6 Steps for Prioritizing Your Wants and Needs in a Home

Ready to start touring homes? Save time by using a house-hunting checklist to document your visits and keep everything organized as you search   You’ve been pre-approved and know what you can afford, so now it’s time to take your home search to the next level. But the process can stall if you don’

New Construction: A Guide to Buying a Newly Built Home

How is buying new construction different from buying an existing home? When purchasing a newly built home, you'll likely get modern designs, up-to-date construction standards, and brand-new appliances. Since many new homes are sold before they're fully finished, you may even have the chance to perso

The Real Costs of Owning a Home Can Exceed $14K a Year

Adding up all the costs of homeownership can give you a clearer picture of what you can truly afford. Here’s what you need to know to plan your budget The best time to get a clear sense of the costs involved in homeownership is before you start looking. The “hidden costs” of owning a home can add

This Seasonal Home Maintenance Checklist Is Essential for Keeping Your Home in Top Shape

Plus, six tasks to tackle every month Tackling a seasonal home maintenance checklist isn't exactly how most people want to spend a Saturday. No one’s excited about flushing out the hot water heater. But for many of us, our home is our biggest investment, and maintaining it is essential. Ignoring sma