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12 First-Time Homebuyer Mistakes to Avoid in Today’s Market

If you’re planning to take the leap from renter to homeowner , it’s likely you’ve been saving money for a down payment and working to build your credit score. You’ve probably also been looking at home listings and are eager to start shopping. To help you avoid expensive detours, we asked experienced agents where new buyers often go wrong and how to sidestep the most common first-time homebuyer mistakes. We’ll kick off the list with what top real estate agents say is the most common new-buyer misstep. Mistake 1. Starting your home search before knowing what you can truly afford One of the biggest first-time homebuyer mistakes is shopping for homes before getting a clear handle on your finances. “A lot of first-time buyers don’t know what they’re qualified for or how much money they can actually spend,” says Bob Anarumo , a Davenport, Florida agent with nearly 25 years of experience. “I run into this quite a bit, and many don’t even know what their credit score is.” Before browsin...
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Smart and Sustainable In-Home Technology: Ways to Save Energy and Reduce Utility Costs

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Utility bills can quickly add up, especially as homeowners rely more on heating, cooling, electronics, and smart devices throughout the day. The good news is that modern home technology offers practical and affordable ways to save energy without sacrificing comfort. From smart thermostats to motion-sensor lighting, small home upgrades can lead to meaningful savings over time. Whether you live in a house in Richmond, VA or an apartment in Brooklyn, NY , investing in sustainable in-home technology can also increase long-term property value. Here are some of the smartest ways to reduce utility costs while making your home more energy-conscious. 1. Use smart thermostats to cut heating and cooling costs Heating and cooling make up a major portion of household energy use, which is why upgrading your temperature controls can have a big impact on your monthly bills. Kate Colarulli, Chief Strategy Officer at CleanChoice Energy , explains, “On average, more than half of residential e...
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Tax Breaks for Homeowners: 8 Ways to Save on Your Taxes

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From property taxes to upgrades and maintenance, the costs of buying and owning a home can add up quickly. The good news is that some of these expenses can help lower your tax bill. There are several tax breaks for homeowners to take advantage of if you know where to look. Below, we’ll explain each one so you can better understand how these deductions and credits may reduce your overall tax burden. Before we proceed, keep in mind that you need to itemize your deductions to take advantage of these tax breaks. If you opt for the standard deduction, these do not apply. 1. Tax credits for efficient home upgrades Home improvement projects can improve the safety and functionality of your living space, but they can also be beneficial for tax purposes. Home upgrades that improve your home’s energy efficiency can qualify you for a tax credit of up to $3,200. Energy-efficient home upgrades like exterior doors and skylights can account for up to $1,200 in credits, while the remaining $2...
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Tax Breaks for Homeowners: 8 Ways to Save on Your Taxes

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From property taxes to upgrades and maintenance, the costs of buying and owning a home can add up quickly. The good news is that some of these expenses can help lower your tax bill. There are several tax breaks for homeowners to take advantage of if you know where to look. Below, we’ll explain each one so you can better understand how these deductions and credits may reduce your overall tax burden. Before we proceed, keep in mind that you need to itemize your deductions to take advantage of these tax breaks. If you opt for the standard deduction, these do not apply. 1. Tax credits for efficient home upgrades Home improvement projects can improve the safety and functionality of your living space, but they can also be beneficial for tax purposes. Home upgrades that improve your home’s energy efficiency can qualify you for a tax credit of up to $3,200. Energy-efficient home upgrades like exterior doors and skylights can account for up to $1,200 in credits, while the remaining $2...
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When Is the Best Time to Sell a House?

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Key Takeaways Nationwide, the best time to sell a house is in late April , when sellers are more likely to close quickly and receive higher offers. Optimal timing varies by city, though: In San Jose , the best time to sell is in mid-March; in Philadelphia , it’s in mid-May. Sellers should talk with an agent before listing to decide on a strategy; in the end, the best time to sell is when it’s the best time for you. Timing is essential when it comes to selling a house. Everything from the season, to the month, to even the day can impact how quickly a home sells and for how much.  It’s common knowledge that spring is peak selling season, when homebuyers emerge from hibernation ready to start their housing journey. But lately, sellers have faced an unusually difficult task, as near-record prices keep buyers on the sidelines and give those who are still active more leverage . With fewer buyers actively shopping, sellers need to be more intentional about when they list, ...
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What to Do After a House Fire: A Step-by-Step Cleanup Guide

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A house fire can turn your life upside down in a matter of minutes. Once the flames are out, many homeowners are left asking the same overwhelming question: what do I do after a house fire? Between smoke damage , water saturation, damaged belongings, and the emotional stress of the experience, knowing where to start can feel impossible. The good news is that taking the right steps early can make the cleanup and recovery process safer, smoother, and less costly over time. Whether you’re recovering after a fire in a house in Los Angeles, CA , or an apartment in Detroit, MI , this Redfin guide walks through what to do after a house fire, from securing the property and documenting damage to improving indoor air quality. 1. Put safety first before entering the home Before you think about cleaning or salvaging belongings, make sure the property is safe to enter. Even if the fire appears contained, hidden structural damage and hazardous residue can remain behind. According to Pert...
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What Is an FHA Loan? See Requirements and How to Apply

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An FHA loan is a type of mortgage insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) that’s designed to make homeownership more accessible. Because lenders are protected if a borrower defaults, they can offer more flexible requirements – like lower credit scores and smaller down payments – compared to conventional loans. FHA loan at a glance: Minimum down payment: 3.5% Minimum credit score: ~580 Mortgage insurance: Required Best for: First-time buyers or borrowers with lower credit To understand whether it’s the right option for you, it helps to take a closer look at how FHA loans work, who qualifies, and what to consider before applying. What is an FHA loan? An FHA loan is a government-insured mortgage that allows borrowers to qualify with lower credit scores and down payments than many conventional loans. While the FHA doesn’t lend money directly, it provides mortgage insurance to approved lenders – meaning if a borrower defaults, the FHA reimburses part of the lend...
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