Home Buying

Experiencing a foreclosure can be financially and emotionally challenging, but it doesn’t have to close the door to future homeownership forever. If you’re hoping to buy again using an FHA loan, it’s essential to understand the FHA foreclosure waiting period, how lenders evaluate your application, and what exceptions might allow you to qualify sooner. Whether you’re browsing homes in San Diego, CA...

When you make an offer on a home, you usually put down earnest money to show the seller you’re serious. This money is held in escrow until the sale is finalized, protecting both you and the seller during the transaction. So what happens to that money at closing? In most cases, your earnest money is applied toward your down payment or closing costs, reducing the cash you need to bring to the closing...

Key takeaways: A vacation home costs more than the purchase price—budget for taxes, insurance, upkeep, and travel. Pick a location you’ll actually enjoy that also has long-term resale potential. While rental income and tax perks are possible, vacation homes also bring added risks and responsibilities. Looking to buy a vacation home in Dewey Beach, DE, a ski chalet in Colorado, or a family house in...

If you’re planning on buying or selling your home this year, then chances are you’re considering working with a real estate agent. A great real estate agent can help make the homebuying or selling process easier, less stressful, and help you get the right deal. But, what exactly does a real estate agent do? In this Redfin article, we’ll outline what a real estate agent does and their...

Moving from an apartment to a house has its perks, from having more living space to finally being able to enjoy a lawn. However, it’s understandable if you feel a bit frightened by the possibility of intruders or other safety issues. After all, unlike apartments, which typically have their own safety measures in place, a new home is often a blank slate. The good news is that there are plenty of steps you...

There’s a trend taking hold in real estate right now: more buyers are choosing newly built...

You would think once your homeowners policy is active, the hard part’s over. But more and more homeowners are finding that’s not the case, whether they’re buying a condo in Miami, FL or a starter home in Detroit, MI. Many insurers are ordering inspections, or even driving by homes, and requiring repairs before they’ll continue or renew coverage. These days, you might be able to get homeowners...

Buying a home comes with its fair share of stress, but building one adds a whole new layer of moving parts. Whether you’re building your dream home in Boise, ID, or watching a new construction rise in Atlanta, GA, one thing stays the same: you want confidence that it’s being built right. When building a home, you’ll still want to get your new home inspected—not just before move-in, but at many...

Key takeaways Check your contract: Know whether you signed an exclusive buyer’s agreement. Communicate first: Sometimes issues can be resolved before ending the relationship. Protect yourself: Always document termination in writing to avoid commission disputes. Choose wisely next time: Interview agents and clarify expectations upfront. Buying a home is stressful enough, but what if your real estate...

If you’re a homeowner looking to buy your next home, then you’ll likely have to juggle selling and buying at the same time. In an ideal world, you’d close on both homes on the same day, but that’s rarely the case. Expect some time between selling your house and buying a new one –  or vice versa.  In this Redfin article, we’ll outline the steps for selling and buying a house at the same time....