Blog

7 Smart Home Upgrades That Add Real Convenience & Value

Looking to make your home smarter? Discover practical smart home upgrades that save time, add convenience, and increase value – without the frustration or high costs of unnecessary gadgets.

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

Mortgage rates are still high in 2026. Learn why homeowners are skipping cash-out refinancing & what equity alternatives make more sense in today’s market.

Renovations & Remodeling

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

Learn how much to budget for home repairs and renovations over the lifetime of a home. See annual and monthly averages, regional differences, and smart ways to plan.

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.

Home Equity

Equity Sharing in Nevada: A Practical Guide for Las Vegas Homeowners

A clear, honest guide to equity sharing in Nevada. Learn how Las Vegas-area homeowners use Unison’s equity sharing options to access equity with zero payments & zero interest.

People looking at laptop with the current home interest rates on it.

Financial Health

What Is the Fed — and Who Controls Interest Rates?

This isn’t just Econ 101 homework. There are real life impacts at play! If you have a credit card, savings account, mortgage, or loan, understanding how the Fed works can help you make smarter real-life money moves – even in a shifting market.

Renovations & Remodeling

What Is a Home Improvement Loan? Financing Options Explained

Wondering what a home improvement loan really is? Learn about the different ways to finance renovations, from personal loans to HELOCs and home equity loans.

Couple reviewing list of homeowner requirements so they can avoid common home buying mistakes.

Homeownership

Common Home-Buying Mistakes to Avoid

Buying a home is exciting! But it can also be overwhelming. With so many moving parts, it’s easy for first-time buyers (and even seasoned homeowners) to miss a step that ends up costing time, money, or peace of mind.

warm cozy bedroom with a large outdoor window so you remember your winter home maintenance checklist and stay cozy.

Homeownership

Winter Home Maintenance Checklist: Protect Your Home During the Coldest Months

When temperatures drop and winter storms roll in, your home becomes your shelter from the elements. But it also needs a little extra care to stay safe, efficient, and comfortable. Winter is a time to focus on prevention: avoiding frozen pipes, heat loss, and water damage while keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

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)

Dreaming of a major home upgrade? Discover which big-ticket renovations are worth doing, how much they cost, and how to finance them smartly with Unison.