Real Estate

Discover essential financial tips for first-time landlords. Learn about risk tolerance, budgeting, insurance, and key considerations to make your real estate investment a success.

Most owners of investment real estate are probably aware of the benefits of Internal Revenue Code section 1031, which allows for a tax-deferred exchange of real estate provided certain conditions are met. As a bit of history, 1031 exchanges have been around for over 100 years, and initially, the seller and buyer had to exchange their respective properties with each other simultaneously.

It’s important to shop around for the best interest rates and consider locking in a favorable rate when you find one. Weigh the pros and cons of buying now versus waiting with the help of a CFP® professional. Waiting might mean higher mortgage rates or prices later, but buying now locks in your costs.

Conventional wisdom has long been that it’s better to own than rent, but this may not be true for everyone — especially members of Gen Z who are out on their own for the first time in their lives.

The typical mortgage for most Americans starting out is a 30-year fixed mortgage or an adjustable-rate mortgage (ARM) that usually has a fixed rate for 5, 7 or 10 years and then converts to a variable rate that typically adjusts annually

As we reflect on the lessons learned from the 2008 financial crisis, now is a good time for being proactive and re-evaluating your current financial plan.

Before you commit to buying a home (or anything else), ask yourself why you want to own it.

With thorough research and preparation, a house equity loan, a line of credit or a construction loan can be a valuable tool for any homeowner.

Refinancing can offer homeowners the opportunity to lower monthly payments and save money by paying less interest over the term of their loan.

Second homes or additional properties can be great, but conversations about them are best had once you properly secure your financial future.