Web Resources for Consumers

Credit Union Consumer Facts:  www.creditunion.coop

EnergyGuide.com

Provides an easy way to assess energy use and get quick tips on saving energy.

Environmental Protection Agency:  www.epa.gov

A one-stop shop for advice on testing for and mitigating pollutants, from lead paint to radon to mold.

Credit Reporting Agencies:

Equifax, www.equifax.com
Experian (formerly TRW), www.experian.com
Trans Union Corporation, www.transunion.com

Federal Citizen Information Center: www.publications.usa.gov

Offers a list of consumer articles about home sales, financing, and maintenance.

Ginnie Mae: www.ginniemae.gov

Provides advice to buyers on affordability and homeownership, including calculators.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Affairs: www.hud.gov

Offers advice to buyers on finance, fair housing, and more.

ImproveNet: www.improvenet.com

Provides links to contractors and architects for remodeling projects for buyers and repair services for sellers. For a small charge, buyers can use the site’s Estimators to determine how much renovating a property they’re considering would cost.

Moving.com

Helps buyers and sellers with packing tips and timetables, online mover links, and places to store belongings so that homes look less cluttered.

REALTOR.com

Offers consumer information for buyers and sellers as well as home listings and links to service providers.

Real Estate Buyer’s Agent Council (REBAC):  www.rebac.net

Offers a homebuyer’s kit with useful information and checklists.