Home Insights

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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.

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.

Building Wealth: Is It Better to Rent or Buy a House?

Homeownership may be your key to long-term wealth. But in today's market, is it better to rent or buy a house? Our 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

Links to third-party websites may have a privacy policy different from First Citizens Bank and may provide less security than this website. First Citizens Bank and its affiliates are not responsible for the products, services and content on any third-party website.

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