Resources

States are removing zoning barriers to ADUs in 2026. See which states changed their laws, what an ADU costs, and how to finance one with a HELOC, cash-out refi, or...

See today's average mortgage rates for 30-year fixed, 15-year fixed, ARM, FHA, VA, and jumbo loans, plus what a $350,000 mortgage costs right now.

July's median home price hit a record $434,100, but NAR's affordability index improved year over year. Here's how both are true, and what it means for your budget.

Builders are offering record rate buydowns on new construction. See the real payment math, who it benefits, and how to tell if it's a good long-term deal.

Gen Z is rewriting the homebuying playbook by skipping starter homes, buying with friends, and renting out rooms to cover the mortgage. Here's how the new approach actually works.

friend co-buying is booming, but most plans stall before closing. see why deals fall apart and how to structure yours so it doesn't.

Millions of homeowners with sub-3% mortgages are frozen in place by today's 6.37% rates. Here's the actual math for deciding whether to stay put or move — and when it...

A 2026 survey of 57 lending companies found car payments, not student loans, are now the top reason first-time buyers get denied a mortgage. Here's why, and what to do.

Rising insurance costs can sink a mortgage approval at the last minute. Here's why getting a quote before you offer protects your closing and your DTI.

Looking for the best cities to buy your first home in 2026? See where affordability, job markets, and quality of life actually add up and how the math compares to...

Institutional-investor home listings have more than doubled this year. Here's how to spot one, what to check before you buy, and how to negotiate.

Seeing a different mortgage rate on every site today? Here's why daily surveys, weekly averages, and marketplace quotes never quite match.

Learn how homeowners can use a home equity loan, HELOC, or cash-out refinance to consolidate debt — and how to avoid debt relief scams. Compare costs, risks, and which option...

Higher mortgage rates don't erase the case for buying. See the rent-vs-buy math, equity building, and payment stability that still make homeownership worth it.

Learn how to spot AI-edited real estate listing photos before you schedule a tour, plus what to do if you spot one before making an offer.

More sellers are delisting than negotiating right now. Here's why, what it means if you're buying, and how to use the leverage this market gives you.

Some mortgage lenders can use stock-based compensation, including restricted stock units (RSUs), to qualify you for a home loan, but the rules can be strict.

A bankruptcy doesn't permanently disqualify you from getting a mortgage, but it does begin a waiting period that varies by loan type and bankruptcy chapter.

Foreclosures are climbing in 2026, but the data looks nothing like 2008. Here's the key difference, plus what to do if you're falling behind on your mortgage.

Home equity loans and small business loans can provide cash for a new business. Know the pros and cons of both loans, including the risk to your home, before applying.

Protect your new home with safety measures designed to combat the risk of fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, flooding, and burglary.

Your utility bills can eat up a large chunk of your monthly budget, but there are a number of ways you can cut costs. Check out our tips for saving....

Use this new home checklist to learn essential tips on safety, inspections, and address updates so you can settle in comfortably and enjoy your new home.

Looking for a real estate attorney? Learn when to hire one, how to choose the right fit, and key things to consider for a smooth and successful home purchase.

Explore top first-time home buyer programs in Texas, including grants, loans, and tax credits to help you save on your first home purchase and closing costs.

Down payments and closing costs can make homeownership a struggle for many first-time buyers. Luckily, Texans have a number of assistance programs that can help.

Confused about no cash out refinance vs. limited cash out refinance? Discover the benefits, differences, and which option is best for your mortgage strategy.

Learn how an adjustable-rate mortgage could work for you, get ready for a fresh wave of inventory, and decide if summer is your time to shine as a seller.

With a cash out refinance, you take out a new mortgage for more money than you owe on your current loan. The difference is paid to you in cash.

Need the tools to find the right rental property for you? It all comes down to how to think about your return on investment.

Use this cash out refinance calculator to see how much you could borrow and what the cost of your new monthly payment would be.

Working with the right real estate agent can give you an enormous advantage as a homebuyer. See the best strategies for how to find a realtor, including key questions to...

The spring market comes with low inventory and intense competition, but buyers can win by being prepared to move fast.

Discover how this couple saved big on their new build home with smart tips, expert strategies, and financing advice. Learn how to save on your dream home too!

Here are the counties that have seen the biggest growth in housing over the last decade.

A recently divorced single mom uses Better’s Cash Offer to get a home for her family lightning quick.

A newly married couple buys a home to put down roots near family and connect with their community.

A veteran and her wife find a lender and put an offer on their dream home 7 hours after seeing it—the rest is history.

Meet a couple who landed their dream home with high-speed help from Better Mortgage. Plus, the renovations that boost your home value and a tip for winning with cash.

Newlyweds take the plunge on their first home with Better’s Cash Offer program.