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Deciding how long to stay in a home to make the purchase financially worthwhile involves considering various factors, including transaction costs, equity accumulation, tax implications, and market conditions. A commonly referenced guideline is the "5-year rule," which suggests that homeowners should plan to live in their property for at least five years before selling. This timeframe allows for the...

  Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will make. While emotions and excitement can drive the process, one crucial step ensures that both buyers and sellers make informed choices: the home inspection. This step can impact negotiations, uncover hidden issues, and provide peace of mind. Whether you're buying or selling, understanding the role of home...

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial moves you’ll ever make. Most buyers focus on the down payment and mortgage, but there are plenty of hidden costs that can sneak up on you. If you’re not prepared, these expenses can strain your budget. Here’s what you need to know. 1. Closing Costs (2-5% of the Home Price) Many buyers are shocked when they realize they need thousands of dollars for...

When selling your home, standing out in the market is key. Buyers today have specific must-haves, and if your home checks the right boxes, it can sell faster and for a higher price. Here are the top 10 features that make buyers say “Yes!” 1. A Modern, Updated Kitchen The kitchen is the heart of the home, and buyers want it to look the part. Dated cabinets, old countertops, and worn-out appliances...

Selling a home can be a frustrating process, especially when the offers just aren’t coming in. If your house has been sitting on the market longer than expected, chances are you’re making one (or more) of these common seller mistakes. Here’s what might be holding you back—and how to fix it. 1. Overpricing the Home Everyone wants top dollar, but buyers (and their agents) are savvy. If your price...

  Buying a home in 2025 can feel like an uphill battle, but some cities still offer affordability, strong job markets, and a vibrant cultural scene. If you're a first-time homebuyer looking for the best bang for your buck, these eight cities provide the perfect mix of economic opportunity and quality of life. .1. Detroit, Michigan Affordability: Median home price: $175,000 | Median household...

How to Handle Lowball Offers on Your Home Without Losing Your Cool It's time for a little heart-to-heart. You’ve worked hard to price your home fairly, and then some joker comes in with an offer so low it makes your head spin. I get it. Your first instinct might be to roll your eyes, fire off a snarky reply, or flat-out ignore them. But let’s take a deep breath and handle this like a pro—because...

The real estate market is full of myths that can lead to costly mistakes. Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing in property, falling for bad advice can waste time and money. Let’s break down five of the most common real estate myths—so you don’t get caught in a financial trap. 1. Myth: You Should Overprice Your Home to Leave Room for Negotiation Reality: Overpricing often leads to your...

For many first-time homebuyers and those with less-than-perfect credit, an FHA loan can be the key to homeownership. Backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), these loans offer more flexible requirements and lower down payments compared to conventional loans. Here’s everything you need to know about FHA loans and how to qualify. What Is an FHA Loan? An FHA loan is a government-backed...

  For veterans and active-duty service members, the dream of homeownership is more accessible than ever thanks to VA loans. This government-backed mortgage program offers a unique opportunity to buy a home with zero down payment, competitive interest rates, and no private mortgage insurance (PMI). Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or looking to refinance, understanding how VA loans work can...