Housing
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Use the 25% Rule to Decide How Much Home You Can Afford
Home prices are going down in some markets, and rising in others—here's how much you can afford.
The Difference Between a Pre-Approved Mortgage and Pre-Qualification (and Why It Matters)
Knowing the difference will help you move through the mortgage process a lot smoother.
It May Be Time to Refinance Your Mortgage
It could be prime time for homeowners to replace their current mortgage with a cheaper one.
Five Signs Your Rent Is About to Go Up
If you see these signs, start preparing for a rent increase, because it’s coming.
Watch Out for These Red Flags in a Realtor Contract
The old rules for buying and selling homes are out the window,.
Why Assuming Someone Else’s Mortgage Is Probably a Bad Idea (Even If the Interest Rate Is Low)
Assuming an existing mortgage might get you a low interest rate, but it comes with a long list of downsides.
Seven Home 'Upgrades' That Aren’t Worth the Money
They might seem like pluses when you're house-hunting, but you'll probably come to regret them.
Three Steps to Take When Your Landlord Is Also Your Neighbor
Neighbor relationships can be fraught—but what happens when they literally own your home?
Five Ways to Save Your Home If It’s Put up for a Sheriff’s Auction
You’re not totally out of options.
Four Downsides to High-Rise Buildings That People Don't Consider
You might think a high-rise apartment is nothing but spectacular views, doorman services, and luxury—but there are some downsides you only learn when you live there.
Why a 40-Year (or Longer) Mortgage Is a Terrible Idea
Longer mortgage terms mean lower monthly payments—but in the long term, you’ll pay way more than you should.
Four of the Best Ways to Trigger a Bidding War on Your House
How to make it look like you've got some hot property.
For Cheaper Rent, Find a 'Boommate'
More and more empty nesters with big houses and unused bedrooms are taking in renters.
Four Home Renovations That Are Worth the Extra Money (and Five That Aren't)
Renovations are expensive, but some aspects of one will show every penny you spend—and some won’t.
The Hidden Cost of Homeownership, State by State
Your mortgage is only a portion of the cost to own a home—here's how much you need to budget for other expenses.
The Three Scenarios When Utility Protection Plans Are Worth It
Unless your home fits into one of these three categories, you probably won’t need it.
Seven Essential Tools to Bring With You When House Hunting
If you’re going to be spending a lot of time checking out properties with your real estate agent, the right tools will keep you informed—like a tape measure, a moisture meter, a pocket level—and more.
The Best (and Worst) House Projects to Start in the Summer
Some home renovation, repair, or maintenance projects are best done in the right season.
Five Signs That You Really Do Need Replacement Windows
Here's how to see through high-pressure sales tactics.
What a 'Mortgage Loan Modification' Is, and When You Should Get One
Lenders are often willing to modify loans for borrowers facing legitimate hardships.