Home Insights

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Financial planning guide to buying a house

Explore six strategies designed to help you save money on your mortgage while supporting your financial plan.

These six strategies for financial planning to buy a house are designed to set you up for homebuying success.

How to lower insurance premiums as disasters rise

Natural disasters and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent. Learn how to manage their impact on insurance premiums to help minimize losses.

At the very least, an annual review gives you a chance to confirm that your policy accounts for any new risk-reduction steps you've taken throughout the year.

Energy tax credits for EVs and home improvements

Reduce the cost of energy-efficient home improvements and clean energy vehicles with these tax credits.

Not only do these energy tax credits help reduce your taxable income, but they also can minimize the cost of purchasing an EV or creating a more energy-efficient home.

2025 housing market forecast

Find out how mortgage rates, housing prices and inventory may impact homebuying in 2025.

Strong home values, limited inventory, new buyers entering the market and construction challenges may continue to influence the housing market in 2025.

Comparing loans for home improvement

Learn the pros and cons of several popular types of loans for home improvement projects.

When it comes to financing home renovations, you have many options to choose from—each with its own pros and cons.

Other types of insurance to consider

Consider going beyond traditional coverage with other types of insurance.

In many ways, you can think of insurance as a way to protect your life's savings.

How interest rate changes can affect economic trends

The balancing act between interest rates and inflation is affecting housing markets and investment returns, making it more important to have a solid financial plan.

A strategic approach to financial planning may help you navigate the current and future interest rate environment.

Is it better to rent or buy a house?

In today's market, is it better to rent or buy a house? This guide breaks it down.

People who own their homes have about 40 times more wealth than people who rent, according to the National Association of Realtors.

What to know before buying a condo

Here's what you need to know if you're thinking about purchasing a condo as a vacation home or primary residence.

Although there are many benefits of buying a condo, there are also a few caveats to consider—particularly if you're choosing between buying a condo versus a house.

How empty nesters are downsizing

Today's empty nesters are taking four different approaches to downsizing, including upsizing.

The tried-and-true strategy of buying a smaller home once your kids become independent may still be the best option for many.

HELOC versus home equity loan: How to choose

Before tapping into your home's equity, know the pros and cons of a HELOC versus home equity loan.

While the two options share similar benefits, there are some critical differences between a HELOC and home equity loan that may impact which is the right fit for your goals.

10 home improvements that increase value

See which home remodeling projects actually pay for themselves.

When it comes to home improvements that add value, projects that increase curb appeal tend to have high return on investment.

A guide to 2024 housing market trends

Our bankers weigh in on what may happen to home sales in light of interest rate moves and changes to agents' fees.

Things may be looking up for both buyers and sellers.

First-time homebuyer's guide: Steps to buying a house

Dreaming of homeownership? Explore the steps involved with buying a house, as well as tips and resources for first-time buyers.

As you navigate the homebuying process, know that there are resources available to help you along the way.

Pros and cons of building your own home

Is building your own home a good idea? Learn about the pros and cons of building versus buying.

Building your own home can offer many benefits, but there are a few key factors that determine whether you should build or buy.

Is a mortgage refinance right for you?

Discover the pros, cons and key considerations to help you determine whether a mortgage refinance makes sense for you.

When it comes to deciding when to refinance your home, it's helpful to consider the following questions.

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This material is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be an offer, specific investment strategy, recommendation or solicitation to purchase or sell any security or insurance product, and should not be construed as legal, tax or accounting advice. Please consult with your legal or tax advisor regarding the particular facts and circumstances of your situation prior to making any financial decision. While we believe that the information presented is from reliable sources, we do not represent, warrant or guarantee that it is accurate or complete.

Third parties mentioned are not affiliated with First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company.

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