What Makes a Great Long-Term Rental Property? A Checklist for Smart Investors

Real estate continues to dominate as America's favorite long-term investment strategy. For the 12th consecutive year, 37% of Americans consider real estate the top investment choice—nearly doubling stocks at just 16%.¹ This isn't just sentiment; investors are putting their money where their beliefs are, purchasing 13% of all homes sold in 2024.²

10 Hidden Home Maintenance Tasks That Could Save You Thousands

As a homeowner, you’re likely diligent about the basics—mowing the lawn, touching up paint, and cleaning regularly. But what about the critical home maintenance tasks you don’t see every day?

Real Estate Market Update: What Mid-Year Indicators Mean for Your Next Move

As we reach the midpoint of 2025, the U.S. housing market stands at a critical juncture. The frenzy of the pandemic-era real estate boom has long since cooled, but in its place we’re seeing a market searching for balance. Higher mortgage rates, cautious buyers, and rising home inventory are combining to reshape what it means to buy or sell a home in today’s climate.

Thinking about listing your home in 2025? If so, you're smart to start planning ahead. With housing inventory rising in many market segments, today’s sellers need more than just a “for sale” sign to stand out.1

The good news? You can still make a strong impression and command top dollar—if you know what today’s buyers are really looking for.

We’ve outlined six of the top homebuyer priorities in 2025, along with a clear action plan to help you position your property for success. Whether you're weeks or months away from listing, these insights will help you attract serious offers and maximize your return.

5 ROADBLOCKS TO AFFORDABLE HOMEOWNERSHIP
(AND WAYS TO MOVE PAST THEM)

Dreaming of a new home but feeling priced out? You’re not alone! According to a recent survey by Bankrate, 78% of aspiring homebuyers cite affordability issues as their primary deterrent.¹ According to data from the U.S. Census Bureau, home prices have risen around 32% since the pandemic, and elevated mortgage rates have caused monthly payments to balloon.²

Home-Related Tax Deductions (US)

Tax season. Just the words can send shivers down your spine. But if you're a homeowner, there's a silver lining: potential savings! 

You’ve probably heard that you can deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage — but did you know there are many other ways homeowners can reduce their tax burden?

Before you start your return, read this post for common home-related tax deductions, eligibility requirements, and tips on how to maximize your savings.

4 Home Remodeling Projects with the Highest ROI

Ask any homeowner about what they would like to change about their home, and most will say, “How much time do you have?

Home improvements (cue Tim Allen) or home remodeling projects can stem from a variety of motivations, like preparing your home to put on the market, adding space for a growing family, addressing outdated features or aesthetics, or fixing structural/functional issues with the home. 

The 2025 Real Estate Report

Experts Predict Home Values to Increase 1.5% to 3.6% in 2025.

Top housing experts and economists give a glimpse of what mortgage rates, home values and the national real estate market will do in 2025. 

Multigenerational Home Buying: How to Find a Home That Fits Your Whole Family

For many homebuyers, multigenerational living used to be considered an option of last resort: it was a route families took only when they needed to ride out a financial storm or care for ailing family members. But that mindset is on the decline: A growing number of families now say that they are embracing multigenerational living and moving in together by choice. 

Stage to Sell: 7 Proven Steps to Attract Buyers and Boost Offers

Selling your home quickly and at the right price takes more than just listing it online. To draw in potential buyers and secure top offers, your home needs to stand out. That’s where home staging comes in. By strategically preparing your home—through redecorating, repairing, and making it look its best—you can make a lasting impression and significantly increase its appeal.

7 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Contractor

A recent survey found that more than half (52%) of American homeowners have a renovation project planned this year.1 If you’re among them, you know that embarking on home improvements can be both exciting and daunting.

Top 4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Mortgage

With home prices and rates still relatively high, securing a mortgage can feel daunting––even to the most experienced borrowers. But don't let that deter you: If other homebuyers' experiences are any indication, odds are you'll eventually find a home loan that works well for you. 

7 Weekend Projects to Boost Your Property Value

Whether you’re putting your home on the market in a few weeks or a few years, strategic upgrades can make all the difference. But you don't have to embark on a major remodel to make a significant improvement.

Mid-Year Market Update for 2024: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know

Last December, when the Federal Reserve projected a series of benchmark rate cuts in the coming year, some analysts speculated that mortgage rates—which had recently peaked near 8%—would fall closer to 6% by mid-2024.^1,2,3 Unfortunately, persistent inflation has delayed the central bank’s timeline and kept the average 30-year mortgage rate hovering around 7% so far this year.²

The Ultimate Relocation Guide: From Finding a House to Feeling at Home

The peak moving season is upon us. In fact, according to Move.com, almost 70% of U.S. moves occur between May and September.¹ And while the percentage of Americans who move each year has declined, the desire to relocate remains strong.^2,3 

6 Strategies to Save on Home Insurance Premiums

From wildfires to floods, the past few years have brought a historic number of devastating climate and weather events to the United States. In 2023 alone, there were 28 individual weather-related disasters that caused at least $1 billion in damages each.

Downsize Your Home, Rightsize Your Life:
How to Choose the Ideal Smaller Home

When you've lived somewhere for many years, it can be tough to say goodbye. But if you (or a loved one) currently have a home that is bigger than necessary or is too high maintenance, it may be time to trade unused square footage for a smaller, more manageable space. 

Upgrade Your Home With These 2024 Design Trends

One of the best parts of owning a home is the freedom to make it truly your own with design choices that reflect your personality and lifestyle. Whether you lean toward contemporary design or a farmhouse aesthetic, your home is your canvas. 

Celebrate Sustainably: 5 Ideas for an Eco-Friendly Holiday at Home

It's the most wonderful time of the year. But for many families with festive plans and hectic schedules, it's also the most wasteful. 

According to one survey, for example, 60% of respondents admitted to throwing away more than usual during the holiday months as they filled up their trash bins with uneaten food, wrapping paper, gift bags, and commercial packaging.¹