Featured resources

People of different races enjoying dinner on the dining table.

6-minute read

What is the minimum VA loan credit score for a home purchase or refinance?

VA home loans are an affordable mortgage option for current and former service members who qualify. Learn about the minimum credit score needed to qualify for a...

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A picturesque home with a spacious front yard, showcasing its beauty and inviting ambiance.

4-minute read

What is the alienation clause in real estate and how does it work?

The alienation clause, or due-on-sale clause, requires all mortgage payments be made at the time of sale. Learn how it impacts borrowers and real estate.

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

5-minute read

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

A home’s price per square foot is calculated by dividing the listing price by the home’s square footage. Learn more about this metric and why it mat...

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Family sitting at the table outside cheers-ing with summer drinks and smiling.

5-minute read

Program provides qualified Detroiters with up to $25,000 in down payment assistance

Are you a Detroiter trying to buy a home, but lacking the funds for a down payment? A city program provides qualified residents with up to $25,000.

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Father spending quality time with his daughter, possibly engaged in a learning or creative session.

3-minute read

Freddie Mac BorrowSmart® Accessâ„  expands home afffordability

Freddie Mac BorrowSmart® Accessâ„  offers a credit toward the down payment or closing costs of qualified buyers in certain areas. Read on...

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A man working on multiple computers simultaneously, indicating multitasking or tech-related work.

3-minute read

What is an automated valuation model (AVM)?

An automated valuation model (AVM) is a data-based tool real estate sites use to offer estimated property value on searched properties. Explore how it works....

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A diverse group of individuals gathered around a table, engrossed in conversation.

7-minute read

VA loan limits for 2025: What you need to know

Loan limits cap the amount you can borrow for a mortgage, but VA loans usually don't have a limit. Learn when a loan limit might apply and how they work.

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A kitchen under construction, indicating a renovation or remodeling project.

8-minute read

Buying a fixer-upper house: Pros and cons

You can buy fixer-upper houses at lower prices and renovate them to enjoy or sell. Learn how this works – and uncover the pros and cons of buying a fixer-...

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Photograph of contractors holding large house blueprints at a newly built construction site, related to construction or real estate development.

6-minute read

Do you need a real estate license to flip houses?

Do you need a real estate license to flip houses? Find out the truth as well as the pros and cons of a real estate license for house flipping.

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Mother hugging her young son.

8-minute read

Native American home loans: What you need to know

If you’re a member of an indigenous community, you may have Native American home loan choices. We’ll take a look at these and other mortgage financi...

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A man calculating his taxes or finances.

5-minute read

What is ROI on real estate investments and how do I calculate it?

Real estate investors rely on ROI to determine how much profit a property will return and how it compares to other properties. Learn how to calculate ROI.

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A modern house with a garage, showcasing a contemporary residential property with a garage.

8-minute read

How to make an offer on a house in 5 steps

You’re approved for a loan, you’ve found the perfect home and you’re ready to put in an offer. Learn the five steps to making an offer on a...

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A large modern home with a pool outside.

7-minute read

The pros and cons of home equity loans: What to consider

It can be helpful to know the pros and cons of a home equity loan if you’re considering applying for one. Here’s what you need to know before you be...

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White two story home with large grassy yard and big trees in autumn.

4-minute read

What is a zombie foreclosure

Zombie foreclosures demonstrate the risks of leaving before foreclosure ends. Understand these homes and their potential to resurface and create problems later.

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Cabin house on rural land, representing rural or countryside living.

4-minute read

What is hazard insurance for homes: A homeowners guide

Hazard insurance protects your home from natural disasters. Learn what it is, what is covered under hazard insurance and how it’s different from homeowner...

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

8-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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A woman painting a home in green, illustrating a woman painting the exterior of a house in green color.

5-minute read

What is home appreciation and how is it calculated?

Home appreciation tracks how a property increases in value over time. Learn how appreciation works and how you can raise your home's value before selling.

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Middle-aged man applying for a loan while sitting on couch.

6-minute read

Earnest money and VA loans: What you need to know

Discover the role of earnest money deposits with VA loans. Learn how earnest money affects your VA loan offer so you can make informed decisions when buying a h...

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