Home Insights

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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.

Comparing Loans for Home Improvement

Learn the pros and cons of six 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.

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.

Will 2024 Be a Good Time To Buy a House?

From mortgage rates to housing prices, here's what homebuyers can expect from the housing market in 2024.

There's some good news for aspiring homebuyers: The boom times for sellers may be coming to an end.

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.

Financial Planning Guide to Buying a House

When it comes to financial planning to buy a house, these six steps potentially help you save a sizable amount of money on your mortgage.

Taking time to prepare your finances before buying a house can do more than improve your loan approval odds and give you more comprehensive borrowing options—it may also have a positive long-term impact on your personal finances.

Capitalizing on the Inflation Reduction Act

You could see lower healthcare costs and tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements and electric vehicle purchases this year.

What's in the act that may affect you in 2023 and beyond?

Is a Mortgage Refinance Right for You?

Thinking of refinancing your mortgage? 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.

Closing on a House: What to Expect

Finding a home and making a successful offer may take time. But so does closing on a house. Here's what to expect and how to prepare for the closing process.

Getting approved for a mortgage is the lengthiest part of closing on a house. Speeding up this process can benefit buyers in a few ways, not the least of which is possibly gaining access to your new home sooner.

What You Should Know Before You Buy a Foreclosed Home

Foreclosure homes offer buying opportunities at bargain prices if you understand the market.

Foreclosures often attract those who enjoy the work of remodeling or renovating a property and have the necessary cash to spend on repairs.

How to Apply for a Mortgage: Step-by-Step Guide

You've found your dream home—now you just need to finance it. From prequalification to loan estimates to closing, here's how to apply for a mortgage.

It helps to get quotes from several lenders before you apply for a mortgage. That's because interest rates, closing fees and other loan terms can vary enough to make a difference.

Complete Guide to Down Payments: FAQs

A 20% down payment can help homebuyers qualify for lower interest rates and reduce monthly payments. Learn more about mortgage down payment requirements.

Down payment requirements for a mortgage may be far more flexible than you imagine.

What Type of Mortgage is Right for You?

Here's what to consider when shopping for a mortgage, from your budget to your long-term financial goals.

Most mortgages are conventional mortgages, which are loans made through a private lender and not part of any specialized government program.

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