Need to step up your real estate game? We've asked some of today's top real estate experts to compile a list of moves to make and mistakes to avoid when buying or selling a home.
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Slide Show: Home Value Dos and Don'ts
Get out that "sold" sign -- these selling tips will make your property a hot commodity.
Ingredients in a Successful Real Estate Investment
Boost your odds for a successful resale down the road.
Mistakes to Avoid
Treating real estate like the stock market.
Buying, fixing and flipping fast is the exception rather than the rule in real estate. Think of real estate as a long-term investment.
Overlooking hidden costs.
The mortgage isn't the only monthly cost of homeownership. Allow for maintenance, property taxes, insurance and more.
Moves to Make
Get pre-approved for a loan.
Before you start looking, find out how much your bank is willing to loan you. It will help you determine your price range and let sellers know you're serious.
Set a realistic budget.
You might be prequalified for $400,000 but that doesn't mean you can really afford the mortgage payment.
Be proactive at closing.
Closing on your new home can be hectic. Schedule your closing, estimate costs and read what you can ahead of time to streamline the process.
Think about resale value.
You likely won't live in the same house forever, so don't undertake an expensive remodel without thinking about resale.
More Home Financial Resources
Real Estate Tools
Tax Savings
Determine your potential tax savings with a mortgage.
Home Value Loss/Gain Estimator
Find out if you'll have to pay capital gains tax when you sell.
Return on Investment
Will you make money or lose money on your real estate investments?