Erin GoblerMay 12, 2021 | 6 MIN READFacebookTwitterEmailSMS Editorial Independence We want to help you make more informed decisions. Some links on this page — clearly marked — may take you to a partner website and may result in us earning a referral commission. For more information, see How We Make Money. Passive rental income is a dream for many investors looking to achieve financial independence. A 2019 Gallup poll found that real estate was the favorite investment option for Americans, more so than stocks or savings. The reality, though, is that purchasing a multiunit home is a serious financial undertaking with unique lending requirements that can often mean a bigger down payment. Plus,…

[Updated: Apr 20, 2021 ] Sep 09, 2020 by Barbara Zito Are you tempted to skip out on staging a property because of the cost and time involved? Then it’s time for you to consider virtual staging. According to a report by the National Association of Realtors, 40% of buyers’ agents said a staged property was effective in helping potential buyers envision themselves in the space. What’s more is that one in four agents surveyed said a staged home resulted in a 1% to 5% increase in the sales price. Actual staging can be pricey, though there are ways to stage a home on a budget. But aside from the money, traditional staging can…

Aby GarveyUpdated: Mar. 30, 2021 Moving into a new home is an opportunity to start fresh and organized. Use these ideas to get settled with a plan that works for you and your family. Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links.1 / 10 WESTEND61/GETTY IMAGES Consider What Worked Before you begin unpacking a single box, take a few minutes to reflect on what worked well before you moved. Were there certain areas of your previous home that stayed clutter-free due to effective organizing systems? If so, think through how to build those strategies into your new home.…

You’re probably well aware that the real estate market is more competitive than ever (due to low inventory, among other things). Still, it’s not a bad time to buy a house. Mortgage rates are low, home values are on the rise and, in many cases, buying is still more affordable than renting. Are you considering purchasing a house in today’s fast-paced market? Here are five tips that can help. Get preapproved. Applying for a mortgage preapproval is critical in a competitive market. Not only can it give you a good price range to shop in, but it can also help sellers feel more confident in your offers (and maybe even choose…

Housing decisions are never small. Where you choose to live impacts your budget, your job prospects and your social life.  And in the future, your home plays a major role in what your retirement might look like (financially and logistically).  For these reasons, housing decisions require plenty of careful consideration. Want to be prepared to make the right choice when the time comes? Start here. 1. Should you build or buy?  Both building a new home or buying an existing one can be good choices. You’ll typically pay more for a new home, but it will likely need fewer repairs and have lower maintenance costs.  Existing homes, on the other…

May 11 2021 If you’re getting ready to buy a home, you’re probably focused on saving as much as you can for the down payment. But don’t forget: You’ll need to cover closing costs, too.  To create a realistic homebuying plan, make sure you factor in this additional upfront expense so that you can set yourself up for success. Are you eyeing a home purchase in the near future? Here’s what you need to know about closing costs: What are closing costs?  Closing costs include several fees, including those associated with originating, processing and underwriting your loan, recording the transaction with your county, appraising your home and more. Taxes and…

April 11 2021 Housing decisions are never small. Where you choose to live impacts your budget, your job prospects and your social life.  And in the future, your home plays a major role in what your retirement might look like (financially and logistically).  For these reasons, housing decisions require plenty of careful consideration. Want to be prepared to make the right choice when the time comes? Start here. 1. Should you build or buy?  Both building a new home or buying an existing one can be good choices. You’ll typically pay more for a new home, but it will likely need fewer repairs and have lower maintenance costs.  Existing homes,…