Should I buy a house now, or wait?
Buy now, or wait? It’s a question many aspiring homeowners are struggling with.
6 min read
Dec 10, 2024
Real Estate
From finding your dream home to securing a great financing offer, we guide you through every step of the homebuying process.
What you need to know about
Like any big project, a successful homebuying experience is all about getting the details right from start to finish. We’re here to help you navigate the process, save money and close the deal.
Start your research and make sure you're ready
Buying a house is a major commitment. Before you begin shopping for properties or comparing mortgage options, you need to make sure you're ready to be a homeowner. We've curated our top articles and resources to help you with the big decisions.
Start saving and get your finances in order
Get the details on how to save for a down payment, decide which type of mortgage works for you, and start getting quotes from lenders.
Begin your home search and find an agent
Now it's time to find a real estate agent and shop for your home! We've got the tips and trips to help you get started.
Negotiate offers, get an inspection, and prepare to close
From making an offer to negotiating closing costs and hiring a home inspector, we have the information you need.
RECOMMENDED ARTICLES
How to buy a house in 2024
Buying a home is complicated. This step-by-step guide will help you get to the finish line.
12 min read
Oct 08, 2024
How much money do you need to buy a house?
If you’re buying a home, here are all the costs to consider.
10 min read
Jun 29, 2023
Average credit score to buy a house
Some types of mortgages have specific minimum credit score requirements.
5 min read
Dec 13, 2022
Selling a home isn’t hard if you’ve got the right guidance and approach. Here we break down the process to sell your house—from deciding if you really should sell, to finding a real estate agent who’ll be your partner through it all, to pricing your home and negotiating offers.
Set a plan and timeline to sell your home
From finding an agent who knows the market to setting a timeline for selling your home, we have plenty of resources to help you get started.
Get your home market-ready and arrange for showings
Once you're ready to sell, you'll need to get a pre-sale home inspection and put your house on the market. You might also consider staging your home to attract buyers at showings.
Set a realistic price and review your offers carefully
Here are some tips and tricks to help you set a realistic price for your house and negotiate incoming offers.
Anticipate closing costs and get your paperwork together
Some of the last steps you'll need to take to sell your home include anticipating your closing costs, weighing your tax implications, and gathering the necessary paperwork to close.
RECOMMENDED ARTICLES
Should I sell my house now or wait?
Interest rates, home prices and buyer demand all factor into whether it’s a good time to sell.
7 min read
Dec 19, 2024
How to sell your house: A step-by-step guide
Our 9-step guide to a smooth, successful home sale.
8 min read
Nov 18, 2024
How do real estate agent fees and commissions work?
Real estate commissions: How much they are, how they work and who pays them.
8 min read
Aug 16, 2024
BANKRATE AGENT SEARCH
Find a local real estate agent
Connect with experienced agents who can guide you on your home journey
Weekly mortgage rates
Bankrate consistently has offers well below the national average to help you fund your home for less.
Bankrate Average
6.36%APR
30-year fixed
VS
National Average
6.83%APR
30-year fixed
Editor's Picks
The future of real estate commissions
6 min read
How to buy a house in 2024
12 min read
Latest Articles
-
Capital gains tax on real estate and selling your home
Home sales may incur capital gains taxes. Here’s how to keep as much profit in your pocket as possible.
7 min read Dec 20, 2024 -
Should I sell my house for cash? Pros and cons of cash home sales
A cash home offer means the buyer can pay in full, without needing a mortgage.
4 min read Dec 19, 2024 -
Should I sell my house now or wait?
Interest rates, home prices and buyer demand all factor into whether it’s a good time to sell.
7 min read Dec 19, 2024 -
Prices still at record levels even as existing-home sales tick up
Home prices hit a new record high for November, according to NAR.
3 min read Dec 19, 2024 -
How much does it cost to sell a house in Pennsylvania?
Selling a house isn’t all profit — there are closing costs and other expenses to consider.
4 min read Dec 18, 2024 -
What the Fed’s rate cuts mean for homebuyers and sellers
The Fed cut rates by another quarter point — how will it affect the housing market?
4 min read Dec 18, 2024 -
How to get an instant cash offer for your house
Interested in an instant, all-cash offer for your home? Here’s how to get one.
6 min read Dec 17, 2024 -
Real estate agent definition: What they are and how they work
Agents are licensed professionals who help clients buy or sell a home.
4 min read Dec 16, 2024 -
Buyer’s market vs. seller’s market: What’s the difference?
Here’s how to tell what type of market you’re in, and how to make the most of it.
5 min read Dec 13, 2024 -
How local zoning laws hurt housing affordability — and what can be done about it
Local zoning laws play a huge part in housing affordability nationwide — here’s how.
5 min read Dec 11, 2024
The trusted provider of accurate rates and financial information