buying a home

5 Money Moves to Make Before You Turn 40

Before you hit the big 4-0, make sure you've made these money moves.

11 Open House Etiquette Rules Everyone Should Follow

You may be excited about finding your dream home, but you still need to mind your manners at an open house.

5 Things a Homebuyer Shouldn't Say to a Seller's Agent

An open house is the perfect time to get the deets on your potential dream home. It's not the time to get chatty with the seller's agent.

How to Agree on the Perfect Home With Your Spouse

If your dream home is your spouse's worst nightmare, you'll need to find some middle ground before you're move-in ready.

6 Things You Can Negotiate When Buying a Home

Buying a house is a big deal -- and almost all of it is negotiable. Here's what else you can haggle over besides price.

Why You Should Ask for a CLUE Report Before Buying a Home

Wouldn't it be nice if you knew about a home's repeat problems before you bought it? There's a way; it's called a CLUE report.

Weak Credit? You Can Still Get a Mortgage Despite Tough Lending Standards

Your credit score has seen better days, but that doesn't mean you can't get a mortgage. You have options!

5 Things to Consider Before Buying a Home When You're Single

Single homeownership is on the rise. Before you embark on the homebuying process solo, consider some important factors.

Why I Choose to Rent Instead of Buy

Some say that homeownership is the smarter financial move, but for many folks, renting is just the better call.

How to Fire Your Real Estate Agent

If the only thing your realtor is offering is stress, it's time to break up. It's not you — it's them.

Should You Ever Consider a Balloon Mortgage?

A balloon mortgage has its upsides, but it sure leaves a lot up in the air.

Make These 5 Money Moves Before Applying for a Mortgage

It might seem like everyone under the sun gets approved for a mortgage, but don't be fooled — home loans are no joke. Make these money moves before applying.

5 Homebuying Questions You're Embarrassed to Ask

New homeownership comes with more new terms and phrases than one can keep up with. Don't be embarrassed to ask these questions!

Here's How Much to Spend on Life's 3 Biggest Milestones

Life's milestone purchases shouldn't leave you flat broke. How much can you afford on a new car, home, or engagement ring?

Boost Your Home's Value With These 5 Projects

What's a bathroom addition worth to you (besides a shorter wait for the shower)? As much as 20% of your home's value!

10 Surprising Things That Lower the Value of a Home

These value-sapping home features are the opposite of "selling points." Does your home (or the one you're thinking of buying) have them?

Your House Is a Hobby, Not an Investment

Never think of a house as an investment. Instead, think of it for what it really is — a time and money hole that can be fun to own.

How to Sell Your House in 24 Hours

24 hours? Yup, it's possible. Learn how one Wise Bread Blogger sold her home just a day after listing.

Buying Your First Home: What to Do and When to Do It

Buying your first home can be incredibly rewarding — and incredibly stressful. Keep your head on straight (and even enjoy the process!) with this guide.

Autumn Shopping: 5 Things to Buy in Fall

Autumn isn't just for pumpkin-carving. For these five kinds of items, it can be a great time to "rake" in some savings.