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Looking for the best jobs for single moms? Being a single mom can be hard because you have to manage both your job and taking care of your kids. There are not many hours in a day, so it’s probably important to you to find a job that pays you a good income and lets…

Looking for the best jobs for single moms?

Being a single mom can be hard because you have to manage both your job and taking care of your kids. There are not many hours in a day, so it’s probably important to you to find a job that pays you a good income and lets you take care of your children.

The good news is that nowadays, there are many stay at home jobs for moms. This means you don’t have to follow a strict 9-to-5 schedule, making it easier to balance work and family. There are also many in-person jobs that allow you to have a better schedule to match your children’s schedule (such as when they are in school!).

Whatever you may be looking for, there are many flexible jobs for single moms. Continue reading below to learn more!

Best Jobs for Single Moms

Below is a quick summary of some of the best jobs for single moms.

  • Bookkeeper – You can organize the finances for businesses and have flexible working hours. With quick training, entry-level bookkeeping jobs might start at around $20 per hour, but with experience, you could earn a lot more.
  • Blogger – Bloggers get to work from home and make their own schedule, which is great for anyone, including single moms.
  • Teacher – Teaching probably aligns well with your child’s school schedule. Whether full-time, substitute, or part-time, teaching can be a good choice.
  • Virtual Assistant – This job involves helping businesses with tasks online, and you can typically make your own schedule.
  • Childcare provider – If you enjoy taking care of children, providing childcare for others while watching your own can, at the same time, be a way to earn money.

Below, you can learn about each of these, as well as many more of the best jobs for single moms.

1. Blogger

Blogging is one of the best jobs for single moms, and this is because you can work from home, make your own flexible schedule, and be your own boss; these are all reasons why I think it’s one of the best jobs for single moms who stay at home.

Plus, to start, you don’t need a lot of stuff – just a computer and internet.

I do this myself while taking care of my daughter, Marlowe. Blogging lets me travel whenever I want, make my own work schedule, earn good money, write about topics I like, and I really enjoy having a blogging business.

I started Making Sense of Cents in 2011, and since then, I’ve earned over $5,000,000 with my blog. When I began, I didn’t know it would become one of the best jobs for stay-at-home moms. Now, blogging lets me have a flexible schedule and spend lots of time with my daughter. It’s been a great way to balance work and family for me.

You can learn how to start a blog with my free How To Start a Blog Course (sign up by clicking here).

In this free course, you will learn:

  1. Why you should start a blog today
  2. How to decide what you should write about
  3. How to create a blog (this will go over the actual step-by-step process)
  4. How to make income from your blog
  5. How to get people to read your blog

And more!

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Want to see how I built a $5,000,000 blog?

In this free course, I show you how to create a blog, from the technical side to earning your first income and attracting readers.

2. Day care (and bring your kid)

Finding a job that lets you bring your child along can save you childcare costs and watching other people’s kids is one way to do it.

You could start your own day care or find a job at a day care.

If you want to start a home day care, then you will want to check your state’s rules for home day cares, such as if you need a license. You’ll also need a safe space for children, as well as toys and games.

You could also try to find a job at a day care in your local area. Many day care centers allow you to bring your child, or they will give you a discounted rate to have your child attend the day care as well while you work.

Another option is to become a nanny or babysitter for a family that allows you to have your child there as well.

Starting a day care, working in one, or becoming a nanny/babysitter can be a win-win. You earn money and don’t worry about finding someone to watch your kid. Plus, your child gets to play and learn with other children.

Recommended reading: How to Make Money on Maternity Leave: 27 Real Ways

3. Sell printables

Selling printables is a great work-from-home business idea for single moms. This is because you can do this while your kids are sleeping or at school and earn passive income too!

Printables are digital files that people buy, download, and print themselves. These can include planners, calendars, wall art, grocery shopping checklists, weekly meal plans that someone puts on their fridge, and educational worksheets for kids.

You can sell your printables on websites like Etsy. This is a way to make money from home because you only need to make one digital file for each product, and you can sell it many times. You don’t have to print or send anything to your customers. You make the digital file; your customer buys it, downloads it, and takes care of the rest.

I recommend reading about this further at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy to learn more about one of the best jobs for stay-at-home moms.

Do you want to make money selling printables online? This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.

4. Virtual assistant

As a single mom, you may be looking for a job that fits into your schedule. Working as a virtual assistant (VA) could be your answer, as you get to work from home and choose hours that work for you.

I’ve worked as a virtual assistant before, and I also have virtual assistants who help me with my business. Many parents have told me that a virtual assistant job is one of the best jobs for stay-at-home moms because it’s very flexible, and I agree!

A VA is someone who works from home as an assistant for someone else. Nowadays, many businesses can be operated from home, so it makes sense that an assistant can also work from home.

A virtual assistant can do tasks like managing social media accounts, formatting and editing content, scheduling appointments, handling travel plans, managing emails, and overseeing Facebook groups, among other things.

You can learn more at How Kayla Earns $10,000 Each Month From Home as a Virtual Assistant.

5. Freelance writer

If you’re a single mom looking for a job you can do from home, freelance writing might be a good fit for you. It’s a job where you write articles, blog posts, and sometimes even books for money. You don’t have to work in an office; you can write from anywhere, even your own kitchen table.

I have been a freelance writer for years, and it can be a great career choice for someone who wants to work from home.

When you’re just starting as a freelance writer, you might begin by writing articles that pay around $50 each or even more. However, the amount of money you can earn can vary a lot. You may be able to earn around $50,000 a year, and I know several freelance writers who are moms who make over $200,000 per year.

Many people are searching for freelance writers, and this job has a lot of opportunities for growth. It could be a great career to begin with.

Learn more at 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs – (Start With No Experience!).

6. Book author

If you love telling stories or sharing your knowledge, writing books could be an ideal job for you as a single mom. You get to create your own schedule and work from anywhere, even your home. Writing can be done at times that fit your schedule best, such as when your kids are at school or asleep.

For publishing your book, there are two options:

  • Traditional Publishing – You submit your manuscript to publishers. If a publisher likes your work, they will print, distribute, and market your book for you. In return, you’ll earn royalties from sales.
  • Self-Publishing – Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing allow you to publish your book yourself. You control every aspect and get a higher percentage of the sales, but you also handle marketing and distribution.

The amount of money that you can make as a book author can vary by a lot. As a first-time author, getting published can be challenging, and earning substantial income takes time. If you self-publish and your book becomes popular, you could make a significant amount. But, this isn’t guaranteed.

Recommended reading: How Alyssa is making $200 a DAY in book sales passively

7. Graphic designer

Graphic design is a creative job that involves making artwork and visual designs. You might create designs for websites (like logos), advertisements, or printed materials like brochures and magazines.

Your work helps companies communicate with their customers through eye-catching and effective visuals.

This can be a great job for single mothers, as you may be able to find a work-from-home job as a graphic designer, or even start your own business where you can make your own flexible schedule.

Recommended reading: How To Make Money As A Digital Designer

8. Social media manager

Becoming a social media manager can be a great fit for single moms looking for remote work jobs.

Social media managers are in charge of social media accounts for businesses or people. Their job is to post on social media, reply to comments, and keep everyone interested.

This can include TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, X (formally known as Twitter), and more.

I have been a social media manager for companies, and it’s a great job that allows you to have a flexible schedule. That means you can work when it suits you – such as when the kids are at school or asleep.

9. Real estate agent

If you’re a single mom looking to balance work and family, becoming a real estate agent might be a great fit. As a real estate agent, you help people buy and sell homes.

To be a real estate agent, you just need a high school diploma and a license.

In 2021, the average pay for this job was $23.45 per hour, which is about $48,770 per year. But, there are many real estate agents who earn much more than this.

10. Proofreader

Proofreaders read documents and check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, and they make sure everything is perfect before it gets printed or published online. They review books, articles, blog posts, social media content, newsletters, advertisements, and more.

If you want flexible work hours, proofreading is a good choice. Depending on your experience and the job’s complexity, you can earn between $20 and $50 per hour and more.

As a single mom, this job lets you balance work with looking after your kids. You can usually set your own schedule and work from home, which can make life a little easier.

You can read more at How To Become A Proofreader And Work From Anywhere.

There is also a FREE 76-minute workshop where you will learn more about how to become a proofreader with Proofread Anywhere. You can sign up for free here.

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This free 76-minute workshop answers all of the most common questions about how to become a proofreader, and even talks about the 5 signs that proofreading could be a perfect fit for you.

11. Bookkeeper

If you’re a single mom, becoming a bookkeeper might be a good option for you. Bookkeepers manage money records for businesses by keeping track of all the money that comes in and goes out.

If you work as an online bookkeeper, you could make about $40,000 or more per year. Typically, this involves managing finances for around 12 to 16 clients.

Being an online bookkeeper is great because you don’t need to be an accountant or have any prior experience. Also, virtual bookkeeping is a service that many people are looking for, so there’s a demand for it.

Recommended reading: Online Bookkeeping Jobs: Learn How To Get Started Today

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This free training will teach you what you need to know to become a virtual bookkeeper and make money from home.

12. Transcriptionist

As a transcriptionist, your job is to listen to audio or video files and type out what you hear into text. This is a task that you can do from home, making it a good option if you’re a single mom looking for flexible work.

One of the biggest benefits of this job is flexibility. You can usually choose when and how much you want to work (such as when your kids are sleeping or when they are at school). This can make balancing work and family much easier.

You need to be able to type quickly and accurately and attention to detail is important because you need to catch every single word.

Recommended reading: 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly

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In this free training, you will learn what transcription is, why it’s a highly in-demand skill, who hires transcriptionists, how to become a transcriptionist, and more.

13. Customer service representative

Customer service representatives help people by answering questions and solving problems on the phone or online, which means they can sometimes work from home.

On average, customer service representatives earn around $35,868 a year as an average salary. This will change depending on where you work and how much experience you have.

Some large companies like Apple, Progressive, U.S. Bank, American Express, and U-Haul hire customer service representatives who can work from home. This means you can do the job from the comfort of your own house.

14. Data entry clerk

Data entry clerks enter information into databases or spreadsheets. They type things like numbers and names into computers to keep everything organized and make sure records are correct.

Jobs in data entry usually pay about $15 to $20 per hour.

Recommended reading: 15 Places To Find Data Entry Jobs From Home

15. Dog walker or pet sitter

If you’re a single mom looking for a job that fits around your schedule, you may want to look into becoming a dog walker or pet sitter. This type of job lets you choose when you work, which is great for making sure you have time for your kids.

As a dog walker, you walk dogs for people who are busy or away from home. You might take them around the neighborhood or to a park. If you’re a pet sitter, you take care of pets while their owners are out of town or at work.

The money you make can vary. Some jobs might pay you each day, like $15 to $25 an hour or a flat rate per day like $75. How much you make could depend on how many pets you care for and how long you spend with them.

Rover is a great company that you can sign up with in order to become a dog walker and pet sitter.

16. BabyQuip

If you’re a mom looking for a flexible side hustle, BabyQuip might be worth looking into. It’s a service where you can rent out baby gear like strollers and car seats to traveling parents – starting is simple: apply online, and BabyQuip will guide you through the process.

As a mom after all, you probably already have a lot of baby gear that you can rent out to make money with.

With BabyQuip, you make money by renting out items you already own or plan to invest in for rentals. Because parents travel, the demand for clean and safe baby gear is always there.

People using BabyQuip can make about $1,000 a month on average, and some even earn more than $10,000 each month.

On BabyQuip, you can rent items like cribs, strollers, car seats, high chairs, toys, bouncers, books, hiking packs, and many other things.

17. Teacher

As a single mom, teaching can be a great career for you. As a teacher, you typically work while your children are in school as well, after all.

Most teaching jobs follow a traditional school year calendar. This means you usually have summers off, along with school holidays, which can help you spend time with your kids.

18. Doula

If you’re a single mom looking for a job, you may want to become a doula. A doula supports women during childbirth, but your work can also extend to helping moms after the baby is born.

They are there to give comfort, encouragement, and knowledge during the pregnancy journey, labor, and the postpartum period.

19. Tutor

If you’re looking for part-time jobs for single moms, then tutoring may be an option to look into.

If you’re a single mom who knows a lot about a specific subject like math, science, or a language, becoming an online tutor could be a smart choice. You can schedule sessions around your life and help students learn. You pick when you work, which is perfect when you have kids at home. You might teach early mornings, afternoons, or even nights.

You will need a quiet place to work, a computer, and a good internet connection.

Income as a tutor ranges, and you may be able to earn $20+ an hour. And, if you specialize in something more advanced, like SAT prep or college courses, you could make more, even up to $50 per hour or more.

20. Photographer

As a single mom, becoming a photographer can be a rewarding job choice for you. With a camera and some practice, you can start taking photos that people will enjoy.

To begin, you need a decent camera. Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to be the most expensive one. You also need to learn about lighting and how to frame a good picture. There are lots of free tutorials online, such as on YouTube, if you want to learn more.

One of the best parts about photography is that you can make your own schedule. You decide when to book photo shoots, which can be great for balancing time with your kids. It’s possible to do photo shoots on weekends or during special events like weddings.

You can earn money by selling your photos online or by working with clients directly. Graduations, weddings, family portraits, and even pet photos can be great opportunities. Pricing varies depending on the job, but as you gain experience, you can charge more for your work.

As you grow, you can invest in better equipment and editing software to enhance the quality of your photos. This helps you stand out and can lead to more jobs and higher pay.

I know many moms who are successful photographers, and they love having a photography business.

Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures

21. Instacart shopper

If you’re a single mom looking for a job that fits around your schedule, becoming an Instacart shopper might be a good choice. Instacart is a service that lets people order groceries online, and shoppers like you do the shopping and deliver the orders to their homes.

When you’re an Instacart shopper, you can set your own hours. This means you can work when it’s best for you, like when your kids are at school or sleeping. As a shopper, you get a payment card from Instacart to buy the groceries at the store.

Shoppers usually earn about $11 to $20 per hour. It’s important to remember that as an independent contractor, you will have extra costs like gas and vehicle maintenance that you need to think about when figuring out your earnings.

You can learn more at Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?

22. Paralegal

As a single mom, you might find the role of a paralegal interesting. It’s a job where you work in a law firm or legal department, helping lawyers by preparing legal documents and doing research.

Your typical work hours are most likely Monday to Friday, fitting well with a school-week schedule.

Paralegals earn around $30,000 to $35,000 a year.

23. Dental assistant

As a single mom, if you’re looking for a job that lets you help people and have regular hours, you might like being a dental assistant. In this job, you work in a dentist’s office and help the dentist with patients.

Your tasks could include getting the tools ready, making sure patients are comfortable, and teaching them how to care for their teeth.

Your week would be busy, but you usually wouldn’t have to work nights or weekends. This is great because it matches up with your kids’ school schedule.

24. Travel agent

As a single mom, you may find that being a travel agent is a job that fits well with your life. It’s a job where you get to plan and book trips for others. You could work from home or an office.

Travel agents plan vacations, business trips, and getaways for clients and they find the best deals on flights, hotels, and fun activities.

The money you earn can vary because some agents get paid hourly and others get a commission, which is a part of the trip cost.

25. Nurse

As a single mom, you might worry about balancing work with taking care of your kids. As a nurse, there are jobs that can fit your life.

Some examples include:

  • School nurse – You can work the same hours your kids are in school. You’ll care for sick children, keep track of health records, and help with health checks.
  • Doctor’s office nurse – Working here can be less stressful. Usually, the hours are regular, Monday to Friday, so you can be home with your kids in the evenings and on weekends.
  • Home health care nurse – You’ll visit patients in their homes, which can give you a flexible schedule.
  • Public health clinics – These places look after the community’s health. Hours can be more regular, meaning you won’t have to do lots of night shifts.
  • Nurse educator – If you love teaching, this lets you work in a classroom instead of a hospital. You’ll have a steady schedule, perfect for family time.

26. Speech pathologist

A speech pathologist helps people with speech and language issues. You would work to improve their communication skills, which can be very rewarding.

You need a master’s degree in speech-language pathology and certifications vary by state.

Your work may take place in schools, hospitals, or private clinics. Some speech pathologists work from home providing virtual sessions.

27. Sleep consultant

Sleep is really important for the growth and well-being of babies, and it’s important for parents too. But sometimes, parents find it hard to make sure their child gets the sleep they need.

Pediatric sleep consultants are very helpful in solving children’s sleep problems, making it easier for families to have peaceful nights. If you really enjoy working with kids and want to make a positive difference in their lives, becoming a sleep coach could be a great career option.

I have personally learned from sleep consultants in the past, and I know many others who have hired a sleep consultant as well. These are typically moms who have firsthand experience with improving a baby’s sleep.

Learn more at How To Become A Sleep Consultant And Make $10,000 Each Month.

28. Run a dog treat bakery

If you enjoy cooking, starting a home bakery could be a way to make money from home. It allows you to use your cooking skills to create dog treats and earn some income.

You can make dog treats, cupcakes, cookies, cakes, and more.

Starting a dog treat bakery business could potentially help you earn an extra $500 to $1,000 a month or even more. It’s a niche small business idea that taps into the love people have for their pets.

I also recommend reading How I Earned Up to $4,000 Per Month Baking Dog Treats (With Zero Baking Experience!).

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about how to find jobs for single moms.

What should a single mom do to handle financial stress?

I get it – as a single mom, you may have a lot of financial stress. It is hard to be a single mom and manage everything all on your own after all. To manage financial stress, I recommend trying to find jobs that pay well but also have flexible hours or work hours that match up with your children’s school schedule. Jobs that allow you to work remotely can also help lower your childcare expenses as you can work from home.

How to work as a single mom without help or childcare?

If you don’t have help or childcare, then you may want to work during hours when your kids are at school or asleep. This may include looking for jobs or employers who understand your situation and have flexible schedules or the ability to work from home.

What are the best work from home jobs for single moms?

I think one of the best ways for a single mom to make money is to work from home. This is because you may be able to make your own schedule, and you may be able to find a job that allows you to take care of your kids at the same time.

The best work-from-home jobs include jobs like virtual assistants, freelance writers, and bloggers.

What are jobs for single moms without a degree?

Jobs for single moms without a degree include administrative support, customer service positions, and sales roles as these jobs usually give on-the-job training.

How can a single mom go back to college and what degrees are best?

You can go back to college by looking for online degree programs, or classes when your children are at school, that fit your schedule. Popular degrees that balance well with being a single mom could be in fields like education, business, or healthcare, which have the potential for career growth.

Best Jobs for Single Moms – Summary

I hope you enjoyed this article on how to find the best jobs for single moms.

Whether you are looking for full-time or part-time jobs for single moms, there are many options that may fit what you need.

As you probably noticed above, jobs for single moms vary and include different types of work. Some jobs are creative, like writing or graphic design, while others are more regular, such as customer service or bookkeeping.

If you enjoy telling stories and writing, you could be a blogger or a freelance writer. If you’re good with organizing and numbers, you might like being a virtual assistant or a bookkeeper.

If you prefer doing your own thing, you could start a home day care or sell printables online.

As you can see, this is a long list of the best jobs for single mothers! There are many different job ideas that you could try that have a good work-life balance.

What do you think are the best jobs for single parents?

Recommended reading:

Source: makingsenseofcents.com

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When it comes to home design, we’ve all decorated with a trend or two that we wish we could forget (anyone remember pistachio-colored kitchens?). But we’ve also discovered trends that have turned into classic finishes that are here to stay. (Looking at you, marble!) With that said, while trends come and go, it’s always fun to forecast what’s going to be hot in the new year. And as with the “never dress in a trend from head-to-toe” fashion rule, the same applies to home decor. It’s never wise to outfit an entire house in them, but sprinkle in a trend here and there for an updated look. From embracing bold hues to incorporating textured wallpapers, 2024 looks to be a colorful year. Four designers weigh in on what you’re sure to see inside beautiful homes around Dallas this year.

Trend: Working pantries

Working pantries, like this one designed by Hayden Dendy of BRNS Design, feature prep space, storage cabinetry and a pop of pretty design.(Becca Lea Photography)

More and more, new home builds and renovations are including a spot for a working pantry, which is a larger walk-in version with storage and prep space. “Adding countertops, outlets and space to prep in pantries bring an added layer of function to the home and can help achieve a mess-free kitchen space while entertaining,” says Hayden Dendy, designer for BRNS Design, a multidisciplinary architecture and design firm.

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Designer Kara Adam, owner of Kara Adam Interiors, is also urging her clients to consider adding a working pantry to their floor plans. Not only is it practical, but it’s another opportunity to have fun with design. “Pantries are no longer a closet with white shelves,” she says. “They are gorgeous and they’re functional. Design them with pretty countertops, tile and wallpaper, or paint them a fun color. They are truly treated as a room now, not just a closet. This will be budgeted into more and more of my clients’ projects.” She suggests storing appliances that take up space in the kitchen such as coffee makers, blenders and toasters. “They can also be plumbed with a sink or ice machine. Basically all of the things that are noisy or unattractive, so that your kitchen remains a pretty space,” she says.

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Trend: Saturated color

Rich color is starting to saturate every room of the house, like in this bold blue dining room designed by Kara Adam.(Michael Hunter)
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“This year we are going to see homeowners being more adventurous with color,” says Danielle Frazier, co-owner and principal designer of interior design studio Twilly & Fig. “When you saw the trends go towards gray and neutrals and cooler tones, people lost that richness and connection to color. They are starting to feel that void and want to be more playful with color.” Within that, Frazier notes that spaces will continue to see monochromatic use of color, particularly with moody hues. She says she’s seeing an increase in purple spaces, as well. “We just did a living room in a grayish plum that is really rich. It’s a color you don’t hear a lot about now, but you’ll start to see it more,” she says. She suggests trying Benjamin Moore’s “Hazy Lilac” as a way to introduce the trending palette. Aside from the walls, Frazier also notes that homeowners are starting to ask for colorful pieces like rugs, sofas and wallpaper as well. “I think people are willing to take a risk with color on more investment pieces than they have in the past,” she says.

Adam agrees that the neutral all-white look is starting to fade. “In 2024, few people are going to ask for that,” she says. “People want a cozier environment rich in color. Even formal spaces are looking less formal because of the rich color. It draws you in and makes a space scream ‘come hang out in here,’” she says.

Trend: Mixing and matching genres

Designer Kara Adam artfully mixes fresh, contemporary fabrics; furniture pieces with traditional lines; modern lighting; and crown molding details in this family living space.(Michael Hunter)
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As the neutral palette starts to fade, so does the matchy-matchy interior that looks more like a catalogue than a personalized lived-in space. “Our clients are craving an element in their design and in their homes that have a soulfulness to them,” Frazier says. “For instance, we’ve been designing a kitchen with custom handmade tiles on the backsplash. We’re finding that people are wanting to add depth, character and personality through handmade pieces and antiques.” She suggests shopping estate sales and local antique stores for hidden gems or planning a road trip to one of Round Top’s antique show weeks for one-of-a-kind finds.

“We always encourage and push clients to embrace the unexpected,” adds Adam. “Mixing a contemporary piece with an antique will make an environment that is pleasing to the eye.”She also urges clients to purchase art, which personalizes a home even more. She suggest that her clients buy works that speaks to them, rather than what “matches” their interiors. “Your home is an expression of you,” she says. “Art is very subjective. And, it’s not just decoration anymore. It’s a statement.”

Trend: Bold bars and beverage centers

Homeowners are asking for bars and beverage centers that are stylish and functional, much like this striking blue bar designed by Danielle Frazer.(Michael Hunter)

“Bars are huge right now,” says Adam. “We have some homes with multiple bars. And much like how powder baths are the jewel box of the home, that’s how bars are going to be too. They will be extremely layered, rich in colors and accessories, and usually have unique countertops.” And thanks to the playful powder bath aesthetic that has been trending for some time, homeowners are craving more of that layered look throughout the home, which is where a bold bar comes in. “It used to be that we’d go into these beautiful, airy light homes and they’ve had this wild powder bath, but now you’re seeing that personality throughout the home,” she says.

Cheers to the new home bar: How to create a modern, multifunctional space

And on that note, Frazier is seeing an increase in beverage centers, which encompasses every drink throughout the day, from breakfast to cocktail hour. “In the past a beverage center was maybe just a coffee bar or a cocktail bar, but now people want them to be multipurposeful, a place where they can make their morning coffee or tea, make a smoothie bowl after a workout or pour a beverage after work.” Most of these areas include a beverage fridge or fridge drawers, a built-in pullout trash can, a wine fridge, a sink, and cabinets for blenders, coffee pots or tea kettles. “It depends on the person, of course, but they are designed for how they want it to function,” she says.

Trend: Cozy spaces

“The light airy home has had its moment,” says designer Kara Adam. “People now want a cozier environment rich in color.”(Michael Hunter)
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Homes built in the last decade mostly feature open-concept floor plans, which usually include an open family room, kitchen and breakfast nook. But Adam is hoping to design cozier spaces in the next year. “No one wants to relax in their family room when they are sitting on the sofa and behind them is the kitchen,” she says. Dirty dishes, a pot of soup on the stove or clutter on the countertops does not create for a relaxing space. “Creating separation is good for your mental health,” she says. “You can step away from it and go back and clean it up later.” Plus, when a space is large and open, there is no breaking point for a designer to do something playful and fun on the walls or molding. “When it’s one huge space, it’s a lot harder to upholster or lacquer a wall,” she explains.

Her clients are also asking for game rooms. “We can’t do enough of them,” she says. “We are redoing spaces so that people can have a mahjong room. In our home we have a table built for mahjong, but when it’s not set up for that, we always have a puzzle out, too. Work on a puzzle for 20 minutes and it’s good for your brain and it slows things down. Then you can go back to running around or going to carpool,” she says.

Trend: Textured and printed wallpaper

Patterns, textures and fabrics are big in wall coverings this year. Brian Yates, principal designer with Yates Desygn, covered this bedroom in Ever Atelier x Yates Desygn “In-Site” patterned wallpaper.(Michael Wiltbank)
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Wallpaper has been trending for some years now, and it’s still holding strong in 2024, especially selections that boast texture, bold patterns and fabric. “In 2023, we launched our first wallpaper collection with Ever Atelier, Ever X Yates, and it led us to experiment with wall coverings in new ways. For example, new construction ceilings are typically much taller nowadays, and implementing wallpaper can help weigh it down and feel more proportional,” says Bryan Yates, principal designer of Yates Desygn. “In addition, we are currently framing three panels of a de Gournay print to work as a 9-foot-by-9-foot piece of art and create a more significant moment in a client’s dining space rather than using traditional panels as a series.”

Adam notes that adding the right wallpaper to a space helps to evoke a mood, too. “People are wanting texture as opposed to a super flat, quiet space. For instance, when you’re having a dinner party in a dining room covered in cool silk wallpaper, it makes people want to stay. We want our clients to have dinner parties that go on all night,” she says.

Related Stories

Source: dallasnews.com

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Schlifske’s 14-year tenure as CEO defined by historic business performance, bold client experience transformation, unsurpassed financial strength, exceptional product value, and meaningful investments in talent and diversity Tim Gerend to succeed Schlifske as the company’s next CEO, effective January 1, 2025 MILWAUKEE, Jan. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — After 14 years as Northwestern Mutual’s Chief Executive … [Read more…]

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If you’re planning on giving your home a quick transformation for the new year, a fresh coat of paint can do the job. And if you want to master how to paint a room like a pro, you’ll also need to avoid these common painting mistakes.

I’m always updating my home, and taking on a new DIY project. Over the years, I’ve wallpapered rooms, upcycled old, tired-looking furniture and of course, painted walls.  But despite writing about home decor for a living, I’ve made some rookie mistakes in the past that have cost me time, effort and money!

($15, Amazon), which are more durable.  

2. Consider safety  

Lady painting a wall with wrong footwear (Image credit: Shutterstock)

Just because you’re in the comfort of your own home, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take your safety seriously. And while I wouldn’t consider painting to be a high-risk job, there are still certain precautions to take. 

Most paints contain harmful chemicals, so ensure you always open a window, door or have adequate ventilation in the room — especially if you have children at home.

In addition, always wear appropriate clothing, or disposable coveralls like these Cleaing Pack of 3 SMS Disposable Paint Suit ($18, Amazon), to protect your skin/clothes from any splashes. If you need to use a sanding tool, it’s also advisable to wear protective eyewear, gloves and a mask so that you won’t breathe in dust. 

And finally, wear the right, protective footwear to prevent slipping or losing your balance — especially when climbing a step ladder. I’ve been guilty of wearing my slippers to go up a ladder in the past, which is a massive fail! Always treat any DIY/home project as if you’re on a building site — accidents can happen.

3. Prep the walls first before painting

Filling cracks in wall with putty knife (Image credit: Shutterstock)

I’ve been guilty of painting straight onto walls without the right preparation. As a result, any dents or cracks were visible, much to my dismay! But while prepping may seem like an arduous task, this makes all the difference to the overall results and finish. 

Check the condition of the walls, inspecting for cracks, holes or any dents. If these are minor, simply apply caulk to fill these in with a putty knife, and let it dry completely before any necessary sanding. If your walls are not in good condition however, you may need to hire a plasterer, to ensure it has a smooth finish. 

In addition, it’s always recommended to give walls a good clean first with a soapy water solution to get rid of dust, cobwebs and grime. You can either use a damp cloth/sponge, or a sugar soap spray can also be used to prepare walls. Follow this up by washing again with clean water to remove the cleaner residue, then wipe with a clean cloth.

By taking the time to do the prep work, this ensures you have a clean, smooth wall, makes painting easier and will actually save you more time in the long-run. 

4. Use masking tape to secure drop cloths  

Man applying masking tape for drop cloth (Image credit: Shutterstock)

We all know how important it is to protect your floor when you’re painting. However, if you just throw drop cloths down without properly securing them, these can move out of place and cause an accident. In addition, I’d often spend extra time covering areas of the floor again, where it had lifted.

The best way to secure drop cloths is to apply about two inches of masking tape to the quarter round or shoe molding along the edge of wall. Then spread the drop cloth out on the floor next to the wall before applying another layer of masking tape so that it covers both the cloth and trim. This way, it shouldn’t shift while you’re moving the step ladder, or generally walking around the area. 

5. Lining the paint tray before use 

Pouring paint into a lined tray (Image credit: Shutterstock)

One thing I dread after painting a room is the messy clean-up afterwards — especially if you need to reuse your tray soon after. However, a clever painting hack is to line the tray with a plastic sheet or trash bag so that every inch is covered, before pouring out your paint.

The idea is that, once you’ve finished painting, carefully lift out the sheet or bag and throw it out in the trash. This way, your paint tray remains spotless, and ready for the next paint job. Best of all, this is quick, hassle-free and will save you precious time. 

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Source: tomsguide.com

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Home Equity, Pre-Qual, Correspondent, Verification Tools; Training and Webinars; STRATMOR on LO Habits

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Home Equity, Pre-Qual, Correspondent, Verification Tools; Training and Webinars; STRATMOR on LO Habits

By:
Rob Chrisman

7 Hours, 30 Min ago

Attention in the hallways in the early going at the IMB Conference in New Orleans is varied. LinkedIn traffic seems to have picked up for IMB companies like Draper and Kramer and Atlantic Bay, but that is hardly a scientific measure of companies being bought, buying, or exiting the business. (As always, direct questions to company representatives.) Credit costs and trigger leads are a big item; this Wednesday’s L1 Mortgage Matters session at 2PM ET features John Fleming, of John Fleming Law and the Texas MBA, discussing issues including a fine update on the trigger lead situation. Being pragmatic about handling branches that are losing money, even if the crew there has been with you for years and years, is a hot topic among owners. The last 18 months has not been the time to waffle or ignore information. Today’s podcast can be found here and this week’s is brought to you LoanCare. LoanCare has successfully navigated clients and homeowners through market change for 40 years. The mortgage subservicer is known for delivering superior customer experience through personalization and convenience via its portfolio management tool, LoanCare Analytics™, supporting MSR investors with a focus on customer engagement, liquidity, and credit risk.

Lender and Broker Services, Products, and Software

Jonathan Spinetto COO & Co-founder at Nyfty Door, grew business from 0 loan originations two years ago when he signed with TRUV, and is projected to hit 3,000 loans a month in 2024. NYFTY door sees conversion rates over 60% with Truv and is saving 60-80% over competitors. Contact TRUV today for your income, employment, insurance, and asset verifications.

“Citi Correspondent Lending continues to foster targeted growth of our approved lender base with a focus on the expansion of our Community Lending platform. To start off the new year, we’re moving forward with full implementation of our proprietary affordable lending program, HomeRun, which features no MI, up to 97 percent LTV and as little as 1 percent borrower down payment contribution. To further compliment this rollout, our CRA pricing incentives were recently updated with enhancements to several markets, including Miami, Newark, San Jose, and Los Angeles. Learn more about HomeRun and all of the other growth opportunities Citi Correspondent Lending has to offer by contacting our National Client Services Team or completing our Prospective Correspondent Questionnaire.”

Get ready to rev your engines and network like a champion at the 3rd annual Supercar Experience, brought to you by Lender Toolkit, Reggora, Lenders One, and LodeStar! Mark your calendars for March 18th, before the kickoff of EXP24 in Vegas. We’ll take over Speed Vegas Exotics Racing, where you can unleash your inner speed demon behind the wheel of a dream supercar and connect with industry decision makers in a high-octane setting. Build valuable partnerships and expand your circle with leading mortgage minds at this one-of-a-kind event. Gain exclusive insights from and ask your questions of industry expert Rob Chrisman in a live Chrisman Commentary podcast. Plus, shake hands with Talladega Nights’ icon, Ricky Bobby himself! Experience more than just supercar thrills with an exclusive reception, delicious catering, and racetrack excitement. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable opportunity to elevate your brand, fuel your EXP24 prep, and network like a boss. Secure your spot now. Shake and bake!

One of the more annoying jobs of a loan officer is putting together closing cost summaries every time a borrower looks at a new house. What if they could fire them off from their phone (accurately) without having to go into the LOS each time? All your pre-approved buyers, on your phone, integrated with the LOS. Turn your loan officers into super-awesome fireball-throwing loan officers with QuickQual by LenderLogix.

Introducing The 2024 Lender Playbook: 4 Tips to Drive Profitability in a Recovering Market. How will the coming election, housing inventory, and Fed action impact the mortgage market (and your lending success) this year? There’s a lot going on in 2024, and market recovery won’t be straightforward. The good news? You can still build a strong, forward-thinking plan for resilience and profitability. Tenured industry experts from Maxwell’s senior team helped create this guide to teach you how to reduce costs, win borrower business, and capture intermittent loan volume as it reemerges in the market. To get a leg up on the competition and build agility into your business, click here to download The 2024 Lender Playbook: 4 Tips to Drive Profitability in a Recovering Market.

Join FirstClose, Curinos and Fifth Third Bank on Thursday, February 15 for a deep dive into today’s home equity market. Take a look behind the scenes at the products and processes that fuel home equity lending, new financing options that are creating opportunities for both depository and non-bank participants and, most importantly, learn how to capitalize on this market. This one-hour online event is a must attend for anyone currently in the home equity space or thinking of entering. Register today.

STRATMOR on LO Habits

Do you ever feel like you’re living the same day over and over again? Sometimes it takes watching a 90’s comedy classic to bring us to our senses and remind us that we must keep trying new things, changing, and evolving if want to see new and different results. In his latest Customer Experience Tip, STRATMOR Customer Experience Director Mike Seminari shares some lessons Bill Murray’s character learns in the movie “Groundhog Day” and how LOs can apply it to their process in 2024. Check out “Fresh Ideas for LOs Looking for Better Results in 2024” for recommendations on how to incorporate small change habits into your daily routine to help drive more referrals and repeat business in 2024.

Webinars, Events, and Training to Wrap up January

The upcoming webinar, “California Lien Law Overview for Construction Lenders” will be hosted by Land Gorilla on Wednesday, January 24 at 10AM PT/1PM ET. In continuation of the informative construction lien law webinars covering Florida and Texas, this webinar promises more great insights and understanding into California’s specific statutory requirements. Discover faster and more cost-effective alternatives to a foundation survey. Gain insights into California’s Prompt Payment Act. Learn the significance of the Notice of Completion in California and its critical timeline that can minimize a lender’s exposure during the final disbursement. You won’t want to miss these key insights to help you effectively manage construction loans. Register now to secure your spot. All registrants will receive the webinar recording.

A good place for longer term conference planning is to start is here, and click on “events” for conferences in the future. Of course this week we have the MBA’s IMB Conference in New Orleans.

What’s ahead for commercial real estate (CRE) markets in 2024? Join SitusAMC’s inaugural “ValTrends First Look” webinar on January 23, at 2pm ET, hosted by Senior Director of SitusAMC Insights Peter Muoio, PhD and Vice President of SitusAMC Insights Jennifer Rasmussen, PhD. Instead of looking back at the previous quarter, the new ValTrends webinar will leverage recent survey data of leading institutional and regional CRE executives to give you a forward-looking snapshot of the quarter ahead.

National MI: Highlights from the Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers with Rebecca Lorenz – January 23rd at 2PM ET. Build a Prospecting Follow-Up Strategy with Kendra Lee – January 25th at 1PM ET.

Sign up for a complimentary webinar hosted by ICE to hear about AI and the future of home valuations. A panel of industry experts will discuss the ways AI-powered tools eliminate valuation bias. They’ll also cover how AI accelerates the valuation process, and ways you can look out for fraud when using AI in home appraisals. The webinar, Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Home Valuations, will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 23 from 2 -3 p.m. Don’t miss out on key insights: register here.

Join BankingBridge, Wednesday, January 24th, 2PM ET/11AM PT, for an insightful webinar delving into the opportunities Zillow offers to enhance lead generation and conversion for mortgage lenders. This comprehensive session is designed to guide you through the various advertising avenues available on Zillow, including the strategic use of the Zillow Mortgage Rate Table, and the nuances of both long-form and short-form leads.

Wednesday the 24th, looking for more in-depth commentary on weekly mortgage news? Register here for “Mortgage Matters: The Weekly Roundup” presented by Lenders One. Every Wednesday at 2PM EST/11AM PT is a dive into a range of mortgage-related topics, including market trends, interest rate fluctuations, innovative mortgage products, and industry advancements. Listen to a unique mix of age perspective, expertise, and charisma to the screen, ensuring that the information is not only educational but also entertaining. Hear from This week is fabled Austin-based attorney John Fleming discussing trigger leads and the NAR verdict.

“Mastering the Art of Mortgage Broker Engagement” is on January 24th at 10AM PST to learn best practices and strategies that wholesale lenders are using to thrive in the TPO market. This webinar will show you proven tactics and technology tools that are helping wholesale lenders create efficient sales processes that are both scalable and effective. Click here to register.

Join Real Estate Consulting (RCLCO) for this Month’s Webinar: New Year, New Trends – Compensation & Talent Management, Thursday, January 25th, 9:15AM PT / 12:15PM ET. Speakers include Ellen Klasson, Managing Director; Eric Willett, Managing Director; Adam Ostler, Principal, and Moderator Joshua A. Boren, Managing Director, Strategic Initiatives (Moderator).

Friday, January 26th, is this week’s episode of The Mortgage Collaborative’s Rundown covering current events in the mortgage market for 30-45 minutes starting at noon PT, 3PM ET, in “The Rundown”.

The California Association of Mortgage Professionals (CAMP) is presenting the 2024 Economic Forecast with Dr. Michael Frantanoni and Rob Chrisman on Tuesday, January 30th

1PM PT. “Unlock the Future: 2024 Economic Forecast Revealed! Dive into a World of Opportunities and Growth. Discover Key Insights, Trends, and Strategies for Success in the Upcoming Economic Landscape.”

“Lending operations leaders who care about increasing revenue and decreasing costs, join your tribe in this live event. On January 30th at 1pm CT is an electric panelist lineup made up of Industry leaders that are going to ‘spill the beans’ on ten strategies they are focused on to increase sales and reduce costs with minimal investment in 2024. Join Kevin Peraino, Chief Lending Officer at PRMG, Delfino Aguilar, Chief Production Officer – TPO, Kind Lending, David Lykken, Founder & Chief Transformation Officer at Transformational Mortgage Solutions, LLC (TMS), and Richard Grieser, VP of Marketing at TRUV.

Now available on the Federal Housing Administration’s (FHA) Single Family Housing Events and Training web page under Single Family Housing Self-Paced, Pre-Recorded Training

The first self-paced training module, the Single-Family Housing Policy Handbook (Handbook 4000.1) is an evergreen presentation that walks new and/or existing stakeholders needing a refresher through Handbook 4000.1’s structure and style. It is designed to help viewers understand its benefits, where to access it online, how to read Mortgagee Letters (ML) in context, and how to locate content updates.

The second self-paced training module, the Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECM) Origination and Servicing Overview, focuses solely on the newest and final Handbook 4000.1 section that was released on October 31, 2023, and announced in a press release and FHA INFO 2023-84. It begins with a review of the new HECM section’s style and structure, consistent with the rest of Handbook 4000.1 for HECM originators, servicers, and other interested parties. Additionally, it provides viewers with an overview of some of the more recent HECM policy updates that have been incorporated into this new Handbook section, making it easier for HECM originators and servicers to locate the information needed to do with business with FHA in one place.

Capital Markets

Another week, another round of good U.S. economic news. Last week’s Michigan sentiment for January crushed expectations to register at the highest point since July 2021, strong retail sales data from December, and the lowest level of initial jobless claims in over a year. Positive economic news, coupled with diminished chances of a March rate cut, have pushed bond yields to the highest levels in a month. Americans are feeling positive about the economy, their incomes, and the outlook on prices. Notably, the increase in consumer sentiment was accompanied by another drop in year-ahead inflation expectations, which have returned to a level not seen in three years.

The preliminary reading of the University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index for January was well ahead of estimates, hitting its highest level since July 2021 with year-ahead inflation expectations decelerating to 2.9 percent from 3.1 percent, a rate not seen in just over three years. Existing home sales decreased 1.0 percent month-over-month in December to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.78 million from 3.82 million in November. Sales were down 6.2 percent from the same period a year ago as high mortgage rates continue weighing on the overall level of activity, though they have not stopped prices from continuing to climb.

Last week’s batch of data, which included a mix of high consumer confidence and lower inflation expectations that points toward a soft landing for the U.S. economy and Fed Chair Powell’s war on inflation, has dropped the implied likelihood of a 25-basis points rate cut at the March FOMC meeting to 45 percent currently from over 55 percent seen at the beginning of last week. While investors continue to chip away at bets that the Fed will cut rates early and aggressively this year, there remains a significant gap in the market and Fed expectations for the fed funds trajectory this year.

It all points to a solid American economy, notably more so despite a Fed rate-tightening campaign that seemingly has broken the back of inflation. However, investors are eager to know when those rate hikes will be reversed; expect them to wait to ease, and that the market will merge with what the Fed thinks. The Fed will err on the side of being conservative.

Central banks will also be busy, with monetary policy statements and interest rate decisions expected from the Bank of Japan, European Central Bank, and Bank of Canada. In the U.S., Federal Reserve members will be in a blackout period of no public talks ahead of the next FOMC meeting on January 30-31.

This week’s economic calendar includes month-end auctions consisting of $162 billion 2-year, 5-year, and 7-year notes tomorrow through Thursday with $18 billion 2-year FRNs also on Wednesday, Fed surveys, S&P Global PMI flashes, durables goods orders, the first look at Q1 GDP (expected at 2.0 percent), new home sales, and Fed favorite PCE on Friday. Expectations are for the core PCE Price Index to increase 0.2 percent month-over-month and 3.0 percent year-over-year versus 0.1 percent and 3.2 percent previously. No Fed speakers are scheduled with the Fed in their blackout period.

Additionally, this week brings the ECB’s first monetary policy meeting of 2024 and a rate decision from the Bank of Japan. Today’s economic calendar sees just one data point with leading indicators for December. (The forecast is for unchanged which, if realized, would be the first non-negative reading in 21 months.) We begin the week with Agency MBS prices better by .125-.250, the 10-year yielding 4.09 after closing last week at 4.15 percent., and the 2-year at 4.38.

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for Rob Chrisman’s Commentary.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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Inside: Looking for delicious, budget-friendly meals? Look no further! This guide has 100+ delicious and frugal recipes that will help you stick to your food budget.

When it comes to keeping your grocery budget in check, meal planning is a powerful tool. It can simplify your life, save you precious time, and stretch your dollars further.

You don’t always need pricey ingredients to whip up something delicious. Creating frugal meals doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor.

Sometimes, a frugal meal could mean something cheaper but equally, if not more, delicious than takeout! The key to this art is using simple, inexpensive ingredients, being creative in their application, and not shying away from condiments, herbs, and spices that can elevate your dish.

Remember, eating frugally is not just cost-effective but also simple and stress-free, utilizing common kitchen staples, and easy-to-locate items.

Join me on my mission to make frugal meals that are adored by my family and my thrifty self appreciates.

Frugal Breakfast Ideas:

A frugal breakfast should not equate to boring. Here are a few ways to start your day off right without stressing your wallet:

Waffles/Pancakes: These could be made with basic ingredients like flour, eggs, and baking powder. Top with peanut butter or dust of cinnamon sugar for extra flavor!

Eggs: Cooked to your preference, be it fried, boiled, or scrambled, they are not only easy on the pocket but also a rich source of protein.

Oatmeal: Buy oats in bulk and pair them with over-ripe bananas, pumpkin butter, or a sprinkle of brown sugar. It’s a hearty and filling for just about anyone.

Muffins: Basic muffin ingredients include flour, eggs, and baking powder. For an element of surprise, add in nuts, blueberries, or mashed bananas.

French Toast: With eggs, cinnamon, and loaves of French bread, you can whip up a scrumptious breakfast.

Homemade Bread/Toast: If you’re up to the task, making your own bread could be a money-saving option. This is something I do with sourdough bread. Pair the fresh bread with either sweet or savory toppings.

Omelets: Eggs are a cheap source of protein. Whip up an omelet and serve it with your choice of inexpensive veggies.

Homemade Biscuits: Biscuits are a great addition to any frugal breakfast, with just “milk” and flour ingredients. Pair them with a little meat or enjoy them in butter. Just like my great Aunt Marie made at the ranch.

Choose Spice for Breakfast: This recipe for Mexican baked eggs uses budget friendly canned beans and eggs as a protein source. It’s super simple to make in less than 30 minutes, with eggs baked in a smoky, spicy tomato sauce with black beans, poblanos, and corn. Serve with plenty of corn tortillas for a super satisfying meal.

Frugal Lunch Ideas:

Lunch should be something to look forward to, even if you’re on a tight budget. Here are frugal lunch ideas that keep your tummy and your wallet happy.

Salad: A salad is an excellent choice for a frugal lunch, it’s both cost-effective and healthy. Based on what’s available in your fridge, you can combine different vegetables, proteins, and dressings to create a filling and tasty meal every day.

Sandwiches: The humble sandwich can be as frugal or as lavish as you like. Tuna, grilled cheese, peanut butter, and jelly, ham… you name it, sandwiches offer a great variety.

Homemade Soup: Consider creamy potato soup, creamy vegetable soup, or even curried cauliflower soup. They can be light yet fulfilling, and the ingredients are reasonably priced.

Toast Pizza: Save money by using toast as your pizza base, add what you have in the fridge, top it off with cheese, and cook it under the grill or in the oven.

Baked Potatoes: A toasty baked potato with butter is a delightful, inexpensive lunch. Top it up with fillings such as cheese or broccoli.

Remember, lunch doesn’t have to be expensive to be delicious! Use what you have at home for a more sustainable, economical, and satisfying meal.

Frugal Dinner Ideas:

Dinner is the time when families come together, share their day, and unite over food. There’s a common misconception that frugal foods are bland and monotonous. However, you don’t have to spend a fortune to make dinner delicious and satisfying.

Spaghetti: Who knew that the ultimate comfort food could be so cheap? Combine spaghetti with homemade tomato sauce or cheese, add your favorite seasonings, and voila! You have a delicious meal.

Baked potatoes: Fully customizable and super simple to be a dinner game-changer. Top them with cheese, sour cream, or any other leftovers like chili!

Stir Fry: This is a perfect way to use up any veggies you have. Throw in some meat if you have it, cook with rice and tasty sauce, and your stir fry is ready!

Tacos: Pick up tortillas, get ground beef, or use dried beans, lettuce, and salsa, and there you have your Taco night. You can also swap out the beef for beans, and it’ll still taste delightful.

Breakfast for Dinner: Who said breakfast foods are only for mornings? Whip up scrambled eggs, toast, or pancakes, and enjoy a breakfast-style dinner!

Creating a delicious, nutritious, and frugal dinner can be easier than you might think. It’s all about making the most out of the resources you have, every day.

Recipe Breakdown : Variety Of Frugal Meals

Satisfying Soup & Salad Recipes on a Shoestring

When it comes to frugality, nothing beats the soup and salad combination. These meals are not only hearty and satisfying but also easy on your wallet. With just a few ingredients, these recipes will bring variety and nutrition to your kitchen without putting a strain on your wallet.

Here are a few of our favorite frugal soup and salad recipes:

  1. The Best Chicken Soup Recipe: Simplicity meets flavor without breaking the bank. Utilizing affordable ingredients and leftover chicken, this soup is a testament to how economical choices can still yield rich, comforting results.
  2. Cauliflower and Bacon Soup:
  3. Instant Pot Three Sisters Soup: A blend of corn, beans, and squash.
  4. Root Vegetable Soup: Healthy, comforting, and made with only a few simple and inexpensive ingredients! It’s prepared with veggies like carrots, parsnips, rutabaga, and potatoes simmered in a savory broth.
  5. Healthy Roast Pumpkin and Sweet Potato Soup: Winter favorite loaded with nutrients.
  6. Instant Pot Cabbage Roll Soup: Comfort food at its best.
  7. Smoky Black Bean Soup: Protein packed, tasty, and hearty.
  8. Hearty Lentil Soup: Healthy and will keep you warm during the winter! It’s made with only a few ingredients and requires no special equipment. This soup is made with lentils, veggies, and spices simmered in a savory tomato broth.
  9. Vegan Coconut Curry Lentil Soup: Exotic, aromatic, and down-right delicious.
  10. Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Recipe: Classic soup, ready in no time.
  11. Vegetable Barley Soup: With protein-rich chickpeas, cabbage, potatoes, and the twist of curry spices, this soup is easy, comforting, and delicious!
  12. The Very Best Ham And Potato Soup With Peas: Savory, delicious and economical.
  13. Cheap and Easy Hamburger Soup: Mouthwatering and super easy to prepare.
  14. Creamy Vegetarian Potato Soup: Originally named 45-Cent Potato Soup because that was how much it cost per serving over a decade ago! The cost has increased a bit but this hearty potato soup is still a keeper. Creamy potato soup with veggies and milk – thick, velvety, and hearty. It’s on constant rotation at our house! 

Moreover, when it comes to salads, using seasonal produce, beans, or leftover veggies can be an affordable way to create nutritious meals. Add chicken, tuna, or boiled eggs for protein, or keep it simple with fresh greens and a homemade dressing.

Remember, a frugal lifestyle does not mean you have to compromise on taste or variety. It’s about being creative with what you have!

Cut Costs with these Cheap ‘n Cheerful Chicken Recipes

Dinner necessity is the mother of so many amazing chicken dinners! Plus it is an excellent protein option that can be inexpensive, especially if you seize sales or buy in bulk.

  1. Maple Chicken & Potato Supper: This recipe turns an affordable cut of chicken and two types of potatoes into a family favorite.
  3. One-Pot Chicken and Potatoes: Chicken thighs are cheap, add in potatoes, onions, and carrots for a hearty comfort meal.
  4. Leftover Chicken Curry and Vegetables: Lots of recipes use leftover chicken or turkey. But this “All the Leftovers” Chicken Curry also uses your leftover vegetables. Clean out your refrigerator today!
  5. Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup: A quick, deliciously rich, and slightly spicy meal made up of chicken, black beans, and stewed tomatoes.
  6. Crockpot Chicken Tacos: With just 3 ingredients and 5 minutes of prep, this is a lifesaver for busy nights.
  7. Chicken Curry and Quinoa: Simple, tasty, and feels like a treat without the expense.
  8. One Pan Baked Chicken Thigh Recipe with Green Beans and Red Potatoes: This recipe is easy and inexpensive when you grab the chicken thighs on sale! It is easy to prepare, a healthier option and a family favorite! 
  9. Cheesy Chicken Quesadillas: A perfect, weeknight meal.
  10. Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Potatoes and Carrots: A value for money meal with chicken thighs – one of the cheapest chicken cuts.
  11. One-Pan Chicken Legs with Chickpeas and Quinoa: A wholesome, naturally sweet dish with a few spices.
  12. Easy Cheesy Chicken Taco Spaghetti: Made with pantry staples, this comforting dinner recipe is frugal and filling. Full of pasta, creamy sauce, and canned chicken, your family will be asking for seconds!
  13. Chicken Fried Rice: Uses leftovers efficiently, add veggies, and you have a meal.
  14. Easy Pizza Chicken Recipe: A low carb and high protein meal, especially when you use ordinary cheddar.

Remember, maximizing flavor in cheap chicken recipes often relies on using good quality, inexpensive ingredients, and cooking techniques like slow cooking or sautéing. Happy cooking!

Beautiful Beef Dishes that Benefit Your Wallet

When trying to maintain a frugal lifestyle, using affordable cuts of beef like ground beef, shin, or skirt steak can yield mouth-watering meals that don’t bust the budget. Here are a few beef recipes that are both economical and satisfying:

  1. Ground Beef Stroganoff: A classic comfort food that is simple, quick, and incredibly hearty.
  2. Poor Man’s Stew: An excellent choice for a filling, cheap, and tasty meal for a whole family.
  3. Simple Hamburger Hotdish: This simple hamburger hotdish (casserole) makes delicious use of affordable and easy-to-find ingredients like ground beef, pasta, and tomato sauce. This is a great meal idea to feed a family.
  4. Beef Skillet Nachos: Layer chips, ground beef, and cheese in a skillet for an easy, cost-effective meal.
  5. Homemade Beef and Noodles: An economical-friendly classic that can serve a good number of people.
  6. Tortellini Bake: This 4 ingredient Tortellini Bake uses common ingredients like ground beef and marinara sauce to make a satisfying and hearty meal for families!
  7. Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: Across the realms of deliciousness and frugality, this casserole rings the bell.
  8. Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup: Combining the wholesome elements of beef, macaroni, and tomatoes provides a satiating meal at an affordable cost.
  9. Beef and Vegetable Stir Fry: Brimming with colorful vegetables and protein-rich beef, this dish is a delight to both the stomach and the wallet.
  10. Taco Skillet: It’s the taste of tacos in a convenient and cost-friendly rice skillet.
  11. Classic Stuffed Peppers: Filled with a mixture of ground beef, rice, and a zesty sauce, it’s a comfort meal that’s easy on the pocket.
  12. Sesame-Ginger Beef: This dinner calls for an inexpensive cut of meat.

By creatively utilizing budget cuts and leftovers, you can create economical, hearty, and tasty beef dishes for yourself and your family, fostering a love for cooking while sticking to a money plan.

Money-saving Meatless Meal Marvels

When it comes to cost-saving, meatless or vegetarian dishes are a winner. Not only are they usually cost-effective, but they’re also often packed with nutrients. Here are meatless recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds, without denting your wallet:

  1. Quinoa Edamame Salad with Peanut Sauce: Use cabbage and edamame to make a balanced lunch. The peanut sauce is flavor-packed and uses pantry staples, and the quinoa is easy to swap with rice or pasta.
  2. Vegan Lentil Curry: Packed with nutrition, this dish makes an inexpensive, protein-rich meal.
  3. Jamaican Rice and Peas: Economical rice and beans doesn’t need to be boring. Jamaican rice and peas are easy to make in the slow cooker. This flavorful, easy recipe brings delicious Caribbean flavor to any meal as a side dish or a complete meal on its own.
  4. Spinach Lasagna Roll-Ups: Proof that vegetarian dinners can be delightfully hearty, this twist on classic lasagna is a crowd-pleaser.
  5. Bean, Tomato, and Spinach Stew: A hearty and richly flavored dish that is low cost and satisfying.
  6. Vegan Texas Tamale Pie: Great down-home, budget-friendly meal is perfect to whip up when you need something hearty, healthy, and filling to serve to your hungry family or friends in under an hour. Prepared with basic canned ingredients you might keep in your cupboard, this simple recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your tastes with the groceries you have on hand.
  7. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill peppers with a delicious mixture of quinoa, black beans, tomatoes, and spices.
  8. Eggplant Parmesan: Classic Italian dish, easy to make, and delicious to eat.
  9. Pasta e Fagioli aka Pasta and Beans: Feed your family for pennies a bowl with pasta e fagioli. Cucina povera Italian food is the food of peasants, but it is so delicious! Only three inexpensive ingredients are needed to make this quick and easy, nutritious, one pot weeknight meal.
  10. Potato & Zucchini Frittata: Use up your leftover veggies and whip up a quick frittata for dinner.
  11. Tomato Basil Soup with Grilled Cheese: A classic that’s both inexpensive and palate-pleasing.
  12. Vegetarian Stir-Fry: A colorful medley of veggies stir-fried in a savory sauce served over rice.
  13. Spaghetti aglio e olio: This spaghetti aglio olio (with garlic and olive oil) is probably one of the most popular classic Italian pasta recipes and yet it’s so simple, budget friendly and super easy to make! 
  14. Butternut Squash Risotto: This dish, while sounding fancy, is frugal and straightforward to make.
  15. Vegan Spaghetti Bolognese: This is a rich, hearty, and flavorful dish that’s lighter on the wallet than traditional bolognese.
  16. Crispy Pan Fried Gnocchi: A simple and quick & inexpensive recipe to make in only 20 minutes for an easy weeknight meal. Crispy gnocchi coated in a light sauce made with garlic, herbs, butter and parmesan.

Implementing meatless meals can significantly cut down on grocery bills, with the added bonus of being healthier and environmentally friendly.

So why not give these recipes a try for your next frugal feast?

Luscious Low-Budget Lunch Ideas

The midday meal can often be overlooked when planning budget-friendly meals. Don’t let lunch blow your allowance! Here are a few low-cost, lip-smacking lunch ideas:

  1. Bean Burritos: Beans and cheese wrapped in a tortilla can be quite satisfying and light on the pocket too.
  2. Tuna Salad Sandwiches: A classic frugal lunch option that’s rich in protein.
  3. Egg Salad Wraps: Egg salad in a wrap is a fulfilling lunch that’s economical.
  4. Homemade Hummus and Veggies: Prepare hummus at home and pair it with fresh veggies for a light and inexpensive lunch.
  5. Mixed Bean Salad: Beans are a powerhouse of nutrition and offer a low-cost lunch option. Mix different beans and dress them up with herbs and spices for a flavorful lunch.
  6. Veggie and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes: A cheesy baked potato with veggies is filling and affordable.
  7. PB&J: Peanut butter and jelly never go out of style and are a great low-cost lunch option.
  8. Tuna Tomato Pasta: Tuna tomato pasta is a delicious healthy and easy recipe that only takes 20 minutes to make. With just a few basic ingredients it’s budget friendly too!
  9. Falafel Wraps: Homemade falafel is quite reasonable and can be wrapped up with pita and fresh veggies for a satisfying meal.
  10. Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad with veggies is a cheap and filling lunch idea.
  11. Vegetable Fried Rice: Leftover rice, mixed with whatever veggies you have on hand, makes for a delectable and affordable lunch.

When your lunch is as tasty as it is affordable, you’re winning at the game of frugality. Enjoy these luscious lunch ideas without breaking the bank!

Delightful Dinner Recipes That Don’t Dig A Hole In Your Pocket

Dinner is the meal you eagerly look forward to after a long day. Unfortunately, it can also be the priciest meal of the day. But it doesn’t have to be! Here are delightful, cost-effective dinner recipes:

  1. Sloppy Joe Pasta: A homemade mix of pantry staples for a mouth-wateringly filling, budget-friendly twist on the classic Sloppy Joe.
  2. Easy Chilaquiles: Fresh made tortilla chips smothered in homemade salsa, chilaquiles are the best way to make a flavor-packed meal on a budget!
  3. Cottage Pie: Make a delicious cottage pie in the instant pot pressure cooker from scratch. Ideal for using up leftovers and easy to make!
  4. Chicken Pot Pie: Homemade and padded out with cheap, seasonal veggies, it’s a classic favorite, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
  5. Mince & Potato Stew: Heartwarming, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and easier on the pocket.
  6. Linguine with Clam Sauce: Using canned or jarred clams, this linguine dish is made from simple pantry ingredients that won’t break the bank. Dive into a dinner of delicious choice for yumminess.
  7. One Pot Sausage, White Beans, and Kale: It combines flavorful sausage, rich canned tomatoes, white beans, fresh kale, and a few herbs and spices – a cupboard-friendly, inexpensive dinner option.
  8. Tacos: They’re versatile, they’re delicious, and most importantly, they’re cheap.
  9. Potato and Salmon Fish Cakes: Canned salmon and potatoes create a delicious, inexpensive dinner the family will love. They are super easy to make and you can freeze them, too. Even those who dislike salmon enjoy these fish cakes!
  10. Asian-Style Chicken Noodles: This recipe uses leftover chicken and packs a lot of flavors without a lot of cost.
  11. Pasta Arrabbiata: This inexpensive pasta dish is full of garlic, tomatoes, and spicy red pepper flakes. Simple, yet incredibly delicious.
  12. Garlicky Spinach and White Bean Pasta: This recipe is packed with flavor thanks to a surprise, budget-friendly ingredient – tinned anchovies! Simply toss cooked pasta with spinach, white beans, and a garlicky anchovy sauce. It’s easy to throw together for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
  13. Egg Fried Rice: It’s a quick, healthy meal that anyone can cook.
  14. Leftover Pasta Bake: Don’t waste food! Turn your leftovers into a treat with our leftover pasta bake!
  15. Vegetable Stir Fry with Noodles: A quick, healthy dinner full of veggies and flavor.

Low-cost does not mean low taste. These dinner recipes prove just that. So get cooking and start saving!

Put it in Pot and Forget It – Cheap and Easy Crockpot Creations

Using a crockpot or slow cooker can be a real lifesaver for busy individuals or families. Not only does it save time but it’s also a great way to save money by making inexpensive cuts of meat tender and flavorful.

  1. Slow Cooker Spicy Chicken Soup: A simple 4 ingredient recipe that’s inexpensive yet tastes amazing.
  2. Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers: Slowly simmered in marinara sauce for a frugal dinner that’s hard to beat! Just serve over pasta or polenta for an easy dinner. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious for lunches.
  3. Crockpot Beef and Broccoli: The economical version of your favorite takeout dish.
  4. Slow Cooker Black Bean Soup: Inexpensive, full of flavor, and so hearty!
  5. Creamy Crockpot Chicken: Warm shredded chicken and gravy in your slow cooker for the win.
  6. Crockpot Baked Beans: Cheaper and healthier than store-bought!
  7. Crockpot BBQ Chicken: Sweet, tangy, and made with a handful of pantry staples.
  8. Crockpot Lentil Soup: Super hearty, packed with nutrients, and so easy to whip up!
  9. Slow Cooker Pot Roast: The easiest one pot meal and is an instant win for family dinner! Plus, it’s budget-friendly! Easy to prepare for weeknight meals or special occasions alike, this easy pot roast recipe is always a crowd-pleaser!
  10. Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken: Just two ingredients are required for this super versatile recipe.
  11. Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup: Healthy, hearty, and incredibly easy to make.
  12. Chicken Paprikas Recipe: Use chicken thighs and cauliflower which make it a super frugal meal. If you prefer you can serve it over rice instead of the cauliflower but even her kids agree that the cauliflower version is delicious.
  13. Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese: Yes, even mac and cheese can be done in a crockpot! Even better try this Broccoli Mac Kielbasa Casserole.
  14. Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup: This recipe uses inexpensive and filling beans and veggies, perfect for when you’ve leftover ham.
  15. Slow Cooker Vegan Chili: A vegan twist on this classic comfort food for those chilly days ahead makes for a healthy dinner packed with nutrients brimming with flavor!

Each of these meals will serve you without making a significant dent in your grocery budget. Enjoy the convenience and frugality that slow cooking brings!

Make It Snappy With Instant Pot Recipes

The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that’s excellent for fast, delicious meals when you’re on a budget.

  1. Instant Pot Ground Beef Enchilada Pasta: This easy dish combines a few affordable ingredients into a hearty meal that your family will love.
  2. BBQ Beans Instant Pot Recipe: A frugal recipe that’s great as a main dish or a filler for burritos.
  3. Easy Pizza Potatoes in the Instant Pot: A simple pairing of pizza flavors and potatoes for a wallet-friendly dish.
  4. Air Fryer Pita Bread Pizza: Only 5 minutes and a handful of low-cost ingredients to a delicious DIY pizza.
  5. Sweet Potato, Lentil and Chickpea Curry: This vegan instant pot recipe is full of flavor, super hearty and delicious, and extremely reasonable to make.
  6. Mushroom Masala- Mushroom Curry: An exotic and easy-to-prepare mushroom curry that satisfies without stretching the dollars.
  7. Chicken and Sausage Paella in the Instant Pot: Cut down cost by using sausage and chicken thighs for this easy, savory dish.
  8. Instant Pot Tuna Casserole: Comfort on the cheap, using pantry staples.
  9. Fast and Easy Instant Pot Chicken and Rice: Made using basic pantry staples and suitable for both adult and kid taste buds.

These Instant Pot ideas are not only quick and easy to prepare but also budget-friendly. They’re proof that frugal doesn’t mean boring!

Handy Kitchen Tools for Budget-Savvy Cooking

When it comes to frugal cooking, your kitchen gadgets can be your best companions. These tools can save you both time and produce restaurant-quality dishes at home for a fraction of the cost.

Many are the same as frugal home must haves!

Only rely on tools that you use regularly in order to maximize their cost. So, equip your kitchen with these practical, cost-effective tools, and enjoy a more manageable culinary journey.

FAQs: Navigate Your Approach to Cost-Efficient Eats

Eating lunch at work doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune, following these tricks can save you a lot of money:

  • Meal prep: Plan your meals ahead of time. Invest in a few hours during the weekend or your day off to cook large amounts and portion them out for the week ahead.
  • Leftovers Are Your Best Friend: Make a bit extra while cooking dinner, and voila, you’ve got lunch for the next day. A yummy, cheap, no-fuss, and no-waste solution!
  • Pack Your Own Snacks: Trade small shop-bought packs of snacks for a large bag or bulk-buy from a wholesale store. Divide them into small reusable containers for your daily hunger itch.
  • Invest in a Flask: A good quality thermos flask can keep your homemade soup or stew warm until lunchtime and it’s a lot cheaper than buying soup from a cafe.

Remember, the key is not to take complicated dinners which takes a lot of time. Rather, simple sandwiches, yogurt with fruits, homemade soup even boiled eggs can make great inexpensive lunch options. Planning ahead is key when you’re trying to eat on a budget.

There are several cheap meals you can whip up using budget-friendly ingredients. The absolute cheapest would depend on what you already have on hand in your pantry or the cost of ingredients in your locality.

  • Rice & Beans: This is a universally cheap and filling meal that can be flavored with some stock, onions, and spices.
  • Pasta with Tomato Sauce: This is a popular choice when it comes to cheap ideas. All it takes is a rigatoni of your choice, a basic tomato sauce made from canned tomatoes, garlic, and herbs.
  • Cereal & Milk: A bowl of generic brand cereal and milk is an incredibly cheap meal. It lacks in terms of proteins and fats, but it can be a good quick fix.
  • Eggs on Toast: Eggs and bread are both cheap elements. Whip up scrambled eggs or make a simple boiled egg sandwich.
  • Potato Soup: One of the cheapest vegetables around, and they make a filling, simple potato soup.
  • Homemade Pizza: Using basic homemade dough and simple tomato sauce, you can add anything you have on hand to make a delicious pizza.

Remember, the cheapest dinners typically use basic pantry staples. By having a well-stocked pantry, you’ll be able to whip up a variety of low-cost dinner ideas.

A frugal meal doesn’t equate to scanty or tasteless. Here’s what defines a frugal meal:

  1. Inexpensive Ingredients: Frugal meals predominantly use cheaper ingredients. Find plenty of cheap foods when broke (and you don’t need to be broke).
  2. Fewer Ingredients: Meals with minimal ingredients are typically more economical. They aren’t stuffed with fancy extras, but they make up for it in hearty flavor.
  3. Uses Pantry Staples: Rely on pantry staples like rice, dried pasta, canned goods, and dry baking ingredients.
  4. Repurposes Leftovers: Instead of wasting ingredients incorporate leftovers in innovative ways.
  5. Meal Prep and Batch Cooking: Cooking in bulk and freezing dinners for later can be a massive money saver, reducing waste and reducing the number of ingredients needed overall.
  6. Limited Meat or Vegetarian: As meat is typically one of the more expensive ingredients, frugal cooking is often vegetarian or uses meat sparingly.

While frugal meals won’t always hit all these factors, if they contain a few of these aspects, you can be assured they will provide a cost-effective dining experience. A frugal meal strives to offer nutritional balance, satisfying taste, and minimal impact on your wallet.

Perfecting the Art of Frugal Cooking

Preparing budget-friendly cooking not only saves money but also reduces food waste and can create a warm, comfortable home. This is how to be frugal with food. Here are some expert tips to get you rolling:

  • Plan Your Meal Calendar: Plan out your menu for the week, keeping in mind what ingredients you already have.
  • Shop Smart: Shop for groceries with a list in hand so you don’t end up buying unnecessary items. Look out for sales, and discounts, and try to shop in bulk.
  • Utilize Leftovers: Don’t throw away leftovers. Repurpose them into a new meal or use them as an ingredient in another dish.
  • Use More Vegetables and Grains: Vegetables and grains are generally cheaper than meat and can be used to bulk out dinners.
  • Freeze Extras: If you cook in bulk, freeze the extra portions for a later date. This can act as a lifesaver during busy periods.
  • Use Cheap Cuts of Meat: Cheap cuts, such as chicken thighs, can be just as delicious as expensive ones, especially when slow-cooked.
  • Cook from Scratch: Convenience foods often cost a lot more than the sum of their parts.
  • Grow Your Own: If you have a garden, consider growing your own vegetables and herbs.
  • Reduce Waste: Get creative in the kitchen and use parts of food that you’d otherwise throw away.

Remember, with a bit of planning and creativity, you can prepare delicious, healthful meals without breaking the bank! It’s all about making smart choices.

Which Filling Cheap Meals are You Going to Try?

Embarking on these frugal meals can help stretch the budget while still enjoying a variety of flavorful and satisfying dishes.

Whether you are budgeting on a low income or just want to stretch your dollar further with going teens, we have given you plenty of options to eat well and healthy.

Many on this list are my personal favorites. This is how we stay on our grocery budget.

The biggest step is learning how to meal plan and stick to the menu! Now, off to move frugal living tips to save money!

Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!

Did the post resonate with you?

More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!

Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.

Source: moneybliss.org

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International travel involves new adventures, sampling local delicacies and stretching your boundaries. While these trips can be memorable, some of the planning and prep work can be stressful.

In order to travel internationally, you must have a valid passport. With standard processing times, it can take up to eight weeks to get a new or renewed passport. So, what do you do if your passport doesn’t arrive in time?

How long does it take to receive a passport?

Generally, it takes six to eight weeks to receive a new or renewed passport with standard processing. Depending on how far in advance of your trip you apply, you might be cutting it close or miss your trip altogether.

It is possible to expedite your application by paying rush fees, using a passport expeditor or visiting a passport agency.

How to check on the status of your passport application

The U.S. State Department offers online tools and phone numbers to track the status of your passport application.

  • Online Passport Status System. Check on the status of your application by providing your last name, date of birth and last four digits of your Social Security Number on their website.

  • Call the National Passport Information Center. If you’re unable to get the information you need, you can also call the National Passport Information Center at (877) 487-2778.

Status update descriptions

When checking the status of your passport application, you may receive one of these descriptions. These terms may seem generic or confusing, so here’s what they mean for your application.

  • Not available. Your application is still in transit to a passport agency or intake facility. This term is also what you’ll find if the website is experiencing a technical difficulty. Try checking back in a few hours.

  • Arrived. When your application has arrived at a mail facility.

  • In process. Your application is being reviewed at an agency or processing facility. The length of time it is “in process” depends on which type of service you selected (e.g. standard or expedited).

  • Approved. They have finished reviewing your passport application, and printing will begin soon.

  • Passport mailed. The new passport has been mailed to your mailing address. Check the Online Passport Status System for a tracking number. If you selected two-day delivery, you should receive your passport within two days of when it was mailed.

  • Supporting documents mailed. The supporting documents have been mailed through First Class Mail. These documents arrive separately from your passport.

What happens if my passport doesn’t come in time?

While this process generally goes smoothly, there are situations where your passport may not arrive in time. Travelers who haven’t received their passport in time wonder, “My passport hasn’t arrived, what can I do?”

If two weeks have passed since your passport application status changed to “Mailed,” and you haven’t received it yet, call the National Passport Information Center at (877) 487-2778.

When you call, the customer service agent will help you complete Form DS-86. This signed statement indicates that you haven’t received your passport, and it will be invalidated for travel. A new passport will be issued in six weeks. However, the time is reduced to three weeks with expedited processing.

You have 90 days from when your passport was issued to complete and submit this form. After 90 days, you’ll have to reapply for your passport again and pay all application fees a second time.

You may need to submit a new passport application depending on your travel dates. If you’re traveling internationally within 14 days, follow the Urgent Travel procedures mentioned below.

7 ways to expedite your passport application

When you need to get your passport in a hurry, there are steps you can take to expedite your passport application.

  1. Get expedited processing. The U.S. Department of State offers expedited processing for an extra $60 on top of the standard passport application fees. This reduces the wait time to approximately 2-3 weeks.

  2. Purchase two-day delivery. It can take up to two weeks to receive your passport after it has been mailed. For an extra $19.53, you can add 1 to 2-day delivery through the U.S. Postal Service. This service is available for passports but not for passport cards.

  3. Upgrade your application service type. Even if you didn’t initially order expedited processing or two-day delivery, you can call (877) 487-2778 to upgrade with either add-on by paying the necessary fees.

  4. Submit the application through Priority Mail. Applications can take up to two weeks to arrive at a passport agency or processing center. Mailing your application through the U.S. Postal Service Priority Mail Express enables your application to arrive at a processing facility sooner, which can reduce the overall time it takes to get your new passport. The price varies depending on where you’re located within the U.S.

  5. Expedite at the agency. If you have urgent travel within the next 14 days, you can make an appointment with a passport agency or center to get your passport.

  6. Emergency travel appointment. In life-or-death situations of an immediate family member, travelers can get a new passport when they have to travel internationally within the next three business days.

  7. Passport expediting service. Private companies known as passport expeditors or couriers can submit expedited passport applications on behalf of customers. These services charge extra fees, but they cannot get your passport any faster than if you booked your own appointment. However, their expertise can handle the task on your behalf while you focus on other pressing matters.

The bottom line

After booking a trip and getting time off from work, the last thing you want to do is cancel your trip if your passport hasn’t arrived in time. When submitting your application, you can pay to expedite its processing and purchase faster shipping. You can even upgrade your processing time and shipping method if you didn’t initially purchase them.

The U.S. Department of State offers online tracking and email notifications to track your passport application. When your passport ships, if you don’t receive it within two weeks, contact them right away to submit Form DS-86 to get a new passport.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:

Source: nerdwallet.com

Apache is functioning normally

In the coveted Los Angeles neighborhood of Los Feliz, every residence tells a story, and every street corner holds a piece of Hollywood history.

This hillside enclave, gracefully abutting Hollywood and weaving through parts of the Santa Monica Mountains, offers a unique blend of metropolitan allure and serene, natural landscapes — and owning a home here is a symbol of status and exclusivity.

The neighborhood is anchored by one of the largest city-owned parks in the country, the historic Griffith Park, a cornerstone that lends the neighborhood an air of tranquility, uncommon in large urban settings.

“Due to the proximity to historic Griffith Park, Los Feliz enjoys less density and more natural ambiance than most other large metropolitan areas,” shares Konstantine Valissarakos, one of the most preeminent real estate agents in Southern California, deeply acquainted with the area’s charm.

The neighborhood is also home to the two Los Feliz Villages, brimming with quaint, world-class restaurants and amenities. These local treasures craft a sense of belonging, making residents feel part of a “loving neighborhood” – a sentiment hard to find in the bustling city of Los Angeles.

“The two Los Feliz Villages offer quaint, world-class restaurants and amenities, making Los Feliz residents feel like they are in a loving neighborhood,” Valissarakos added, noting that “Los Feliz compares in popularity to other worldwide destination cities where the inhabitants can live anywhere globally that they want and feel special.”

Known for being a top home-buying destination for A-listers and architecture aficionados alike, the area has witnessed a significant surge in home prices, reflecting its growing demand.

“Los Feliz is home to many celebrities. Home prices have gone up in Los Feliz in recent years to match the demand,” the agent adds, highlighting the neighborhood’s appeal. “Finding a characterful or historic home in Los Feliz, akin to an art piece residence, has become a coveted dream for many.”

So then, what homes can you find in the sought-after area?

We’ve reached out to some of the top real estate brokerages with active listings in the area, to give you a feel of the type of homes you can buy in Los Feliz — but be warned, they come with steep price tags.

These figures, though eyebrow-raising, are not at all uncommon for Los Feliz, a Los Angeles neighborhood that has luxury and exclusivity woven into its very fabric.

Standout Los Feliz houses for sale, from a sprawling $38 million historic estate to a film director’s fully restored Tuscan chateau

Owning a piece of Los Feliz is not just about buying property; it’s about embracing a lifestyle desired by many but lived by a few.

And the following listings, all of them Los Feliz houses with a storied past and highly desirable attributes, stand as a testament to the caliber of properties that you can find in the sought-after area. Let’s take a closer look, shall we?

#1 The Cockerham Estate, a $38 million Old World Tuscan chateau

The crown jewel of the neighborhood, the Cockerman Estate is a beautifully reimagined 1914 historic property that’s currently both the largest and highest-priced house for sale in Los Feliz.

Photo credit: Jeremy Spann courtesy of Carolwood Estates

Custom-built for Los Feliz’ prolific developer William Mead in 1914, the multi-structure private compound spans two acres and is anchored by a 20,000-square-foot mansion, offering 9 bedrooms, 9.5 baths, and an endless list of upscale amenities.

Meticulously renovated throughout by its current owners, entrepreneur Myra Chan and her husband — with design and oversight by prized architect William Heffner AIA of Studio William Heffner — the Cokerham Estate welcomes visitors with a grand 2-story entry with sweeping staircase and honed marble floors that sets the stage for the luxury we find inside.

Notable features include an elegant library and living room with imported stone fireplace, a bar/lounge (also with an eye-catching fireplace and custom wood details), an expansive kitchen with a breakfast room, fireplace, center island, and a separate prep kitchen along with a covered heated terrace and full outdoor kitchen.

We’d also like to give a nod to the massive primary with a sitting room suite, marble fireplace, terrace with views, his and hers baths, and large walk-in closets.

Photo credit: Jeremy Spann courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Jeremy Spann courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Jeremy Spann courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Jeremy Spann courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Jeremy Spann courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Jeremy Spann courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Jeremy Spann courtesy of Carolwood Estates

Listed for $38,000,000 with Brett Lawyer of Carolwood Estates, the massive Los Feliz house also comes with a lower-level entertainment space (which includes a bar and lounge), a home gym with head-on city views, a steam room, infrared sauna and salon/glam room area, and an oversized garage with elevator directly servicing all floors.

#2 A Spanish Colonial Revival estate that dates back to 1929, listed for $15.9M

A timeless gem, this Harry Hayden Whiteley, AIA-designed estate blends the grandeur of Mediterranean estates with the allure of old Hollywood glamour.

Photo credit: Christopher Stinner Photos courtesy of The Agency

With 5 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms in the principal residence and 1 bedroom and 2 bathrooms in the detached guest house, the estate sits proudly on a nearly one acre-sized lot, offering sweeping views that stretch across the LA basin and beyond.

The home greets visitors with a grand two-story rotunda entry, adorned with hand-painted art and a sweeping staircase. The grand living room, featuring hardwood floors, an ornate fireplace, and a balcony, overlooks a pool and the cityscape.

Photo credit: Christopher Stinner Photos courtesy of The Agency

A library with a unique coffered ceiling and a Prohibition-style bar, and a majestic dining room with a wood ceiling and French doors to a veranda enhance its appeal.

The chef’s kitchen is equipped with top-grade appliances and a large island. Upstairs, five luxurious bedroom suites preserve the 1920s charm, with the primary suite offering a spa-like bathroom and walk-in dressing closets.

Additional features of the $15.9 million Los Feliz house — listed with top producer Rita Whitney of The Agency — include a gym, a 2,200+ bottle wine vault, a media room with a wet bar, and a sauna. Lush grounds, a four-car garage, and a motor court complete this exquisite Southern California estate.

Photo credit: Christopher Stinner Photos courtesy of The Agency
Photo credit: Christopher Stinner Photos courtesy of The Agency

#3 An Architectural Digest-featured $9.9M house that’s a piece of Hollywood history

Set on one of Los Feliz’ most coveted streets, Bonvue Avenue, this 5,447-square-foot home is like a trip back in time to Hollywood’s golden era.

Photo credit: Andrew Bramasco courtesy of Carolwood Estates

And its beauty was just as appreciated back then as it is now — the Spanish Colonial was even featured in Architectural Digest soon after it was built, in 1925.

Sited hillside, the multi-tiered property at 4808 Bonvue Ave takes full advantage of panoramic city views while providing complete privacy at street level. The property is listed at $9,995,000 with Marci Kays and Jonathan Mogharrabi with Carolwood Estates.

Offering 5 bedrooms and 6 baths, the meticulously renovated and well-maintained Los Feliz house features a double-height grand living room with coffered, hand-painted ceilings, towering French doors, a step-down den and wet bar, all accessed from the scene-stealing foyer staircase.

Photo credit: Andrew Bramasco courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Andrew Bramasco courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Andrew Bramasco courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Andrew Bramasco courtesy of Carolwood Estates

The imported English wood-paneled formal dining room includes a second-level verandah, an ornamental plaster ceiling, and stained glass vignettes — a bespoke detail that runs throughout the home and compliments the many hand-painted oak doors.

A chef’s kitchen, 600-bottle wine cellar, elevator, family room, library, staff rooms, and home offices all round up the home’s interior amenities.

Photo credit: Andrew Bramasco courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Andrew Bramasco courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Andrew Bramasco courtesy of Carolwood Estates

But the amenities continue outside, where the extensive grounds feature multi-level terraces, gravel pathways, hidden gathering spaces and repurposed speak-easy, outdoor dining, and an abundance of fruit trees.

A formal lawn with a period fountain leads to a private pool that’s only visible from the home, adding an extra note of charm and seclusion.

Photo credit: Andrew Bramasco courtesy of Carolwood Estates
Photo credit: Andrew Bramasco courtesy of Carolwood Estates

#4 Villa Collina, a $7.245M trophy estate once owned by film director James Whale

Remember when we said that most Los Feliz houses tell a story, and every street corner holds a piece of Hollywood’s history?

Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates

This following property is no exception, as it was once home to lauded film director James Whale, best known for directing classic horror films including Frankenstein (1931), The Old Dark House (1932), The Invisible Man (1933), and The Bride of Frankenstein (1935), among others.

Before it was purchased by James Whale, Villa Collina was originally built for Clement E. Smoot, an American golfer who competed in the 1904 Summer Olympics — where the American team won the gold medal.

Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates

The architect, Henry Harwood Hewitt, is known for designing several staple properties across Los Angeles, including poet Alice Lynch’s former home and the Westlake Masonic Temple in Los Angeles in 1914.

Touted as a “One-of-a-kind authentic dramatic Old World Tuscan chateau in epic setting on a huge flat hilltop lot in prime Los Feliz” per the listing, the 4-bed, 4-bath villa was completely restored before hitting the market for $7,245,000.

Nourmand & Associates agent Konstantine Valissarakos and Richard Yohon at Sotheby’s hold the listing.

Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates
Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates
Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates
Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates

Among its many features, 4565 Dundee Drive lists an entertainer’s kitchen with chef’s appliances, built-in breakfast nook and French doors, a primary suite with a fully updated deluxe bath with double sinks, a private office and den, and a redesigned hotel-style full guest apartment which doubles as an oversize spa.

Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates
Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates

Outside, a well-groomed garden, landscaping, and fountains bring peace and tranquility to the property, while a backyard oasis — with a tiled Roman pool and gazebo with built-in seating — lets guests and residents take in the stellar views.

Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates

#5 A Weber and Spaulding-designed architectural gem listed for $5.995M

Before Sumner Spaulding and Walter Weber — the architects behind silent film star Harold Lloyd’s 44-room Greenacres mansion — designed Santa Catalina Island’s storied Catalina Casino, they created this residential gem in Los Feliz.

Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates

Located in prime Los Feliz at 3659 Shannon Road, the home was designed to make the most of the panoramic views of the hills and LA city lights with original oversized French doors opening up from the first floor onto the sunny backyard, outdoor dining area, and pool deck.

Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates

Boasting 7 bedrooms and 7 baths across 6,408 square feet of living space, the 1928-built home retains many original features, including the classic moldings, hardwood floors, built-ins, the dumbwaiter, and double staircases.

Other unique features of the elegant Los Feliz house include three fireplaces, a first-floor library, a formal dining room, living room, and family room, a first-floor bedroom suite, and a dramatic arched hallway connecting the 6 bedrooms upstairs and the office.

Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates
Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates
Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates
Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates

There’s also a massive family room with a fireplace on the lower floor, which opens to a separate section of the yard.

Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates
Photo credit: Charmaine David courtesy of Nourmand & Associates

This beautiful property is also listed with Konstantine Valissarakos of Nourmand & Associates and Rick Yohon of Sotheby’s.

Which one of the striking Los Feliz houses above do you like most?

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More stories

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Billy Rose, co-founder of The Agency (the luxury brokerage in “Buying Beverly Hills”) lists longtime home for $5.9M

Source: fancypantshomes.com

Apache is functioning normally

Massachusetts has a rep for lighthouses, its baseball team and lobster rolls. It’s less beloved for its often exorbitant rent prices though.

Fortunately, not every city is quite as expensive as Boston.

Massachusetts state average rent prices

Let’s get this out of the way real quick — few places in Massachusetts have what you would call “cheap” rent. That’s just not the New England way, unfortunately.

In fact, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in The Bay State is $2,736, an increase of 5.5 percent from last year. As legit Bostonians would say in utter disbelief, “No suh!”

The cheapest cities in Massachusetts for renters

Sadly, that rent rate is the truth. The good news is that not all cities in Massachusetts are quite so pricey. Some are downright affordable, so it’s absolutely possible to enjoy the Massachusetts way of life without going breaking the bank. Here are the 10 cheapest places to live in Massachusetts, in order.

10. Framingham

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,996
  • Average rent change in the past year: 5.88 percent

The suburb of Framingham has access to both Boston and Worcester, given that it’s situated directly in between the two cities. In particular, its location only 20 miles west of Boston makes it ideal for the nearly 72,000 residents of Framingham, since many commute by rail.

However, Framingham does attract many big-ticket employers, thanks to a highly educated population. In fact, Framingham’s biotech industry draws commuters in from surrounding areas. Other major area industries include manufacturing, education and healthcare.

Framingham residents earn an average annual take-home pay of $81,400. Impressive as that is, renters need it to front an average one-bedroom rent of $1,996 per month, up 5.88 percent from last year.

Framingham isn’t all commuting and bills though. The diverse community enjoys a broad range of cultural options, including more than 30 ethnic restaurants found in downtown Framingham. The city’s portion of Route 9/Worcester Road is also known throughout New England as a destination for all things retail and foodie. Yum!

Find apartments for rent in Framingham
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9. Walpole

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,980
  • Average rent change in the past year: -17.5 percent

If you ever wanted to call Walpole home, now’s the time.

The thing that likely lands it on our list of the cheapest places to live in Massachusetts is that rent is down 17.5 percent from last year, with a one-bedroom apartment going for about $1,980 per month.

At just under 6,000 residents, Walpole is one of the smaller towns on our list — it makes up for its petite size though with plenty of character. A mere 13 miles south of Boston, Walpole encompasses all of the things people love about historic New England.

The downtown itself features locally-owned and operated shops, so appropriate for a quiet community known for its tree-lined streets and historic homes. The weekly farmer’s market is a favorite for locals, as are the multiple Irish pubs.

There are three town commons, complete with green space to enjoy the occasional picnic or frisbee session. Don’t forget to hit up Turner Pond and Lodge in the winter for ice skating!

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8. Weymouth

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,980
  • Average rent change in the past year: 8.16 percent

Love history? Weymouth is the place for you. The second oldest township in the Commonwealth, Weymouth dates all the way back to 1622, although it was originally known as the Wessagusset colony.

Weymouth has changed quite a bit over the past 400 years, but it nonetheless retains ever so much New England charm. The only downside is that rents in Weymouth have increased 8.16 percent over the last year, to $1,980 per month for a one-bedroom unit.

Originally an agricultural and fishing community, Weymouth today is “South Shore’s medical mecca,” thanks to a heavy healthcare presence.

Weymouth is ideally located in southeastern Mass just 12 miles southeast of Boston. Although winters are brutally cold, the summers in Weymouth are delightful. The hottest month of July averages a temperature of only 74 degrees Fahrenheit.

There’s plenty to do here as one of the cheapest places to live in Massachusetts. Locals love stopping by any of the town’s four village centers for food, drink, shopping and downtime.

Outdoor fun is a must in this area, which includes George Lane Beach and Webb Memorial State Park.

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7. Andover

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,944
  • Average rent change in the past year: 9.55 percent

Andover is yet another historic New England community, but it nonetheless exhibits a charm all its own. Named for the England city where most of its settlers hailed from, the Town of Andover incorporated way back in 1646.

Not too long after that (in 1770) Andover saw the establishment of Phillips Academy, the famed independent secondary “prep” school known around the world that has graduated impressive students like Dr. Benjamin Spock, former President George H.W. Bush and even former Supreme Court justice Oliver Wendall Holmes, Jr.

Located 26 miles north of Boston, downtown Andover is accessible by car or rail. Eclectic boutiques and eateries liberally dot the area, and downtown has many nature trails that give locals and visitors the opportunity to explore Andover’s largely unspoiled beauty. Harold Parker State Forest is another must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.

Andover rent clocks in at $1,944 per month for a one-bedroom apartment, up 9.55 percent from this time last year. Despite this increase, it remains one of the cheapest places to live in Massachusetts.

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6. Bridgewater

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,943
  • Average rent change in the past year: 7.21 percent

Some 25 miles south of Boston is Bridgewater, where the average one-bedroom rental will cost you a whole dollar less, $1,943, per month than the previously mentioned Andover. This is an increase of 7.21 percent from last year.

With nearly 27,000 residents, Bridgewater’s niche is somewhere between a small town and a major New England metropolis. Known for its low crime rate and family-friendly atmosphere, Bridgewater residents tend to stick around for a while.

It’s also home to Bridgewater State University, an acclaimed institution that is the largest of nine state universities in Massachusetts.

Like much of the state, Bridgewater boasts incredible access to nature. Among them, The Wildlands Trust— Great River Preserve is more than 125 acres worth of trails, habitats, vernal pools and rare animals. Bridgewater State Park is another excellent spot for hiking, plus it features a lake for water sports.

Be sure to keep an eye on the calendar and take in an event or two at historic Sachem Rock Farm!

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5. Canton

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,910
  • Average rent change in the past year: -15.15 percent

Great news, wannabe Canton residents — rent is down in this Boston suburb by a whopping 15.15 percent compared with last year, helping propel it higher on our list of the cheapest places to live in Massachusetts. This brings rent for a one-bedroom apartment to a monthly average of $1,910.

Located 15 miles southwest of downtown Boston, the town of Canton is home to more than 23,000 residents. Settled in 1650 under the name Punkapoag, it was eventually renamed Canton because settlers thought that it is on the exact opposite end of the earth from Canton, China.

The area was an early industrial hub, with Paul Revere himself setting up a gunpowder factory during the American Revolution, as well as the country’s first copper rolling mill.

Things have changed a lot since the olden days, though. Today, Dunkin’ Donuts is among the businesses calling Canton home. Since everyone in New England loves Dunkin’, this is big deal!

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4. Burlington

Photo source: Burlington Recreation / Facebook
  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,889
  • Average rent change in the past year: -20.51 percent

Rent prices in Burlington have dropped more than 20 percent in the last year, so it’s a better time than ever to get into the area — one of the cheapest places to live in Massachusetts. Currently, a one-bedroom apartment in the city will set you back about $1,889 per month.

Roughly 12 miles northwest of Boston, Burlington has about 25,000 residents and counting. The suburb is gaining in popularity thanks to its enviable location and comparable affordability.

In particular, the 270-acre Landlocked Forest in Burlington is an outdoorsy paradise, with trails and boardwalks suitable for everything from hiking to cross-country skiing in the winter.

Shopping enthusiasts might prefer to skip the trails for 3rd Avenue, where all of the best stores are. Wayside Commons and Burlington Mall are other beloved retail areas.

All in all, Burlington is a delightful suburb to raise a family or live as a young professional, wherever you are in life.

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3. Shrewsbury

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,737
  • Average rent change in the past year: -25.12 percent

Down more than 25 percent from last year are rent prices in Shrewsbury. Slightly further inland than many of the other cities on this list, Shrewsbury is 45 minutes west of Boston and 10 minutes east of Worcester in Central Mass. This is the first city on our list to rent below $1,800 per month — a one-bedroom goes for an average of $1,737.

Shrewsbury is home to Ski Ward, a year-round recreational facility. In the winter, visitors enjoy snow skiing, snow tubing and snowboarding. In the summer, it’s the ideal place for beach volleyball, as well as summer skiing and summer tubing.

Another establishment that makes life in Shrewsbury extra sweet is Hebert’s Candy Mansion, known for its homemade candy, but also full of other goodies like ice cream sundaes and luxe coffee. People literally come from all around to take in the full Hebert experience.

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2. Sunderland

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,649
  • Average rent change in the past year: -4.64 percent

Moving to the other side of the state, the Town of Sunderland is in western Massachusetts. At nearly 15 square miles and around 4,000 residents, Sunderland is decidedly smaller than many other cities on this list. The rent for an average one-bedroom is down 4.64 percent to $1,649 per month here.

Originally known as Swampfield, due to swampland in the town, Sunderland incorporated in 1718. Today, it features picturesque streets lined with maple trees planted in the 1820s.

Mount Toby is a major Sunderland attraction, as the 1,269-foot fire tower at the summit offers unbelievable views of surrounding area ranges. Hikers also love to take in the waterfalls while out on a trek. In autumn, locals flock to family-friendly activities such as the eight-acre corn maze at Mike’s Maze (September through November).

Certainly not one of the most metropolitan cities on our list, Sunderland still features a sprinkling of dining, shopping and entertainment options suitable for a quaint New England Town. Plus, it’s oh-so-affordable, as the second cheapest place to live in Massachusetts.

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1. Westborough

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,445
  • Average rent change in the past year: -37.24 percent

Moving back east, the town of Westborough is everything a New Englander could want and more. And who can argue with the price? Rental rates are down 37.24 percent, with the average one-bedroom rental rate at $1,445 per month!

Westborough was originally established as a place for dairies and orchards. Located 29 miles west of Boston and east of Worcester, Westborough offers commuters easy access by car or rail to these big metro areas.

Today, Westborough houses an impressive slate of businesses, largely in the manufacturing and service industries. Although smaller than Boston by a long shot, Westborough’s 18,000-plus residents enjoy good schools and plenty of amenities for a significantly reduced price tag.

Chauncy Lake and George H Nichols Reservoir are popular spots for sunning, boating, fishing and all other things water-related.

Find apartments for rent in Westborough
Buy a house in Westborough

The 25 cheapest places to live in Massachusetts

Super bummed that the city you’re into didn’t show up on our list? Never fear, there are plenty of other affordable places to live in Massachusetts. Check out the full top 25 cheapest cities here.

The 10 most expensive places to live in Massachusetts

Wanna see how the other half lives? There are plenty of pricey places to live in Massachusetts, too. Take a look at this list of the 10 most expensive cities to live in. Try not to let your jaw drop at these rental rates!

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.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

Wedding bands are a symbol of a couple’s eternal love and commitment, but they’re also an added expense in the wedding budget. One way to potentially score a deal on your rings is by shopping during strategic times of the year.

Sales often occur in the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. And you may find a bargain during September and October, when jewelers need to clear out old stock before the holidays.

But February, the month devoted to lovers, can also be a good time to shop for wedding bands. Here’s why.

Reasons to Buy Your Wedding Bands in February

There are a few reasons why you may want to shop for wedding rings during the shortest month of the year.

It’s a Popular Time for Proposals

Many people pop the question between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day, and Valentine’s Day continues to be one of the most popular holidays for couples to get engaged.

Jewelers know this, and they often prepare for the influx of business by rolling out promotions on engagement rings and wedding bands. Consider hitting the stores between New Year’s Day and Valentine’s Day, before the crowds show up. And if you can, shop during an off-peak time of day when the store is quieter. You may find it easier to try to negotiate a better price for your bands.
💡 Quick Tip: Need help covering the cost of a wedding, honeymoon, or new baby? A SoFi personal loan can help you fund major life events — without the high interest rates of credit cards.

Bridal Fairs Are Kicking Into Gear

Many bridal expos are held in February and March, offering couples a chance to see the latest wedding band styles without the sales pressure. Vendors are there to give tips as well as a good pitch, and some may offer limited-time, expo-related discounts.

Gather up information and coupons at the bridal fair, then give yourselves a day or two to regroup and possibly go make a purchase.

The Timing Works for a Summer Wedding

Jewelers typically recommend shopping for wedding bands at least three to four months before your wedding date — longer if you have your heart set on a one-of-a-kind design. That will give you time to look and look again, get the rings sized, and have any engraving or other customizing done.

For couples getting married in the summer — peak wedding season — this will mean starting the ring buying process in February.

How to Shop For Wedding Bands

No matter what time of year you shop for a wedding ring, it’s a good idea to do a little prep work before you hit the stores. Here are some things to consider doing ahead of time.

Set a Budget

You want bands you’ll love forever, but not at a price that will put you in debt for the rest of your lives. At the start, let your jeweler know what your budget is, and they can work with you to find rings within that range.

Consider a Wedding Set

If you haven’t settled on an engagement ring yet, you may want to look into purchasing a wedding set. This set includes your engagement ring and a matching wedding band. Buying both at the same time could save you money.

Shop Around

As with most major purchases, you’ll want to shop around for wedding bands. Visit different jewelers, including online shops, and don’t be afraid to ask questions about the pros and cons of different metals, gemstones, and designs.

Once you find the bands you want, try negotiating for a better price. You may be able to increase your chances of getting a deal by offering to pay all cash.

How to Pay For Your Wedding Bands

A wedding ring is usually cheaper than an engagement ring, but it can still take a significant bite out of your budget.

According to The Knot, the typical men’s wedding band costs around $510, while the average woman’s band runs closer to $1,100. Prices can vary widely based on a number of factors, including the metal type, overall design, and gemstones.

Let’s look at a few common ways to finance wedding rings.

No-Interest Credit Cards

Larger jewelry stores usually offer some sort of in-store financing, including no-interest credit cards. You can also apply for one directly with a lender.

This option lets you buy the bands you want today, which is a major benefit. And it could make good financial sense if you’re able to pay off the balance before the promotional period ends. However, if you can’t, you’ll have to pay interest on whatever you owe. And that interest rate probably will be higher than other credit card or loan offers available to you.

Buy Now, Pay Later

Think of buy now, pay later (or BNPL) as a kind of installment payment plan. It allows you to purchase your wedding bands today and then spread out payments over a set number of weeks or months, often for zero or low interest. Klarna, Afterpay, and Affirm are all common examples of BNPL providers.

Usually, no minimum credit score is required for approval. Rather, providers will consider the amount available on the debit or credit card you’re using in the transaction, your history with that lender, and key details about the item you’re buying.

Also, a soft credit check is typically conducted to approve or reject your request, but it does not impact your credit score.

As with a no-interest credit card, if you pay off the BNPL plan as planned, you may not incur interest or fees. But if funds aren’t paid on time, or a longer-term plan is chosen, you could be hit with a high interest rate and/or late fees.

Personal Loan

You can get a personal loan from a bank, credit union, or online lender. Many, but not all, personal loans are unsecured, which means you won’t need to put up any collateral, such as a house or car. Instead, lenders will consider your creditworthiness.

Most personal loans are paid back within three to five years, and the interest rate tends to be higher if there is no collateral. The better your credit score is, the lower the interest rate and monthly payment will be. However, the lower the payment, the longer it might take you to pay off the loan.

Generally speaking, once you’re approved for a loan, you can receive funds within days. In some cases, you may be able to get the money within a day or two. This quick influx of cash can come in handy if you’re planning to haggle for a better price on the band.
💡 Quick Tip: Before choosing a personal loan, ask about the lender’s fees: origination, prepayment, late fees, etc. One question can save you many dollars.

The Takeaway

Wedding bands can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars, but fortunately, there are ways couples may be able to save money. Shopping during certain times of the year, including February, can help. During that month, you may be able to take advantage of special promotions, including those offered at local bridal shows. Be sure to shop around, and when you find the ring you want, don’t be afraid to try your hand at haggling.

If you need help paying for the rings, you have several options to explore. For example, no-interest credit cards and buy now, pay later programs can both provide you with the funds you need right away. However, if you don’t pay off the balance before the promotional period ends, you could face high interest rates. A personal loan is another way to pay for rings. While you may not be required to put up any collateral, the lender will consider your creditworthiness.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2023 winner for Best Online Personal Loan overall.

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

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Source: sofi.com