How much should I save for a down payment?

Twenty percent avoids private mortgage insurance, but many loan programs allow far less — sometimes as little as three to five percent. A larger down payment lowers your monthly payment and total interest; a smaller one gets you in sooner. It is a trade-off worth modeling before you shop.

What credit score do I need to buy a house?

Requirements vary by loan type, but higher scores unlock better rates. Some government-backed programs accept lower scores with trade-offs. Because even a small rate difference adds up over decades, improving your score before applying can be worth the wait.

Should I buy or keep renting?

Buying builds equity and locks in housing costs, but adds maintenance, taxes, and less flexibility. Renting stays flexible and predictable but builds no equity. The right answer depends on how long you will stay, local prices, and your finances — not on a blanket rule.

What closing costs should I expect?

Closing costs typically run a few percent of the purchase price and can include loan origination, appraisal, title insurance, and prepaid taxes and insurance. Lenders must provide an estimate up front, so you can plan for them alongside your down payment.

5 Home Inspection Red Flags Buyers Miss

HOOK

Thinking a home inspection is just a formality? It’s not. A few small clues can point to thousands in repairs after closing.

[Quick cuts of a cracked foundation, damp basement, and inspector flashlight under a sink]

KEY POINT 1

First, look for moisture. Stains on ceilings, musty smells, warped baseboards, or soft drywall can signal leaks, past flooding, or hidden mold.

[Close-up of water stain on ceiling and a hand pressing near a window frame]

KEY POINT 2

Second, check the roof and exterior. Missing shingles, sagging gutters, cracked siding, or rotten trim can mean water is getting in now—or soon will be.

[B-roll of roof shingles, gutter overflow, and peeling paint around trim]

KEY POINT 3

Third, pay attention to the electrical and plumbing. Outdated panels, flickering lights, slow drains, and low water pressure can be signs of expensive updates.

[Inspector testing outlets, faucet running slowly, breaker panel close-up]

KEY POINT 4

Finally, don’t ignore the foundation. Small cracks are common, but wide cracks, sloping floors, or doors that stick can point to settling or structural issues.

[Footage of floor level, door rubbing frame, and foundation crack close-up]

CTA

Before you waive an inspection or rush to close, ask the inspector what needs immediate attention, what can wait, and what could affect your negotiating power. Save this for your home search.

[On-screen text: “Inspection first. Regret later.”]

Free Tools & Calculators

Mortgage Payment Calculator

Estimate the monthly principal & interest on a home loan.

Home price

Down payment

Interest rate

% APR

Term

years

Monthly P&I

$1,896.20

Loan amount

$300,000

Total interest

$382,633

Estimates only, for general information — not financial or medical advice.

Savings Growth Calculator

Project what regular deposits could grow to with compound interest.

Starting amount

Monthly deposit

Interest rate

% APY

Years

years

Future balance

$45,666

You put in

$37,000

Interest earned

$8,666

Estimates only, for general information — not financial or medical advice.

Questions & Answers

A common guideline is keeping total housing costs near or below about a third of your gross income, but the honest answer depends on your debts, down payment, rate, and other goals. Our mortgage calculator on this page lets you test payments at different prices and rates so you can find a number you are comfortable with.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional before making decisions.