For a home buyer, closing costs are typically 3% – 6% of the loan amount. Learn more about how to calculate your closing costs and what’s included in them.

Knowing what is and isn't a fixture in real estate can help you avoid disputes during a sale. Learn how a fixture is determined and about common gray areas.

The transfer of ownership from a grantor to a grantee is an important part of many real estate transactions. Learn more about grantors vs. grantees here.

Active under contract means an offer has been accepted but certain conditions must be met. Learn how a status of “active under contract” works in real estate.

An escalation clause states a buyer is willing to raise their offer if a seller receives a higher offer. Read our guide on escalation clauses.

A home inspector’s job is to see if a home’s systems and structure are safe and working properly. Read about what a home inspector does and what they look for.

Home appraisals can take anywhere from a few days to a week depending on timing, scheduling and a home's complexity. Learn how long an appraisal takes and why.

A lease option gives renters the opportunity to buy their rental property at the end of their lease term. Read on to learn more about how lease options work.

A purchase and sale agreement (PSA) helps ensure a buyer and a seller are both on the same page before closing. See what information a PSA might contain.

If you’re a homeowner, you can claim the property tax deduction up to $10,000 ($5,000 for married filing separately). Read this complete guide before you file.

If you’re about to begin the home buying process, there are some things you should keep in mind. Read on to learn about what to look for when buying a house.

A utility easement is what allows public utilities like sewage, electricity, water and more to exist. Learn about how utility easements can impact homeowners.

In order to close on your house, you will need to bring cash to close the mortgage deal. Learn what expenses are included in your cash-to-close amount and more.

It’s important to understand the legal considerations associated with buying a house. Learn about the home buyer rights or protection laws you should know.

In real estate, caveat emptor – or "let the buyer beware" – is a concept similar to buying a house as-is. Read more about caveat emptor and how it works.

In a competitive real estate market, you need to be prepared if you’re staring down a bidding war for your next home. Find out how to get ready to win.

A home is under contract when the seller has accepted an offer from a buyer to purchase the property. Read more about what under contract means in real estate.

Zoning laws dictate how a property can or cannot be used within a certain geographical area. Learn about common types of zoning laws and how they work.