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rundown house as an example of buying a home as-is
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How Bad Is It To Buy A Home “As-Is”?

The phrase “as-is” shows up often in real estate listings, and it tends to raise eyebrows. For some buyers, it feels like an opportunity – a chance to get a deal on a property that others might overlook. For others, it sounds like a trap.

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Beautiful kitchen that is an example of a big ticket renovation worth doing.
Renovations & Remodeling
Big Ticket Renovations Worth Doing: Which Major Upgrades Pay Off (and Which Don’t)

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably have one (or more!) “dream” renovations. Think big, transformative upgrades that change how your home looks, feels, and functions. But when those projects come with price tags in the tens or even hundreds of thousands, it can be hard to decide which ones are truly worth it.

Home Renovation Funding Options
Renovations & Remodeling
2026 Home Renovation Outlook: How Homeowners Are Funding Projects Without Refinancing

Even in an uncertain housing market, homeowners continue to invest in their homes — not necessarily to flip them, but to make them more functional, efficient, and comfortable. In 2026, renovations are less about luxury upgrades and more about...

Pile of money on a laptop for an article about whether you have to pay taxes on a side hustle.
Financial Health
Do You Have to Pay Taxes on your Side Hustle?

Short answer: Yes. But it doesn’t have to be complicated. Let’s walk through what counts as taxable income, how to report it, and when it’s worth getting professional help.

person using their device to control their smart home
Renovations & Remodeling
Smart Home Upgrades: Are They Worth It?

Smart thermostats. Voice-controlled lighting. AI-powered appliances. These days, tech is making its way into just about every corner of the modern home. But when it comes time to renovate, homeowners are asking an important question: Is it worth integrating technology into my home improvement plans?

Person reviewing 9 Options for Consolidating Debt
Financial Health
9 Options for Consolidating Debt

Debt consolidation is a financial strategy in which one combines multiple high-interest debts into a single, more manageable loan or line of credit. Ultimately, the goal of debt consolidation is to simplify debt repayment; two bonuses are that it can also potentially reduce the overall interest rate, and make monthly payments more affordable.

Financial Health
Can I use a HELOC if I’m retired, self-employed, or on disability?

Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs) are often associated with traditional borrowers who have steady W-2 income. However, if you're retired, self-employed, or receiving disability income, you might be wondering if this financial tool is accessible to you. The good news is that it can be – provided you meet certain criteria and understand the nuances involved.

Homeownership
Beyond Home Equity: How to Finance Your Next Big Expense: Part II

What are the alternatives to tapping into your home equity to cover a big expense? Over the next several days, tune in to this series of shorter blog posts that delve into some of your options. Today: Retirement and Savings Accounts

Homeownership
Beyond Home Equity: How to Finance Your Next Big Expense: Part I

What are the alternatives to tapping into your home equity to cover a big expense? Over the next several days, tune in to this series of shorter blog posts that delve into some of your options. Today: Personal Loans and Credit Cards.

Home Equity
2024 Unison Home Equity Report

The 2024 housing market has demonstrated significant growth and resilience, overcoming headwinds from high interest rates to achieve a remarkable surge in home equity. This annual report examines key trends in home equity throughout the year, analyzing both national and regional data to provide a comprehensive overview of the market.

Home Equity
Forbes Council: "7 Ways to Tap Into Your Home's Equity"

Our Chief Investment Officer, Matt O’Hara, recently published an article as a member of Forbes Finance Council. Read "7 Ways to Tap Into Your Home's Equity" today.

Home Equity
Potential Downsides of a Reverse Mortgage

A reverse mortgage is a convenient way to use your home equity as a cash source during retirement, but there are some downsides to a reverse mortgage.

Renovations & Remodeling
Renovations are on the Rise, and With Them, ADUs

Renovations surged during the peak of COVID, when we were all stuck at home. Then high rates introduced a bit of a slump. Now? They're on the rise again. Plus, city and state governments are removing restrictions to building ADUs.