Learn how to think about major homebuying decisions like shopping for title agencies, managing home equity, and when to buy a house with cash.

How do you choose the right title agency for your home purchase? Should you buy a house outright with your savings or take on a mortgage? Hosts Sean Pyles and Sara Rathner discuss the pros and cons of these key housing decisions to help you make smarter choices. They’re joined by housing Nerd Kate Wood to demystify title agencies, offering tips on what they do, how much they cost, and why most buyers don’t shop around for them. Then, they discuss the risks and benefits of tapping into home equity or using savings to buy a house outright. They explore strategies for weighing mortgage options, the importance of maintaining an emergency fund, and balancing emotional and financial goals when purchasing a home.

In their conversation, the Nerds discuss: how to choose a title agency, title agency costs, home buying tips, home equity pros and cons, buy a house with cash, 30-year vs 15-year mortgage, home buying process, choosing a mortgage lender, title insurance explained, cash-out refinance risks, second mortgage benefits, HELOC vs home equity loan, using savings to buy a house, renting vs buying a home, home maintenance costs, decision fatigue home buying, choosing a home inspector, refinancing a mortgage, landlord responsibilities, real estate investment risks, rental property tips, financial planning for homeowners, managing multiple mortgages, budgeting for home repairs, lender requirements for second homes, emergency fund for homeowners, homeownership costs, advantages of 30-year mortgages, housing market advice, personal finance for homeowners, home loan options, home equity risks, leveraging home equity, and financial planning for buying a house.

To send the Nerds your money questions, call or text the Nerd hotline at 901-730-6373 or email podcast@nerdwallet.com.

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