Preparing to Buy

REITs are companies that own, operate, or finance income-generating real estate. Investors can buy shares in a REIT just like they would buy shares of stock.

In 2024 landlords can get tax deductions for mortgage interest, depreciation, repairs, insurance costs, and other expenses related to their rental property.

In order to be considered a mansion, a house needs to have a large square footage and lot size and an overabundance of amenities.

Moving a house from one location to another is generally cheaper than buying a new house, but it depends on the size, structure, and foundation.

Wholesale real estate is a short-term real estate investment strategy without agents and investors that can be profitable but still requires time and expertise.

Single-family homes are freestanding residences but a multi-family home has more than one dwelling unit.

Eight-foot ceilings are standard and higher ceiling homes are typically more valuable.

Multigenerational homes aren't a type of housing structure but a house in which at least two generations of families live.

Most requirements for buying a house pertains to your finances, like making sure you have the right credit score, proof of income, and money for a down payment.

HOA rules are enforceable when they’re established in accordance with the governing documents of the association and applicable laws. Here's what HOAs can't do.

Buying an apartment building is similar to buying a house, but you'll need to your due dilligence to make sure it's a profitable and safe property.

Orchard analyzed 50 Colorado cities and built a list of places where the quality of life is high, prices are relatively low, and it's easier to buy a home.

The 1% rule in real estate can help determine whether you'll make a profit on an investment property. Here's how to use it help inform your purchase.

Unsure of whether to rent or buy a house? Use this rent vs. buy calculator to make an informed decision about which option makes the most financial sense.

Learn how much it costs to move on average by geography, size of the move, services, and more. These numbers are current for 2023.

A quitclaim deed allows a seller to quickly transfer property to a buyer. Learn how it works, when to use this deed, and more.

The simplest definition for a primary residence is that it’s your home where you live, and it can affect your mortgage rates, tax benefits, and more.

When weighing whether to pay off a mortgage early or invest, usually some combination of both would likely yield greater financial stability.

Moving into a new home is already a stressful process filled with change and excitement. If you’re moving with kids, there is an added layer of pressure. 

For most people, VA loan limits are not an issue. But if you have impacted entitlement, then you're subjected to conforming loan limits set by the FHFA.

A condemned house is one that the government deems unfit for anyone to live in or use, due to health and safety concerns.

You can work with multiple real estate agents if you haven’t signed an exclusive contract. However, working with multiple agents is generally frowned upon.

We analyzed website traffic to our listings pages to find the most popular times people search for houses and request home tours.

If you’ve browsed listings and seen a beautiful home listed as “off-market,” you might have assumed you missed your chance to buy. That's not always the case.

Homebuyers often wonder if it’s better to buy a fixer-upper in a good neighborhood or a turnkey home in a bad one. There’s no obvious answer to that question.

While a home warranty can be a good safety net against expensive, unforeseen repairs, getting one is not always the most financially sound decision.

In an analysis of winning bids on homes, Orchard found that the percentage of homes sold for cash has risen significantly in the country's hottest markets.

Everyone knows that one site where you can buy everything. Does that include your next home? Not unless you like living small.

Pools are work. Our guide breaks down everything you need to know about pool ownership, so you don't end up wishing that you never bought a house with a pool.

Buying a house in Arizona can be competitive, but the state offers programs to help first-time buyers.

Power buyers are companies that help prospective homebuyers make competitive offers and stand out in a crowded real estate market.

Everyone likes a good deal, and probate sales can offer an opportunity to save money on a home that isn’t going through the traditional sales process. 

Buying a house in the States as a non-U.S. citizen is complex, but it's possible. We break down this multifaceted issue and point you to the resources you need.

From credit issues to cohabitation agreements, there are many potential pitfalls to avoid when buying a house with a girlfriend, boyfriend, or other partner.

Forming an LLC essentially keeps your business life separate from your personal life, which has different perks for different people when buying property.

While this question boils down to “high credit score is good, low credit score is bad,” you can still qualify for a mortgage even if your credit isn't great.

We’ve put together a ranked list of the 10 best cities for young families to buy a home to help inform your next move.

A title is a legal term that refers to ownership, and the deed is the actual legal document that transfers a property title from one person to another.

It’s hard to buy a home when you’re young, working, and raising a family that meets both your current needs and the needs of your future, retired self. 

From market conditions to reaching your decluttering limits, keep an eye out for these signs that it's time for you to find a new, larger place to call home.

Buying a house for sale by owner can get you a better price and more flexibility in the process, but you'll need to be extra savvy navigating the transaction.

If you’re considering selling stock to fund your home purchase, learn how and when to liquidate your holdings, and what you need to consider going forward.

To buy a home, most of us need a mortgage to bridge the gap between the down payment and sale price of the home. Without W-2 income, you may face challenges.

While 2021 saw historically high prices and competition, 2022 may see both rise again. Savvy buyers may still find some good deals if they plan well.

If you really want to buy a house with your 401(k), taking a loan from it is better than making a withdrawal, which comes with steep fees if you aren't retired

You find a home you like that works for your budget — but it’s foreclosed. Did you just strike gold or is buying a foreclosed home more trouble than it’s worth?

The main differences between the purchase of a historic home and a new home are your financing options and the appraisal. What else should you consider?

This guide will help you understand how to take on a mortgage responsibly, without falling behind on student loan payments or crippling your financial health.

Let’s look at some logistical and emotional ways to manage your stress while buying a home, and where you can turn to for help when the process goes awry.

If you’re one of the many Americans starting a new life as a remote worker, we’ve compiled a list of the best cities to move to for a remote career.

Rent-to-own or lease-to-own is an agreement that allows a renter to buy a home after years of renting. You’ll come across two main types of rent-to-own options.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or moving to the opposite coast, real estate location companies can help with your home purchasing and moving needs.

Curious about home prices in 1950? See how much the typical house cost in your state back then and explore the changes in property values over the decades.

Looking at a house with solar panels? You should know what it means to buy a home with them, whether they're leased or paid in full.

The answer to this question depends on your situation and your local market. But generally speaking, don’t expect things to change drastically anytime soon.

Homes that don’t hit the market — known as “pocket listings” — can be a good option for buyers and sellers for many reasons.

If you've been evicted, your credit report has likely taken a hit. Here's how to approach fixing your credit before you make a big purchase like buying a house.

Many real estate experts expect the record-setting housing market of the past year to slow down this fall, but it's still expected to be highly competitive.

Who’s responsible for the necessary repairs if you find problems with a house after buying it?

Buying a home from your family or for them, or how doing so can help you avoid competition and make closing easier.

Condos, townhouses, single-family homes, and mansions differ based on utilites, taxes, who owns the land, and who has access to the property, among other things

Want to buy a house with a friend, partner, or members of your family? Make sure you consider all the financial and legal responsibilities.

How much to save for a house depends on the home price and type of loan you're getting. Save money for a down payment, inspection, and moving and closing costs.

An easement gives someone access to your property. In some cases, they can be a nuisance, but overall, easements shouldn’t give you much cause for concern.

While hunting for a new home, you may be curious whether recent previous residents met an untimely end. Here's how to find out if someone died in a house.

What do people really want when searching for a home? The results of our Home Match quiz breaks down people's preferences across markets.

Real estate agents across the country share their tips for winning the home of your dreams.

Not surprisingly, land in rural, suburban, and urban areas will have different price points. Here's what you need to know about the price of an acre.

It's possible to avoid an HOA, though those situations are rare and hard-fought. Plus, the fight might not be worth it. Learn more about refusing to join HOAs.

We’ve made a house hunting checklist to help you remember all the important details you need to look out for while home shopping.

Mortgage rates are high, home prices are leveling out, and inventory remains low, but it can still be good time to buy a house if you're financially ready.

If you're looking to buy a house in another state, follow these tips and make moving to a different place easier.

It typically takes around six months from start to finish to buy a house — but the exact timeline is different for everyone and depends on a few key factors.

To buy a house in Texas, start by assessing your finances. Your down payment and credit score requirements will depend on the type of loan you take out.

We ranked the top neighborhoods and suburbs in Raleigh-Durham based on housing, quality of schools, and commute times to help you find the best place to live.

We ranked the top neighborhoods and suburbs in Charlotte based on housing, quality of schools, and commute times to help you find the best place to live.

A home appraisal happens after you make an offer on a home and typically takes two days to a week to complete.

Buying a new construction home is an exciting and unique transaction. We broke down the new construction homebuying process, along with its pros and cons.

We ranked the top neighborhoods and suburbs in Houston based on housing, quality of schools, and commute times to help you find the best place to live.

Find information and answers to common questions on how to buy or sell a home during the coronavirus.

If you were hoping to buy or sell a home this year, you might be second-guessing things now. Here's why this could still be a good time to buy or sell a house.

Wondering exactly what an open house in real estate is? This post walks buyers and sellers through everything they need to know to make the most of open houses.

A proof of funds letter is a bank letter or bank statement that shows you have enough one to close on a home, and you'll need it to make offers.

Here are 5 essential questions to ask when buying a house. Make sure to get all of the home buying questions answered before you sign on the dotted line!

Renting is likely best for those looking for flexibility, but people who are ready to settle down and can afford the costs should consider buying a house.

Ready to become a homeowner but not sure where to start? Here's an overview of how to buy a house so you can approach the home buying journey with confidence.