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First-time home buyer guides, helpful mortgage tips, and easy-to-follow articles to make you a better first-time buyer.

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What Is An FHA Loan?
Just Starting
13 min read

What Is An FHA Loan?

The FHA loan, backed by the Federal Housing Administration, is the original low-down payment mortgage for first-time home…

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Active First-Time Home Buyer Bills In 2023-2024 Congress
Just Starting
6 min read

Active First-Time Home Buyer Bills In 2023-2024 Congress

The government wants to help you buy your first home. This article tracks every first-time home buyer bill in…

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How To Write a Mortgage Gift Letter for Your Down Payment
Under Contract
7 min read

How To Write a Mortgage Gift Letter for Your Down Payment

Buying a first home can be a big financial commitment, and many first-time homebuyers rely on the generosity of friends and family to help cover…

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Managing Your First-Time Home Buyer Stress
Just Starting
4 min read

Managing Your First-Time Home Buyer Stress

With the right mindset and supportive habits, buying a home can be a positive experience. This article explores what to expect when purchasing your…

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The Home Buyer Glossary of Real Estate & Mortgage Terms
Just Starting
41 min read

The Home Buyer Glossary of Real Estate & Mortgage Terms

Real estate & mortgage terms for first-time home buyers. We explain everything in plain language and contextual, real-world examples.…

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Is It A Good Time To Buy A House [June 2024]
Buying Soon
5 min read

Is It A Good Time To Buy A House [June 2024]

This unbiased article shows why June 2024 looks like a good time to buy a…

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Low Down Payment Mortgages For First-Time Buyers
Just Starting
7 min read

Low Down Payment Mortgages For First-Time Buyers

You don’t need tens of thousands of dollars or to tap into your 401(k) savings to buy a home. First-time buyers can qualify for low-down payment…

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7 Things Renters Need To Buy a House
Just Starting
4 min read

7 Things Renters Need To Buy a House

Ready to stop renting and buy a home? You might be surprised how simple it is. There are just seven key things you need to get started: Once you…

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Mortgage 101: Basics Every Home Buyer Should Know
Just Starting
13 min read

Mortgage 101: Basics Every Home Buyer Should Know

​​For renters, there are more ways than ever to buy your first home. The government has expanded its low- and no-down payment mortgage coverage,…

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34 Ways For Home Buyers To Meet Their New Neighbors
Just Starting
10 min read

34 Ways For Home Buyers To Meet Their New Neighbors

Home buyers appreciate great neighbors and neighborhoods.  A Bank of America study showed that home buyers value connected communities, and…

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What is Escrow and How Does it Work?
Just Starting
7 min read

What is Escrow and How Does it Work?

When buying a home, your escrow provider is a valuable member of your team. However, many home buyers and sellers can’t answer the question “what…

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Home Maintenance Checklist for First-Time Home Buyers
Under Contract
14 min read

Home Maintenance Checklist for First-Time Home Buyers

Your home is an investment that requires regular upkeep to protect its value. Household maintenance is a skill first-time home buyers often learn…

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14 Questions to Ask at an Open House
Buying Soon
5 min read

14 Questions to Ask at an Open House

Open houses are a valuable tool for home buyers. You can explore a property in a low-pressure environment and usually take as much time as you need.…

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What Does a Title Company Do?
Just Starting
5 min read

What Does a Title Company Do?

Most home buyers know the roles of real estate agents and mortgage lenders, but the role of a title company is less familiar. A title company plays a…

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How to Make an Offer on a House in 8 Simple Steps
Buying Soon
10 min read

How to Make an Offer on a House in 8 Simple Steps

Want to win your bid for a home? Make a compelling offer. Working with an experienced real estate agent will help you win your bid lot, but it also…

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The Big List Of First-Time Home Buyer Mistakes
Just Starting
13 min read

The Big List Of First-Time Home Buyer Mistakes

First-time home buyers make mistakes. It’s unavoidable.  There is too much room for error to get it perfect. Home buyer education can…

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Buying a House In Your Early 20s: What to Know and How to Plan
Just Starting
5 min read

Buying a House In Your Early 20s: What to Know and How to Plan

Buying a house in your early 20s is more achievable than you think—and it happens every day. According to the Federal Reserve, 26% of Americans…

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15 Good Luck Plants To Bring Positive Energy to Your New Home
Under Contract
6 min read

15 Good Luck Plants To Bring Positive Energy to Your New Home

Plants offer a variety of benefits and have been appreciated for centuries. Horticulture therapy can help reduce stress and promote a sense of…

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