Featured resources

Woman describing plans for carpentry design to man who focuses intently.

12-minute read

HELOC vs. personal loan: How to choose the better one for you

Compare a HELOC and a personal loan by cost, risk, speed, and flexibility. Learn when each option makes sense and what to consider before borrowing.

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A mature couple using a laptop at home.

6-minute read

How to check if a neighborhood is safe

Neighborhood safety is important for your quality of life, home value, insurance costs, and more. Learn how to check if a neighborhood is safe before you move.

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Husband and wife leaning on deck balcony smiling.

7-minute read

Property taxes by state: Ranked from highest to lowest

Compare property tax rates in all 50 states. Find out where taxes are highest and lowest and see how much you might pay based on home value and location.

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Two businesswomen looking at paperwork in an office.

9-minute read

What is deed of trust?

A deed of trust is a legal document used to secure a home loan in some states. Learn how it works, how it compares to a mortgage, and what happens in a default.

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An image portraying investment properties, suggesting real estate as an investment opportunity.

6-minute read

How to find investment properties in 2026

Looking for the best places to invest in real estate? The right  purchase may be right around the corner when you know how to find investment properties.

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An aerial view of land, indicating potential for development or investment in real estate.

8-minute read

The complete guide to buying land and building a house

Thinking of building a new home on a piece of raw land? Learn how to buy land and build a house the right way, which includes planning and securing financing.

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Man in kitchen with newspaper laughing.

8-minute read

IRA withdrawal for a home purchase: What you need to know

Using an IRA withdrawal for a home purchase may come with penalties and tax implications. These funds may also need to be repaid if the sale falls through.

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 Parents with two young children lounging on the bed and laughing.

8-minute read

Life estate: What is it and how does it work?

A life estate can help transfer a home to an heir while letting you live there for life. Learn what a life estate is, how it works, and key pros and cons.

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Man looking at smart phone.

4-minute read

How long do sellers have to accept an offer? What to expect after you submit

Learn how long sellers have to accept an offer to purchase real estate in most circumstances. Learn what affects timing, plus what to do if there’s no res...

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Woman looking at phone with a contemplative expression.

8-minute read

Your mortgage fell through on closing day? What to do now

Did your mortgage fall through on closing day? Don’t panic! Learn why it may have happened, the steps you can take to fix it, and how to get back on tr...

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Retired coupld biking through park.

9-minute read

Living in 55 and over communities: Pros, cons, and costs

Considering 55 and over communities? Learn about the pros and cons, costs, amenities, HOA rules, and more to see if an over 55 community is right for you.

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A charming row of houses with a white picket fence, creating a picturesque neighborhood scene.

8-minute read

Do you need a REALTOR® to buy a house?

Do you need a REALTOR® to buy a house? Technically, no, but buyers attempting the process on their own might find the process more challenging without an ag...

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Family with two young children in front of a large farmhouse.

8-minute read

What happens to a mortgage when someone dies?

Learn what happens to a mortgage when someone dies, including who is responsible for it, how inheriting works, and options like assuming, refinancing, and selli...

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A modern neutral-colored living room with large windows and stylish furniture.

5-minute read

What to know about condo associations: Your guide to rules, fees, and insurance

A condo association (sometimes called a condo homeowners association) manages shared spaces, rules, and fees. Learn how they work and what buyers should know.

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A man calculating debt, potentially involved in financial planning or debt management.

11-minute read

Using a home equity loan to pay off credit card debt

Explore using a home equity loan to pay off credit card debt, compare risks, costs and alternatives, and see steps to decide if it fits. Learn more.

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Newly built modern single-family tan home with landscaping, representing construction loans.

6-minute read

What to look for when buying a house: A guide for home buyers

If you’re about to begin the home buying process, there are some things you should keep in mind. Read on to learn about what to look for when buying a hou...

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Mother hugging her young son.

7-minute read

Native American home loans: What you need to know

Native Americans looking to buy a home on tribal land may qualify for specialized government loan programs. Explore these and other mortgage financing options.

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Man leaning on railing in home.

13-minute read

Requesting repairs after a home inspection: What to request (and what’s reasonable)

Learn how to handle home inspection repairs and request repairs after a home inspection. See what’s reasonable to ask for, negotiation options, and tips.

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