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Real Estate Basics

Explore the fundamentals of real estate including renting vs buying, the home buying process, mortgages, and real estate as an investment.

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What You'll Learn

  • How to compare the true costs of renting vs buying a home
  • The step-by-step home buying process from pre-approval to closing
  • How mortgages work including fixed vs adjustable rates, PMI, and amortization
  • Real estate investment options including REITs and rental properties
  • Key financial metrics for evaluating real estate decisions

Lessons

1

Renting vs Buying

Compare the true costs of renting and buying, including hidden expenses and the mobility-equity tradeoff.

2

The Home Buying Process

Walk through pre-approval, house hunting, making offers, inspections, and closing.

3

Understanding Mortgages

Learn about fixed vs adjustable rates, mortgage terms, PMI, points, and amortization.

4

Real Estate as Investment

Explore REITs, rental property basics, real estate crowdfunding, and how real estate compares to stocks.

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Module Quiz

Test your knowledge and earn the Property Pioneer badge!

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Your Property Tree

"Strong roots make strong homes"

Complete lessons to help your tree grow!

Module Progress

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Key Terms

  • PMI: Private Mortgage Insurance, required when down payment is less than 20%
  • Amortization: The process of paying off a loan through regular payments over time
  • REIT: Real Estate Investment Trust, a company that owns income-producing real estate
  • Closing Costs: Fees and expenses paid when finalizing a home purchase, typically 2-5%