Featured resources

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5-minute read

The appraisal waiver: What home buyers should know

Appraisals are often mandatory during a real estate transaction. However, sometimes an appraisal waiver makes sense, can save you money, and expedite your sale.

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5-minute read

A guide to understanding bundle of rights in real estate

A bundle of rights in real estate refers to the legal rights associated with property ownership: the rights of possession, control, enjoyment, disposition, a...

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An aerial view of buildings surrounded by trees.

6-minute read

What is condemnation in real estate?

What is condemned property? Condemnation occurs when the government uses eminent domain to take property. Learn what condemnation can mean for homeowners.

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Group of three women talking and laughing.

4-minute read

Can you get an ARM for an investment property?

Adjustable-rate mortgages have pros and cons for investors. You may benefit from a lower rate at first, but non-owner-occupied rates are still higher.

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Rooftops in a neighborhood, portraying a community or residential area.

7-minute read

Restrictive covenants explained

A restrictive covenant limits how you can use a property. Learn what it is, common examples, legal limits, and how it affects buyers.

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Young couple laughing together while looking at computer and planning a budget together.

8-minute read

Does consolidating debt affect home buying?

Are you considering consolidating your debt before buying a home? Learn about how debt consolidation affects mortgage approval and how to make a wise decision.

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A young woman packing boxes, daughter moving out of parents' home.

8-minute read

How to move out: A guide to leaving your parents’ house

Getting ready to move out of your parents’ house? Learn how to transition to renting, build credit and real-life experience, and save for future housing g...

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A two-story suburban house against a sunset sky with a well-maintained front yard.

6-minute read

What is house hacking and is it something you should be doing?

House hacking incorporates a variety of ways you can use your house to pay living expenses. Learn what house hacking is and how you can make it work for you....

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A cozy house with a charming garden and a lovely deck, perfect for relaxation and outdoor gatherings.

9-minute read

How to know when to buy a house

Knowing when to buy a house takes market knowledge and insight into your personal finances. Here are some tips for knowing you’re ready.

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A woman working on a computer with papers scattered around.

8-minute read

Online house auctions: What are they and how do they work?

An online home auction lets buyers bid on properties digitally. This is how online auctions work, plus the risks, benefits, and what to expect when bidding.<...

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Couple smiling and eating pizza on floor of new home surrounded by unopened boxes.

8-minute read

Buydown: A way to reduce interest rates

Buydowns are methods used by buyers and sellers to lower interest rates in the early years of a new mortgage. Find out if a buydown is right for you.

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Woman bending down next to donkey in field with other farm animals in background.

6-minute read

USDA construction loan requirements: Everything you need to know

A USDA home building loan can help you construct a loan in an approved rural area. If you qualify, this type of loan has many benefits.

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Senior couple having coffee in screened in porch at beachhouse.

10-minute read

What is a home equity conversion mortgage (HECM)?

A home equity conversion mortgage (HECM) allows homeowners 62 and older to convert their equity into cash in various ways. Learn if an HECM is right for you....

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Two friends arm wrestle while a third cheers them on.

7-minute read

Health care access drives where veterans choose to retire

Discover ideal places for veterans to retire in 2026, based on affordability, health care access, post-military employment opportunities, and community.

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Couple sitting on a couch, having a conversation or relaxing together while looking at something on the tablet.

7-minute read

Should you pay off your mortgage early?

Thinking about paying off your mortgage early? Learn the pros and cons, how to decide if it’s the right choice for you, and some strategies to make it hap...

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Tan house with a double-layered front lawn, brick steps, and a wrap-around porch.

5-minute read

Escrow fees explained: What they are and how escrow costs work

Escrow fees are part of your total escrow costs and help protect both buyers and sellers. Learn what they include, why they matter, and who usually pays them.

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Couple doing paperwork at dining room table.

6-minute read

Alienation clause in real estate: What it means and why it matters

An alienation clause requires a mortgage to be paid off when a home is sold or transferred. Learn how it works, common exceptions, and when it applies.

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Woman looking off into distance smiling softly.

6-minute read

Letter to home seller from buyer: What to include

If you find your dream home in a competitive market, appealing directly to the seller may help your offer. This house offer letter sample gives you a s...

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