You may have been pre-approved and know what you can afford, so it’s time to take your home search to the next phase. But the hunt for your home will stall rapidly if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for — or perhaps more importantly, what your non-negotiables are. It’s easy to talk in generalities about wanting […]
Even seemingly small changes in mortgage rates, like 1% or 0.5%, can make a big difference in what you pay over the life of your loan. When you’re sizing up a home to buy, it’s tempting to focus only on the price to decide whether it fits your budget. But current mortgage rates are an […]
Some improvements have limited appeal to home buyers, and may even affect your sale price when you go to sell. One of the best things about owning a home is the ability to change things up, whether it’s knocking down a kitchen wall to open up space or filling your backyard with your favorite fruit […]
Wondering if home solar is right for you, but don’t know where to start? This guide can help. Solar power can be an attractive prospect for homeowners and shoppers. Home solar technology offers electricity bill savings, more energy independence, and resilience in the face of an increasing rate of power outages. For the environmentally conscious, […]
Plus six things to do every month. Tackling a seasonal home maintenance to-do list is not the way most of us want to spend a Saturday. “I can’t wait to flush out the hot water heater today,”‘” said no one, ever. But for most of us, our home is our biggest investment. Maintaining it is a […]
Buying a house can be a complicated, stressful process. Here are 10 steps to help you confidently find your new home. Buying a home can be stressful during the best of times, and it might feel positively overwhelming in a highly competitive market. Although a few of the details may look different right now, the […]
Resources to help make owning a home a reality. If you’re among the millions of people who want to own a home someday, you’ve probably spent a good amount of time online looking at homes — and home prices — and wondering “how do people afford houses in this market?” It’s a reasonable question, especially […]
The typical mortgage payment in these housing markets consumes less than a third of the median household monthly income. Finding a home that fits your needs while leaving money in your pocket to enjoy life can feel like an impossible journey at times. But real estate markets vary widely, and there are still markets where […]
Price cuts and an uptick in for-sale listings mark the start of the busiest season for home buyers and sellers. Spring home buying season — typically the most active time of year for home shopping — is about to begin in earnest with a calmer market. But while the boost in newly listed homes that […]
Seasoned homeowners weigh in on what caught them off guard, what delighted them and what lessons you can learn from them. Talk to any homeowner and they’ll probably tell you how excited they were when they first bought their home. After they’ve lived there a while, they’re likely to tell you about the things they […]
How this non-traditional path to ownership leads to substantial savings and surprising community. For most new homeowners, getting the key to their own home means saying goodbye to roommates they lived with during college or while building job experience. And then there are homeowners like Christine Knapp, who began posting online for a roommate soon […]
When using a mortgage to finance your home purchase, an appraisal lets you and the lender know that the property is priced appropriately. That way you don’t end up paying more for a home than it is worth, and your lender doesn’t need to make adjustments to the loan amount, since they will only lend as much […]
A Zillow study reveals paint colors that may wow prospective buyers — and colors that fall short. Do you find yourself browsing homes on Zillow and pausing at a home that has a stand-out front door? Maybe it’s a bright red or a sunshine yellow. There’s a reason you paused — and it’s likely because the seller was […]
A guide for finding a home you love in a place that feels like home. Deciding where to live — whether it’s for a year or a lifetime — can mean weighing up dozens of complex considerations. These span from broad factors like the local job market, to more specific concerns like whether it will […]
Renovating doesn’t always mean big returns. See which improvements pay off when you sell. Whether you’re thinking of selling in the next six months or a few years down the road, remodeling with return on investment (ROI) in mind is a smart financial move. Few investments recoup more than 100% of their cost, but collectively, […]
See which seaside and vacation towns made the list. Small cities and towns captured the imagination of Zillow® surfers in 2023, drawn perhaps by smaller home prices and proximity to major cities with lots of amenities. “Affordability was the word on home shoppers’ minds, and it shows in the most popular cities that buyers on […]
A mortgage is a loan you take out on a piece of land or real estate when you don’t have all the cash-on hand to buy, improve or maintain it on your own. A bank or other financial institution will lend you the money under the condition that you repay the loaned amount by a set […]
Moving — whether it’s buying, renting or selling — poses special challenges for people with ADHD. These tips may help. Jessica McCabe knows a thing or two about moving. The host of the popular “How to ADHD” YouTube channel and website by the same name moved five times in three years — and during a pandemic, no […]
See the next wave of interior design trends in action. We know we’re biased, but there are few things we love more than finding home design marvels on Zillow (and we’re not alone). Sure, not every home can claim a moat or a ’50s style diner as an amenity, but we have noticed a number of features arguably just as […]
Loan officers break down what you need to know about student debt and owning a home. Student loans are undoubtedly a daunting financial obstacle, so it’s only natural to feel like they’re holding you back from owning a home. But buying a house with student loan debt is possible. Whether or not you should get […]
What experts say is the key to an odor-free kitchen, plus more room-by-room advice. Open concept homes can feel airy and spacious, but they can be relatively difficult to keep clean. The lack of walls means clutter is inevitably out in the open, and suitable storage space is a precious resource. Luckily, there are tricks […]
The forecast calls for a calmer real estate market with slight improvements in affordability for buyers, concessions for renters and more AI-generated guidance for home shoppers. It’s been one of the most challenging years on record for the housing market, with rock-bottom inventory and mortgage rates hitting highs not seen in the past two decades. […]
Credit card companies, auto dealerships, mortgage bankers and other lenders use credit scores to determine the risk of loaning money to a borrower, how much they will loan, and the interest rate they’ll charge. Most lenders use FICO scores, which range from 300 to 850, to gauge creditworthiness. The higher your score, the more credit-worthy […]
Find out what getting pre-approved for a mortgage means, if you should get pre-approved while house shopping, and how you can get pre-approved. When you start to get serious about buying a home, a mortgage pre-approval is an important first step. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage lets you know how much money you can borrow, the range […]
Loan officers break down what you need to know about student debt and owning a home. Student loans are undoubtedly a daunting financial obstacle, so it’s only natural to feel like they’re holding you back from owning a home. But buying a house with student loan debt is possible. Whether or not you should get […]
Add warmth and comfort to your home with these design ideas from past decades. With the arrival of the cooler months, it’s natural to start thinking about how you can make your home more cozy and inviting. Now is the perfect time to make little (or big) changes that will infuse your home with an […]
A boost in new listings nationally, along with price cuts, favors buyers. The local picture, however, is a mixed bag. What’s going on this fall in the housing market? It depends on where you look. Nationally, home values saw a “marked cooldown” from July to August, according to Zillow® Senior Economist Jeff Tucker, with prices […]
Our brains can sometimes trick us into a buying a home that doesn’t fit our needs. Following these tips could help minimize buyer’s remorse. If you’ve ever made an impulse purchase, you know what it feels like to have your brain seize up and focus only on the shiny thing in front of you that […]
Buying a home for the first time? Use this guide to help ensure a smoother and less stressful experience. For many first-time home buyers, the financing process can seem intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be. Here are six things to remember as you embark on this process. 1. Make sure you understand the full […]
Haunted houses are labeled as “stigmatized properties,” but they can be highly sought-after. Marianne Bornhoft was locking up after an open house showing when she heard a faint cry: “Help me!” Following the cries downstairs to the basement, the veteran real estate agent ended up in front of what appeared to be a concealed door. […]
Mortgage hacks and strategies that agents say can help make home buying more affordable — and help close the deal. Buying a home is a team sport, and that’s especially true when buyers are facing the kinds of affordability challenges they are now. Volatile interest rates and tough competition for a limited supply of homes […]
Learn how to avoid these nine home-selling mistakes. Selling your home is no easy process, in terms of both the actual logistics and the emotional connection you often have to your home. After all, according to the Zillow Group Consumer Housing Trends Report 2021, the average seller reported living in their homes for about 14 years […]
A Zillow survey reveals that dark gray may attract more prospective buyers — and higher offers — when you’re getting ready to sell. If you’re selling your house, choosing the right interior paint colors could affect buyers’ initial interest in your home and how much you get for it. “Paint is a relatively affordable and easy […]
The process of buying a home for the first time can be overwhelming — from finding a place that’s the right fit for you to saving up for a down payment, budgeting for closing costs and everything in between. When it comes to figuring out your financing options, you don’t have to do all the heavy-lifting alone — […]
In this month’s market report, we ask in-house economist Jeff Tucker about what seasonal cycles look like in a remarkably unusual year for home buying. If you’ve come up empty-handed after home shopping all spring and summer, you might want to keep your eyes peeled over the next few weeks. As summer wraps up, there […]
Home buying hurdles exist — but research, creativity and flexibility will help you clear them. Home buyers today face tough challenges — housing prices have soared, a dollar doesn’t go as far as it once did and rent is more expensive than the past. How are people today making such a large purchase despite these […]
There’s a lot to love about owning a swimming pool, provided you have the money, time and attention to maintain one. If you’re in love with swimming pools and the lifestyle that comes with them, you’ve probably been pouring over home listings with pools as summer gets into full swing. Pools can be a great […]
Buying a home is a significant financial transaction and a major decision. That’s why 89% of buyers use a real estate agent or broker to help them navigate the complicated home search and purchase process. For most buyers, having an expert by your side who has your best interest in mind is a no-brainer. Why […]
Thinking about buying? Be sure to include these five items in your calculations. Homeownership may be a goal for some, but it’s not the right fit for many. Renters account for 37 percent of all households in America — or just over 43.7 million homes, up more than 6.9 million since 2005. Even still, more than half of millennial […]
Whether you’re ready to buy your first home or just need an acronym refresher, keep this glossary handy. You don’t need a real estate license to find your dream home, but it does help to become familiar with real estate jargon you might encounter during the process. When searching for a home or applying for […]
Set yourself up for success and give your living space a refresh. With self-care becoming more of a priority than ever, many people are focusing on turning their homes into dedicated spaces that help them prioritize their health and wellness. And just like they’ve gotten creative with WFH setups, homeowners have come up with a variety […]
How home shoppers feel, why they feel it and what they can do about it. Looking for a home — and eventually buying a home — can be a roller coaster, filled with ups and downs. It’s one of the biggest decisions you can make, and while at times, you’ll feel elated, moments later, you might find yourself feeling […]
Discover homeowner tax deductions that may save you money during tax season for simply owning a home. Owning a home has its rewards and challenges — and that’s especially true at tax time. Depending on your circumstances, tax rules around homeownership can reduce the amount of income taxes you owe at filing time. This is […]
Whether you just bought a house or want to upgrade your tired tool kit, use this guide to nail down the essentials. There’s something empowering about having your own set of tools to take care of the home you own. Having a well-stocked toolbox can be liberating — it means you don’t have to call […]
Budgeting for your first home? Try these tips for boosting your savings. To make the leap from renter to homeowner, you’ll need to save, or have already started saving, for a down payment. A down payment is typically between 3% and 20% of the purchase price of a home, but if you’re like the median […]
Selling a house is time consuming and expensive — often much more than sellers might expect. When you’re thinking about selling, it’s easy to get excited looking at your Zestimate® home valuation tool and seeing how much your home value may have increased over the years, but it’s important to be prepared for the hidden, and sometimes […]
From refrigerators to locks, almost anything in your home can be upgraded with a smart home device. Here’s a guide to get started. Once the exclusive domain of the wealthy and technologically inclined, smart home tools and systems are becoming more accessible and new products are constantly coming on the market. Here’s a brief smart home […]
Wondering if home solar is right for you, but don’t know where to start? This guide can help. Solar power can be an attractive prospect for homeowners and shoppers. Home solar technology offers electricity bill savings, more energy independence, and resilience in the face of an increasing rate of power outages. For the environmentally conscious, […]
Seasoned homeowners weigh in on what caught them off guard, what delighted them and what lessons you can learn from them. Talk to any homeowner and they’ll probably tell you how excited they were when they first bought their home. After they’ve lived there a while, they’re likely to tell you about the things they […]
Applying these landscaping hacks now will give your home curb appeal that lasts all year. Having a lush, sun-washed garden is a dream, and if you’re willing to put in the work, getting there is totally doable, especially with the arrival of warmer weather. Despite the quick turnover that’s promised by home makeover shows, beautiful […]
Number seven is one LA-based interior designer’s “secret weapon” when staging a low light room. Plants can make a house feel like a home. They can make a statement, breathe life into a room and add a sense of calm. But the wrong plant can easily make a space feel off, and not to mention, […]
Dreaming of living on a houseboat or floating home? Here’s what you need to know about financing, dive inspections, life on the water and more. If you love being on the water, you may be considering buying a houseboat or a floating home instead of a more traditional residence. Before you venture out into open […]
Avoid these landlord and property manager pitfalls, and feel more confident in your rental investment. People enter the landlord business for many different reasons. Maybe you’re an “accidental landlord” who decided to rent out your former residence, or you gained a property through an inheritance. Or, maybe you diligently researched properties for sale and chose […]
Flipped homes can provide you with a spiffed up house that’s move-in ready or a lemon hiding behind freshly painted walls. A flipper house is one that an investor buys for the purposes of fixing up and reselling for a quick profit. When buying a flipped house, you could be getting a home that’s been […]
Looking for home upgrades that add value without blowing your renovation budget? This list has great suggestions. A farmhouse sink. LED lighting. A pot filler. You might think these relatively low-cost home upgrades wouldn’t add much value, but our research shows that these and other home upgrades with modest price tags could pay for themselves — or […]
An agent explains what buyers with dogs or cats are looking for (and what they aren’t). Some people choose a home because it’s adjacent to a hopping entertainment district or close to their job. But those of us with dogs, cats and other animals that are like our children, we pick homes that will make […]
Discover homeowner tax deductions that may save you money during tax season for simply owning a home. Owning a home has its rewards and challenges — and that’s especially true at tax time. Depending on your circumstances, tax rules around homeownership can reduce the amount of income taxes you owe at filing time. This is […]
Here’s what agents had to say about right-sizing expectations. The housing market looks a lot different today than it did 12 short months ago. If you’re trying to keep up, you’re not alone. According to a recent Zillow survey of real estate agents, would-be buyers and sellers commonly have misconceptions about the future state of home […]
Your future homeowner self will thank you for it. Home buyers today have access to a wealth of information about the home-buying process before they even begin talking to a real estate agent. Friends and family, social media — everyone has a lot to offer. While much of this guidance can be good or well-meaning, some may […]
Tackle one task per day, and you’ll be more organized in no time. Getting your home and space organized can help you feel more in control of your environment. That sense of order can reduce stress, help you focus on your own wellbeing and achieve your other goals. Follow these tips to organize your whole […]
What you need to know about kitchen islands, mirrored walls and more. Outdoor features are rising in favor this year, along with private spaces and several other notable home characteristics, according to a new study of millions of active for-sale Zillow® listings. To help identify 2023 interior design trends, our researchers examined listing descriptions for more than 200 […]
You’ve probably heard of Art Deco and Coastal style, but how much do you know about Biophilic design, Grand Millennial and Japandi? Décor styles come in many forms, from Art and Crafts to Japandi. If you’re looking at homes online and can’t tell transitional from traditional, it may be time to learn about the history […]
Start the year strong by checking off monthly maintenance tasks before working on your winter to-do list. Going through a home maintenance checklist is not the way most of us want to spend a Saturday. “I can’t wait to flush out the hot water heater today,” said no one, ever. But for most of us, our […]
Can you guess which Midwest town claimed the top spot? Signifying a new trend toward affordability, Prairie Village, Kansas, was Zillow’s most popular market of 2022. The designation also showcases rising interest in the Midwest, and it headlined a major shift from 2021’s leaders, many of which sat on or near the West Coast. Grand Rapids, […]
Here’s what you need to know about this popular home type — including why they tend to be more affordable than traditional builds. If your builder, agent or lender has suggested a prefab home, it may be for a good reason. Prefabricated homes — those built in a factory and shipped to a homeowner’s land […]
The story of the next year: Home buyers will find creative ways to make mortgage payments work for them. Even though 2022 is behind us, some of its challenges, like tight housing inventory and volatile mortgage rates, aren’t over. But there’s promising news for first-time buyers in 2023: Trends are pointing to a stabilization of the […]
A home’s exterior can tell you a lot if you know what to look for. Learn what architectural details give a home its character and history in this guide. Dwellings come in a rainbow of home architectural styles, ranging from art deco to mid-century modern to Victorian. If you’re looking at homes online and wondering what’s what, it’s […]
No matter what your local housing market is like, there are always strategies for finding cheaper homes. Here are nine of them. Competition for homes is cooling, but with mortgage rates climbing and home values still 14.1% higher than they were a year ago, it may feel like finding a deal when buying a house is […]
A new Zillow study reveals two shades of paint that may wow prospective buyers — and two that fall short. Ever browse homes on Zillow and pause at a home that has a stand-out front door? Perhaps it’s a fresh red or canary yellow. There’s a reason you paused — and it’s likely the seller […]
Licensed marriage counselor Lauren Cook-McKay shares what to do when you can’t agree. City or suburbs? Move-in ready or fixer-upper? Condo or sprawling ranch? These are just three of the many, many questions home-buying partners have to answer together. But “home” means different things to different people. And if you’re buying or planning to buy a home with someone […]
From handling inspections to finding an agent, here’s what you need to know to make long-distance house-hunting less complicated. Maybe you’ve been asked to relocate for a job. Maybe you’re looking to retire in another state. Or you’re thinking about getting a vacation home. Whatever your reasons, if you need to buy a house in another […]
From assembling your team to making your wish list, here’s how to get your home-buying journey off to a strong start. For the first time in years, home buyers are shopping with more time and bargaining power, and even price cuts in some areas — meaning you may be facing less competition on that home you’ve been […]
Ask yourself these six questions as you consider whether to buy a home in a vacation destination — and move there full-time. With more remote work options and greater emphasis on outdoor living, it is no surprise that popular travel destinations — from Tahoe to Tempe — have been among some of the most popular places […]
The process of buying a home using a VA loan is a little different than using other types of home loans. Here’s how to get started. If you or someone you know are one of the approximately 19 million veterans eligible to buy a home using a VA loan, you’re in luck. This type of mortgage offers […]
Too cold? Too hot? Too dark? Too dated? Too … something else? Try these DIY solutions that cost $500 or less. No matter how much you love your home, there’s probably something about it you’d love to change. Fixing major flaws can prove costly, but many more affordable renovations can make your home more comfortable and convenient […]
And how to decide whether you should buy that house with “potential”. When someone says a house has “good bones,” what exactly does that mean? And if you’re shopping for a home, how can you determine if the one you like fits the definition? If it doesn’t, should you buy it or walk away? While […]
You don’t have to be selling your house to borrow these ideas — straight from the design experts. If you’ve ever been wowed by an open house — and honestly, who hasn’t? — you may well wonder how you can recreate that impressive look in your own home and do it with a holiday flair. […]
Plus, a printable four-week plan to help you get it all done. The days are a little shorter, the nights are a little cooler and the kids are back at school — fall is here, and you know what that means if you’re a homeowner: It’s time to get your house in shape for the […]
Find out which strategy a loan expert says is the easiest for cutting costs over the long term. With inflation tightening household budgets and rising rates making refinancing less attractive, it’s no wonder many homeowners are seeking other ways to lower their mortgage payments. Here are eight smart strategies — straight from mortgage professionals — […]
Tallying all the costs involved in home ownership can give you a true picture of affordability. The best time to get a sense of the costs involved in home ownership is before you begin to look for one. While most prospective buyers are familiar with big ticket items such as mortgage payments and property taxes, […]
Plus, four tips for making maintenance more manageable — do two of these before you even move in. Owning a home can be joyous, bringing you immense pride and a sense of accomplishment. But we won’t lie; achieving that sense of bliss sometimes requires repainting your kitchen ceiling. Or repairing a leak in your shower […]
Trust us when we say you’ll want to think this through. t’s true whether you’re committing to a 30-year mortgage or a year-long lease: you can update your surroundings with a renovation or removable wallpaper, but you can’t change your neighborhood or location. So how do you make sure you don’t overlook the importance of a […]
Three out of four homebuyers in a Zillow survey report having at least one regret about the home they bought. Follow these tips to avoid buyer’s remorse. In a hot seller’s market, it’s easy to get so caught up in the search for a home that you overlook the home’s shortcomings. Or, you may fail […]
If you were deterred by stiff competition in spring and summer, know that things may look a little different in fall 2022. Fall tends to be a good time for buyers, and this year could be especially good for buyers sidelined by fierce competition and a shortage of homes over the past two years, according […]
You don’t have to be selling your house to appreciate these tips. Curb appeal, that first impression your house makes from the street, is a big deal. If you’re selling your house, curb appeal attracts buyers. If you’re keeping your house, curb appeal makes your place so much nicer to come home to. Here are […]
Seasoned homeowners weigh in on what caught them off guard, what delighted them and what lessons you can learn from them. Let’s cut to the chase: If there’s one thing that seems to take first-time home buyers by surprise more than anything else, it’s maintenance. This includes the amount required to keep a home functioning, […]
Learning the best ways to find an apartment in a competitive rental market can save you time and money. Use our tips to make your search easier. Finding an apartment when everyone else seems to be looking for one, too, can test anyone’s optimism. Knowing how to find an apartment for rent quickly and with the […]
Your future homeowner self will thank you for it. Home buyers today have access to a wealth of information about the home-buying process before they even begin talking to a real estate agent. Friends and family, social media — everyone has a lot to offer. While much of this guidance can be good or well-meaning, some may […]
No matter what your local housing market is like, there are always strategies for finding cheaper homes. Here are nine of them. Sure, competition for homes is cooling, but with mortgage rates climbing and home values still rising at a significantly higher pace than what was typical pre-pandemic, it may feel like finding a deal when […]
From private parks, to running tracks, to a spot to securely store your collection, these apartment amenities make for some serious splendor. Once upon a time, if an apartment building had a pool, it was uptown. These days it takes a lot more than a pool to stand out. Luxury rentals have upped the ante on […]
Considering residential solar installation for your home? Ask these questions to help avoid common pitfalls. Solar power can be an attractive prospect for homeowners and shoppers. Home solar technology offers resilience, electricity bill savings and more energy independence. For the environmentally conscious, it provides an eco-friendly alternative to existing electricity sources. What’s more, Zillow research indicates listings that highlight […]
Selling your home is no easy process, in terms of both the actual logistics and the emotional connection you often have to your home. After all, according to the Zillow Group Consumer Housing Trends Report 2021, the average seller reported living in their homes for about 14 years before selling. While most sales don’t go 100 […]
Incorporate these tips to help lower your home buying expenses when your offer is accepted. The housing market is tough; interest rates are hovering at or around 6%, and inflation is bumping up the cost of everything you’ll want to purchase for a new place once you find one. No matter your offer price for […]
During periods of inflation, buying a home can offer a way to stabilize housing costs for decades to come. Today’s housing market looks a lot different than it did when the year started, with buyers and sellers adjusting to the twin realities of high inflation and spiking mortgage interest rates. While the market remains a hot […]
Looking for home upgrades that add value and don’t cause you to blow your renovation budget? This list has great suggestions. Paint. Broadband. Dog house. You might think these easy, low-cost home upgrades wouldn’t add much value, but Zillow research shows that these and other home upgrades with estimated price tags of less than $100, $500 or $1,000 […]
Searching for your dream home and wondering if it’s worth buying a fixer-upper and making it your own? Here’s what you need to know. While the process of buying and renovating fixer-upper homes has increased in popularity due to fix-and-flip home improvement TV shows, not everyone is cut out for major renovation projects. In fact, […]
If you’re in the process of buying a home you may have heard the term “contingency.” These are clauses in your contract that give you an out if something unforeseen arises from the time you make an offer until you close. Real estate contingencies protect you from losing your earnest money if you walk away from the transaction and […]
2022 is proving tough for all aspects of home renovation, from hiring contractors, to buying supplies. Here’s what to expect — and ways to cope. If you have plans to renovate your home — or if you’re shopping for a fixer upper to buy, you might be wondering whether now is a good time to remodel […]
11 pet-friendly maintenance and decor tips that can help keep your house a sneeze-free zone. You love your pet, but you don’t love it when your pet triggers your allergies. If cat fluff and dog dander give you a scratchy throat and watery eyes, you don’t have to live an animal-free life. You can still have […]
About 46 percent of home buyers are purchasing a home for the first time, and with that first home can come particular financial hurdles around saving for a down payment, and paying for closing costs. About two-thirds (64 percent) of first-time buyers put less than 20 percent down on their first home, and a quarter put down 5 percent […]
You may have been pre-approved and know what you can afford, so it’s time to take your home search to the next phase. But the hunt for your home will stall rapidly if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for — or perhaps more importantly, what your non-negotiables are. It’s easy to talk in generalities about wanting […]
Even seemingly small changes in mortgage rates, like 1% or 0.5%, can make a big difference in what you pay over the life of your loan. When you’re sizing up a home to buy, it’s tempting to focus only on the price to decide whether it fits your budget. But current mortgage rates are an […]
Some improvements have limited appeal to home buyers, and may even affect your sale price when you go to sell. One of the best things about owning a home is the ability to change things up, whether it’s knocking down a kitchen wall to open up space or filling your backyard with your favorite fruit […]
Wondering if home solar is right for you, but don’t know where to start? This guide can help. Solar power can be an attractive prospect for homeowners and shoppers. Home solar technology offers electricity bill savings, more energy independence, and resilience in the face of an increasing rate of power outages. For the environmentally conscious, […]
Plus six things to do every month. Tackling a seasonal home maintenance to-do list is not the way most of us want to spend a Saturday. “I can’t wait to flush out the hot water heater today,”‘” said no one, ever. But for most of us, our home is our biggest investment. Maintaining it is a […]
Buying a house can be a complicated, stressful process. Here are 10 steps to help you confidently find your new home. Buying a home can be stressful during the best of times, and it might feel positively overwhelming in a highly competitive market. Although a few of the details may look different right now, the […]
Resources to help make owning a home a reality. If you’re among the millions of people who want to own a home someday, you’ve probably spent a good amount of time online looking at homes — and home prices — and wondering “how do people afford houses in this market?” It’s a reasonable question, especially […]
The typical mortgage payment in these housing markets consumes less than a third of the median household monthly income. Finding a home that fits your needs while leaving money in your pocket to enjoy life can feel like an impossible journey at times. But real estate markets vary widely, and there are still markets where […]
Price cuts and an uptick in for-sale listings mark the start of the busiest season for home buyers and sellers. Spring home buying season — typically the most active time of year for home shopping — is about to begin in earnest with a calmer market. But while the boost in newly listed homes that […]
Seasoned homeowners weigh in on what caught them off guard, what delighted them and what lessons you can learn from them. Talk to any homeowner and they’ll probably tell you how excited they were when they first bought their home. After they’ve lived there a while, they’re likely to tell you about the things they […]
How this non-traditional path to ownership leads to substantial savings and surprising community. For most new homeowners, getting the key to their own home means saying goodbye to roommates they lived with during college or while building job experience. And then there are homeowners like Christine Knapp, who began posting online for a roommate soon […]
When using a mortgage to finance your home purchase, an appraisal lets you and the lender know that the property is priced appropriately. That way you don’t end up paying more for a home than it is worth, and your lender doesn’t need to make adjustments to the loan amount, since they will only lend as much […]
A Zillow study reveals paint colors that may wow prospective buyers — and colors that fall short. Do you find yourself browsing homes on Zillow and pausing at a home that has a stand-out front door? Maybe it’s a bright red or a sunshine yellow. There’s a reason you paused — and it’s likely because the seller was […]
A guide for finding a home you love in a place that feels like home. Deciding where to live — whether it’s for a year or a lifetime — can mean weighing up dozens of complex considerations. These span from broad factors like the local job market, to more specific concerns like whether it will […]
Renovating doesn’t always mean big returns. See which improvements pay off when you sell. Whether you’re thinking of selling in the next six months or a few years down the road, remodeling with return on investment (ROI) in mind is a smart financial move. Few investments recoup more than 100% of their cost, but collectively, […]
See which seaside and vacation towns made the list. Small cities and towns captured the imagination of Zillow® surfers in 2023, drawn perhaps by smaller home prices and proximity to major cities with lots of amenities. “Affordability was the word on home shoppers’ minds, and it shows in the most popular cities that buyers on […]
A mortgage is a loan you take out on a piece of land or real estate when you don’t have all the cash-on hand to buy, improve or maintain it on your own. A bank or other financial institution will lend you the money under the condition that you repay the loaned amount by a set […]
Moving — whether it’s buying, renting or selling — poses special challenges for people with ADHD. These tips may help. Jessica McCabe knows a thing or two about moving. The host of the popular “How to ADHD” YouTube channel and website by the same name moved five times in three years — and during a pandemic, no […]
See the next wave of interior design trends in action. We know we’re biased, but there are few things we love more than finding home design marvels on Zillow (and we’re not alone). Sure, not every home can claim a moat or a ’50s style diner as an amenity, but we have noticed a number of features arguably just as […]
Loan officers break down what you need to know about student debt and owning a home. Student loans are undoubtedly a daunting financial obstacle, so it’s only natural to feel like they’re holding you back from owning a home. But buying a house with student loan debt is possible. Whether or not you should get […]
What experts say is the key to an odor-free kitchen, plus more room-by-room advice. Open concept homes can feel airy and spacious, but they can be relatively difficult to keep clean. The lack of walls means clutter is inevitably out in the open, and suitable storage space is a precious resource. Luckily, there are tricks […]
The forecast calls for a calmer real estate market with slight improvements in affordability for buyers, concessions for renters and more AI-generated guidance for home shoppers. It’s been one of the most challenging years on record for the housing market, with rock-bottom inventory and mortgage rates hitting highs not seen in the past two decades. […]
Credit card companies, auto dealerships, mortgage bankers and other lenders use credit scores to determine the risk of loaning money to a borrower, how much they will loan, and the interest rate they’ll charge. Most lenders use FICO scores, which range from 300 to 850, to gauge creditworthiness. The higher your score, the more credit-worthy […]
Find out what getting pre-approved for a mortgage means, if you should get pre-approved while house shopping, and how you can get pre-approved. When you start to get serious about buying a home, a mortgage pre-approval is an important first step. Getting pre-approved for a mortgage lets you know how much money you can borrow, the range […]
Loan officers break down what you need to know about student debt and owning a home. Student loans are undoubtedly a daunting financial obstacle, so it’s only natural to feel like they’re holding you back from owning a home. But buying a house with student loan debt is possible. Whether or not you should get […]
Add warmth and comfort to your home with these design ideas from past decades. With the arrival of the cooler months, it’s natural to start thinking about how you can make your home more cozy and inviting. Now is the perfect time to make little (or big) changes that will infuse your home with an […]
A boost in new listings nationally, along with price cuts, favors buyers. The local picture, however, is a mixed bag. What’s going on this fall in the housing market? It depends on where you look. Nationally, home values saw a “marked cooldown” from July to August, according to Zillow® Senior Economist Jeff Tucker, with prices […]
Our brains can sometimes trick us into a buying a home that doesn’t fit our needs. Following these tips could help minimize buyer’s remorse. If you’ve ever made an impulse purchase, you know what it feels like to have your brain seize up and focus only on the shiny thing in front of you that […]
Buying a home for the first time? Use this guide to help ensure a smoother and less stressful experience. For many first-time home buyers, the financing process can seem intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be. Here are six things to remember as you embark on this process. 1. Make sure you understand the full […]
Haunted houses are labeled as “stigmatized properties,” but they can be highly sought-after. Marianne Bornhoft was locking up after an open house showing when she heard a faint cry: “Help me!” Following the cries downstairs to the basement, the veteran real estate agent ended up in front of what appeared to be a concealed door. […]
Mortgage hacks and strategies that agents say can help make home buying more affordable — and help close the deal. Buying a home is a team sport, and that’s especially true when buyers are facing the kinds of affordability challenges they are now. Volatile interest rates and tough competition for a limited supply of homes […]
Learn how to avoid these nine home-selling mistakes. Selling your home is no easy process, in terms of both the actual logistics and the emotional connection you often have to your home. After all, according to the Zillow Group Consumer Housing Trends Report 2021, the average seller reported living in their homes for about 14 years […]
A Zillow survey reveals that dark gray may attract more prospective buyers — and higher offers — when you’re getting ready to sell. If you’re selling your house, choosing the right interior paint colors could affect buyers’ initial interest in your home and how much you get for it. “Paint is a relatively affordable and easy […]
The process of buying a home for the first time can be overwhelming — from finding a place that’s the right fit for you to saving up for a down payment, budgeting for closing costs and everything in between. When it comes to figuring out your financing options, you don’t have to do all the heavy-lifting alone — […]
In this month’s market report, we ask in-house economist Jeff Tucker about what seasonal cycles look like in a remarkably unusual year for home buying. If you’ve come up empty-handed after home shopping all spring and summer, you might want to keep your eyes peeled over the next few weeks. As summer wraps up, there […]
Home buying hurdles exist — but research, creativity and flexibility will help you clear them. Home buyers today face tough challenges — housing prices have soared, a dollar doesn’t go as far as it once did and rent is more expensive than the past. How are people today making such a large purchase despite these […]
There’s a lot to love about owning a swimming pool, provided you have the money, time and attention to maintain one. If you’re in love with swimming pools and the lifestyle that comes with them, you’ve probably been pouring over home listings with pools as summer gets into full swing. Pools can be a great […]
Buying a home is a significant financial transaction and a major decision. That’s why 89% of buyers use a real estate agent or broker to help them navigate the complicated home search and purchase process. For most buyers, having an expert by your side who has your best interest in mind is a no-brainer. Why […]
Thinking about buying? Be sure to include these five items in your calculations. Homeownership may be a goal for some, but it’s not the right fit for many. Renters account for 37 percent of all households in America — or just over 43.7 million homes, up more than 6.9 million since 2005. Even still, more than half of millennial […]
Whether you’re ready to buy your first home or just need an acronym refresher, keep this glossary handy. You don’t need a real estate license to find your dream home, but it does help to become familiar with real estate jargon you might encounter during the process. When searching for a home or applying for […]
Set yourself up for success and give your living space a refresh. With self-care becoming more of a priority than ever, many people are focusing on turning their homes into dedicated spaces that help them prioritize their health and wellness. And just like they’ve gotten creative with WFH setups, homeowners have come up with a variety […]
How home shoppers feel, why they feel it and what they can do about it. Looking for a home — and eventually buying a home — can be a roller coaster, filled with ups and downs. It’s one of the biggest decisions you can make, and while at times, you’ll feel elated, moments later, you might find yourself feeling […]
Discover homeowner tax deductions that may save you money during tax season for simply owning a home. Owning a home has its rewards and challenges — and that’s especially true at tax time. Depending on your circumstances, tax rules around homeownership can reduce the amount of income taxes you owe at filing time. This is […]
Whether you just bought a house or want to upgrade your tired tool kit, use this guide to nail down the essentials. There’s something empowering about having your own set of tools to take care of the home you own. Having a well-stocked toolbox can be liberating — it means you don’t have to call […]
Budgeting for your first home? Try these tips for boosting your savings. To make the leap from renter to homeowner, you’ll need to save, or have already started saving, for a down payment. A down payment is typically between 3% and 20% of the purchase price of a home, but if you’re like the median […]
Selling a house is time consuming and expensive — often much more than sellers might expect. When you’re thinking about selling, it’s easy to get excited looking at your Zestimate® home valuation tool and seeing how much your home value may have increased over the years, but it’s important to be prepared for the hidden, and sometimes […]
From refrigerators to locks, almost anything in your home can be upgraded with a smart home device. Here’s a guide to get started. Once the exclusive domain of the wealthy and technologically inclined, smart home tools and systems are becoming more accessible and new products are constantly coming on the market. Here’s a brief smart home […]
Wondering if home solar is right for you, but don’t know where to start? This guide can help. Solar power can be an attractive prospect for homeowners and shoppers. Home solar technology offers electricity bill savings, more energy independence, and resilience in the face of an increasing rate of power outages. For the environmentally conscious, […]
Seasoned homeowners weigh in on what caught them off guard, what delighted them and what lessons you can learn from them. Talk to any homeowner and they’ll probably tell you how excited they were when they first bought their home. After they’ve lived there a while, they’re likely to tell you about the things they […]
Applying these landscaping hacks now will give your home curb appeal that lasts all year. Having a lush, sun-washed garden is a dream, and if you’re willing to put in the work, getting there is totally doable, especially with the arrival of warmer weather. Despite the quick turnover that’s promised by home makeover shows, beautiful […]
Number seven is one LA-based interior designer’s “secret weapon” when staging a low light room. Plants can make a house feel like a home. They can make a statement, breathe life into a room and add a sense of calm. But the wrong plant can easily make a space feel off, and not to mention, […]
Dreaming of living on a houseboat or floating home? Here’s what you need to know about financing, dive inspections, life on the water and more. If you love being on the water, you may be considering buying a houseboat or a floating home instead of a more traditional residence. Before you venture out into open […]
Avoid these landlord and property manager pitfalls, and feel more confident in your rental investment. People enter the landlord business for many different reasons. Maybe you’re an “accidental landlord” who decided to rent out your former residence, or you gained a property through an inheritance. Or, maybe you diligently researched properties for sale and chose […]
Flipped homes can provide you with a spiffed up house that’s move-in ready or a lemon hiding behind freshly painted walls. A flipper house is one that an investor buys for the purposes of fixing up and reselling for a quick profit. When buying a flipped house, you could be getting a home that’s been […]
Looking for home upgrades that add value without blowing your renovation budget? This list has great suggestions. A farmhouse sink. LED lighting. A pot filler. You might think these relatively low-cost home upgrades wouldn’t add much value, but our research shows that these and other home upgrades with modest price tags could pay for themselves — or […]
An agent explains what buyers with dogs or cats are looking for (and what they aren’t). Some people choose a home because it’s adjacent to a hopping entertainment district or close to their job. But those of us with dogs, cats and other animals that are like our children, we pick homes that will make […]
Discover homeowner tax deductions that may save you money during tax season for simply owning a home. Owning a home has its rewards and challenges — and that’s especially true at tax time. Depending on your circumstances, tax rules around homeownership can reduce the amount of income taxes you owe at filing time. This is […]
Here’s what agents had to say about right-sizing expectations. The housing market looks a lot different today than it did 12 short months ago. If you’re trying to keep up, you’re not alone. According to a recent Zillow survey of real estate agents, would-be buyers and sellers commonly have misconceptions about the future state of home […]
Your future homeowner self will thank you for it. Home buyers today have access to a wealth of information about the home-buying process before they even begin talking to a real estate agent. Friends and family, social media — everyone has a lot to offer. While much of this guidance can be good or well-meaning, some may […]
Tackle one task per day, and you’ll be more organized in no time. Getting your home and space organized can help you feel more in control of your environment. That sense of order can reduce stress, help you focus on your own wellbeing and achieve your other goals. Follow these tips to organize your whole […]
What you need to know about kitchen islands, mirrored walls and more. Outdoor features are rising in favor this year, along with private spaces and several other notable home characteristics, according to a new study of millions of active for-sale Zillow® listings. To help identify 2023 interior design trends, our researchers examined listing descriptions for more than 200 […]
You’ve probably heard of Art Deco and Coastal style, but how much do you know about Biophilic design, Grand Millennial and Japandi? Décor styles come in many forms, from Art and Crafts to Japandi. If you’re looking at homes online and can’t tell transitional from traditional, it may be time to learn about the history […]
Start the year strong by checking off monthly maintenance tasks before working on your winter to-do list. Going through a home maintenance checklist is not the way most of us want to spend a Saturday. “I can’t wait to flush out the hot water heater today,” said no one, ever. But for most of us, our […]
Can you guess which Midwest town claimed the top spot? Signifying a new trend toward affordability, Prairie Village, Kansas, was Zillow’s most popular market of 2022. The designation also showcases rising interest in the Midwest, and it headlined a major shift from 2021’s leaders, many of which sat on or near the West Coast. Grand Rapids, […]
Here’s what you need to know about this popular home type — including why they tend to be more affordable than traditional builds. If your builder, agent or lender has suggested a prefab home, it may be for a good reason. Prefabricated homes — those built in a factory and shipped to a homeowner’s land […]
The story of the next year: Home buyers will find creative ways to make mortgage payments work for them. Even though 2022 is behind us, some of its challenges, like tight housing inventory and volatile mortgage rates, aren’t over. But there’s promising news for first-time buyers in 2023: Trends are pointing to a stabilization of the […]
A home’s exterior can tell you a lot if you know what to look for. Learn what architectural details give a home its character and history in this guide. Dwellings come in a rainbow of home architectural styles, ranging from art deco to mid-century modern to Victorian. If you’re looking at homes online and wondering what’s what, it’s […]
No matter what your local housing market is like, there are always strategies for finding cheaper homes. Here are nine of them. Competition for homes is cooling, but with mortgage rates climbing and home values still 14.1% higher than they were a year ago, it may feel like finding a deal when buying a house is […]
A new Zillow study reveals two shades of paint that may wow prospective buyers — and two that fall short. Ever browse homes on Zillow and pause at a home that has a stand-out front door? Perhaps it’s a fresh red or canary yellow. There’s a reason you paused — and it’s likely the seller […]
Licensed marriage counselor Lauren Cook-McKay shares what to do when you can’t agree. City or suburbs? Move-in ready or fixer-upper? Condo or sprawling ranch? These are just three of the many, many questions home-buying partners have to answer together. But “home” means different things to different people. And if you’re buying or planning to buy a home with someone […]
From handling inspections to finding an agent, here’s what you need to know to make long-distance house-hunting less complicated. Maybe you’ve been asked to relocate for a job. Maybe you’re looking to retire in another state. Or you’re thinking about getting a vacation home. Whatever your reasons, if you need to buy a house in another […]
From assembling your team to making your wish list, here’s how to get your home-buying journey off to a strong start. For the first time in years, home buyers are shopping with more time and bargaining power, and even price cuts in some areas — meaning you may be facing less competition on that home you’ve been […]
Ask yourself these six questions as you consider whether to buy a home in a vacation destination — and move there full-time. With more remote work options and greater emphasis on outdoor living, it is no surprise that popular travel destinations — from Tahoe to Tempe — have been among some of the most popular places […]
The process of buying a home using a VA loan is a little different than using other types of home loans. Here’s how to get started. If you or someone you know are one of the approximately 19 million veterans eligible to buy a home using a VA loan, you’re in luck. This type of mortgage offers […]
Too cold? Too hot? Too dark? Too dated? Too … something else? Try these DIY solutions that cost $500 or less. No matter how much you love your home, there’s probably something about it you’d love to change. Fixing major flaws can prove costly, but many more affordable renovations can make your home more comfortable and convenient […]
And how to decide whether you should buy that house with “potential”. When someone says a house has “good bones,” what exactly does that mean? And if you’re shopping for a home, how can you determine if the one you like fits the definition? If it doesn’t, should you buy it or walk away? While […]
You don’t have to be selling your house to borrow these ideas — straight from the design experts. If you’ve ever been wowed by an open house — and honestly, who hasn’t? — you may well wonder how you can recreate that impressive look in your own home and do it with a holiday flair. […]
Plus, a printable four-week plan to help you get it all done. The days are a little shorter, the nights are a little cooler and the kids are back at school — fall is here, and you know what that means if you’re a homeowner: It’s time to get your house in shape for the […]
Find out which strategy a loan expert says is the easiest for cutting costs over the long term. With inflation tightening household budgets and rising rates making refinancing less attractive, it’s no wonder many homeowners are seeking other ways to lower their mortgage payments. Here are eight smart strategies — straight from mortgage professionals — […]
Tallying all the costs involved in home ownership can give you a true picture of affordability. The best time to get a sense of the costs involved in home ownership is before you begin to look for one. While most prospective buyers are familiar with big ticket items such as mortgage payments and property taxes, […]
Plus, four tips for making maintenance more manageable — do two of these before you even move in. Owning a home can be joyous, bringing you immense pride and a sense of accomplishment. But we won’t lie; achieving that sense of bliss sometimes requires repainting your kitchen ceiling. Or repairing a leak in your shower […]
Trust us when we say you’ll want to think this through. t’s true whether you’re committing to a 30-year mortgage or a year-long lease: you can update your surroundings with a renovation or removable wallpaper, but you can’t change your neighborhood or location. So how do you make sure you don’t overlook the importance of a […]
Three out of four homebuyers in a Zillow survey report having at least one regret about the home they bought. Follow these tips to avoid buyer’s remorse. In a hot seller’s market, it’s easy to get so caught up in the search for a home that you overlook the home’s shortcomings. Or, you may fail […]
If you were deterred by stiff competition in spring and summer, know that things may look a little different in fall 2022. Fall tends to be a good time for buyers, and this year could be especially good for buyers sidelined by fierce competition and a shortage of homes over the past two years, according […]
You don’t have to be selling your house to appreciate these tips. Curb appeal, that first impression your house makes from the street, is a big deal. If you’re selling your house, curb appeal attracts buyers. If you’re keeping your house, curb appeal makes your place so much nicer to come home to. Here are […]
Seasoned homeowners weigh in on what caught them off guard, what delighted them and what lessons you can learn from them. Let’s cut to the chase: If there’s one thing that seems to take first-time home buyers by surprise more than anything else, it’s maintenance. This includes the amount required to keep a home functioning, […]
Learning the best ways to find an apartment in a competitive rental market can save you time and money. Use our tips to make your search easier. Finding an apartment when everyone else seems to be looking for one, too, can test anyone’s optimism. Knowing how to find an apartment for rent quickly and with the […]
Your future homeowner self will thank you for it. Home buyers today have access to a wealth of information about the home-buying process before they even begin talking to a real estate agent. Friends and family, social media — everyone has a lot to offer. While much of this guidance can be good or well-meaning, some may […]
No matter what your local housing market is like, there are always strategies for finding cheaper homes. Here are nine of them. Sure, competition for homes is cooling, but with mortgage rates climbing and home values still rising at a significantly higher pace than what was typical pre-pandemic, it may feel like finding a deal when […]
From private parks, to running tracks, to a spot to securely store your collection, these apartment amenities make for some serious splendor. Once upon a time, if an apartment building had a pool, it was uptown. These days it takes a lot more than a pool to stand out. Luxury rentals have upped the ante on […]
Considering residential solar installation for your home? Ask these questions to help avoid common pitfalls. Solar power can be an attractive prospect for homeowners and shoppers. Home solar technology offers resilience, electricity bill savings and more energy independence. For the environmentally conscious, it provides an eco-friendly alternative to existing electricity sources. What’s more, Zillow research indicates listings that highlight […]
Selling your home is no easy process, in terms of both the actual logistics and the emotional connection you often have to your home. After all, according to the Zillow Group Consumer Housing Trends Report 2021, the average seller reported living in their homes for about 14 years before selling. While most sales don’t go 100 […]
Incorporate these tips to help lower your home buying expenses when your offer is accepted. The housing market is tough; interest rates are hovering at or around 6%, and inflation is bumping up the cost of everything you’ll want to purchase for a new place once you find one. No matter your offer price for […]
During periods of inflation, buying a home can offer a way to stabilize housing costs for decades to come. Today’s housing market looks a lot different than it did when the year started, with buyers and sellers adjusting to the twin realities of high inflation and spiking mortgage interest rates. While the market remains a hot […]
Looking for home upgrades that add value and don’t cause you to blow your renovation budget? This list has great suggestions. Paint. Broadband. Dog house. You might think these easy, low-cost home upgrades wouldn’t add much value, but Zillow research shows that these and other home upgrades with estimated price tags of less than $100, $500 or $1,000 […]
Searching for your dream home and wondering if it’s worth buying a fixer-upper and making it your own? Here’s what you need to know. While the process of buying and renovating fixer-upper homes has increased in popularity due to fix-and-flip home improvement TV shows, not everyone is cut out for major renovation projects. In fact, […]
If you’re in the process of buying a home you may have heard the term “contingency.” These are clauses in your contract that give you an out if something unforeseen arises from the time you make an offer until you close. Real estate contingencies protect you from losing your earnest money if you walk away from the transaction and […]
2022 is proving tough for all aspects of home renovation, from hiring contractors, to buying supplies. Here’s what to expect — and ways to cope. If you have plans to renovate your home — or if you’re shopping for a fixer upper to buy, you might be wondering whether now is a good time to remodel […]
11 pet-friendly maintenance and decor tips that can help keep your house a sneeze-free zone. You love your pet, but you don’t love it when your pet triggers your allergies. If cat fluff and dog dander give you a scratchy throat and watery eyes, you don’t have to live an animal-free life. You can still have […]
About 46 percent of home buyers are purchasing a home for the first time, and with that first home can come particular financial hurdles around saving for a down payment, and paying for closing costs. About two-thirds (64 percent) of first-time buyers put less than 20 percent down on their first home, and a quarter put down 5 percent […]