Housing Insights Central
Delve into articles on market trends, home improvement, and legal tips that guide you to smarter housing decisions.
Ring in the Savings: How to Lower Your Rent During the Holidays
During the holidays, there is usually less demand for rental units because people are busy with celebrations and travel. Landlords who want to fill their properties before the new year may be more open to ne...
Winter Heating Help: Financial Assistance Available Until March 31
If you are a renter or homeowner struggling to keep your heat on this winter, help is available. Low-income households can now apply for the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) to prevent their utility ser...
How to Find Down Payment Assistance In Each State (2026)
Down Payment Assistance (also known as DPA) helps home buyers pay for the upfront costs needed to buy a home. Many people think you need to save up to 20% of the price for a down payment, but this isn’t true any...
How Much Should You Spend on Rent?
Deciding how much to spend on rent starts with understanding what you can comfortably afford. Here are some general rules to guide you: The 30% Rule A common recommendation is to spend about 30% of your gross monthly income...
What to Expect for Mortgage Rates in 2026
Are you thinking about buying a home in 2026? You’re probably wondering what will happen with mortgage rates next year. Here’s what experts are predicting—and what it might mean for you. Mortgage Rates ...
These 10 States Make It Easier to Save for a Down Payment
Saving up for a house down payment can take a long time—sometimes decades, depending on where you live in the United States. While buying a home may seem out of reach for many, there are some states where ach...
How to Apply for LIHEAP Winter Energy Assistance (2025-2026)
Are you worried about paying your energy bills as temperatures drop? The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can help you with heating costs during winter, cooling in the summer, and can also hel...
A Guide to Rent Withholding: How It Works and What You Should Know
If a landlord doesn’t keep your rental unit safe and livable, some states allow you to stop paying rent until the issues are fixed. This legal process is called “rent withholding”. Howev...
Decoding Your Rental Agreement: A Simple Guide to Common Lease Clauses
Moving into a new apartment is exciting, but the paperwork can be overwhelming. Most people skim their lease and sign quickly just to get their keys, but that "fine print" contains critical ...