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7 Budget Smart Home Devices and Tips for a Smarter Space

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Whether you’re looking at Seattle rentals or you’re exploring Round Rock homes for sale , this Redfin article explores how to elevate your living space without depleting your finances by using budget smart home devices and tips.  Smart home technology offers convenience, security, and significant energy savings. Choosing the right products and implementing them thoughtfully is key to a cost-effective upgrade. By following these seven essential steps, anyone can seamlessly transition their house into a smarter, more efficient home. 1. Explore companion apps Smart home devices often rely on a dedicated companion app for setup and management. Roman Bord, co-founder of Stormotion suggests, “Before committing to a smart home device purchase, check the usability of companion apps.” Download and test smart home apps if possible, or read reviews focusing on ease of use, stability, and feature set. A device with robust physical hardware can be hindered by a poorly designed app.  Bord say...
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The 10 Most Expensive Cities in the U.S. in 2026

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Key takeaways Los Angeles , Anaheim , and San Diego are the most expensive cities in the U.S., with sky-high prices leaving fewer than 10% of homes affordable to locals. The most expensive places to live are all located on the coasts—led by California, which accounts for six of the top ten. House prices skyrocketed during the pandemic and have only recently started to level out, straining budgets and putting a lid on demand in many places. Bustling neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and an abundance of amenities are hallmarks of America’s largest cities—but in some places, these benefits come at a cost. All of the country’s most expensive major housing markets are concentrated on the coasts, where limited space and tight supply have long pushed prices upward.  Prior to the pandemic, though, costs were more manageable. It wasn’t until after the pandemic housing boom that it became largely unaffordable to buy a home in many coastal cities, contributing to a prolonged slowdown tha...
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Should You Continue to Rent or Become a Homeowner?

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The dream has long been tied to homeownership, leading many people to view renting as a temporary step rather than a long-term housing plan. This mindset often pressures people to rush into one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives before they are truly prepared.  However, many financial experts now encourage people to evaluate renting and homeownership based on personal financial readiness and goals. Continuing to rent may provide greater financial flexibility depending on a person’s income, savings goals, and lifestyle needs, while buying a home can offer stability, equity-building potential, and the opportunity to put down long-term roots. As you think about a move to a new home in Evanston, IL , or across the country for a home in Fresno, CA , this Redfin article delves into why renting can be strategic, when homeownership can be the right next step, and how to evaluate which option best supports your financial and lifestyle goals. Evaluating your financial readin...
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Should You Pay Off Debt Before Buying a Home?

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Key Insights Target the “43% ceiling” : Your Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio is one of the most powerful levers you have; lowering your monthly debt payments directly expands your home-buying budget. Prioritize “bad” debt : Focus your cash on high-interest revolving accounts (like credit cards) to boost your credit score and secure a lower mortgage rate simultaneously. Strategy over total liquidation : You don’t need to be debt-free to buy. Success lies in balancing debt repayment with your down payment to maximize your overall purchasing power. The dream of homeownership often feels like it’s in a tug-of-war with the reality of monthly bills, student loans, and credit card balances. Deciding whether to clear your financial slate or dive straight into the housing market is a pivotal choice that affects your mortgage rate, your budget, and your long-term peace of mind. Whether you’re searching for a home in Seattle, WA , Denver, CO , or Orlando, FL , this ...
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How to Buy a Home in the U.S. as a Non-U.S. Citizen

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Buying a home in the U.S. as a non-U.S. citizen can be tricky, at least on the surface. If you’re wondering whether a citizen of another country can buy property in the U.S., the short answer is yes, though it’s easiest if you’re buying the property in cash. If you’re seeking financing from a financial institution in the U.S. to purchase real estate, as a non-citizen getting a mortgage is the most challenging part. In this Redfin article, we’ll outline how to buy a house if you’re not a U.S. citizen, whether you’re looking for a home in Miami, FL , or in Atlanta, GA . If you’re prepared to purchase property in the U.S., but you’re not a U.S. citizen, here’s essential information to know. Buying a house as a non-U.S. citizen Anyone may buy and own property in the United States, regardless of citizenship. Historically, there have been no laws or restrictions that prevent an individual of any foreign citizenship from owning or buying a home in the U.S. However, as of 2026, about ...
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