Planning
How tariffs and building costs push home prices higher
Trade policy rarely shows up in a listing description, but it shows up in the price. Here is how materials costs reach your offer — and what you can actually control.
The living room
Homeownership stories & news
Plain-English guides on credit, mortgages, and the market — written for people buying their first home, by the team that does this all day.
Latest posts
Policy
Housing policy and first-time buyers: what actually moves the needle
Every cycle brings new housing proposals. Only a few ever reach your closing costs. Here is how to tell which is which.
Housing Market
What to consider when thinking of buying a multigenerational home
Nearly 20% of U.S. households are multigenerational. Here is what to think about before buying a home for several generations — budget, layout, legal, and more.
Financing
Your credit score glow-up: 5 simple steps to unlock your dream home
Worried about your credit score? These five practical steps help first-time buyers boost their score, lower their mortgage rate, and get approved faster.
Financing
Mortgage 101: understanding Conforming, FHA, USDA, and VA loans
Not sure which mortgage is right for you? This plain-English guide explains Conforming, FHA, USDA, and VA loans so you can choose confidently.