News & analysis
Reporting on rates, prices and the mechanics of buying and selling. Every story is dated, and its market figures reflect conditions when it was published. Looking for step-by-step guides? Browse the guides library.
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- News · Market
The Home Inspection Trap
During the 2021–22 frenzy, waiving the inspection became almost standard practice. The market has cooled. The habit hasn't. And buyers are still paying for it — sometimes quite literally.
- News · Buying
How to Improve Your Credit Score for a Mortgage: The 90-Day Action Plan
Moving from 620 to 720 is worth $100–$200/month on a $300K mortgage. Here's the exact sequence of actions, what FICO mortgage scoring weights differently, and what not to touch.
- News · Buying
New Construction vs. Existing Home in 2026: The Builder Contract Guide
What builders don't put in their sales pitch — the contract traps, what you can actually negotiate, warranty realities, and the HOA risks of buying in a new development.
- News · Buying
How to Sell Your Home While Buying Another: Bridge Loans, Contingencies & Timing Strategy
The three strategies for solving the buy-sell timing problem — with the real costs, risks, and market conditions where each one works best.
- News · Buying
How to Read a Loan Estimate: Every Line Explained
The LE is the most important document in your mortgage process — and the most routinely misread. Here's every section, every line, where lenders hide costs, and how to compare LEs across lenders.
- News · Buying
The Hidden Costs of Year 1 Homeownership: The Complete Budget No One Shows You
Most buyers budget for the down payment and closing costs. They forget the $12,000–$24,000 in additional costs that hit in the first 12 months. Here's every expense, quantified — so you're not blindsided.
- News · Buying
First-Time Homebuyer Programs in 2026: Grants, DPA & Low-Down Loans
Dozens of state and federal programs can help cover your down payment and closing costs. Most buyers don't know they qualify. Here's exactly what's available and how to access it.
- News · Buying
How to Buy a Home in 2026: The Step-by-Step Playbook
Rates are at a 3-year low. Homes are sitting longer. Competition has cooled in most markets. Here's exactly what to do — and when — to buy smart.
- News · Buying
Home Inspection Checklist 2026: Red Flags, What Inspectors Miss & How to Negotiate
A $300–$600 inspection is one of the best purchases you'll make in the entire transaction. Here's what gets checked, what red flags mean, and how to use the report to negotiate effectively.
- News · Market
Mortgage Rates Just Hit a 3-Year Low. Here's What That Means for Buyers.
The 30-year fixed mortgage rate just fell to 6.11% — its lowest level since late 2022. Here's what the data actually means for buyers weighing whether to move now or keep waiting.
- News · Buying
The Home Buyer's Reality Check for 2026
Rates are off their peak, prices haven't budged, and the spring market is heating up. Here's what you actually need to know before making the biggest purchase of your life.
