Erik J. Martin, contributor

Buying property when you're childless doesn't mean ignoring things that families value. Your future needs (or those of your future buyers) should also count.

Student loans present a big hazard to first-time buyers looking for a mortgage. But they don't have to.

If you need help affording your home, consider buying with a co-borrower. This person can't make up for bad credit, but can help with qualifying income.

Buying a house in an area distressed by flood, hurricane, earthquake or other natural disaster is not as crazy as it sounds. It may be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

Single women home buyers have a home equity disadvantage according to several studies. Here's what you can do about it.

If the low housing supply is making your home search frustrating, try these strategies to get your foot in the door.

Unless your mortgage lender forces you to get flood insurance, you probably don't have it. But you should -- these days, as one FEMA official put it, we all live in a flood zone.

To find better home values, you may not get to buy in your first choice area. But a smart buy today may get you where you want to be tomorrow.

You know it's location, location, location when buying a home. But did you know that the grocery store that's near your home can influence its value?