Walk into almost any house built before 1978, and there’s a good chance the walls, windows, or even trim are coated in lead-based paint. Back in the day, lead paint was thought of as a miracle material because it was durable, smooth, and long-lasting. Decades later, we know better, and now lead paint is considered one of the most common hidden health hazards in older homes.  But lead-based paint...

When buying a home, saving for a large down payment can be one of the biggest hurdles. That’s where an FHA loan can make a difference. Backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), this type of mortgage helps first-time and moderate-income buyers qualify for homeownership with flexible credit requirements and a lower down payment. In this Redfin article, we’ll explain what an FHA loan is, how it...

When you’re buying a home, one of the most important choices you’ll make is selecting the right mortgage lender. The lender you choose will influence your loan options, interest rate, and overall experience — potentially saving you thousands over time. In this Redfin article, we’ll walk through how to compare lenders, what to look for, and how to make the smartest choice for your budget. Whether...

A dark exterior could lead to a warmer interior. Here's what to do if you want to choose a moody color...

Heat waves continue to affect most of the U.S. this summer. Here's how you can protect your HVAC system during the heat and conserve energy...

Key takeaways:  Escrow ensures fairness and security by holding funds or documents with a neutral third party until all transaction terms are met. There are two main types of escrow: Transaction escrow (during the purchase) and mortgage escrow (after closing). Escrow accounts simplify ownership costs by combining property taxes and insurance into one predictable monthly payment. They also reduce risk...

If you’ve been wondering how long you have to buy a house after selling one to avoid a tax penalty, you’re dealing with a widely circulated, but outdated belief. The idea that you must purchase another home within a specified window after selling your current one in order to avoid taxes is no longer accurate.  Rather than focusing on a deadline for buying another house, current U.S. tax law hinges on...

Heat waves continue to affect most of the U.S. this summer. Here's how you can protect your HVAC system during the heat and conserve energy...

Heat waves continue to affect most of the U.S. this summer. Here's how you can protect your HVAC system during the heat and conserve energy...

Let’s face it, clutter happens to the best of us. Piles of mail, overflowing closets, and that random collection of “maybe I’ll use it someday” items can quickly make your home feel smaller and more chaotic than it really is. That’s where smart declutter tips come in.  In this Redfin guide, we’ll show you practical, budget-friendly ways to reclaim your space, simplify your daily life, and...