New Mexico’s desert landscapes and cultural heritage create a compelling backdrop for renters seeking a extraordinary living experience. From the sun-soaked streets of Albuquerque to the historic ambiance of Las Cruces, the state offers a diverse range of cities worth exploring. This ApartmentGuide article takes you through the pros and cons of living in New Mexico so you can learn more about the “Land of Enchantment” and help you make an informed decision about your next home.
Renting in New Mexico snapshot
1. Pro: Rich cultural heritage
New Mexico’s cultural heritage is a blend of Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences, present in everyday life. The state is home to numerous cultural festivals, such as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta and the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow, which showcase its diverse traditions and history.
2. Con: Water scarcity
Water scarcity is a significant issue in New Mexico, affecting both urban and rural areas. The state’s reliance on the Rio Grande and its aquifers means that drought conditions can severely impact water availability, leading to restrictions and conservation measures for residents especially in the summer.
3. Pro: Outdoor recreation
New Mexico offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor activities, with landscapes ranging from the Chihuahuan Desert to the peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. Residents can enjoy hiking, skiing, and exploring national parks like White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns.
4. Con: Hot summers
During the summer months, New Mexico often experiences extreme weather conditions characterized by scorching temperatures and intense sunlight. Heatwaves are common, with temperatures frequently soaring above 100°F, especially in the desert regions. These extreme weather patterns can pose health risks, strain energy resources, and exacerbate water scarcity concerns.
5. Pro: Affordable cost of living
Housing, utilities, and daily expenses are generally lower in New Mexico, making it easier for residents to enjoy a higher quality of life. These affordable housing costs are evident in cities like Las Cruces which has a median sale price of $279,000 and an average rent price for a one-bedroom of $942.
6. Con: Limited public transportation
New Mexico faces challenges in providing comprehensive public transportation options, particularly in rural areas where services may be limited or non-existent. However even Albuquerque, New Mexico’s largest city has a transit score of 29 which makes it a car-dependent location.
7. Pro: Historic landmarks
New Mexico boasts numerous historic landmarks that contribute to its rich cultural heritage. Iconic sites such as Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back over a thousand years, and the historic adobe structures of Old Town Albuquerque provide glimpses into the state’s storied past.
8. Con: Limited cultural amenities in rural areas
In rural areas of New Mexico, access to cultural amenities such as theaters, museums, and galleries may be limited compared to urban centers. Residents in these regions often have fewer opportunities to engage in cultural events and activities due to the sparse population and distance from major cultural hubs
9. Pro: Culinary diversity
New Mexico boasts culinary diversity influenced by Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo traditions, offering a unique and flavorful dining experience. Dishes such as green chile stew, Navajo tacos, and carne adovada showcase the fusion of these cultural influences in New Mexican cuisine.
10. Con: Infrastructure needs
New Mexico faces infrastructure needs, particularly in transportation and utilities, which can pose challenges for residents. Issues such as road maintenance, broadband access, and water distribution systems may be inadequately developed in certain areas, leading to inconvenience and potential safety concerns.
11. Pro: Stargazing
New Mexico offers exceptional stargazing opportunities thanks to its clear skies and minimal light pollution, making it an ideal location for astronomers and stargazers. Notable sites like the International Dark-Sky Association-designated communities of Silver City and Clayton, as well as observatories such as the Very Large Array and the Apache Point Observatory, provide unparalleled views of the cosmos.
12. Con: Limited job opportunities
New Mexico faces limited job opportunities, particularly in certain industries and regions, which can be a drawback for residents seeking employment. For instance, the state’s reliance on the government sector, including national laboratories and military installations, may result in fewer private sector job prospects.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from Redfin.
After participating in pop-ups and markets—and working with AD100 designer Alex Papachristidis—founder Alice Minnich opened Larger Cross to embrace New Jersey’s “bucolic lifestyle.” The shop features a wonderful mix of country house essentials, including antique English furniture and silver, Mexican etched glassware, and other stylish finds. Though Larger Cross has select pieces on its web store, its Oldwick location is a must-visit because of its robust inventory and soothing sage green interior.
Charming and often locally made home accessories and gifts are the specialty of interior designer Laura Hodges, who runs this storefront in the historic area of downtown Catonsville. Knitted throw blankets, handmade ceramics, ample artwork, and a profusion of pillows are what keep shoppers stopping by.
Think of Good Neighbor as one of the few home decor stores that can appeal to all the senses. Located in Baltimore’s Hampden neighborhood, the retailer boasts a roster of contemporary wares sure to elevate any entryway, living room, or home office. (Highlights include rippled glassware from Ferm Living, Hem’s vibrant side tables, and terrazzo stools courtesy of Normann Copenhagen.) Should you get hungry mid-spree, grab a coffee or sweet treat at Good Neighbor’s in-store café. You can also check out Green Neighbor, the retailer’s New Age nursery next door that sells plants and modern gardening essentials.
Eclectic design enthusiasts might know Yowie for its sprightly social media presence; however, its brick-and-mortar store in Philadelphia’s Queen Village is well worth the in-person visit. Yowie is open only a few days each week, but if you schedule your stop for the right moment, you’ll see that Shannon Maldonado packs the storefront with punchy ceramics, glassware, pillows, and linens, as well as innovative provisions. Out-of-towners, take note: In 2023, Yowie opened a colorful hotel attached to the storefront for some bold beauty sleep.
Growing up in Amsterdam, founder Natalie van Dijk had a deep appreciation for all-things home decor—so much so that she studied textile design in Europe and pursued a career in New York City. When she decided to open her shop in Boston’s South End, she blended aspects of her unique journey into one storefront: the sleek aesthetic of Amsterdam, the luxuries of Paris, and the innovative spirit of NYC. (Lekker is Dutch for “pleasing, enjoyable, and tasty.”) Van Dijk’s perfected the balance of understated and upscale with furniture upholstered in Alexander Girard textiles, outdoor rugs by Chilewich, and table lamps by &Tradition.
Home Remedies has been serving up classic New England charm since 2010—and remains a favorite design destination for locals and out-of-towners alike. (Even the store itself feels unequivocally Maine, thanks to its exposed wooden beams, brick walls, and a sprinkling of shiplap.) Nestled on Portland’s bustling Commercial Street, the retailer is the epitome of east coast style with an assortment of Thibaut throw pillows, lobster-printed serveware, and cast-iron cookware.
Midwest
With a studio-slash-storefront a stone’s throw away from Chicago’s famed Wrigley Field, Mitchell Black is the place to find custom and bespoke wall coverings in any style. You can also specify statement-making wall murals, peel-and-stick repeats, and just about anything else that will add a graphic punch to a project. In addition to signature repeats, Mitchell Black is also brimming with designer collaborations from the likes of Beth Glover and Forbes Masters, among others.
Open on weekends, or by appointment, The Stoop isn’t the kind of store you can sporadically swing by. But once you finally carve out some time to visit the West Town retailer, you’ll be happy you did. While The Stoop might have an impressive selection of secondhand clothes and accessories, it’s the homewares section that offers hit after hit. On any given day, you can pick up a complete Alessi by Michael Graves set or graphic art by Erin Burke.
Shopkeeper Beth Berke isn’t an interior designer by trade. (In fact, she spent many years as an aid and social worker.) However, when she was sprucing up her historic home many years ago, Berke found herself searching all corners of the earth for unique vintage pieces—and loved every minute of it. Her hobby turned into a full-fledged business with South Loop Loft, which is located just north of Chicago’s Fulton Market area. From Carrara marble office furniture dating back to the 1980s to a Belgian “space age” sofa from the 1970s, South Loop Loft gives retro finds a cool, trending flair.
HOUSTON, April 4, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Cornerstone Home Lending, a division of Cornerstone Capital Bank (“Cornerstone”) and a leading provider of home financing solutions, proudly announces the appointment of Michael A. Iorio as Senior Vice President of Strategic Partnerships. In his new role, Mike will spearhead the expansion of Cornerstone’s Homebuilder Partnership business across targeted builder accounts nationwide, with a focus on cultivating new relationships and enhancing service offerings.
Mike brings to Cornerstone over 25 years of industry expertise, particularly in the areas of ABA partnerships. Prior to joining Cornerstone, Mike served in various leadership capacities, where he oversaw sales initiatives and optimized business relationships for numerous ABA/JV entities, while also contributing to the board of directors for many of those organizations.
Mike’s academic background includes a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame and an MBA from Northwestern’s Kellogg Graduate School of Management.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mike to the Cornerstone family,” said Adam Laird, CEO of Cornerstone Home Lending. “His proven track record of success and deep industry knowledge will be invaluable as we continue to expand our homebuilder platforms and create new opportunities for both Cornerstone and our dedicated team members.”
About Cornerstone:
Created by Cornerstone Home Lending’s acquisition of and merger with The Roscoe State Bank, Houston-based Cornerstone Capital Bank (“Cornerstone”) has a combined operating history dating back to 1906, with mortgage banking, mortgage loan servicing, commercial banking, and institutional banking divisions. Its nationally recognized residential mortgage lending team, which continues to operate as Cornerstone Home Lending, has assisted families with more than 500,000 home financing loans since its inception in 1988. In addition to residential mortgage lending, Cornerstone Home Lending provides full-service, in-house mortgage loan servicing operations under the name Cornerstone Servicing, which combines a superior record of customer care with top-tier technologies. Cornerstone’s 1,500 team members across the country are guided by a core Mission, Vision, and Convictions statement. Visit www.houseloan.com, www.cornerstonecapital.com, www.rsb.bank and www.cornerstoneservicing.com to learn more.
Mortgage interest rates have continued in the mid-6% range for 16 weeks. The 30-year fixed mortgage interest rate declined slightly to 6.79% from 6.87% the week prior.
Home buyers purchasing a $400,000 home with a 20% down payment at a 6.79% interest rate would have a monthly mortgage payment of $2,084. This is a savings of $217 per month from when mortgage interest rates were 7.79% in October 2023. However, the typical first-time buyer does not put 20% down. Last year, the typical first-time buyer had a down payment of 8%. In that scenario, for a home buyer purchasing a $400,000 home with an 8% down payment at a mortgage interest rate of 6.79%, the mortgage payment would be $2,397.
Housing affordability is one reason the share of first-time buyers last month (at 26%) matched the lowest share ever recorded dating back to 2008. Inventory is the second critical component. First-time buyers need, value, and rely on the expertise of REALTORS® to help find the right home and with negotiations.
First date etiquette: How much should you spend? Who should pay? And can you talk about money?
By Emily Mee, Money team
Money isn’t the sexiest topic on a first date.
No one would say the best part was when their date leaned over, looked into their eyes and said: “Shall we split the bill?”
So if you want to save awkward vibe killer conversations, it might be worth thinking about money before you even set out for your date.
Can you talk about money?
TV presenter and dating coach Anna Williamson told the Money blog: “Typically as Brits we’re brought up to not talk about money – but I think there is a real sweet spot around being open and transparent in a respectful way around finances.”
If money is tight, she suggests the best way to make sure you’re not caught out is to take hold of arrangements, casually suggesting something low cost such as coffee, a museum, or a walk.
Just don’t get into this situation
Sexual health and relationships educator Lalala Letmeexplain agrees, and says low-cost first-dates avoid situations like this…
“I went for a first date with someone I’d never seen or met before and we booked in for a three-course meal. Right from the starter I knew that I didn’t fancy him and it was such an awful situation to be in because I was like, ‘Shit, we’ve got to get through the main and dessert’.”
Who should pay – the do’s and don’ts
As much as society has moved on, the old-fashioned view that, on heterosexual dates, the man should pay lingers on. A 2019 survey conducted by online dating site Elite Singles found 63% of men believed they should be the ones to pay on the first date – and 46% of women surveyed agreed.
If you’re not expecting a second date, Lalala says it’s often considered fair to split the bill – but if you’ve “got a bit of a vibe going on” and want a second date, you might want to suggest paying.
She adds that although there is no “hard and fast rule”, she would take a man’s offer to pay as a hint he is interested.
“If he’d paid for me the first date, I’d be more than happy to pay the next time,” she adds.
But while it can be flattering for someone to splash out on you, those who pay shouldn’t create a situation where “the other person feels that they are indebted or that they owe them something”.
“If someone spent £200 on the first date and you didn’t ask them to and it’s completely their choice, are you then put a position where you feel like you have to sleep with this guy or see him again because he’s gone all out?” she says.
“Be honest – don’t let somebody splash out on you if you know you don’t want to see them again.”
There is no objective answer here
Lalala says the question of how much you should spend on a first date depends on who you’re talking to.
“I think you have some people who feel like, ‘if you’re going to take me out on a date, I want to see you’re invested in that – that you’re buying me dinner or whatever’ – and then there are other people who are like, ‘You really don’t need to spend a penny and I’m absolutely happy to just go for a walk’.”
According to a Sky News poll for the Money blog, the majority of people (40%) believe it’s reasonable to spend roughly £20-50 between two people on a first date.
Another 39% say it’s reasonable for people to spend £50 to £100 (the total cost for both parties)…
Love is in the air, and if it’s not, you may feel compelled to find some: According to a new NerdWallet survey, 60% of Americans agree that there’s pressure on single people to have a date for Valentine’s Day.
The survey of more than 2,000 U.S. adults — among whom 1,218 plan to spend money on Valentine’s Day — conducted online by The Harris Poll, asked Americans about their planned spending on dates and gifts, as well as their thoughts on dating and finances in general.
Valentine’s Day date and gifts cost $188, on average
Americans who plan to spend money on Valentine’s Day plans or gifts this year say they’ll spend $188, on average. Women are more likely than men to say they’re spending $0 — 47% vs. 35% — suggesting that they’re opting out or that male partners are picking up the tab. And younger generations plan to spend more than their older counterparts — millennials and Generation Zers who plan to spend on Valentine’s Day say they’ll pay $274 and $197, on average, respectively. That’s compared with $144, on average, for Generation Xers and just $96, on average, for baby boomers who plan to spend on Valentine’s Day.
While there isn’t a right amount to spend on Valentine’s Day plans and gifts, you should aim to keep your spending within budget and avoid going into costly credit card debt.
“The ideal amount to spend on Valentine’s Day depends on your individual financial situation,” says Kimberly Palmer, a personal finance expert at NerdWallet. “Overspending or taking on more debt to celebrate the holiday can backfire, creating more stress and even harming your relationship. A romantic gesture that costs nothing can do far more for your relationship than a pricey gift that takes months to pay off.”
Most agree men should pay on the first date in hetero relationships
So who’s paying for the Valentine’s Day date and beyond? It depends on whom you ask.
Most Americans (72%) agree that in a heterosexual couple, the man should pay on the first date. Interestingly, men are more likely to say this than women (78% vs. 68%). Whether this is based on old-fashioned gender norms, recognition of the wage gap between men and women or something else, we can only speculate.
Some think the asker should also be the payer. According to the survey, 65% of Americans agree that if someone asked them out, they would expect that person to pay for the date. Women are more likely to say this than men (77% vs. 52%).
There’s more of a split when it comes to whether you should pay based on income. While 57% of Americans agree that the person who makes more money in a couple should pay for dates more often than the person who makes less, 43% disagree.
Of course, every couple should decide for themselves how they want to divvy up dating expenses. For relationships that go beyond a few dates, it’s probably a good idea to iron this out together to set expectations and avoid resentment.
Many agree couples should discuss money early
After figuring out who pays for what and under what circumstances, you might want to have a deeper money chat beyond the cost of dates. According to the survey, more than two-thirds of Americans (68%) agree that couples should talk about their finances within six months of dating. This discussion might include divulging credit scores, incomes, debt loads or other financial responsibilities, as well as your overall philosophies on making, spending and saving money.
“Talking about money early on in a relationship doesn’t have to be awkward and in fact can help avoid discomfort later. Broaching the topic in a casual way can lead to a meaningful conversation about finances, values and expectations,” Palmer says.
Arguably, this doesn’t sound like the most romantic conversation to have during the carefree honeymoon phase of your courtship. But if you see the relationship continuing, it’s probably a good idea to know if your financial values mesh.
“Getting on the same page financially early on can help set the tone for open and honest communication about finances throughout your relationship. Or, it could help you decide that the partnership is not a good fit. Either way, it’s information that can help you make an informed decision about where to take your relationship next,” Palmer says.
Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of NerdWallet from Dec. 14-18, 2023, among 2,061 U.S. adults ages 18 and older. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.7 percentage points using a 95% confidence level. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables and subgroup sample sizes, please contact [email protected].
Disclaimer
NerdWallet disclaims, expressly and impliedly, all warranties of any kind, including those of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose or whether the article’s information is accurate, reliable or free of errors. Use or reliance on this information is at your own risk, and its completeness and accuracy are not guaranteed. The contents in this article should not be relied upon or associated with the future performance of NerdWallet or any of its affiliates or subsidiaries. Statements that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties as indicated by words such as “believes,” “expects,” “estimates,” “may,” “will,” “should” or “anticipates” or similar expressions. These forward-looking statements may materially differ from NerdWallet’s presentation of information to analysts and its actual operational and financial results.
The availability of mortgage credit increased in January, according to a report issued by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) based on data sourced from ICE Mortgage Technology.
The MBA’s Mortgage Credit Availability Index (MCAI) increased in January to 92.7, or by 0.7% over December’s figure, based on initial benchmarking of the index to 100 in 2012. Rising figures indicate that credit standards are loosening, while tightened conditions are occurring when the MCAI trends downward.
The MCAI for conventional loans increased by 1.3% while the index for government loans stayed flat compared to December, the MBA explained in its data release. Of the component indices of the Conventional MCAI, the Jumbo MCAI increased by 1.9% and the Conforming MCAI rose by 0.2%
The modest increase in mortgage credit availability stems from a greater number of conventional loan offerings, according to MBA senior vice president and deputy chief economist Joel Kan.
“However, overall credit availability remained close to 2012 lows, and the conventional index was close to its record low in the series dating back to 2011,” he said.
There are still other active headwinds to monitor despite the rise in these programs, however.
“Even though there was an increase in cash-out refinance programs available, credit supply overall is tight,” Kan explained. “The challenging lending environment has pushed many lenders to reduce costs by cutting back on certain aspects of their business, including exiting origination channels, which has contributed to lower credit supply.”
Have you ever been sitting around with your friends and heard everyone talking about something they have done that you haven’t? We’ve all experienced a certain level of embarrassment when we realize that the people around us have had some experience we missed out on. Well, don’t worry because today we will unveil the top twenty everyday things everybody has done… except YOU! That’s right: You may not have hiked mountains or traveled the world, but trust us—there are plenty of experiences and opportunities for growth out there that can easily spice up your life.
So get ready to explore some of the most fun things to do—from social media to common adventures! It’s time for an unforgettable journey through some amazing experiences.
1. Trick-Or-Treating as a Child
One user shared, “Gone trick-or-treating as a child. It was forbidden by my church, so my parents would shut out all of our lights, and my brother and I would sit up in his room and watch all the other kids walking around in their costumes. I have my own kids now, and we trick-or-treat, carve pumpkins, give out candy… the whole nine yards.”
Another user asked, “Do you dress up with your kids and get candy now??”
The OP answered, “I’ve dressed up a few times… one year, my kids were the perfect ages for us to dress as the Incredibles, and it was epic. I even cut/dyed my hair just like ElastiGirl because I was so excited. And yes, I know what wigs are, but it wasn’t that much of a stretch from what I had then.”
2. Snapping Your Fingers
One Redditor posted, “I can’t snap my fingers…”
Another user commented, “Now I’m really curious if it’s a physical situation that limits how your fingers move, or if people have been explaining the moves wrong… Can you fold your ring finger so that its fingertip sits roughly in the middle of the blob of muscle on the palm below the thumb?
“And can you kind of press that fingertip into that muscle to make that finger’s end joint flatten out roughly straight?
“Propping the 3rd finger against the thumb will create that small gap between the base of the thumb & ring finger’s fingertip. Can you aim your middle finger to fly to fill that gap — when the thumb abruptly slides out of the way and lets the ‘spring-loaded’ middle finger fly there?”
Another user commented, “Well, I just snapped for the first time in my 34 years of living!”
3. Breaking a Bone
One user shared, “Prob break a bone; it at least seems common since I’ve seen tons of people with broken bones in school (Brace, cast, crutch, etc.).”
Another user commented, “I never broke a bone til I was 41. I tripped, caught myself and broke my elbow.”
One added, “Well, that’s bizarre. Same exact thing. It was two years ago when I was 41. The first bone break was my elbow (radial head fracture) after slipping on ice and trying to catch myself. Best part? The term for that type of fall is a FOOSH (fall on outstretched hand). So, my wife erupted in laughter and decided to call me a footbag, which was the best way to ease my pain at the urgent care…”
5. Moving Out of Your Childhood Home
“Move out of my childhood home,” shared one user.
Another Redditor commented, “There was a guy in my neighbourhood growing up who was around 70. He lived in the same house he grew up in and still drove his first car, an old … pickup.
“He was a cool old dude. He also told me his dog was the same one he had growing up, and I was little and susceptible, so it filled me with hope and joy about my dog. I think he underestimated my stupidity and felt terrible, so he told me the dog was different.”
6. Having a Messed up Nose
One user commented, “Had a nosebleed.”
Another user added, “Think I probably had your share.”
One Redditor said, “I’ve never had one either, and I have been punched in the nose a few times and nothing.”
7. Walking On Two Legs
“Walk on two legs. I walk just fine, but with a prosthesis,” one Redditor posted.
Another user commented, “Prosthesis etiquette question: Is it considered rude to compliment someone on a prosthesis with a neat design? I saw a guy with the coolest Spiderman-themed leg, but I had no idea whether it was okay to mention it.”
One user replied, “Amputee here. Most would be cool with that. If they have Spiderman on their leg, you’re probably fine. For those that it’s a sensitive subject, they will go to great lengths to hide their prosthesis.”
8. Rolling Your R’s
“Rolled my r’s,” one user posted.
Another user commented, “Dude, my 8-month-old daughter learned she could do it a few days ago and hasn’t stopped since. Instead of crying, we just get really long rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr cries.”
9. Breaking Bad Cycles
One user shared his story of resilience, “I grew up in a [drug] household. My dad. My sister’s. My brother. Their SOs and friends. My boyfriends later on. My sister’s kids. All methods are out all the time.
I was the only one with a job, trying to sleep and eat like an average person. It was crazy. My nephew in prison has asked me numerous times why I never did it. Dude, what? It’s not like they made it look good or fun. Jesus
“Edit to add: holy moly, guys! I didn’t realize this post would get so much attention! Thanks for the well wishes and the awards. I survived, and I’m doing great, given the circumstances. I can’t say the same for all the rest of the family. My sister and BIL did get clean, but unfortunately, two of my nephews did not. One is in prison, and one is off the grid, strung out on meth, living on the street pretending he is Rambo. But I’m proof the cycle can be broken. Thanks again for everything.”
10. Pooping Your Pants as an Adult
One Redditor posted, “[Crapped] my pants as an adult. I know it’s coming, and I consider myself privileged.”
One user shared, “As someone who [messes] their pants way more often than any adult should admit to, I find this comment hilarious. You have it coming in. ETA: Thanks for the award! Now I can say I have an award-winning story!”
One user added, “Broke my unbeaten run of not messing my big boy pants going through chemo. It’s ridiculous enough that you’ve just got to laugh. Funny, though, I mentioned it at work, and while all the guys present were willing to hold their hands up and admit to it happening to them at some point/share stories and have a laugh about it, even the usually stoic and serious guy who doesn’t open up was willing to, which was a surprise…
“All of the women present strongly denied having any experience of it. I don’t believe the numbers. I wonder if this trend of being willing to admit to it holds true as a split between the sexes across the board. Just one of those random occurrences that gives you pause for thought.”
11. Getting Stung by a Bee
“Gotten stung by a bee/wasp,” posted by one user.
Another commenter added, “Same here, still deathly afraid of them.”
One Redditor shared, “It’s nowhere near as bad as you learn as a kid unless you have an allergy. People grow up learning to fear them from kids, but it’s really super minor by adult standards. The initial sting of a wasp is a surprise, and then it’s just sore like a cross between a sunburn and a really big sore mosquito bite minus the itch.”
One replied, “It’s not so bad until you get stung for the first time on your bottom lip the day before your wedding from a bee that decided it was a good idea to climb down the straw sticking out of your tasty, tasty cocktail… Actually, I guess in the end, it was a plus… it was like 24 hours of lip filler for the bottom lip.”
12 Going Skinny Dipping
One user shared, “Skinny dip. And I’m over 60. So disappointed. Never had the opportunity.”
Another user commented, “There’s still time.”
13. Going to Prom
“Been to prom,” one Redditor shared.
Another user commented, “Me too. But it’s all good.”
One commenter shared, “Me too. Unlike what Pretty in Pink made me believe, I have no regrets, and I literally never think of it.”
14. Whistling
One user posted, “Whistled.”
Another user commented, “I have to inhale to whistle. Can’t exhale to do it.”
One Redditor added, “I’ve finally found my people.”
Another user replied, “As a fellow inhaler, I find I can whistle much higher notes than those who exhale. Losers.”
15. Getting Drunk
One user posted, “I’ve never been drunk.”
Another user confirmed, “Me neither. Didn’t discover my gluten allergy until after college. I have visual migraines (kind of like hallucinations during a bad trip) as part of my gluten reaction. I always thought I was a super lightweight—two sips of beer, and I’d feel awful and thought I was super drunk. Since then, I honestly just associate the taste so strongly with that reaction that I can hardly smell it without feeling repulsed. It also triggers my depression for bonus points. No, thank you.”
16. Flying
One Redditor shared, “Got on a plane.”
Another user replied, “I’ve gone up in a plane but have never landed in one, lol. The only time I ever got in a plane was when my boss paid for us all to do this ‘bonding’ thing, which turned out to be skydiving.”
17. Having Surgery
“I have never had surgery,” one user posted.
Another user commented, “I was doing pretty well on this until a couple of years ago when I needed surgery to keep my insides from becoming outsides. The surgery was way better than the recovery.”
One commenter added, “I’ve got you covered. I’ve had enough of them to balance the scales.”
18. Using a Dating App
One user posted, “Used a dating app.”
Another user replied, “Have been married for almost two decades. Based on all the hoops, it looks like heterosexual men are jumping through just to get a date on these apps; if I ever end up single, I guess I’m just staying single and celibate.”
One user disagreed and said, “It’s not as bad as many guys say. You just need to keep yourself clean and well-groomed and work on your knowledge of socializing. And if that doesn’t work, lower your standards. I’ve seen a lot of stories on Reddit where someone has a friend who can’t get a date, but their standards are way too high. It’s like going on a dating app and only tapping yes to the ones you find super attractive.
“Sure, you should be attracted to your partner, but many people focus on the flaws and have this image in their mind of this perfect, flawless partner that simply isn’t out there because we’re all human and have flaws.”
19. Paying Credit Card Interest
One user shared, “Paid a penny of credit card interest.”
Another user also added, “Same here. I was always taught credit cards are for building credit and getting points. Never actually treat them as buying something on credit.”
One commenter replied, “Same. I use my credit card a lot because I want that cash back, but it’s always paid off at the end of the month.”
20. Going On TikTok
One Redditor shared, “Been on Tiktok.”
Another added, “Never have and never will.”
One commenter replied, “Yeah, I am trying to leave half of the social media, not join more.”
Another user said, “I agree. I quit FB a couple of years ago. I’ve never had anything else. I’ve been on Reddit a lot the last couple of days. Maybe I’m getting lonely. lol.”
Do you have a common thing you haven’t done and would like to share? Let us know in the comments!
Source: Reddit.
10 Actors Perfectly Cast for Their Character Roles
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Many people are turning to the option of living with a roommate to help balance out the financial strain of rental prices. Make sure you find the right one.
Since living with someone else can turn out as a pretty terrible experience sometimes, it’s important to vet out your roommates beforehand to avoid the bad ones. We’ve all heard the horror stories of piles of dirty dishes, the garbage that’s never taken out and late-night weekday parties. You may have even experienced these frustrations first-hand.
If you haven’t looked for one before, you may wonder how to find a roommate. Fortunately, with social networks and technology, there are plenty of roommate finder apps to help your search. Here is a list of our favorites and tips for identifying what is the best roommate finder app and websites for you.
1. Roomi
Roomi uses an algorithm to match you up with a roommate that would best be suited for you. You answer questions about yourself, what you’re looking for in an ideal roommate and Roomi then works its magic to pair two matches together.
Roomi has users do quick background checks and gives the option to link social media accounts so both roommates can feel more confident and secure in the process. Once you’re ready to message a potential “roomi,” you can do so through the app so you don’t have to exchange any personal contact information until you’re ready.
2. Roomster
Roomster has listings in more than 192 countries and 18 languages. It connects potential roommates using personality traits, keyword searches and interests to help you find your ideal match.
Members can match based on testimonials from friends, hobbies, interests and questions answered through their profiles. Roomster allows users to link their social accounts, so this app tends to have more data to find the perfect match. Once you find a potential roommate that looks promising, you can connect with them through the Roomster mailbox.
3. RoomEasy
RoomEasy is kind of like the Tinder of roommate apps. With RoomEasy, you create a profile, add personal description tags from their system and browse roommate and apartment listings. You can also connect your Facebook profile and see if your potential new roommate and you have any mutual friends.
Once you find something that interests you, you’ll “like” your favorite places or potential roommates’ profiles, and if they “like” yours, you’ll be matched. Once you’re matched, you can connect through the chat app.
4. SpareRoom
SpareRoom claims it is the busiest roommate app, with a roommate match being found every three minutes on its platform. What really sets SpareRoom apart from some other roommate apps is that it has a team of real people that screen each and every ad on SpareRoom so you can ensure listings are safe and verified.
This app even hosts speed room-mating events where you can meet up with people in your community and go through a roommate speed date-like process to see if you find someone you mix well with.
5. BunkUp
BunkUp is a pretty cool app that will help you find a roommate and an apartment. With BunkUp, much like the other apps, you fill out details about yourself and what you’re looking for in a roommate and are you’re matched or “BunkedUp.”
You can look for someone to move into your open space, move into a vacant room someone else is offering or find a new roommate to look for an entirely new apartment with. BunkUp even has agents that will help you find a new apartment.
6. Circle
Circle allows you to create a profile as either someone looking for a roommate to move into your place or as someone searching for a new place to live. It shows your potential roommates based on your profile and specifications.
It even “verifies” users, which means that a user has an authenticated driver’s license connected to their profile and they’ve passed a background check. Circle always shows you the “verified” potential roommates before all others, so you know that those who show up higher on your list are real people that aren’t trying to pull a scam. You’ll also be able to chat with potential roommates and ask questions to see who you get along with best to create a positive living environment.
7. Cirtru
Website only
Cirtru has truly adapted to the digital age. It allows users to take virtual tours within the platform so you can check it out safely from wherever you are. This makes it easy to both find a roommate to fill a vacancy in your home or look for an empty room to move into.
Cirtru is especially useful for animal lovers and owners as it allows you to set your preferences based on many criteria, including pet-friendly rentals and pet-welcoming roommates.
8. RoomieMatch
Website only
RoomieMatch is all about safety. It uses human “Scam Busters” to review submissions and listings, including an IP address location check to share the actual city in which people are, so you won’t deal with many scammers. Plus, your personal info is stored offline, instead of inline, so it can’t be accessed by online hackers and spammers
As a user, you can set your RoomieMatches based on gender, sexual orientation, lifestyle choices (like smoking/non-smoking), age and pet-friendliness.
9. Diggz
Website only
Diggz matches you with roommates based on a variety of factors connected with your profile, like your lifestyle, personality and personal preferences. You’ll be able to “like” other profiles that you’d be interested in rooming with. It’s similar to dating apps where you only talk to people that you “like” and who “like” you back.
Diggz works for almost any situation, whether you’re looking for a new roommate to move in with you, you want to move in with someone else or you want to search for a new place with a new roommate.
10. Roomaters
Roomaters uses more than the preferences you set for finding a roommate. Users take a personality test that helps when matching them with potential roommates.
Plus, you’ll get to input your interests, hobbies and a bit about what kind of roommate you are (social, introverted, messy, neat freak, etc.). So whether you like music, art, rock climbing or superhero movies, you can find someone you’ll enjoy living with.
Ask the right questions before sharing a living space
No matter where you source your new roomie, it’s essential to pose some hard-hitting questions aimed at gaining insights into their way of life and financial well-being. Here are several queries to initiate the conversation:
What qualities are you seeking in a roommate?
Are you thinking about a month-to-month rental arrangement, or are you leaning towards a longer commitment, such as a year?
Could you provide an overview of your typical work hours?
Do you share your living space with any pets?
What are your usual waking and sleeping hours?
How do you typically spend your leisure time?
Are there frequent visitors in your social circle? If so, who usually comes around?
Is smoking or alcohol consumption part of your routine?
Do you have any significant food or animal-related allergies?
Are you planning to bring along any furniture items? Do you have a need for parking space, perhaps a garage? What is your approach to maintaining cleanliness and tidiness around the house?
Roommate finder apps pair you with the right person
With so many roommate finder apps out there, it’s easier than ever to locate a perfect roommate — or at least a good one. Gone are the days of blindly showing up at someone’s place or finding a creepy classified ad in the paper. If you’re looking for the ideal roommate, give one of the above apps or sites a try.
…And Rent. pairs you with the right apartment
Maybe you already know who your potential roommate will be but you’re still looking at apartments together. We can help with that, too. Just type in your target city to get started, then filter by price range, pet-friendly apartments and more to help you decide.
Morgen Henderson is a writer who grew up in Utah. She lived in the Dominican Republic for a year and a half, where she was involved in humanitarian service. Some of Morgen’s work has appeared in State of Digital, The Next Scoop and TechPatio. In her free time, she loves to travel, bake, master DIY projects and improve her Spanish skills.
Finding your dream home has changed with the rise of online real estate platforms in today’s fast-changing digital world. Just like swiping right on a dating app, the process of finding your ideal home has become more intuitive and efficient. These are essential characteristics you need in a home, ensuring that every swipe brings you one step closer to your dream house.
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Create Your Dream Home Wishlist
Start by creating a wishlist that reflects your lifestyle, preferences, and plans. Consider the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and square footage you want in your dream home. Think about features such as a spacious kitchen, a backyard oasis, or a dedicated home office. This wishlist will be the foundation for your search, helping you focus on the characteristics that matter most.
Set a Realistic Budget
Before searching for dream homes, create a budget. Include the expenses of purchasing a property, as well as other costs such as taxes, maintenance, and renovations. Knowing your financial limits helps you choose affordable homes and avoid future disappointment.
Prioritize Lifestyle
Your home is an extension of your lifestyle. If you’re an avid entertainer, prioritize homes with open layouts and inviting communal spaces. If you work from home, consider a property with a dedicated workspace. Tailoring your home’s characteristics to suit your lifestyle ensures an enjoyable living experience.
Evaluate Locations
Just as location is important in the dating world, it’s a critical factor in finding your dream home. Choose homes in neighborhoods that match your lifestyle, close to work, have good schools, and have important amenities. Assess the neighborhood’s safety and atmosphere to ensure it complements your preferences.
Think Long-Term Commitment
Swipe with the future in mind. Consider your long-term plans, whether it’s starting a family, changing careers, or adjusting to new habits. Say yes to homes that can adapt and grow with you, providing a long-term commitment to your evolving needs.
Consult with Real Estate Professionals
Like friends in dating, real estate professionals can help you find a home. Talk to an agent who knows your dream home market. They can give advice and find homes that suit you. They can also offer expert guidance.
In the enchanting world of real estate, each swipe brings you closer to the love story of a lifetime – the perfect home that aligns with your dreams. So grab your virtual keys, embark on this modern adventure, and let the love story unfold within the walls of your dream home. Happy swiping! Looking to make a move this season? Let love lead the way! Give us a call today at Zoocasa, where our dedicated team of real estate “cupids” is ready to guide you through the journey of finding your dream home!
Are you ready to fall in love with your own dream home?