Blog

Climate Change, Natural Disasters, & Home Values: an Overview

When we see natural disasters on the news, we see numbers–property damages, loss of life, displaced peoples. What are the long-term effects on home values and demographics, though?

Home Equity

Investing in Real Estate: Is an AirBnb Better than Traditional Renting?

For years you’ve heard that real estate is one of the best investments you can make. It’s considered something of a safe bet; unlike the literal dollar, real estate doesn’t lose value to inflation over time.

Homeownership

The Woes of Winter Maintenance

Home Equity

2022 Unison Home Equity Report

Homeownership

Downsizing vs Aging-in-Place: Considering Retirement

The older population in the United States is greatly increasing, with the number of seniors (those 65 or older) expected to almost double by 2060. Life expectancy, too, has climbed.

Homeownership

COVID and the Rise of the At-Home Workout

Over two years into the “COVID Era,” this trilogy of blog posts considers the effects of the pandemic on particular aspects of homeownership. Now featured: the rise of the home gym.

child using a smart thermostat under a woman's supervision.

Renovations & Remodeling

7 Smart Home Upgrades That Add Real Convenience & Value

The idea of a “smart home” can be exciting. Lights that turn on automatically, a thermostat you control from your phone, or a fridge that tells you when you’re out of milk – it all sounds futuristic! But not every gadget lives up to the promise. Some are expensive and fussy, some don’t really increase your home’s value, and some are just waiting for better tech before they’re actually worth the squeeze.

Financial Health

How to Invest in a Second Property, Part 1: Deciding Whether (& When) to Invest

For many homeowners, the idea of buying a second property represents more than just a second real estate purchase. It’s a vision of financial freedom, flexibility, and future security – whether that means having a vacation spot to enjoy, a rental home generating income, or a nest egg that can grow in value over time.

A person getting money from their equity sharing agreement with unison.

Financial Health

2026 Re-Fi Reality Check: Why Many Homeowners Are Skipping the Cash-Out Refinance

This approach worked particularly well during a time when mortgage rates fell sharply year after year. It allowed homeowners to refinance into much lower monthly payments, while also pulling cash out of their home’s equity.

Renovations & Remodeling

How Much Should I Budget for Renovations and Repairs Over the Lifetime of a Home?

Owning a home takes more than just paying your mortgage. It’s also about keeping up with repairs, maintenance, and the occasional renovation to keep your property safe, efficient, and enjoyable. But how much should you actually budget for all of that, especially over decades of ownership?

Financial Health

Top 5 Myths About Owning Your Own Business

Many would-be entrepreneurs talk themselves out of it before they even begin, thanks to a handful of persistent myths. But the truth is, owning a business is possible. And while it takes some serious work, it’s not reserved for the ultra-rich, ultra-connected, or ultra-lucky.

rundown house as an example of buying a home as-is

Homeownership

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.