisal and how to prepare fo...

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A couple meeting with a tax advisor, potentially discussing financial or real estate planning with a professional.

6-minute read

What if the appraisal comes back lower than the offer? Here’s what’s next.

What happens if your home appraisal comes in lower than your offer? Learn about your options if your home appraisal value is less than the purchase price.

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Woman looking at paperwork while on phone, sitting at desk with two computer monitors.

8-minute read

What is a crypto mortgage?

A crypto mortgage is a loan that utilizes cryptocurrency holdings, such as Bitcoin, as collateral. This is how they work and why they are gaining popularity.

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A worker painting a roof, likely involved in maintenance or renovation work on a building.

6-minute read

Builder’s risk insurance: A complete guide

Builder's risk insurance offers financial protection for properties under construction. Learn what it covers, what it doesn't, and when you need a policy.

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Calculation-related imagery, potentially representing financial planning or mortgage calculations.

5-minute read

What is IRR (internal rate of return)?

IRR, or internal rate of return, is a metric investors use to evaluate real estate investments. Discover how IRR is calculated and how to use this number.

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Woman using a phone and a MacBook, potentially managing finances or conducting research online.

6-minute read

Mortgage principal definition and basics

The mortgage principal is the amount you borrowed for your loan, while interest is the fee for use of the loan. Learn how each makes up your monthly payment.

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