Call it the Yellowstone effect, but ranch living is definitely having a moment.
In recent years, countless homebuyers seeking a blend of luxury, privacy, and a closer connection to nature have opted for rural properties that offer more bang for your buck — and a tranquil lifestyle that promises less fuss and more rewards.
This trend has not gone unnoticed in the celebrity world, with notable figures like Donald Glover, Kelis, and even Calvin Harris (who ventured as far as Ibiza to secure a 183-acre farm) embracing the ranch lifestyle.
And now, there’s a new option on the market for prospective buyers seeking to own a piece of rural California.
The Green Acre Ranch — a nearly 20-acre property in Somis, California with mini-horse stables and over 1,500 income-producing fruit trees — has just been listed for $7.35 million, presenting a unique blend of luxury ranch living and lucrative agricultural potential.
Rochelle Maize and Myra Nourmand of Nourmand & Associates hold the listing, and they’ve given us all the deets on this unique opportunity.
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An income-producing ranch
Located conveniently an hour’s drive from Los Angeles and a stone’s throw from the charming towns of Camarillo and Moorpark, the Green Acre Ranch offers a perfect retreat for those wanting proximity to the city while enjoying the tranquility of the countryside.
The property spans 20 acres and is adorned with 1,500 matured avocado, pomegranate, and lemon trees, which have historically turned a profit, generating $72k and $84.5k in revenue in 2023 and 2022, respectively.
The estate boasts an array of features designed to cater to the luxury-minded homeowner with a penchant for outdoor living.
From a long gated driveway lined with roses to a swimming pool and a large pond that mirror the property’s serene setting, each detail has been curated to enhance the ranch’s natural beauty and its panoramic views of the valley.
The sprawling property has a charming, Mediterranean-style home that allows guests and residents to soak in the picturesque canyon views from nearly every room of the house.
“The estate is set away from the street, which gives the homeowner ultimate privacy,” listing agent Myra Nourmand tells us.
See also: Is the Yellowstone ranch real? We found the Dutton ranch in real life
Inside the 5-bedroom home
Featuring 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, an inviting eat-in kitchen, and a showstopping Spanish-tiled staircase, the interiors draw you in as much as the idyllic surroundings.
Built in 2008, the house features tile, wood, and stone flooring with two fireplaces adding to the coziness of the home. And the rooms are as grand and impressive as the rest of the property.
The heart of the home
The great room stands out as the property’s crown jewel, providing breathtaking views of the expansive yard and the canyon beyond.
As Myra Nourmand highlights, the ranch offers vistas on par with those found in Italy, creating a scenic backdrop that could rival scenes from “The Sound of Music.”
“The Green Acre Ranch’s views are truly magnificent,” agent Myra Nourmand tells us. “I’ve traveled extensively across Europe and can say that this property is on par with the views found in Italy. As you walk through the property’s French doors, it’s like you’re in “The Sound of Music” with these stunning views of the hills and canyon.”
A rich historical tapestry
The Green Acre Ranch carries a storied past with Hollywood connections, having been a preferred gathering spot for musicians at the behest of previous owner Mary Hollander.
Mary Hollander directed and produced for the Sagamore Players, a local theater troupe, often staging shows in her home. Her husband, Max Hollander, was a violinist in the early 1940s and he was an associate concertmaster for the NBC Symphony Orchestra led by Toscanini.
According to our sources, Hollander used to have parties at the property where all these Hollywood musicians would come up on the first Sunday of the month. The ranch’s Hollywood legacy, coupled with its robust agricultural potential, makes it a property with both charm and investment value.
It has an orchard with 1,500 fruit trees
Rochelle Maize emphasizes the ranch’s vast outdoor amenities, including an 11-stall horse stable, a luxurious BBQ pavilion, and the possibility to add more facilities such as sports courts or additional animal shelters.
The property also boasts an orchard of 1,500 fruit trees, including avocado, orange, lemon, guava, grapefruit, pomegranate, and more, offering a trove of California produce just moments away. With this much land, prospective buyers can cultivate a vineyard, build sports facilities like a pickleball court, or construct more animal shelters and barns for pigs, ducks, or goats. All animals are welcome!
The property’s orchard not only enhances its appeal but also offers a sustainable living option by allowing homeowners to cultivate a variety of fruits.
See also: Sandra Bullock sells 91-acre compound with organic avocado, citrus orchards
Stables for mini-horses
Possibly the most charming amenity is reserved for the equestrian enthusiast, as the property can easily be turned into a miniature horse farm.
An 11-stall miniature horse stable stands ready to accommodate small equine companions, with the flexibility to convert for full-size horses.
There’s even a private pond
In line with the whole “trading the city life for quiet ranch living”, this particular luxury listing comes with both the traditional pool AND a cute little pond.
The tranquil private pond adds a touch of whimsy to the landscape, offering a serene backdrop for entertainment and relaxation.
See also: Suzanne Somers’ beloved 28-acre Palm Springs retreat re-lists for $8.95 million
Located in Somis, California
“Somis is conveniently located just an hour’s drive from Los Angeles, making it ideal for someone who seeks a quiet and relaxing retreat but still wants to be close to city life,” listing agent Rochelle Maize says in an exclusive quote for Fancy Pants Homes.
“Situated amidst the charming towns of Camarillo and Moorpark each just a short 15–20-minute drive away, residents and visitors alike can enjoy outlet malls, scenic hiking trails, and country club golf courses. The town of Somis itself is ripe with neighboring farms and nurseries that provide fresh local fruits, vibrant flowers, and delicious nuts, adding to the area’s idyllic rural charm.”
A multifaceted opportunity
Beyond its enchanting living spaces and outdoor amenities, the ranch serves as a fully functional farm.
The previous owner leveraged the orchard’s produce to create a line of kitchen and bath products, from gourmet balsamic vinegar, including fig and pomegranate flavors, to avocado soaps, body scrubs, and body lotions, showcasing the estate’s versatility and entrepreneurial potential.
The Green Acre Ranch is more than just a home; it’s a lifestyle choice for those seeking privacy, luxury, and the opportunity to live off the land, all within reach of Los Angeles.
As the trend towards ranch living grows among celebrities and luxury homebuyers alike, this listing represents a rare chance to own a piece of California’s coveted rural lifestyle.
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Work doesn’t take a break when the cameras stop rolling.
Fresh off the heels of a hit new season of “Buying Beverly Hills“, the real estate power team at The Agency is bringing another showstopping property to the market, one with architectural pedigree, plenty of acreage, and a long history of celebrity owners — and guests.
Set in La Quinta, Calif., the estate once owned by game show legend Merv Griffin hit the market last week for a staggering $36 million, with The Agency’s Zac Goldsmith and Mauricio Umansky holding the listing.
This sprawling 39-acre property, nestled in the heart of California’s desert landscape, features a luxurious 5,409-square-foot main residence, a total of 13 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, and several additional structures including guest pods (with vacation rental potential) and a gatehouse.
Renowned for its unique blend of Moroccan elegance and modern California style, the former Merv Griffin estate has been a sought-after party destination during the Coachella music festival, hosting celebrities like Post Malone, Katy Perry, and Jack Harlow.
And it boasts dazzling interiors inspired by Yves St. Laurent’s Marrakesh home. So let’s take a quick tour of this legendary celebrity home — before a buyer takes it off the market.
The estate’s grandeur
Spread across an extra generous 39 acres in the heart of La Quinta — a desert resort city in Riverside County, Calif. rightfully dubbed “the Gem of the Desert” — the property consists of seven different structures including a majestic 5,409-square-foot main residence.
Beyond its 13 bedrooms and 12 bathrooms, the former Merv Griffin estate has everything from a private lake to an orchard, equestrian facilities, and even comes with its own water supply.
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The main house
The main house alone is a sight to behold, flanked by four cozy 500-square-foot pods, a West Building, and a gatehouse, all enveloped in lush landscapes against a mountainous backdrop.
Moroccan-inspired architecture
The estate’s architecture is a love letter to Moroccan elegance, seamlessly fused with modern Californian flair. Its grandeur is matched by its design, which includes intricate chandeliers, hand-placed mosaic tiles, and circular guesthouses that add a unique touch to its layout.
See also: Bing Crosby’s Estate in Rancho Mirage — That Once Welcomed JFK and Marilyn Monroe
Designer interiors
The interiors, masterfully put together by renowned Los Angeles interior designer Waldo Fernandez, speak volumes of luxury and style. Taking inspiration from Yves St. Laurent’s iconic Marrakesh home, each room tells a story, blending Moroccan charm with a modern twist that’s as enchanting as it is welcoming.
Guest pods oozing charm
While there’s plenty to love about this idyllic desert escape, it’s the four guest pods that won us over. The charming little guest houses — which have solid vacation rental potential and have been listed on popular rental platforms alongside other structures on the property — each contain one queen-sized bed, an ensuite bathrooms with shower/bathtub combos, a gas fireplace, TV, and private entrances.
Outdoor amenities include a lake and orchards
Stepping outside, a whole series of outdoor amenities add to the appeal of the property. And they go beyond your regular pool and spa, found in most celebrity homes.
The 39-acre estate has a roughly 2.5-acre man-made lake, Lake Merveilleux, home to thriving populations of koi, bass, and turtles, an equestrian facility, and lush orchards of oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, pomegranates, and guavas — along with the iconic King Fig Tree, one of the largest in the Coachella Valley.
Post-Griffin era
After Merv Griffin passed away in 2007, the estate found its new owner in real estate investor Mark Majerovic, who bought it for a cool $7 million in 2013. Majerovic turned the estate into a sought-after venue for high-end vacation rentals, events, and, of course, unforgettable parties.
The ultimate party destination
Under Majerovic’s ownership, the estate embraced its new identity as party central, opening its doors to thousands of party-goers looking to experience the glitz and glamour of Hollywood in the heart of the desert.
A celeb hotspot during Coachella
A-listers like Post Malone, Katy Perry, and Jack Harlow, among others, have stayed here during the Coachella music festival, with the house playing host to a veritable who’s who of Hollywood and continuing its legacy as a landmark of high-profile entertainment.
See also: Inside Rod Stewart’s house in Beverly Park — a ritzy $74 million manor with its own soccer field
Home to a TV legend
Built by the late TV host in the 1980s, the property then became Merv Griffin’s longtime home. Griffin, most famous for hosting his talk show, The Merv Griffin Show, was a multifaceted American entertainment mogul best known for his work as a television host and the creator of two of the most famous game shows in American television history: Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune.
Beyond his on-screen presence, Griffin was also a successful businessman, with ventures extending into real estate and the hotel industry. And he made quite the profit from his La Quinta property, as the estate was far larger during his ownership.
The estate once spanned 240 acres
Originally spanning over 240 acres, the estate was pared down when Griffin sold off 200 acres for the Griffin Ranch community. Yet, the essence of the estate’s grandeur remains, with its 39-acre heart still beating strong.
Now listed for $36 million
After over a decade of work on the property, real estate investor Mark Majerovic is bringing the former Merv Griffin estate to market. Enlisting the help of top industry pros Zac Goldsmith and Mauricio Umansky (The Agency), the iconic La Quinta property is now on the market for $36 million, offering a rare opportunity to own a piece of luxury and entertainment history in the heart of California’s desert landscape.
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The constraints of a Brooklyn town house renovation might, at first glance, seem rigid and prescriptive—stacked floors, each long and narrow, bound by four exterior walls, the front one often landmarked. Inside, the primary challenge is universal: how to best bring light into that interior core. But as the architecture firm Leroy Street Studio was recently reminded, the idiosyncrasies of this classic building type can be as varied and compelling as its inhabitants.
Six years ago, the Leroy Street team was approached by Jeanne and Dennis Masel, a creative and philanthropic couple who had recently purchased a historic home in Park Slope. Originally designed by architect Fred W. Eisenla, the 1910 property hews to the British Regency style, with bowed windows, a limestone façade, a central entrance, and a street-level stoop. This was not, in other words, your typical brownstone.
Nor were the Masels your typical clients. In describing their vision for the home, Dennis, a free-spirited entrepreneur, musician, and film producer, is quick to invoke rock ‘n’ roll and fun as guiding principles. Jeanne, the founder of Art for Change, brought her own yen for whimsy and adventure, not to mention a dynamic trove of contemporary works. “Our architectural ambition had to match her commitment to art,” says Leroy Street partner Shawn Watts. “The house was already beautiful on the street but it didn’t have the spatial complexity that the clients needed for their collection.”
So he made a bold pitch: Why not completely reimagine the rear half of the house, replacing three levels with two so as to yield high ceilings and ample wall space? Whereas the lower half of that pair now contains the kitchen, dining area, and sunken family room, the upper comprises the formal living room and library. “That was our big move,” Watts explains of the staggered floor plates, noting that “by making this surgical intervention we then had to reunite the front and back.”
To do so they created a sculptural but functional staircase, with fluid curves that shift to reveal a skylight only upon ascent. Its glow, however, is felt throughout the house, fulfilling the elusive promise of a bright core. Sun, all the while, bathes the family room and library thanks to sliding window walls. “It feels like you are in the garden,” says Watts. Those blurred indoor/outdoor lines continue to the primary suite, which has a terrace of its own, as well as to the penthouse addition, which can open up to fresh air on two sides.
Art, of course, remains the focus. The mud room, accessible via a street-facing side entrance, was designed specifically for a circular work by Takashi Murakami. Framed by an archway, it now pops against magenta walls—a hue echoed in the Tracey Emin neon piece at the base of the staircase. Elsewhere are works by past collaborators with Art For Change, which partners with nonprofits to raise funds through the sale of prints. Those include the dining area’s paintings by Danielle Orchard and Hyegyeong G. Choi, and the primary bath’s site-specific mosaic by Summer Wheat. “We talked a lot about having the unexpected around each corner,” Dennis reflects of the overall mix, which remains in flux as the couple rotates pieces in and out of storage.
Michigan has caught a bad rap with all the water crises and gradual auto industry collapse. But the Great Lakes State still has plenty to offer. Explore the cheapest places to live in Michigan and see how these rent prices stack up against the rest of the country.
Michigan average rent prices
The great news is that the cost of housing in Michigan comes in far below the national average. Things look poised to change though — rent prices are up 22 percent since last year, with the average one-bedroom apartment coming in at $1,315 per month. So, maybe sign a rental agreement sooner rather than later?
The cheapest cities in Michigan for renters
Cities all over Michigan are affordable for renters. Sure, a cheap rental is not right on the banks of one of the Great Lakes, or whatever, but it’s still possible to find a great unit! Let’s dive right into this list of the cheapest places to live in Michigan for renters.
10. Livonia
Photo source: Livonia Community / Facebook
Average 1-BR rent price: $1,056
Average rent change in the past year: n/a
This Detroit suburb is in southeast Michigan and has a population of just under 95,000, making it the 9th largest community in Michigan. Currently, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Livonia is $1,056.
Livonia has a lot going on — there are major employers like Ford Motor Company, Amazon and Trinity Health providing lots of jobs for area workers. In all, more than 4,000 businesses are in the area, among them several corporate headquarters.
The city also boasts more than 1,300 acres of nature preserves and public parks, behind only Detroit in the entire state. One particular gem is Greenmead Historical Park, which features a working farm and a number of historically significant buildings. The park also hosts lots of great outdoor events and has a full spate of recreational facilities.
For entertainment, Livonia is home to a ton of great breweries, restaurants and shopping (especially antiques and flea markets). Soccer enthusiasts may also choose to join the Livonia City Soccer Club, which has more than 1,300 players currently.
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9. Royal Oak
Average 1-BR rent price: $1,029
Average rent change in the past year: 6.95 percent
Rent is creeping up in the Michigan city of Royal Oak, with a one-bedroom apartment running 6.95 percent more than this time last year. Currently, such a unit will set you back $1,029 per month. Just north of Detroit, Royal Oak is ideal for people who need to work in the city, but who want a quieter way of life in their downtime.
The most popular spot in Royal Oak is undoubtedly its ultra-walkable downtown area. Here you will find many lofts and high-rises available for rent. In addition to an almost overwhelming array of dining options (more than 45), Downtown Royal Oak has entertainment galore with the Royal Oak Music Theatre, Emagine Theater and Mark Ridley’s Comedy Castle.
The city also puts on a popular farmer’s market stocked with fresh produce from local farms. It’s also not unusual for a community art fair or another special event to liven up the streets of Downtown Royal Oak on the regular.
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8. Kalamazoo
Average 1-BR rent price: $1,018
Average rent change in the past year: 11.67 percent
The last city on our list of the cheapest places to live in Michigan that breaks the $1,000 threshold, Kalamazoo is about as fun to live in as it is to say. Smack in between Chicago and Detroit, Kalamazoo County is in Western Michigan. The word is out about this eclectic area, however, so rent is up 11.67 percent since last year for a one-bedroom apartment. The average rent for such a unit is about $1,018.
Kalamazoo has a lot of great things going for it. Notably, the water and water reclamation systems are award-winning (a big deal compared to some other areas of Michigan). There are also many parks, golf courses and lakes to enjoy during the delightfully mild summertime months.
An ideal place to work, Kalamazoo offers positions in a wide array of industries to choose from such as craft beer, pharmaceutical and medical science, among others.
The only problem with Kalamazoo is figuring out what to do first. Take in a concert or show at the Kalamazoo State Theatre downtown. Or, take in nine or so innings of Kalamazoo Growlers Baseball (summer collegiate league) at Homer Stryker Field. If the sport of curling is more your game, join the Kalamazoo Curling Club!
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7. Greenville
Average 1-BR rent price: $990
Average rent change in the past year: n/a
The smallest city so far on our list is Greenville. A small city of under 10,000 people in west-central Michigan (about 25 miles inland from Lake Michigan), this city checks in at under $1,000 per month! A one-bedroom averages about $990.
Greenville is known for its access to outdoor opportunities. A scant seven miles northwest of Greenville is the Woodbeck chain of lakes, where visitors can swim, boat and fish to their heart’s content. The swimming beach at Baldwin Lake is another popular spot during the summer months. Then there’s the Edwards Creek Mountain Bike Trail, which is sure to challenge even seasoned cyclists.
Greenville’s quaint downtown area is another hotspot for local shopping and dining. With over 70 retailers and other businesses, it’s just big enough to get the job done without being overwhelming. It’s also picturesque enough for any movie — Greenville takes great pride in its adorable, newly renovated streetscape!
Find apartments for rent in Greenville Buy a house in Greenville
6. Wixom
Photo source: Wixom, MI – Government / Facebook
Average 1-BR rent price: $965
Average rent change in the past year: 7.97 percent
About 20 minutes northwest of Detroit, the city of Wixom is teeny-tiny compared to Motor City. At under 15,000 residents, Wixom is far less metropolitan and far more of a tight-knit community — probably why it’s coming in hot on our list of the cheapest places to live in Michigan. Currently, a one-bedroom rental averages $965, up 7.97 percent from one year ago.
Indeed, Wixom puts on a slate of events rivaled by any city in the state, such as seasonal festivals, movies in the park and dog-friendly events. The summer concert series is very popular!
There are seven public parks located throughout Wixom, each with amenities ranging from sledding hills to sand volleyball courts. The Wixom Trail System is especially beloved by local runners, skaters and bikers, as is The Wixom Habitat, a 300-acre nature preserve.
Don’t forget to stop by downtown to take in an authentic Italian meal at the beloved Volare Ristorante.
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5. Flint
Average 1-BR rent price: $929
Average rent change in the past year: 30.89 percent
Bad news first. Yes, this is “that” Flint. The one with the five-year-long water crisis that exposed thousands of people to lead and other unsavory things in their drinking water. However, things are under control in the area now, which is why rent has jumped more than 30 percent up to about $929 for an average one-bedroom rental.
Located 60 miles northwest of Detroit, Flint is appropriately located on the banks of the Flint River. The city’s population is just under 100,000, making it one of the larger cities in Michigan.
To the surprise of some, Flint is home to a thriving cultural arts community. The Flint Institute of Music includes the Flint Symphony Orchestra, Flint School of Performing Arts and Flint Youth Theatre — this is just one component of the 30-acre Flint Cultural Center. Don’t forget to stop by the Longway Planetarium, Sloan Museum and other culturally significant offerings!
Locals also love to hike around the one-of-a-kind attraction that is Stepping Stone Falls, a man-made waterfall area and dam that holds back the Flint River, thus creating Mott Lake, which is fully stocked with fish. There’s even an evening riverboat cruise!
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4. Ypsilanti
Average 1-BR rent price: $922
Average rent change in the past year: -18.52 percent
Known by locals simply as “Ypsi,” this eastern Michigan city is also mere minutes (seven miles) from the destination town of Ann Arbor. In case you were wondering, you pronounce Ypsilanti like “IP-sill-ANN-tee” — in honor of a Greek hero from the Greek War of Independence.
Currently, people haven’t been fighting over rentals in Ypsi, so rent has fallen by 18.52 percent over the last year. The average one-bedroom apartment here costs $922 — making it one of the cheapest places to live in Michigan.
Ypsi is obviously a college town, but the students and other populations are largely separated. There’s plenty to do for people of all ages. Stop by Depot Town for classic car events, not to mention a regular farmer’s market. Depot Town also hosts a bunch of vintage, novelty and shopping options.
Don’t forget to pop by the local apple orchard or strawberry patch. Here you can pick until your heart’s content. Afterward, take the kiddos to hit the Michigan Firehouse Museum for an authentic look at past and present firehouse efforts.
Adults can top it off with a stop at any of the local bars and breweries Ypsi is known for. Cheers!
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3. East Lansing
Photo source: The City of East Lansing / Facebook
Average 1-BR rent price: $906
Average rent change in the past year: 1.17 percent
Expect to see lots of green and white in East Lansing, since the city is home to the Michigan State Spartans and all of the students and school spirit that go along with it. As a result, housing is pretty affordable. The average one-bedroom rental is about $906 per month, up 1.17 percent from last year.
Although MSU is the centerpiece of East Lansing, there’s plenty more going on in the area. The city is family-friendly, with attractions such as the Family Aquatic Center, an “interactive outdoor water facility.” It even has a 190-foot-long tube water slide!
Then there’s the East Lansing Film Festival, which draws people from all over to watch all kinds of movies made around the world. Be sure to explore the hopping downtown area in all its food, shopping and entertainment glory.
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2. Lansing
Average 1-BR rent price: $850
Average rent change in the past year: -25.45 percent
The capital city of Michigan is a steal right now, with rent prices down 25.45 percent from last year. A typical one-bedroom unit rents for $850 a month!
Although Lansing got put on the map thanks to the founding of Olds Motor Vehicle Company in 1897, modern Lansing has a much wider slate of job opportunities, including other forms of manufacturing, education, banking and healthcare, among others. As a result, it’s easy to live, work and play in Lansing.
Lansing is also delightfully diverse, culturally speaking. In fact, Lansing is known for celebrating Black and minority culture year-round. There is an annual African American Parade here, plus historic sites such as the Malcolm X Homesite and the Michigan History Museum.
There’s plenty for people of all ages and persuasions to do around town. Families love Potter Park Zoo, as well as all the outdoor fun that Lansing River Trail offers. The 4-H Children’s Gardens at MSU is another awesome place to stop by with the kiddos.
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1. Saginaw
Average 1-BR rent price: $698
Average rent change in the past year: -1.68 percent
Topping our list of the cheapest places to live in Michigan, the mid-state city of Saginaw boasts the cheapest rent by more than $150 per month (compared with second-place, Lansing). Rent in Saginaw dropped 1.68 percent over the last year to about $698 for an average one-bedroom apartment.
The city was originally inhabited by the Sauks. So, the word Saginaw literally means “Land of the Sauks.” The area was originally a major lumber hub, thanks to easy water access. Today, it’s known for its technical innovations. In fact, it hovers at the top of the list of most registered patents per capita in the country.
Locals especially love Saginaw’s proximity to waterways. The city is on the banks of the Saginaw River, and Saginaw Bay serves as an inlet to Lake Huron. Ultra-popular Ojibway Island is downtown on the river and plays host to lots of events and people who just want to stroll or bike the area. There’s even ice fishing in the winter!
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The 10 most expensive places to live in Michigan
Although on the whole Michigan is more affordable than many other U.S. cities, it still has some relatively swank areas. Take a look at this list of the most expensive cities in Michigan.
Methodology
Rent prices are based on a rolling weighted average from Apartment Guide and Rent.’s multifamily rental property inventory as of May 2021. Our team uses a weighted average formula that more accurately represents price availability for each unit type and reduces the influence of seasonality on rent prices in specific markets.
We excluded cities with insufficient inventory from this report.
The rent information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.
Most of us have experienced getting fired from our jobs at some point in our lives. Some were for petty and weird reasons, others were valid—whichever it is, here are the 18 reasons people get fired!
Caution! Some were so crazy and hilarious that you won’t believe they really happened.
1. Exchanging Alcohol for Shrimp
One person shared, “I gave the fry guy an alcoholic beverage from the bar in a kids cup. He used to hook me up with coconut shrimp and fiesta rolls. They fired both of us lol. I wonder how Jamaar is doing nowadays.”
The second person replied, “I drank alcohol from a kid’s cup and got fired. I just wanted to try Angry Orchard. It wasn’t even good. I made the mistake of leaving the cup amongst other employee cups and a manager found it. I don’t even like drinking and it was just extra. But I am glad I am not the only person let go for drinking alcohol from a kid’s cup out there! Lol.”
2. Manager Scheduled Me During Class
Somebody commented, “My manager kept losing my class schedule. Worked at a subway. I had class two days a week. Several times he put me on those days anyway. I gave him multiple copies every time. Owner took me off the schedule for ‘Calling out too much’. When I showed the owner proof he said it was too late and they already hired someone else. This was 12 years ago. I’m still mad.”
Another Redditor replied, “I always hated the ‘taken off the schedule’ bull. Just fire me officially instead of taking the cowards route. This happened to me as well when I did not tell the general manager about a floor manager switching a product display TV to football one day. To be clear, she asked me, ‘Why did you not tell me?’ So she already knew it happened and was mad that I did not say anything. So I got ‘taken off the schedule’ because the other manager did something against policy and I did not narc.”
3. They Fired Me Before I Started
“A business I went to long ago was hiring, and I got the job. Right after I signed all the paperwork, the department manager comes in and asked who I am. I tell him I was just hired as a temp. Manager says he never authorized any hiring and fired both me and my boss on the spot. I did not work for this company at all, and they fired me,” said one.
The second person replied, “I had a similar experience. I was interviewing for a sales position and I made it all the way up the ladder through three different managers, to the advertising director. Had a great interview. He told me I would be the future of this industry shook my hand, led me to the HR manager’s office, clapped me on the back, and said to her, ‘We’re hiring him. Start the paperwork and I’ll see you Monday.’
“She was pregnant, tired, and annoyed. She looked at me with disgust and said, ‘We eliminated that position yesterday. We’re not hiring anyone.’ I asked if the director or managers knew that. She said they should. What followed was an embarrassing two weeks of promises that they would make a spot for me and weak apologies from the hiring managers. Ooof. Hired and fired within seconds.”
Finally, the third added, “They did you a favor. Working for a company that is broken and dysfunctional would be a nightmare.”
4. I Requested a Raise
One user commented, “I was denied a raise by HR after consistently working 60-70 hours weeks, and my VP (who had supported and requested the raise for me) told me to stop putting in the extra time, work my 40, and spend that extra time applying to new jobs. Within a month, a meeting was called to ‘mutually part ways’ because my work wasn’t getting done. I was gratified to learn that they had to hire two people to do my job after I left.”
Somebody else added, “Bet that felt good knowing they had to pay two people for what you did all by yourself. Glad you got outta there though!”
5. Fired for Putting in My Two-Week Notice
Somebody shared, “I got fired once for putting in my 2-week notice. The only other time I’ve gotten fired was working for a trade company during the first week. I was a supervisor, and there was a second supervisor on site. I got a call that my wife had been rushed to the hospital, which was literally less than a mile away. I asked the other supervisor if I could go to attend to her, and he said, ‘Sure, no problem, I’ve got things here. Go.’
“I returned to the job site later to find the boss there, and he let me go on the spot for leaving the team ‘Without a supervisor’. He knew what had happened, and still fired me. I won’t lie, that one kind of [made me mad].”
Then somebody else added with a similar experience with their wife, “Happened to my wife. She was due her first commission check, but they fired her on the spot when she gave notice. Literally about 100 bucks too.”
6. Fired for Sitting Down
One user said, “For doing my job too quickly and sitting down the rest of the time. Gas station cashier 3rd shift.
“Me: ‘Why should I stand when I’m the only person in the store?’
“Manager: ‘It’s more professional to stand than sit.’
“Me: ‘Then why do you sit in your office?’”
Another one replied, “I never understood that. Not once have I walked into an establishment, seen an employee sitting, and gone, ‘Wow. He’s unprofessional.’ I literally don’t give a f-, as long as you do your job.”
“Especially gas stations. If anything, they’re the kind of jobs I would expect to see someone sitting,” added another.
7. “I’m Only Here Until Something Better Comes Along…”
Somebody shared their hilarious job-related experience during the interview, “This isn’t why I got fired, but this is why I didn’t get a job. I was 16 and looking to work at a Dairy Queen as my first job. My mom drove me to the interview and I was super nervous.
“She looked me in the eye and said, ‘Just be honest and be yourself, and you’ll do fine.’ I walked into that interview, and when he asked me, ‘How long do you think you’ll work here?’ I responded, ‘Until something better comes along…’”
“OMG. My parents had to coach me on how to get a job when I started hunting. They were wondering why none of the jobs I had applied to had called me back so they started asking questions about the application process. Turns out you shouldn’t be honest on those personality assessments, at least not to the extent I was. They basically told me to answer as if I were another person,” added the second person with a similar experience.
Then somebody else added, “Amazing! Around the same age I was asked, ‘How would your friends describe you?’ and honestly answered. ‘They say I’m the crazy one.’ Weirdly did not get that job.”
8. They Handed Me a Check and Walked Me Outside
“I talked my way into a job at a software company when they put a hiring notice in a local paper. I had no idea what the software did. I still don’t. They hired me as a trainer and no one ever explained what the product was. I did a few weeks where I was trained on the software but literally none of it ever made sense to me. It was like they were speaking gibberish.
“One day I showed up, a lady I had never seen before gave me a check, and walked me out to the parking lot. No one even ever said ‘you’re fired’ or anything. It’s one of the strangest things that ever happened to me,” shared somebody.
“That reminds me of a time that I got escorted out early from a group interview. The company was a little suspicious altogether, and the interviewer was even more sus because he was just wearing all black (polo and jeans) and was absolutely decked out in gold jewelry. Looked like he stepped out of a mob movie or something,” the second person replied.
9. Because My Wife Was Ill
One user said, “I missed a lot of work because my wife got brain cancer. They called me in for a meeting and said, ‘Sorry, we are downsizing and letting a lot of people go’. They didn’t fire anyone else, including a co-worker who was caught fabricating reports.”
Then another one added with a question: “They didn’t announce the layoffs over the intercom in alphabetical order, did they?”
10. Job Abandonment; But I Was at the ER
Somebody stated, “I went to the emergency room instead of work. Came back with an ER note and they said, ‘We won’t be needing that. Can you come with us?’ I was 18 and it was my first full-time job.”
“I had pneumonia and a doctor’s note. Came back to work a week later wheezing and puffing an inhaler. Got fired the next week. Jokes on them. I still got unemployment benefits when they tried to fight it. Doctor’s notes are good things,” added another person.
Finally, the third added, “I went to a funeral and took the three paid days off and called off a fourth because it was my grandmother and we were very close. They called it job abandonment.”
11. Working With a Felony
Somebody commented, “My parole officer wanted to make sure I actually had a job, so he went to my employer listed on my file to surprise visit me on the job. I did home wiring so I worked at different job sites and rarely in the office. He called me to say he was going to charge me with a violation for lying to him about my whereabouts (this could’ve landed me back in prison for my remaining 10.5 years sentence).
“The owner of the company had to speak with him and vouch for me. My parole office didn’t charge me, but the owner sure did fire me that day. Finding a job with a felony isn’t an easy thing, and it wasn’t long before my PO threatened to charge me with a violation if I didn’t find a job soon.”
The second person replied, “What a f- clown process. I’m sorry you went through that.”
12. Let Go to Hire the Manager’s Girlfriend
Somebody said, “I was a kid and just started at a local pizza place. I was let go couple weeks later because a pizza chef from Chicago had moved into the area and needed a job so it was a business decision that I totally understood. Week later, went to go get my last check and asked how he was doing, the girl up front was like, ‘pizza chef from Chicago? The only new hire was the manager’s new gf.’”
Somebody else replied, “I got let go in favor of hiring the manager’s gf once too. Very irritating.”
13. Fired for Being 10 Minutes Early Instead of 20
“I refused to come in 15-20 mins early unpaid for my shift. I was always 5-10 min early but they decided they wanted me there earlier. I carried on as normal as I’m not coming in if I’m not being paid. Turned up for a 12pm shift at 11:49, no one would look at me when I arrived, then was thrown in a meeting and fired for being ‘late’. Was out the door before it even hit 12. It was the only time I’ve ever been fired,” shared somebody.
14. Building a Snow Sculpture
“I built a snow scorpion sculpture (I used ketchup for the red glowing eyes and everything) on a particularly miserable day at a ski resort. The guests enjoyed my sculpture very much, management weren’t so happy,” said one.
“Sounds like crap management. Sad. I’m glad to hear you made the guests happy, though,” the second person added.
15. For Sneezing
One person stated, “They sent me home because I sneezed and I was forced to get tested for Covid. Then, when I tested negative, I was terminated for ‘Abusing pandemic policies to stay home.’”
“That has to be illegal in some form,” replied somebody.
16. The CNA Lied About What Happened
“I asked the CNA I was working with to stay with a confused patient, while I went and put a new IV in another patient. The CNA left the patient alone. She fell out of bed and got a big bloody skin tear on her arm. After I took care of that, I went and found the CNA and told her the patient was injured because of her insubordination. The CNA cussed at me, and left the unit. I did not see her again that shift. She and another CNA decided on their own to trade assignments.
“I wrote the CNA up. The CNA went to mgmt and lied about me. She said I called her by a racial slur and yelled at her. I did neither. Mgmt fired me rather than deal with a false claim of racism. I collected unemployment.
“The CNA did something similar with another nurse a couple of weeks later, and was fired. My mgr asked if I could be rehired. HR said no. When my mgr quit to start her own nursing agency a year later, she hired me,” one person stated.
“You can’t pay me enough to go back to work in a nursing home. I have so many stories of problems between nurses and CNA’s getting each other in trouble and the residents caught in the middle,” replied another.
17. They Lowered My Pay So I Slept During My Shift
“They lowered my pay, so I started sleeping at work and did only half the task they wanted me to do. Took them 3 years to fire me,” shared one Redditor.
“I’m amazed at how long it can take sometimes to fire a person. I had a boss who got shoulder surgery and was wildly add*cted to pain meds. Dude would show up to work high as a kite and started at the ceiling for hours. He got away with it for about 2 years before anyone said anything,” the second person replied.
18. I Gave My Employee Meal to My Mother
Somebody commented, “I gave my employee meal to my mother. That’s literally it. I didn’t like eating the food there, so I had my mom bring me lunch, and I just gave my employee meal to her. Apparently, that was considered theft, so I was fired.”
Wow, some of the reasons above for getting fired were just crazy! Did you experience the same? Let us know in the comments!
And if you want more of this content, simply hit the thumbs-up button and share it with your friends and family.
Source: Reddit
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*Article note: When you buy through links in this article, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Fall is officially here. The days are growing shorter, the leaves are changing and, for many, snow may be right around the bend. Soon, you’ll be trading in your t-shirts for sweaters, getting out the pumpkin carving tools and enjoying a warm mulled apple cider.
It’s also the perfect time to fill your home with the best scents of this cozy season. From cinnamon to sweet orange and bergamot, combined essential oils or fragrances can bring the fall indoors. Then, prepare for the winter with cedarwood and cypress.
Let’s explore some of the top contenders for fall and winter aromas. We’ll also touch base on some scent diffusers that have transformed how you can bring these beautiful fragrances into your home.
Scent diffuser selections for the seasons
These handpicked scents bring the changing season indoors, reminding us it’s time to cozy up with some hot chocolate and bake gingerbread cookies or pumpkin pie. Before you know it, you’ll be getting out the holiday games and letting the festivities begin!
Filling your home with the scents of the changing seasons reminds you to make the most of these precious months. Additionally, you can use many of these products when making candles, soaps and lotions. Explore the top picks from Amazon that nearly everyone loves.
The essence of autumn and winter
Bring back memories of autumn days spent hiking through fallen leaves or cooking with family and friends with this set of six autumn fragrance oils. The set includes vanilla, maple syrup, apple harvest and pumpkin pie. Add some sweet cinnamon and the fragrance of a fall walk, and it’s safe to say they’ve covered the season.
If you prefer the warm and rich aroma of ginger, cinnamon and cloves or the welcoming and cleansing scent of frosted fir and winter berries, MitFlor’s winter essential oil set may be for you.
The scent of hotel-inspired luxury
Is it time for a luxurious vacation? What does luxury smell like? Maybe slightly mysterious with a hint of black fig, soft and refined with a touch of rose and enhanced energy with some citrusy lemon.
If that makes you want to cozy up in a plush robe or nestle into a luxurious spa tub, Black Velvet may offer the aroma you’re looking for. Some of the world’s luxury 5-star hotels use this aroma scent diffuser oil by Hotel Collection.
Bring a forest into your apartment
Do you remember walking down a mountain trail and catching a sudden whiff of pine or cedarwood? That refreshing scent may take you back to shared campfires or cozy gatherings by the fireplace. Woodsy Eternal Essence Oils are designed to take you to the warmth of a fire or a walk in the woods, a perfect retreat as the fall turns to winter.
The six-pack of oils also includes the comforting and sensual scent of sandalwood and the calming and earthy aroma of frankincense. Add Bamboo & Teak and Woodland Bay for a complete overhaul. You can also use these oils in massage oils and body and hair care routines.
Take a journey with essential oils
Essential oils are extracted from plants and often used in aromatherapy. You’ve probably heard of the relaxing benefits of lavender or how bergamot can reduce stress and improve moods. Aura Cacia created essential oil diffusion blends ideal for fall and winter.
This set of four includes Spice Market, a blend of cardamom and clove. From the ginger family, cardamom warms and energizes the senses while bringing a spicy, sweet scent to your home. Do you like chai tea lattes or aromatic spices in your dishes? This blend of essential oils may call to you.
Dreamy Forest combines the balsam of Peru and jasmine. Balsam of Peru offers a rich, woody aroma with underlying hints of vanilla. Jasmine is known for its aphrodisiac and anti-anxiety properties, as well as its intoxicating rich floral scent. This essential oil set also includes Quiet Orchard with wintergreen and balsam fir and Sunny Garden with chamomile and helichrysum.
The smell of freshly baked fall favorites
Do you have a favorite fall flavor and smell you look forward to every year? For some, it’s the smell of coffee cake wafting through the kitchen. Or, it could be the mingling of ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and molasses, reminding you your gingerbread cookies are in the oven.
Enjoy all these fragrances and more with this spice fragrance oils set from P&J. You’ll also experience autumn faves like pumpkin pie, harvest spice, apple cider and cinnamon.
An aroma for every event
Do you get a little stressed out over the holidays? Join the human race. Sometimes, you just need to take a deep breath. This set of 14 essential oils with blends like Rest, Comfort, Restore and Breathe offers the perfect aromas for this time of year.
You also get a selection of individual essential oils, like frankincense, cedarwood, rosemary and lavender, letting you experiment with making your own blended oils. For instance, cedarwood, sweet orange and a touch of eucalyptus bring a woodsy, floral scent that aligns with the cyclical transition of autumn transforming into winter.
The smell of a November rain
If you’re wondering what a November rain, lake sunset or cozy sweater smells like, CAKKI’s unique fragrance oil set may have the answer. In addition to these unique scents, fill your home with the aroma of Macintosh apples, maple leaves and chamomile’s earthy, sweet fragrance.
The magic hour
The magic hour, or golden hour, is just before the sun rises or sets. It’s when photographers rush out to capture the magical light available only at these times. The sun’s yellow light takes on a reddish hue, casting everything in a golden, bronze glow that flatters subjects. In autumn and winter, this magic hour becomes more of a magic half-hour, moments you don’t want to miss.
Folkulture’s Magic Hour essential oil set includes white sage, a plant used for thousands of years to purify homes. Balsam, cedarwood and orange bring the season’s scents indoors. Rose plum offers a seductive floral and fruit scent that’s hard to define until experienced.
Diffusing your scents into the air
Now that you’ve chosen your fragrances and essential oils, it’s time to explore some unique scent diffusers that add warmth and intrigue to your apartment. While some are as simple as a candle under a ceramic bowl, others offer a realistic fire-like atmosphere.
Add warmth, humidity and a fire-like flame
Scent diffusers have certainly come a long way. This Flame Aromatherapy Diffuser brings orange-red or blue flame-like lights while it fills your room with a relaxing mist and incredible aroma. Who needs a spa? You can choose from continuous to intermittent misting and make sure it aligns with your decor in faux wood, white or black.
Experience the changing seasons with changing light
This metal ultrasonic cool mist scent diffuser lights up images of the season in seven LED color-changing lights. From trees to forests, owls and deers, experience your unique scents rising from a softly illuminated image. With automatic shut-off and silent operation, it’s also a perfect addition to a room needing a night light.
Quick warning about scent diffusers and pets
While they’re pleasant for humans, scent diffusers and specific essential oils can pose some danger to pets. The devices we listed above use essential oils, which, when dispersed into the air, can become concentrated and overwhelming for animals with highly sensitive noses.
Some essential oils are toxic to pets and can lead to a range of health issues. For example, tea tree oil is off limits to both dogs and cats. Peppermint oil, clove oil, wintergreen oil and cinnamon should be avoided for dog parents; while citrus oils, eucalyptus and ylang-ylang oils shouldn’t be used in cat-friendly homes.
Additionally, pets might accidentally knock over diffusers, leading to spills or direct contact with the oils, which can be harmful if ingested or absorbed through their skin. To ensure the safety of our furry friends, it’s crucial to use scent diffusers cautiously and choose pet-friendly alternatives if necessary.
Enjoy the scents of the season with a scent diffuser
Our sense of smell has a profound link to our memories. It’s why the smell of pumpkin pie takes you back to cooking with your mom, or cedar brings you back to Thanksgiving in the mountains. Perhaps it’s time to create new memories by filling your home with one or more of these enchanting aromas.
Still looking for the perfect apartment for rent to create holiday memories? We have you covered.
Minutes from Boston, in the coveted Country Club section of Brookline, Massachusetts, a remarkable architectural gem has landed on the market with a hefty price tag.
The sprawling Grand Georgian Revival Estate set at 333 Lee Street, priced at a whopping $28 million, is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and a historic legacy that stretches back to its designer, William Truman Aldrich. Patrice Clunan with Coldwell Banker Realty holds the listing.
Originally built with double-brick construction in 1928, the stately mansion that anchors the estate has 16,233 square feet of living space — with a total of 23 rooms, 10 of which are bedrooms.
And despite its impressive size, it’s not the only structure on the property, with a one-bedroom brick and slate carriage house (with its own private garden) adding some extra square footage.
Designed by the esteemed architect William Truman Aldrich (who was also the brother-in-law of John D. Rockefeller) the property bears the hallmark of Aldrich’s training at MIT and École Des Beaux Arts in Paris. The architect’s impressive portfolio includes projects such as the country estate of Henry Cabot Lodge in Beverly, MA and significant contributions to the Rhode Island School of Design.
His work, including this Brookline, Massachusetts home, often exemplified the Georgian Revival style, characterized by 17th-century details, carved stone, and elegant French doors crowned with segmental arches. A steep roofline and tall chimneys underline the home’s substantial yet refined nature.
The main residence spans a staggering 16,233 square feet across 23 rooms, featuring 10 bedrooms, 7 full bathrooms, 3 half bathrooms, and a total of 9 fireplaces.
As you step into the grand foyer, you’re greeted by quarter-sawn oak parquetry floors with a starburst motif. The library, adorned with hand-carved oak paneling and a French-inspired fireplace, exudes timeless elegance. Sunlight bathes the living room, where French boiserie-style paneling and intricate crown molding steal the show.
The kitchen showcases a custom-designed Molteni stove imported from France, typically found in the world’s finest restaurants, and Sub-Zero refrigerators. An informal dining area opens onto the garden, leading to a spacious family room with a green marble fireplace.
The second and third floors house the home’s private quarters, including seven family and guest bedrooms, along with an impressive primary suite.
Descend to the lower level, where a recreation room, meditation room, gym, office, wine cellar, and full bath with a sauna await. From the meditation room, a sixty-foot underground art gallery passageway leads to the pool pavilion.
And we can’t quite decide what’s more impressive: the 60-foot art gallery passageway, or the 6,839-square-foot pool pavilion it leads to.
Spanning 6,839 square feet, the pool pavilion offers an unexpected surprise — an indoor Olympic-length pool, complete with a gourmet kitchen, dining area, hot tub, steam room, and sauna for eight. Trompe l’oeil detailing and a massive outdoor terrace surrounding a round fountain add to its allure.
The property also includes a one-bedroom brick-and-slate carriage house with a private garden.
Set within a gated 3.2-acre estate, this property boasts beautifully manicured park-like grounds, an apple orchard, terraces, and a canopy of mature trees, a secluded oasis that seamlessly blends traditional aesthetics with modern comforts, making it ideal for both family living and grand entertaining.
Located steps from Brookline’s renowned Country Club, and about five minutes away from Tom Brady’s former Boston-area home, 333 Lee Street presents an opportunity that comes once in a lifetime. With its sought-after location, rich architectural heritage, and modern amenities, it stands as a testament to timeless luxury and impeccable craftsmanship.
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Oh, boy. While taking my daily scroll, I uncovered a thread asking, “Which celebrity looks like they smell bad?” Here are the top-voted responses.
1. Post Malone
“It’s 100% Post Malone,” suggested one. Another joked, “People wish he were Post Cologne.” A third shared, “He said in an interview, “I won’t wear any deodorant or anything, but I have a musk, and it’s just kind of, like, naturally enticing to females.”
2. Harvey Weinstein
“Harvey Weinstein, but he smells terrible, according to reports. Like rotten flesh and poopy,” alleged one. “He has Fournier’s gangrene.”
Another confirmed, “My stepdad died of that. And yes, he stank to high heaven in his last few months. It wasn’t his fault, and he was very hygienic. But when your colon is rotting, you stink—really awful way to go.”
3. Bam Margera
One person said, “Bam Margera,” before another confessed, “When I met him, he just reeked of alcohol. Like he bathed in whiskey.” A third stated, “I met him while working at a Walmart. I can confirm he had an odor, but he was still very nice to me.”
4. Jared Leto
Jared Leto looks like he uses his sweat as cologne,” one suggested. A second alleged, “I worked with Jared Leto on a film set > 10 years ago. I can tell you that he smells fine but was a HORRIBLE human.”
“He treated his a-istant (for the film) like trash, was an entitled queen overall, and got a security guy fired because that guy laughed as Leto tripped out of his trailer while drunk. I was a huge fan until then.”
5. Mickey Rourke
Someone volunteered, “Mickey Rourke. He was the first person I thought of when I saw this question.” Others discussed rumors of him smelling back in the 90s before one joked, “I a-umed he smelled like Abercrombie.”
6. Kid Rock
“Kid Rock. He looks like he smells like he just smoked McDonald’s,” said one. Another claimed, “I worked at a radio station, and Kid Rock came in for an interview. He smelled like a dumpster after a fire.”
Funny, he keeps saying he’s a man of the people; Kid Rock’s humble origin story took place on a luxurious estate in wealthy Macomb County, Michigan. Rock, whose real last name is ‘Ritchie,’ grew up the son of millionaire William ‘Bill’ Ritchie, who owned several lucrative car dealerships, and Susan Ritchie, who instilled in Rock ‘a spirit of philanthropy.”
“They raised Rock, who once claimed to be ‘straight out the trailer,’ on six well-groomed acres, where he could pick fresh apples from his family’s orchard.”
7. Brad Pitt
“My first thought when opening this post was that Brad Pitt always looks a little greasy… but I’m sure I’m just being ridiculous,” one confessed. Next, people reminisced about him reportedly having issues on the set of Interview With a Vampire with Tom Cruise.
However, one fan argued, “For what it’s worth, I was an extra on a movie and stood next to Brad Pitt for a few seconds, and the man smelled incredible – to the point that it’s still what I remember the most clearly years later. He was wearing some expensive-smelling cologne.”
8. Russell Brand
One user admitted, “Russell Brand LOOKS like he stinks, but I can vouch the man smells incredible.” Another added, “I hugged Russell Brand at one of his shows. He does NOT smell at all.” A third argued, “He looks like he smells like patchouli.”
9. Pete Davidson
One user voted “Pete Davidson.” “He smells like cigarettes and stale pizza. I’ve met him several times and been in his hotel rooms. I can say he is a VERY nice fellow. But he chain smokes like crazy,” a second suggested.
Finally, a third said, “I get that he looks that way, but he didn’t pull the women he did without smelling amazing. I will die on this hill.”
10. Johnny Depp
“Johnny Depp looks like he forgets his deodorant a lot,” suggested one. “First person I thought of, and I’m surprised I had to scroll this far down to find it. All those scarves keeping the wine sweat insulated? No way he doesn’t smell,” answered another.
Source: Reddit.
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Massachusetts offers a range of living experiences that are hard to rival. We narrowed down the very best places to live in the Bay State.
From brainy hubs buzzing with innovation to serene towns where tranquility reigns supreme, the Bay State has it all. If you’re scouting out top-tier places to live in Massachusetts, gear up for a deep dive into some of the top spots that pack a punch in terms of culture, community and charm. Without further ado, these are the best cities in Massachusetts. Enjoy!
Population: 87,453
Average age: 41.1
Median household income: $164,607
Average commute time: 28.4 minutes
Walk score: 57
Studio average rent: $2,050
One-bedroom average rent: $2,000
Two-bedroom average rent: $2,700
Newton is just a stone’s throw from Boston, it’s like the universe took a slice of urban dynamism and dropped it into a serene New England setting. Those tree-lined streets and beautiful homes? It’s almost deceptive, like the calm before a storm. However, instead of a storm, you get a burst of intellectual and cultural activity.
Newton isn’t just about good looks though. It’s got brains too. Job opportunities in and around the city are off the charts, especially if you’re in tech or academia. There’s a camaraderie in the air – folks attending art festivals, discussing new novels or debating which local startups are most likely to get a second round of funding. Looking for a place that’s both laidback and constantly evolving? Look no further than Newton.
Population: 59,223
Average age: 34.8
Median household income: $122,356
Average commute time: 29.1 minutes
Walk score: 81
Studio average rent: $2,484
One-bedroom average rent: $2,750
Two-bedroom average rent: $3,650
The vibe in Brookline is as if someone took the buzz of Boston and mixed it with a much more chill, community-driven charm. Yeah, it’s close to Boston, but Brookline has its own magic. Tree-lined streets, historic brownstones and plenty of parks are just a few of the attributes that land Brookline near the top of this list.
But don’t be fooled by its laid-back vibe. Brookline’s got a pulse that’s hard to ignore. The job scene is rock solid, with easy access to Boston’s booming industries. As for the community? Imagine weekend farmers markets, lively discussions at local diners and spontaneous street festivals. It’s a blend of cultures, ages and ideas that just, well, works.
Population: 33,792
Average age: 46.6
Median household income: $185,686
Average commute time: 31.6 minutes
Walk score: 33
One-bedroom average rent: $2,955
Two-bedroom average rent: $3,440
Lexington is a town where the first shots of the American Revolution echoed, and that raw, revolutionary energy still pulses through its streets. With its historic landmarks and sprawling green spaces, Lexington is a visual feast for those who appreciate a touch of history in their daily life. Battle Green might be calm now, but its silent tribute to the spirit of America is undeniable.
Don’t confuse respect for the past with denial of the future, however. Lexington is a powerhouse in terms of employment, especially for tech-savvy folks. Close to Boston’s tech corridor, opportunities here aren’t just jobs; they’re careers and pathways to change the world. Schools in Lexington are often ranked among the best in the state, setting up kids to shoot for the stars, literally and metaphorically.
Population: 28,747
Average age: 34.8
Median household income: $226,250
Average commute time: 29.8 minutes
Walk score: 37
One-bedroom average rent: $3,100
Two-bedroom average rent: $3,850
Easily among the best places to live in Massachusetts, Wellesley has this unique blend of elite sophistication with a chaser of classic New England charm. Drive through its streets, and you’re met with elegant homes, meticulously maintained landscapes and the unmistakable sense of history that lingers in the air.
But let’s dig deeper. Beyond its stunning facade, Wellesley boasts some serious credentials. The job opportunities are top-notch, with a proximity to Boston that means you’re never too far from the action. The academic scene is anchored by Wellesley College, a small but widely respected liberal arts school for women. Dive into the community side of things, and you’re looking at a blend of outdoorsy types, avid readers and gourmet food lovers, among many other passions and interests.
Population: 117,090
Average age: 30.6
Median household income: $112,565
Average commute time: 26.5 minutes
Walk score: 90
Studio average rent: $2,910
One-bedroom average rent: $3,769
Two-bedroom average rent: $4,736
Right across the Charles River from Boston, Cambridge is where intellect meets street cred. With institutions like MIT and Harvard, it’s no surprise that the air here is practically crackling with potential from its thriving college community. It’s the kind of place where tomorrow’s tech breakthroughs and groundbreaking theories are probably being scribbled on a napkin in a crowded pub right now.
But hey, it’s not all textbooks and laboratories. The job scene in Cambridge is absolutely killer, especially if you’re into the medical and technology fields. The squares – Harvard, Central and Kendall – are like their own mini ecosystems of culture, food and entertainment. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee, catching an impromptu street performance or just people-watching, there’s always a story of epic proportions unfolding in Cambridge in the medical and technology fields and beyond.
Population: 79,815
Average age: 31.5
Median household income: $108,896
Average commute time: 32.3 minutes
Walk score: 89
Studio average rent: $2,798
One-bedroom average rent: $3,112
Two-bedroom average rent: $3,445
Somerville is a melting pot of culture and creativity, just a hop away from the heart of Boston. Among the best places to live in Massachusetts, Somerville stakes its claim with a fierce and independent spirit. It’s where artistry meets urban grit, where every alley might be hiding a mural, an indie coffee shop or the next big idea in tech.
Employment opportunities are ample, especially with the close-knit startup community and a slew of creatives calling this place home. Proximity to universities and Boston’s business hubs makes it a magnet for opportunities. But here’s the real kicker: the community. It’s a melting pot, with festivals that celebrate every culture under the sun and markets that boast flavors from every corner of the globe. Education is a big deal, with schools that focus not just on grades but on shaping well-rounded citizens of the world.
Population: 17,669
Average age: 46
Median household income: $169,335
Average commute time: 34 minutes
Walk score: 35
Two-bedroom average rent: $2,900
Concord is undoubtedly one of the best places to live in Massachusetts, and here’s why. Settled deep in the heartland of New England, Concord possesses a unique blend of historic charm and untouched natural beauty. There’s just amazing energy, as if the spirits of literary giants like Emerson and Thoreau are still lingering, probably writing their next masterpiece by Walden Pond. Louisa May Alcott’s Orchard House also draws tourists into the town. The scenic landscapes, rolling hills and lush forests make it seem like Mother Nature herself decided to craft a perfect postcard setting here.
But it’s not just about the aesthetic. Take a closer look at the community and you’ll find a thriving hub of innovation and education. With job opportunities that range from tech startups to sustainable farming, Concord keeps pace with the modern world while retaining its small-town charm. Concord is a place where neighbors know each other, gatherings at local cafes become intellectual debates and the weekend farmers market is more of a social event than a chore. Concord just might be your jam if you’re seeking that ever-elusive balance between the serene and the stimulating.
Population: 29,311
Average age: 40
Median household income: $72,687
Average commute time: 21.8 minutes
Walk score: 72
One-bedroom average rent: $2,250
Northampton is a hub of energy and authenticity. If you’re on the hunt for the best places to live in Massachusetts, you’d be hard-pressed not to head straight to Northampton. There’s a distinct beat to this place, where you might bump into a street musician pouring his soul into a saxophone one moment and stumble upon a cutting-edge art exhibit the next.
The surrounding nature is a real added bonus. Rolling hills, scenic trails and the Connecticut River – it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. With a bustling downtown and an influx of innovative businesses, there’s no shortage of opportunity. The schools are solid, focusing on cultivating curious minds ready to take on the world. Whether it’s cheering at the local music venues, attending film festivals or just enjoying the next-level food scene, Northampton offers residents an experience like no other.
Population: 37,819
Average age: 23
Median household income: $61,127
Average commute time: 26.9 minutes
Walk score: 52
Studio average rent: $2,049
One-bedroom average rent: $2,249
Two-bedroom average rent: $3,079
Often hitting the radar as one of the best places to live in Massachusetts, Amherst is an appealing and unique place to call home. With a backdrop of dense forests and open fields, it’s easy to think you’ve stepped into a tranquil paradise. But beneath that serene surface, there’s a storm of ideas, debates and dreams.
Universities like UMass Amherst, Amherst College and Hampshire College make this place a powerhouse of academia. You can practically feel the hunger for knowledge in the air. Jobs are as diverse as the community itself, with academia, research and local businesses driving the economy. The community has its own rhythm, driven by students, professors and lifetime locals. Think local farms delivering the freshest produce, indie bookstores hosting fiery poetry slams and an arts scene that’s constantly pushing boundaries.
Population: 11,261
Average age: 45.6
Median household income: $220,815
Average commute time: 26.6 minutes
Walk score: 49
Two-bedroom average rent: $ 2,550
If there’s a gold standard for living the good life in the Bay State, Weston might hold the title. Making waves as one of the best places to live in Massachusetts, this town redefines what it means to strike a balance. It’s where the green expanse of New England landscapes meets a community that’s high-octane in ambition but relaxed in vibe.
Despite being just a short drive from Boston’s city center, when you’re in Weston, it feels worlds away from the bustle. Think sprawling estates, tree-lined avenues and untouched natural reserves. The job market is strong, buoyed by its proximity to Boston’s corporate hubs and a local community that values enterprise. The community is close, reflecting a place where folks are as likely to bond over a round of golf as they are over a local conservation project.
Make your way to Massachusetts
There you have it, a whirlwind tour of some of the best places to live in Massachusetts. While each town featured above boasts its own flavor, they all share a commitment to community, education and quality of life. Whether you’re chasing the rush of urban energy or the peace of a countryside retreat, Massachusetts lays out a smorgasbord of options. It’s all about finding that perfect spot where your story fits right in.
Ready to settle down in the Massachusetts town of your dreams? Find your next apartment with us today.
The past year hasn’t been particularly good for tech or housing. As a consequence, the number of real estate, mortgage and general housing tech firms to make the annual Inc. Magazine list of the 5,000 fastest growing private companies in America declined in 2023. In all, 37 companies made the cut this year, down from 53 a year ago.
The self-reported list ranks U.S. based firms on percentage revenue growth from 2019 to 2022. To qualify, companies must have been founded and generating revenue by March 31, 2019. They must be U.S.-based, privately held, for-profit, and independent–not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies–as of December 31, 2029. The minimum revenues required are $100,000 for 2019 and $2 million for 2022.
The fastest-growing housing tech firm in 2023 was OptiFunder, which claims to produce the mortgage industry’s only optimization software built to systematically decision warehouse funding allocations and automate the complicated process of funding through loan sale. Based in Missouri, OptiFunder had a three-year growth rate of 4,767%. It was ranked the 98th-fastest growing private company in America in 2023.
Transactly, a real estate transaction platform that provides automation, integrations and tech-enabled services that significantly reduce process time, placed 126th in 2023. Another Missouri-based company, Transactly had a three-year growth rate of 3,852%.
Also appearing in the top 200 list was CertifID, an Austin, Texas-based company that makes software to cut down on wire fraud in the real estate industry. The company, led by Tyler Adams, raised $12.5 million in a Series A funding round in 2022.
Interestingly, none of the top three companies on the 2023 list made the cut in 2022. But several well-established housing tech companies made consecutive appearances in this year’s Inc. 5000 edition.
Homelight, a platform for homebuyers and sellers, was No. 403 in this year’s ranking with a 1,444% three-year growth rate. The company was ranked 351 last year.
LoanStar Technologies, which connects lenders with borrowers who are traditionally underbanked or unbanked, also made the list again. The company was No. 469 in this year’s ranking, up from 958 last year. Its three-year growth rate was 1,241%.
Mortgage origination platform Maxwell, which was in the top 200 last year and a HW Tech 100 award winner in 2021, was ranked No. 658 in the 2023 Inc. 5000 list.
Other established names to make the Inc. 5000 list in 2023 include home equity investment firm Point; co-living platform PadSplit; one-time unicorn Orchard, which operates a digital home buying and selling marketplace and was a 2023 HW Tech 100 award winner; single-family investment property marketplace Roofstock; RentSpree, a rental software platform that connects real estate agents, owners and renters; Curbio, one of leading tech-enabled pay-at-closing home improvement solutions; EasyKnock, a real estate firm that offers homeowners a way to access their home’s equity using a sale-leaseback program; and New Western, a marketplace that serves over 150,000 real estate investors across the country.
Two companies on the list have been on the Inc. 5000 list an impressive five times: Total Expert, which offers CRM and data-driven customer engagement solutions, turning customer insights into actions to increase loyalty and drive growth; and FirstClose, a tech solution provider for HELOC and home equity lenders.
Here’s the complete list of tech firms:
Rank
Company
Growth (3-yr Avg.)
Year Founded
Description
98
OptiFunder
4,767%
2018
Finance company helping independent mortgage lenders choose among funding options and streamline the process.
126
Transactly
3,852%
2017
Real estate transaction platform providing automation, integrations and tech-enabled services that significantly reduce process time.
193
CertifID
2,807%
2017
A company dedicated to fighting wire fraud for the real estate industry.
403
Homelight
1,444%
2012
Providing a platform that helps deliver better outcomes for homebuyers and sellers.
469
LoanStar Technologies
1,241%
2016
Enabling lenders to connect and lend to customers who are traditionally underbanked or unbanked.
487
LiveEasy
1,204%
2013
Real estate software company changing the way people manage their move and their homes.
497
BOSSCAT
1,175%
2018
Digitizing home inspection data to create instant repair estimates for homeowners and real estate professionals.
510
PadSplit
1,152%
2017
Creator of a co-living market platform enabling workers to live in the communities they serve.
533
ReBuilt
1,096%
2015
Vertically integrated marketplace helping homeowners sell their unwanted property and real estate investors find great off-market deals.
545
BatchService
1,081%
2018
A real estate data and SaaS provider using real-time intelligence to help businesses identify opportunities.
658
Maxwell
890%
2015
Digitizes the mortgage-origination process for small to midsize banks, credit unions, and independent mortgage lenders.
678
TriusLending
869%
2003
A mid-Atlantic real estate investment firm and financing lender focused on short-term private lending and long-term rental loans.
744
Point
791%
2015
Home equity investment firm that has enabled more than 10,000 homeowners to unlock their home’s equity without additional monthly expenses.
769
InstaLend
766%
2015
A tech-enabled real estate loan lender providing fast and affordable capital to residential developers through streamlined technology and automated workflow.
933
Coviance
630%
2015
Cloud-based financial firm enabling lenders to scale home equity loans and deliver a clear to close for borrowers in hours.
984
Orchard
602%
2017
Making home buying and selling stress-free, fair and simple with a focus on helping homeowners unlock their equity.
992
RentSpree
598%
2016
Rental software platform that connects real estate agents, owners and renters to simplify the rental process from listing to lease.
997
American Mortgage Mortgage
594%
2019
A 100% employee-owned company providing solutions to mortgage industry challenges, which benefit clients and employees.
1,032
Realync
575%
2013
A real estate video engagement platform unlocking authentic experiences that connect and convert across the prospective renter and resident lifecycle.
1,068
Fund That Flip
555%
2014
An end-to-end real estate investing solution for serious, experienced investors, including Saas products and financing for residential redevelopers and builders.
1,375
Roofstock
425%
2015
End-to-end investing platform for the single-family rental home sector providing integrated, data-driven technology and curated investment recommendations for investors.
1,403
SavvyMoney
417%
2009
A leading provider of credit score solutions, serving over 1000 financial institutions by combining real-time data with digital personalization tools.
1,467
Curbio
393%
2017
Helping real estate agents prepare homes before they go to market so they sell quickly and for the best price.
1,486
Yoreevo
386%
2017
Offering streamlined, stress-free home shopping by providing a technology-driven approach executing transactions more efficiently and saving customers money.
1,522
MIOYM
377%
2008
Real estate firm that identifies and rehabilitates distressed single-family residential properties, later selling them to first-time home buyers nationwide.
1,532
EasyKnock
375%
2016
Real estate firm offering homeowners an innovative way to access their home’s equity using a sale-leaseback program.
1,588
Leverage Companies
358%
2019
Real estate investment firm that uses a proprietary, data-driven platform to source premium opportunities for investors.
1,943
EmpowerHome
289%
2006
A partner to real estate teams and agents, offering exclusive programs to ensure sellers get top dollar for their properties.
1,971
Mobility Market Intelligence
285%
2010
A market leader in data intelligence and market insight tools for the mortgage and real estate industries.
1,985
Keeping Current Matters
282%
2007
Helps real estate agents save time and build confidence with easy-to-deliver marketing content powered by the latest market insights.
2,669
LodeStar Software Solutions
197%
2013
Firm offering software that saves mortgage lenders and professionals time and money by automating their closing cost disclosure.
2,824
MoxiWorks
189%
2012
Firm offering cloud-based, real-estate-productivity technology helping brokerages and agents thrive in the residential real-estate space.
2,936
Lender Toolkit
179%
2015
Provider of automated, innovative and comprehensive AI-powered mortgage technology solutions that streamline the mortgage origination process for mortgage lenders.
3,370
Total Expert
149%
2012
CRM and data-driven customer engagement solutions for financial institutions, turning customer insights into actions to increase loyalty and drive growth.
4,105
FirstCloseFirstclose.
110%
2000
Technology solution provider for HELOC and home equity lenders nationwide, helping lenders increase profitability and reduce cost.
4,196
NewWestern
106%
2008
Real estate marketplace that connects more than 100,000 local investors looking to rehab houses with sellers.
4,423
Down Payment Resource
96%
2008
A technology provider helping the housing industry connect homebuyers with homebuyer assistance, to make affordable home financing opportunities more accessible.
Source: Inc. 5000 – 2023
Additionally, two appraisal firms were named to the Inc. 5000 list in 2023: Kairos Appraisal Services, a national appraisal management company implementing technology to expedite the appraisal process through data, geocoding, scheduling and interactive communication tools. Kairos was No. 1,283 on the Inc. 5000 list with a three-year growth rate of 457%. Miami-based Marketwise Valuation Services, another AMC, was No. 2,629 overall with a three-year growth rate of 205%.
Rank
Company
Growth (3-yr Avg.)
Year Founded
Description
1,283
Kairos Appraisal Services
457%
2015
National appraisal management company implementing innovative technology to expedite the appraisal process through data, geocoding, scheduling and interactive communication tools.
2,629
Marketwise Evaluation Services
205%
2017
Appraisal management company for the lending industry, dedicated to providing the highest quality appraisal management services and property condition inspections.