buying a house

Buy a Home You Can Afford With the Mortgage Suitcase Trick

When you're thinking about buying a home, it's easy to buy more house than you need (and get stuck with a pricier mortgage). Use this trick to save.

Quiz: Am I Really Ready to Buy a Home?

Buying your first home is a big accomplishment, but it comes with a lot of responsibility. Take our quick quiz to find out if you're ready to take the plunge.

The Housing Market Is Finally Rebounding

The housing market is rebounding, and the buyer's market is ending. But should you rush to buy a home now? Read this article to help decide.

What Happens at a Foreclosure Auction?

Property buyers with cash can save as much as 30% off the market price at a foreclosure auction. Here's what to expect on the courthouse steps.

Best Money Tips: Steps to Buying a House

Today we found some awesome articles on steps to buying a house, reasons you need a spending plan, and Black Friday myths exposed.

The Process for Purchasing a House With Cash

Last year, one Wise Bread writer and her husband purchased a property with cash. That's right — cash. Here's the process they went through.

How to Choose a Real Estate Agent

You take time to research products that will cost you $20 — but how much do you research the person who advises you on spending thousands of dollars?

7 Surprising Facts About Roth IRAs

A lot of people think Roth IRAs are just another retirement vehicle. Yes — and they're also one of the most flexible options available.

How to Get Into a Good School District for Less

You don't have to buy an extremely expensive house to get your child into a good school. Here are some other approaches to consider.

Military Members Can Still Utilize Homebuyer Tax Credits

Last year, homebuyer tax credits helped boost the real estate market. Until April 30, certain service members can still take advantage of this benefit.

The Fallacy of Homeownership as a Sound Investment

Owning a home has become inextricably linked to the American dream, as much a part of the social fabric as baseball and apple pie. But the reality is that most Americans would be b

6 Myths About Real Estate

When stock markets go down, people tend to thank their lucky stars they own real estate, and others yet rush to the real estate market as a safe haven. But real estate isn’t always

What your house is really worth

There are several things you can do with a house that you own. During the housing boom, most of the attention was focused on two of those things: You could sell it, or you could

Will house prices keep dropping?

I don't think much of the "buy low, sell high" model for house purchases. I think a house should be purchased as a place to live, in which case the main questions are whether you

Renting is cheaper

Everybody has seen a rent-versus-buy analysis. Here's a different way to look at it.

The cost of a free ride - why not to use a buyer's agent

This little real estate agent secret could potentially save you thousands on your new home.