MarketWatch

Key Takeaways: Use the 28/36 rule as a starting point, but adjust based on your full financial picture and lifestyle. There’s no one-size-fits-all percentage. Choose a monthly payment that leaves room for savings, emergencies, and long-term goals. Determining what percentage of your income should go towards a mortgage is a crucial step in responsible homeownership.

As the days get nicer and invite us outside, summer brings a sense of joy in outdoor activities. Children no longer want to be cooped up and want to be free outdoors. However, it’s also a time when certain dangers become more prevalent around our homes.  As Ashlei Jackson of Ever After Baby notes,  “Your

Selling your home is a major decision, and sometimes plans change. Maybe the market isn’t performing the way you hoped. Maybe life threw you a curveball. Or maybe you’re just having second thoughts.  Whatever the reason, it’s not uncommon to wonder: Can you take your house off the market? The short answer is yes. But

Key takeaways:  In most home purchases, the buyer’s agent delivers the offer to the seller’s agent, who then presents it to the seller If you don’t have an agent, you must submit the offer yourself—ideally with help from a real estate attorney. Clean terms, proof of financing, and flexibility can help your offer get noticed—even

Whether you’re looking to rent or buy your next home, you’ll find that there are a plethora of different types of houses to choose from. No matter your budget or aesthetic preferences, there’s something for you. Are you looking for an expansive home with elaborate designs and luxurious amenities? Maybe you’re not quite ready to

Seller concessions refer to closing costs or other fees that the seller agrees to pay on the buyer’s behalf. These concessions are negotiated during the offer process and help make the purchase more affordable for the buyer, without reducing the home’s sale price. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer buying a home in Charlotte, NC, or

Have your eye on a brand-new home, but it’s just out of budget? There’s actually ways to negotiate new construction homes so you leave with a good deal and your dream space. Whether you have your eye on a new-build in Rock Hill, NC or are about to buy a new construction home in Palm

Key takeaways: Your first-time home buyer benefits include down payment and closing cost assistance, grants, tax benefits, and low-interest or forgivable loans. Eligibility depends on factors like income, location, home price, and use of an approved lender. Federal, state, local, non‑profit, and lender‑sponsored programs can unlock these savings. Purchasing your first home is a major

Key takeaways:  Buying a house in a flood zone comes with financial and safety risks, including high insurance costs, property damage, and potential resale challenges.  Flood insurance is essential – and often required – if the home is in a high-risk area.  There can be advantages like lower purchase prices and waterfront locations, but they

Key Takeaways: On average, most buyers view 8-10 houses before making an offer Influencing factors: goals, budget, timeline, location, and market speed Tips for efficiency: creating a plan, working with a real estate agent, using online resources, touring in-person, and taking notes Common mistakes: skipping pre-approval, seeking the perfect home, not preparing for the tour,