first time home buyer

8 Ways to Reduce Mortgage Closing Costs

Mortgage closing costs can add up to thousands of dollars. Discover how you can easily and drastically reduce these costs.

Home Maintenance and Repair: What's an Emergency and What Can Wait?

If you're budget is tight and you have home repairs on the horizon, use this list to determine which projects can wait and which ones need your immediate attention.

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.

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.

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.

21 Real Estate Terms Every Home Buyer Should Understand

If you're thinking about buying a home, get up to speed on these key terms and concepts before you visit your first open house.

What You Need to Know Before Buying Your First Home

Buying a home is expensive — and stressful. Follow this guide to help plan ahead, understand the process, and save money.

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.

You Shouldn’t Buy a Home If…

Home ownership isn’t for everyone. And even if it’s right for you, it might not be right for you right now. Read this to help figure out if you're ready.

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.