Paying property taxes is an unavoidable part of homeownership. But why are you charged these taxes, and what determines how much you pay? Here’s a brief primer on property taxes. Where does all that money...


Paying property taxes is an unavoidable part of homeownership. But why are you charged these taxes, and what determines how much you pay? Here’s a brief primer on property taxes. Where does all that money...

Today, huge wind farms are spreading across parts of America. How does having a wind farm next to your property affect its value? Is it cost-effective to let a wind farm be built on your...

Who buys a castle, or an old church converted to a house, or a century-old home with architecture unique to its era and region? You may have, but now you’re ready to move on. If...

People who would never use drugs can inadvertently purchase a home where methamphetamine was produced. Meth production leaves behind a toxic residue that can cause health problems for later residents of the house and developmental...

Wood-paneled living areas were popular in the 1960s and 70s. Unfortunately, fifty years later, some of that wall paneling has still not been updated. If you don’t want dated wood paneling in your new home,...

Advancing technology has transformed home shopping. More than 80 percent of prospective buyers begin their home search online. A consumer might be tempted to “do it yourself,” buying or selling without a professional real estate...

It comes as a severe shock to a real estate owner when a government agency takes his property from him under the principle of eminent domain. How can the government take your property against your...

A growing trend with younger generations is friends buying a house together. It’s easier to buy a home if someone else is sharing the cost, but there are legal and financial realities all parties must...

You might wonder why someone would turn down an inheritance, but it happens and often for good reason. Refusing to accept an inherited asset is known as disclaiming. An heir might disclaim an inheritance in...

All light bulbs eventually burn out. Today’s compact fluorescent and LED bulbs are far more economical in energy usage than old-school incandescents, but they contain toxic elements and must be disposed of properly to protect...