Climate Risk Disclosure in Real Estate: What Buyers Should Ask Before Closing
Climate risk now belongs in home-buying due diligence. The flood, wildfire, wind and insurance questions to ask before closing.
Latest News
The latest real estate news, market data, and expert insight from RealtyWire.
Flood-Zone Homebuying Checklist: What Buyers Should Ask Before Making an Offer
Buying in a flood zone changes insurance, financing and resale math. A due-diligence checklist before making an offer.
The Insurance-Adjusted Housing Affordability Problem Buyers Should Not Ignore
Homeowners insurance is the missing line in most affordability math. Why coverage costs now shape what buyers can afford.
Homeowners Insurance Nonrenewals: What Buyers and Owners Should Know
Homeowners insurance nonrenewals are rising as insurers reassess risk. What a nonrenewal notice means and what to do next.
Flood Insurance vs. Homeowners Insurance: The Difference Buyers Must Understand
Standard homeowners insurance usually excludes flood damage. What separate flood coverage does — and who actually needs it.
Homeowners Insurance Before Closing: What Buyers Should Check Early
Homeowners insurance can affect your loan, payment and closing date. Why buyers should shop coverage early, not last.
Debt-to-Income Ratio Explained: The Number That Can Make or Break a Mortgage
Debt-to-income ratio can make or break a mortgage application. How lenders calculate DTI and the limits that matter in 2026.
Mortgage Applications Are Rising: What They Say About Buyer Demand
Mortgage applications are running above year-ago levels. What weekly application data says about buyer demand in 2026.
FHA vs. VA Loans: Which Mortgage Option Fits Which Buyer?
FHA and VA loans both help buyers with lower upfront costs, but eligibility, mortgage insurance and funding fees differ.
FHA vs. Conventional Loans in 2026: Key Differences for Buyers
FHA and conventional loans help different buyers. Compare down payments, mortgage insurance, credit flexibility and loan limits.
Refinance Calculator Guide: When a Lower Rate Is Actually Worth It
A lower mortgage rate does not always make refinancing worth it. Learn how to calculate your break-even point and compare costs.
Adjustable-Rate Mortgages in 2026: Who Should Consider an ARM?
Adjustable-rate mortgages can offer lower initial rates, but buyers need to understand caps, resets, margins and payment risk.
15-Year vs. 30-Year Mortgage: Payment, Equity and Risk
A 15-year mortgage can save interest and build equity faster, while a 30-year mortgage offers lower monthly payments.
Mortgage Rate Lock Strategy in 2026: When Buyers Should Lock or Float
A mortgage rate lock can protect buyers from rising rates before closing. Here’s when locking or floating may make sense.
What to Ask Before Signing a New-Construction Contract
Before signing a new-construction contract, buyers should ask about deposits, financing, warranties, changes, delays and inspections.
Spec Homes Explained: Why Builders Discount Completed Inventory
Spec homes are move-in-ready or nearly finished builder homes. Here’s why builders may discount completed inventory.
New-Home Supply vs. Resale Supply: Why Buyers See Two Different Markets
New-home supply and resale supply are sending different signals in 2026. Here’s why buyers see two different housing markets.
Housing Starts in 2026: Why Construction Pullbacks Matter for Future Supply
Housing starts fell in May 2026. Here’s why construction pullbacks matter for future housing supply, buyers, builders and prices.
Builder Incentives Explained: Rate Buydowns, Credits and Upgrade Packages
Builder incentives can lower costs, but buyers need to compare rate buydowns, closing credits, upgrades and total price carefully.
New Construction vs. Existing Home: Which Is the Better Deal in 2026?
New construction may offer incentives, while existing homes may offer better locations. Here’s how buyers should compare both in 2026.
Contingencies Explained: Inspection, Financing and Appraisal Clauses
Real estate contingencies can protect buyers, but they also affect offer strength. Learn inspection, financing and appraisal clauses.
Earnest Money Explained: How Much Buyers Risk When Making an Offer
Earnest money shows sellers a buyer is serious, but buyers can risk losing it if they miss deadlines or break contract terms.
Closing Costs Explained: What Buyers and Sellers Pay in 2026
Closing costs can surprise buyers and sellers. Learn what closing costs include, who pays them and how to review them.
Appraisal Gap Explained: What Buyers and Sellers Should Know
An appraisal gap happens when the appraised value is lower than the purchase price. Here’s what buyers and sellers should know.
Home Inspection Checklist 2026: What Buyers Should Not Skip
A practical home inspection checklist for 2026 buyers, including roof, foundation, HVAC, plumbing, electrical and safety issues.
Rent vs. Buy Calculator Guide: What Most Online Calculators Miss
Rent vs. buy calculators can help, but many miss taxes, insurance, repairs, time horizon and selling costs.
Buying vs. Renting in 2026: Which Makes More Financial Sense?
Buying vs. renting in 2026 depends on location, time horizon, mortgage rates, rent levels and ownership costs.
Down Payment Guide 2026: How Much Buyers Are Really Putting Down
How much are buyers putting down in 2026? Down payments fell to a four-year low, but cash still matters.
First-Time Homebuyer Checklist 2026: From Preapproval to Closing
A practical first-time homebuyer checklist for 2026, from budgeting and preapproval to inspections, insurance and closing.
What Sellers Should Fix Before Listing in 2026
What should sellers fix before listing? Focus on repairs, cleaning, curb appeal and buyer confidence before expensive remodels.