When thinking of buying a house, a first question is often How much do I need for a down payment? Ideally, a down payment is 10 percent to 20 percent of the purchase price, which...


When thinking of buying a house, a first question is often How much do I need for a down payment? Ideally, a down payment is 10 percent to 20 percent of the purchase price, which...

Owners of business or investment property may want to sell and reinvest in a similar new property. An IRS rule allows you to accomplish this goal while deferring capital gains taxes on the property sale...

After purchasing a new home and moving in, most new owners rush to buy new furniture to fill empty rooms. While those pieces may look just right in the showroom, they often lose their appeal...

Summer’s merciless heat and winter’s icy temperatures make it hard to set your thermostat without breaking the bank. Here’s how to keep both your home and your wallet comfy. What the experts recommend Energy experts...

For allergy sufferers, some of life’s greatest pleasures can bring pain. Spring brings warmer temperatures and beautiful colors but also an explosion of pollen. Cats and dogs make warm and loving companions but may also...

Junk mail is relentless. For every piece of mail worth keeping, it seems there are 10 that aren’t. But there are ways to stop, or at least slow, the flood of junk filling your mailbox....

Decorating trends come and go, often returning yet again with a reinvented look. So how do you know which trends to keep and which to discard? Keep reading for some thoughts and tips. Decorating trends...

Container gardens are a smart way to add seasonal color to a home’s porches, decks, and patios. They’re easy and quick to assemble and relatively affordable. Take care to choose the right pot as well...

Moving abroad raises the stakes on the usual questions about relocation. Should we rent first or jump in and buy? Does renting have any advantages over buying? Keep reading for tips and advice so you’re...

Homeowners associations, or HOAs, provoke strong feelings in some residential developments. Avoid conflicts with goodwill gestures such as these. Understanding the HOA’s purpose and structure An HOA is an organization of the owners in a...