When most homebuyers calculate whether they can afford a new home, they focus almost exclusively on one number: the monthly mortgage payment. It's the figure lenders qualify them for, the number discussed during showings, and the benchmark used to determine budgets. The average annual cost of owning and maintaining a single-family home in the U.S., excluding the mortgage itself, is estimated at around $21,400 in 2025—roughly $1,800 per month.¹ When you factor in these nationa

Will 2026 be the year buyers stop waiting? Forecasters are split, predicting anywhere from 1.7% 1  to 14% 2  growth in home sales. That 12-point gap reveals the central question facing the housing market: how much will slightly lower mortgage rates and slowly eroding lock-in effects actually unlock pent-up demand? Nearly every major forecaster agrees the market will be more active than 2025. But beyond that consensus, predictions diverge sharply on pace and scale. The Nationa

As we reach the midpoint of 2025, the U.S. housing market stands at a critical juncture. The frenzy of the pandemic-era real estate boom...

Income Properties Are Trending, But Is Landlord Life for You? If the thought of investing your money into brick and mortar—or perhaps...

Thinking about listing your home in 2025? If so, you're smart to start planning ahead. With housing inventory rising in many market...

The holidays are a time for joy, family, and celebration, but they also bring added responsibilities. Between decorating, hosting, and...

A recent survey found that more than half (52%) of American homeowners have a renovation project planned this year. 1 If you’re among...

Whether you’re putting your home on the market in a few weeks or a few years, strategic upgrades can make all the difference. But you...

Last December, when the Federal Reserve projected a series of benchmark rate cuts in the coming year, some analysts speculated that...

The peak moving season is upon us. In fact, according to Move.com, almost 70% of U.S. moves occur between May and September.1 And while...

From wildfires to floods, the past few years have brought a historic number of devastating climate and weather events to the United...

When you've lived somewhere for many years, it can be tough to say goodbye. But if you (or a loved one) currently have a home that is...

One of the best parts of owning a home is the freedom to make it truly your own with design choices that reflect your personality and...

A growing share of home buyers and sellers sat on the sidelines last year as the pace of home sales continued its downward...

If the thought of investing your money into brick and mortar—or perhaps some stylishly-painted siding—excites you, join the club....

Buying a new home is one of the most exciting experiences in life. And if you’re like most homebuyers, you’ll be planning your furniture...

There’s an old adage in real estate: location, location, location. But ever since the Federal Reserve began its series of...

It's not easy being a first-time homebuyer right now. At the end of last year, housing affordability hit an all-time low.1 Additionally,...

Keeping a clean and orderly home is a challenge for many of us. Between busy work schedules, social obligations, and family commitments,...

When it comes to listing their home, most home sellers want three things: 1) to make a lot of money, 2) to put in minimal time and...