Articles on Real Estate and Housing

5 Steps to Take If You're House Poor

The housing crash and recession have left many of us feeling house poor. The first step in getting out is understanding how deep we're in.

ReFi Shy? How to Determine If Now Is the Time to Refinance

As interest rates head north, homeowners are wondering if the timing is right to refinance. Here's how to find out.

Best Money Tips: How to Negotiate Your Rent Payment

Today we found some awesome articles on negotiating rent payments, free stuff for your birthday, and making your commute suck less.

Garage Triage: Organize Your Garage for Maximum Chore and Storage Efficiency

If your garage is filled with everything but a car, reclaim that space. Get creative, get organized, and transform how you use your garage.

Why You Should Consider an Adjustable-Rate Mortgage

Despite a bad reputation, adjustable-rate mortgages are making a comeback. Learn why an ARM might be the right choice for you.

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.

8 Ways to Boost Your Neighborhood and Your Home's Value

A bathroom re-do will boost the value of a new home, but don't overlook the value of a strong neighborhood, too. Here's how to re-do your 'hood.

How Emotions Can Hurt a Home Buyer

Granite counters and fresh paint can lead a buyer to overlook a home's flaws. Avoid buying the wrong house by recognizing these common biases.

Save Money and Water With These 6 Clever Landscaping Hacks

If you've been eyeing your neighbor's perfectly landscaped lawn, try some of these strategies to create a low-cost outdoor oasis.

Buy the Same House Twice for Less Than Buying It Once

Interest rates have ticked up recently, which means homeowners who've been on the fence about refinancing may want to act soon. Here's what to to expect.

Growin' Home: How Much House Do You Really Need?

Our houses are getting bigger, but what about our needs? If you're ready to build or buy a new home, maybe it's time to decide how much is too much.

Finding a Starter Home That's Also a Forever Home

Why can't your starter home be your forever home, too? Here's how to make sure what you buy today will work for you tomorrow.

5 Signs the House You Want to Buy Is a Money Pit

Ready to dive into home ownership? Look beyond appearances to spot potentially serious — and expensive — repair and maintenance needs.

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.

7 Financial Must Haves for the First-Time Home Buyer

Making the leap into homeownership for the first time? Before you buy, make sure you've covered these seven financial basics.

10 Home Renovations That Almost Pay for Themselves

If you'd like to make some home improvements now and recoup those costs when you sell, these are the 10 renovations that earn the best return.

Things I Wish I Knew Before I Bought My Second House

You might think that once you've bought one house, you're a pro. But being a second-time homebuyer can come with some unexpected surprises.

How to Find and Hire a Real Estate Agent

Choosing the right real estate agent is the first of many difficult decisions home buyers and sellers must make. Here's how to make the right choice.

How to Evaluate a Neighborhood Before You Buy

When you move into a new place, you're moving into a new neighborhood, too. Discover how to find out if it's right for you before you buy or rent.

Choosing the Right Mortgage Loan: 15 or 30 Years?

Getting a 15-year mortgage might seem like a no-brainer — it means you'll spend less overall — but there are good reasons to consider a 30-year as well.