Featured resources

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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Two men going over paperwork together.

3-minute read

What is a transfer tax?

A transfer tax is a one-time fee for transferring property ownership. Learn how transfer tax is assessed, state and local government rules, and how it works.

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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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Young kids doing art project at large dining room table in open, airy and sun filled room.

7-minute read

A guide to buying a home in Texas

Thinking about buying a home in the Lone Star State? Learn about the Texas housing market, popular cities, and the steps to expect during the buying process.

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Young couple sitting at a kitchen counter with a laptop, potentially discussing finances or real estate options.

6-minute read

Can you back out of a house offer? How to formally withdraw

Home buyers have many opportunities to back out of a deal. Learn about valid reasons to back out of buying a house before you make an offer.

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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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