Home & mortgage
Navigate homeownership and mortgage decisions with confidence. Every guide and tool here is free.
Home & mortgage resources
Six guides and tools, from your first down payment to refinancing and protecting the home you own.
- Guide15 minRead guide
First-time homebuyer guide
Complete guide to buying your first home, from saving for a down payment to closing day.
Beginner. Down payment strategies, Loan types explained, Closing process walkthrough.
- Tool5 minUse tool
Mortgage calculator
Calculate monthly payments, total interest, and compare different loan scenarios.
Beginner. Payment calculations, Amortization schedules, Rate comparisons.
- Guide12 minRead guide
Refinancing decision guide
When and how to refinance your mortgage to save money or access equity.
Intermediate. Break-even analysis, Rate shopping tips, Closing cost considerations.
- Comparison10 minRead guide
Home equity loan vs HELOC
Compare home equity loans and lines of credit to access your home's value.
Intermediate. Interest rate differences, Payment structures, Best use cases.
- Guide8 minRead guide
Property tax guide
Understanding property taxes, assessments, and how to appeal if needed.
Beginner. Tax calculations, Assessment appeals, Escrow management.
- Guide12 minRead guide
Home insurance optimization
Get the right coverage at the best price for your home and belongings.
Intermediate. Coverage types, Cost reduction tips, Claims process.
Home buying milestones
Savings targets that mark real progress toward a purchase.
- $5K
Emergency fund first
Build emergency savings before buying
- $20K
Down payment saved
20% down on $100K home
- $50K
Ready for $250K home
Down payment + closing costs
- $100K
Premium home budget
Down payment for $500K home
Essential home buying tips
- Save 20% down payment. Avoid PMI and get better rates
- Check credit score. 740+ gets the best mortgage rates
- Get pre-approved. Know your budget before house hunting
- Compare lenders. Shop around for the best rates and terms
- Budget for closing. Plan for 2-5% of home price in closing costs
- Consider total costs. Include taxes, insurance, and maintenance
By the numbers
What the data says
- September 2025
$415,200
Median price of an existing US home
Up 2.1% from a year earlier
Source: National Association of Realtors, Existing-Home Sales - Week of October 30, 2025
6.17%
Average 30-year fixed mortgage rate
Down from 6.72% a year earlier
Source: Freddie Mac, Primary Mortgage Market Survey - November 2025
$2,424
Average annual home insurance premium for $300,000 of dwelling coverage
Source: Bankrate, Average Cost of Homeowners Insurance
National figures from the sources shown, as of the period on each card. They are context, not a forecast or advice for your situation.
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