Buying & Owning Home

Ever heard of a “mortgage buydown”?

From home buying and selling to staging and curb appeal.

Neutral gray boxes aren’t what I’m after.

These horror stories aren’t pretty.

It's not as cut and dry as you think.

It’s controversial.

Try one of these methods to ward them off for good.

Rural life has some comfy, cozy perks.

You can steer clear of those calls and emails.

Sorry, Mom.

More than a third of American households are renting their homes — thought not all of them want to be.

Buying a home when you’re self-employed is notoriously tricky. After all, an up-and-down income cycle is—understandably—less appealing to mortgage companies than a dependable paycheck. That said, it’s far from impossible. Freelancers and small business owners alike can absolutely be approved to buy the home of their dreams. It just takes a little extra prep work. If you’re thinking about entering the real estate market while still being your own boss, listen up.

Buying a home is a momentous time in one’s life and, accordingly, congratulatory pats on the back abound — as does unsolicited advice. Everyone has insight about everything from how to pick the perfect house for you to saving money on home repairs. However, there’s not nearly as much fanfare when it comes time to sell your house.

While you might feel ready to invest, a bad credit score can make mortgage lenders wary and cause your interest rates to soar through the roof.

I’ve dreamed of owning my own home for as long as I can remember. Looking at real estate listings is a hobby for me, and house-hunting shows make me blissfully happy. In reality, though? Buying a home just didn’t seem possible as a single woman in my 30s with a fluctuating income. But then again, I like a challenge. And I’ve always admired this quote from Alice in Wonderland: “Why, sometimes I’ve believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.

Many buyers, especially first-timers, are enthralled by the prospect of buying a short sale — and it’s not hard to see why. Bottom basement sale prices make these transactions seem like a no-brainer. Unfortunately, most of the time, these too-good-to-be-true deals also come with a huge catch. Before you commit to buying a short sale, read this first. We’ve outlined a few red flags that you should be aware of prior to taking the plunge.

They’re important in this seller’s market.

To make the closing process as painless as possible.

Small houses can be more economically feasible.

They’re an overlooked resource.

Real estate finance experts explain how it works.

It’s an uncommon request.

Nor is it a burlap sack full of dollar bills.

Meet mortgage porting.

According to real estate pros.

A real estate agent answers.

Don’t spend a ton on a cheaply built house.

Black paint for the win, once again.

Ever heard of them?

And it doesn’t involve ponying up more cash than your competitors.

It actually makes so much sense.

According to real estate pros.

Their availability is steadily declining.

It’s typically not a good thing.

According to a very honest real estate agent.

There’s definitely an option for every type of forest sprite.

It’s a “creative financing” move that some buyers are trying.

Here’s what the experts had to say.

Don’t overlook them.

It’s an overlooked cheat sheet.

It’s imperative.

Here’s what to know.

Why not add a little personality to utility?

They're affordable *and* sustainable.

Our business relationship was different from our friendship.

They could cost you big time.

Here’s how to use a HELOC.

Here’s how it went.

According to a pro.

Ahh, HOA fees. You either love them or you hate them.

Stop and listen for a moment.

Here’s exactly how to do it.

They’ll give you pause, but they’re harmless.

And the one housewarming present I’ll buy for myself the next time I move.

Here’s what experts have to say.

Here’s what to know.

According to the pros.

For starters, the first-born doesn't always know best!

He speaks from experience.

It’s less daunting with answers.