Category: Buying a Home

Choosing a Real Estate Agent Who Fits You

A great real estate agent can make buying a home far easier. Learn where to find candidates, what to ask, and how to tell if an agent fits you.

Busy Season or Slow Season: When to Buy or Sell a Home

Spring and summer bring more buyers and listings, while fall and winter are quieter. See how each season can affect you as a home buyer or seller.

How to Shop for a Home, One Step at a Time

Shopping for a home is easier with a plan. Follow these steps, from setting a budget and wish list to touring homes and weighing other purchase paths.

A First-Time Buyer Checklist From Budget to Keys

Buying your first home? Use this checklist to move from budgeting and preapproval to house hunting, inspections, appraisal and closing with confidence.

Cash to Close: What It Includes and How to Pay It

Cash to close is the total you bring to the closing table. Learn what goes into it, which credits reduce it, and how to pay it safely when you buy

Mortgage Preapproval: What It Is and How to Get One

A mortgage preapproval shows sellers you are ready to buy. Learn how it differs from prequalification, what documents you need, and what happens next.

The Costs of Buying a Home That First-Timers Should Plan For

Beyond the down payment, buying a home brings closing costs, repairs, furniture and HOA dues. Here is what first-time buyers should plan and save for.

How to Choose the Right Place to Buy Your Home

Location shapes your daily life and your home's future value. Learn how to weigh budget, lifestyle, schools, climate and growth when choosing where to buy.

Renting vs. Buying: How to Decide What Fits You

Buying builds equity while renting offers flexibility. Compare the costs, benefits and tradeoffs of each so you can decide what fits your life right now.

What Is an Appraisal Contingency and Do You Need One?

An appraisal contingency protects you if a home appraises below your offer. Learn how it works, what to do after a low value, and the risk of waiving it.