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Housing & Real Estate

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Housing & Real Estate

Navigate renting vs buying, understand mortgages, and make smart housing decisions.

12 lessons·3 tools·8 key concepts

Key concepts

rentMonthly payment to live in a property you don't own. Typically shouldn't exceed 30% of your gross income.mortgageA loan specifically for buying real estate. The property serves as collateral, if you don't pay, the bank can take the house.down paymentThe upfront cash you pay when buying a home. Typically 3-20% of the purchase price. Larger down payments mean smaller loans.PMIPrivate Mortgage Insurance - extra monthly payment required if your down payment is less than 20%. Protects the lender, not you.closing costsFees paid when finalizing a home purchase: appraisal, title insurance, attorney fees. Typically 2-5% of the loan amount.security depositMoney paid upfront when renting that covers potential damages. Usually 1-2 months' rent, returned when you move out if no damage.home equityThe portion of your home you actually own. Home value minus remaining mortgage. Builds over time as you pay down the loan.house hackingLiving in a property while renting out part of it to offset your housing costs. Great way to start real estate investing.

Lessons

Security Deposits: Protect Your MoneyHousingFoundations4 min
First-Time Homebuyer Guide: From Renting to OwningHousingFoundations5 min
Rent vs. Buy: The Real MathHousingBuilding7 min
Saving for a House: Your Down Payment StrategyHousingBuilding6 min
Mortgages 101: Understanding Your Biggest LoanHousingBuilding7 min
Real Estate Investing: Beyond Your Primary HomeHousingWealth8 min
Understanding Your First Lease: A Line-by-Line GuideHousingFoundations5 min
Car Buying Guide: How to Get a Good Deal Without Getting Ripped OffHousingFoundations5 min
Auto Loan Strategies: Getting the Best Rate and TermsHousingBuilding7 min
Leasing vs Buying a Car: Which Makes More Financial Sense?HousingWealth8 min
Home Maintenance Budgeting: The Hidden CostsHousingBuilding5 min
Closing Costs Deep Dive: Buying and SellingHousingWealth6 min

Related tools

House AffordabilityBuildingHow much house can you afford?
Rent vs Buy AnalyzerBuildingCompare renting vs buying over time
Real Estate InvestmentWealthAnalyze rental property returns

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