Homes
Owning a home is a big financial commitment, but with Bankrate in your corner, you can confidently navigate the ins and outs of homeownership, from mortgages and real estate to insurance and home equity.
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.
Make sure you're ready to buy a home
Buying a house is an exciting step and a major commitment. Before you start going to open houses, it's important to know what you can afford. We've curated our top articles and resources to help.
RECOMMENDED READING
How to get a mortgage
Should I buy now or wait?
Compare your borrowing options
A new loan to replace your current mortgage, likely with a lower rate or different term.
-
No effect on home equity
-
Can lower interest rate
-
No access to cash
A lump sum of cash taken out of your home equity, paid back through your new mortgage payment.
-
Secured by home equity
-
Higher borrowing limits
-
No extra monthly payment
A loan that’s taken out of your home equity, but is paid back as a separate monthly payment.
-
Secured by home equity
-
Access a lump sum of cash
-
No effect on mortgage
A line of credit that’s borrowed from your home equity, and works more like a credit card.
-
Secured by home equity
-
Common for home projects
-
Use what you need
Compare the cost of home insurance
Quoted rates are based on 40-year-old male and female homeowners with a clean claim history, good credit, and $250k in dwelling coverage.
Ready for your rates?
While the rates shown are a helpful starting point, they’re no substitute for personalized quotes. Answer a few questions to start your quotes in 3 minutes or less.
Powered by Coverage.com (NPN: 19966249)
The latest
-
3 strategies for savers in a low interest rate environment
Here’s how to respond to lower rates if you’re in the market for a CD or savings account.
2 min read Apr 27, 2021 -
‘On The Money’ with Mark Hamrick: Michelle Singletary on surviving your next big financial challenge
The Washington Post columnist talks about financial lessons we can take from the pandemic.
1 min read Apr 27, 2021 -
Still missing your coronavirus stimulus check? Here’s what you should do
Those taxpayers could potentially see thousands of extra dollars when they file for the Recovery Rebate Credit.
7 min read Apr 26, 2021 -
Home equity lender reviews: Top 5 for debt consolidation
Understand the perks and drawbacks of using home equity to consolidate your debt.
7 min read Apr 20, 2021 -
Most U.S. adults have no plans to go to an upcoming live event
With the COVID-19 vaccine rollout in full swing, it’s easy to picture a return to pre-pandemic life right around the corner. But more than 8 in 10 U.S. adults won’t be cheering at a game, dancing at [...]
5 min read Apr 19, 2021 -
‘On The Money’ with Mark Hamrick: Jean Chatzky on what women must do to reach their financial goals
The HerMoney CEO has made it her life mission to help women accomplish their financial goals.
1 min read Apr 17, 2021 -
Survey: Most Americans losing out on easy money during coronavirus pandemic
Rewards cardholders who pay balances in full each month are missing out on rewards in popular purchase categories.
7 min read Apr 15, 2021 -
Coinbase IPO: 4 unusual risks in using a direct listing to go public
Coinbase is using a direct listing for its IPO, and that process presents new risks relative to a traditional IPO.
5 min read Apr 14, 2021 -
Survey: More than 6 in 10 Americans say $1,400 stimulus checks won’t last three full months
Most plan to spend their stimulus funds on necessities, not on shopping, dining or traveling.
7 min read Apr 14, 2021 -
Survey: More Americans say pandemic has delayed financial milestones
The pandemic has folks putting off major financial decisions, like homebuying.
3 min read Apr 07, 2021