Embark on a journey to explore the charm and uniqueness of Alabama’s small towns. Each town has its own story to tell, offering a blend of history, culture, and community spirit. Join us as we uncover 10 small towns in Alabama including Lake View, Cottondale, Ozark, and many more.
1. Lake View, AL
Median sale price: $245,000
Walk Score: 15
Nearby the serene shores of a picturesque lake, Lake View beckons you to embrace tranquility and natural beauty. This town is known for its friendly atmosphere and exciting annual events. Spend your days boating, fishing, or enjoying lakeside picnics with loved ones. Lake View’s scenic landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures and lakeside relaxation.
Homes for sale in Lake View, AL
Apartments for rent in Lake View, AL
2. Cottondale, AL
Median sale price: $235,000
Walk Score: 33
Cottondale, an easygoing town with a strong community spirit, offers a blend of Southern hospitality and historic allure. The town’s historic district boasts well-preserved architecture and a welcoming ambiance. Explore local shops, where you’ll find unique crafts and handmade treasures.
Homes for sale in Cottondale, AL
Apartments for rent in Cottondale, AL
3. Ozark, AL
Median sale price: $205,950
Walk Score: 60
Ozark is surrounded by natural beauty, with opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing in the nearby parks and lakes. With a rich history and a range of recreational activities, Ozark captures the essence of small-town living. Explore the town’s historic downtown, where you’ll find boutiques, galleries, and local eateries.
Homes for sale in Ozark, AL
Apartments for rent in Ozark, AL
4. Alexander City, AL
Median sale price: $199,000
Walk Score: 63
Nestled on the shores of beautiful Lake Martin, Alexander City encourages you to savor its waterfront beauty and vibrant community life. The town’s historic district features charming architecture and local boutiques. There’s always something to do with the town hosting a variety of events, including outdoor concerts and art festivals year-round.
Homes for sale in Alexander City, AL
Apartments for rent in Alexander City, AL
5. Tuskegee, AL
Median sale price: $50,000
Walk Score: 39
This small town in Alabama is known for the Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site, where people can learn about the contributions of African Americans to education and aviation. With its rich history and public engagement, Tuskegee offers a unique glimpse into Alabama’s past and present.
Homes for sale in Tuskegee, AL
Apartments for rent in Tuskegee, AL
6. Centreville, AL
Median sale price: $215,000
Walk Score: 32
Centreville, sitting in the heart of Bibb County, provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Residents often enjoy this slower pace of life with visits to nearby parks and outdoor spaces. Centreville also hosts events like the Cahaba Lily Festival, celebrating the rare lilies that bloom in the Cahaba River.
Homes for sale in Centreville, AL
Apartments for rent in Centreville, AL
7. Russellville, AL
Median sale price: $154,500
Walk Score: 57
Russellville offers a quiet, close-knit environment where neighbors often come together for town events, like the Russellville Fall Festival, featuring local artisans and live music. The town’s historic Main Street is lined with charming shops and eateries, such as Smith’s Bakery, a beloved spot for freshly baked goods. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hiking at the nearby Lake Logan State Park or golfing at the beautiful Indian Springs Golf Club.
Homes for sale in Russellville, AL
Apartments for rent in Russellville, AL
8. Pell City, AL
Median sale price: $268,000
Walk Score: 57
This town’s lakeside ambiance provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation. Locals often gather at Lakeside Park for family picnics and outdoor concerts, while the Pell City Civic Center hosts events like craft fairs and workshops. Outdoor lovers can explore Logan Martin Lake for boating and fishing, and the nearby Talladega National Forest offers hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.
Homes for sale in Pell City, AL
Apartments for rent in Pell City, AL
9. Gordo, AL
Median sale price: $205,000
Walk Score: 37
Located in the rolling hills of Pickens County, Gordo offers a blend of natural beauty and community connection. The town’s peaceful atmosphere provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and picnicking. Gordo hosts the Mule Day Festival, celebrating its agricultural heritage and Southern traditions.
Homes for sale in Gordo, AL
Apartments for rent in Gordo, AL
10. Evergreen, AL
Median sale price: $140,000
Walk Score: 38
Evergreen has a relaxed Southern lifestyle with a variety of local attractions. Visitors can enjoy leisurely afternoons at the Hank Williams Memorial Park, which pays homage to the legendary country musician. The Conecuh National Forest provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and camping, while the annual Evergreen Sausage Festival showcases the town’s culinary heritage. With its blend of cultural appreciation and natural beauty, Evergreen creates a comfortable and enriching living environment.
Homes for sale in Evergreen, AL
Apartments for rent in Evergreen, AL
Wrapping up small towns in Alabama
From lakeside retreats to historic gems, each town invites you to immerse yourself in its culture, landscapes, and local traditions. Whether you’re drawn to waterfront beauty, cultural heritage, or outdoor adventures, these small towns in Alabama have something that everyone can appreciate.
In 2022, the price of the typical home purchased in “high-opportunity” U.S. neighborhoods — where poor children have the best shot at upward mobility — was $470,000. That’s $130,000 more than the typical home in low-opportunity areas, according to a Redfin report.
Redfin analyzed home sales in 100 of the most populous U.S. metropolitan areas, sorting each neighborhood into one of three tiers—low opportunity, intermediate opportunity and high opportunity. The brokerage defined a high-opportunity neighborhood as “one where children who grew up in low-earning households went on to become higher earning adults than the typical person who grew up in their metro at the same time.”
Redfin found that people in high-opportunity neighborhoods have better chances to attend highly rated schools and to access better professional networking opportunities. Those neighborhoods often feature large numbers of college graduates and low rates of poverty and crime. However, only 13% of homes in high-opportunity neighborhoods are affordable, down from 37% a decade ago, Redfin shows.
There are a lot of homes for sale in high-opportunity neighborhoods but they are less affordable, especially for people of color
More than a quarter (39.5%) of U.S. homes for sale are located in high-opportunity neighborhoods. However, very few of them are affordable. According to Redfin, only 13% of homes for sale in high-opportunity neighborhoods in 2022 were affordable on their metro area’s median income, compared with 31.7% in low-opportunity neighborhoods.
Overall, affordability fell across the board due to surging home prices. The median sale price in high-opportunity neighborhoods grew 100% since 2012, while the median sale price in low-opportunity neighborhoods jumped 174%.
Meanwhile, it remains easier for white families to access these high opportunity areas. Only 4.2% of these homes were affordable for the typical Black household in 2022. The share was nearly five times higher (19.1%) for the typical white household.
The price premium for opportunity is the highest in segregated Midwestern and Southern metros
Detroit shows the highest premium for high opportunity neighborhoods out of all the metros Redfin analyzed. There, the median home sale price in high-opportunity neighborhoods jumped to $240,000 in 2022. That’s up 269% from the $65,00 median sale price in Detroit’s low-opportunity neighborhoods. Memphis, TN, Akron, OH, Milwaukee and Birmingham, AL followed suit with respective premiums of 187%, 169%, 149% and 143%.
Also noteworthy, many of the metros where high-opportunity neighborhoods carry hefty home-price premiums grapple with relatively high levels of segregation. Milwaukee and Detroit both rank among the five most segregated metros based on 2020 Census data, Memphis and Birmingham are also near the top of the list.
Birmingham, Alabama, is a city teeming with a rich history, lively communities, and engaging activities to suit all interests. The best part? You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy what this city has to offer. From strolling through art museums and learning about the city’s past to enjoying the serenity of lush parks and exploring small towns, there are many free things to do in Birmingham, AL.
Whether you’ve recently relocated to Birmingham, are interested in exploring Birmingham homes and apartments, or are a long-time local looking for new things to do – continue reading to see what the city has for you.
1. Railroad Park
As you enter Railroad Park, the lush greenery, walking paths, and serene ponds immediately invite relaxation and exploration. The park’s well-designed spaces cater to various activities – outdoor gym equipment, trails, and a designated skate area. If you’re searching for a park in the city, these 19 acres of green space will give you just what you need.
2. Red Mountain Park
Emily from Watauga Group, a media agency for outdoor recreation and attraction brands, shares, “Red Mountain Park is an absolute must for your itinerary. Covering a vast 1,500 acres, this park offers 16 miles of multi-use trails catering to all adventure enthusiast levels. For those seeking a furry companion adventure, there’s even a dedicated dog park to explore. Throughout the trails, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Magic City, and the charm doesn’t end there – discover three whimsical tree houses tucked away in the park’s expanse.”
3. Birmingham Museum of Art
The museum’s expansive galleries house an impressive collection that spans various artistic epochs, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a world of creative expression and cultural significance. General admission to the Birmingham Museum of Art is free daily to enjoy diverse artwork. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, this cultural gem does not provide an opportunity to appreciate the artistic achievements of humanity.
4. Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark
Stephen, a local from The Yoga Circle in Birmingham, encourages a visit to Sloss Furnaces. “Sloss Furnaces is a historical landmark that was the country’s largest producer of pig iron and is responsible for most of Birmingham’s growth,” says Stephen. “It was built in 1881. It’s ripe with legend and lore from so many lives lost in the dangerous working conditions, with many stories of paranormal activity and hauntings. It is free to walk around and explore during business hours, and utterly fascinating to observe the imposing machinery that made these furnaces burn.”
5. The market at Pepper Place
Venturing into the Market at Pepper Place in Birmingham, AL is a great way to step into local flavors, arts, and community spirit. The market comes alive with farmers, artisans, and food vendors gathering to showcase their finest offerings. As you weave through the bustling stalls, you’ll find an array of fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and delectable treats that reflect the region’s culinary and creative prowess. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by live music, making this a great free thing to do.
6. Oak Mountain State Park
If you want to surround yourself with nature, you’ll want to head to Oak Mountain State Park. You’ll find vast wooded landscapes, serene lakes, and diverse trails here. Whether you’re seeking a stroll, a challenging hike, or a lakeside picnic, the park accommodates every outdoor aspiration. You’ll want to take advantage of some breathtaking overlooks, tranquil fishing spots, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting await at every turn. As one of Alabama’s largest state parks, Oak Mountain is a testament to the region’s natural beauty.
7. Avondale murals
Exploring the vibrant murals in the Avondale neighborhood of Birmingham, AL is like embarking on an urban art treasure hunt. As you stroll through its streets, the neighborhood transforms into an open-air gallery. Each mural tells a unique story, reflecting the community’s spirit, history, and values. Best of all, this artful adventure comes at no cost, allowing anyone with an appreciation for creativity to experience the essence of Avondale’s cultural allure in a budget-friendly manner.
8. Birmingham Public Library
The library’s shelves house a vast collection of books, resources, and multimedia materials that cater to diverse interests and passions. From historic volumes to contemporary bestsellers, the library is a haven for bibliophiles and learners alike. Beyond its literary treasures, the library often hosts informative events, workshops, and discussions that enrich the community’s understanding and engagement.
9. Visit the small towns surrounding Birmingham
“If you are coming to Birmingham, AL, don’t miss visiting the suburbs and small towns surrounding Birmingham,” shares locals Ann and Stephen from Heaven’s Best Carpet Cleaning. “Our favorite small town is Chelsea, AL. We love Chelsea because it has a small, home feel similar to Mayberry of the Andy Griffith show. We are growing and now have a new splash pad at Melrose Park.”
10. Ruffner Mountain
A visit to Ruffner Mountain is a great free thing to do in Birmingham, AL. The moment you set foot on its trails, you’re embraced by the soothing sounds of nature and the refreshing scent of pine. For hikers, the Overlook trail has panoramic views of the city skyline, while the Quarry Trail leads to the remnants of an industrial past. The variety of trails caters to both walkers and avid hikers, making Ruffner Mountain an excellent option for all.
Airbnb ha cambiado mucho desde sus humildes comienzos en 2007. Lo que empezó como una forma para que los propietarios de viviendas obtuvieran ingresos extras alquilando sus habitaciones desocupadas se ha convertido en un gigante multimillonario que ha revolucionado el sector.
La mayoría de los viajeros ahora alquilan propiedades enteras en lugar de alojarse con los dueños. Las noches reservadas en habitaciones privadas representaron solo el 16% de las reservas de alquiler a corto plazo en Estados Unidos en mayo de 2023, un mínimo histórico, según un informe de AirDNA, una empresa de análisis de alquileres de corta duración.
Y muchos de los anfitriones que alquilan sus casas no son propietarios que intenten obtener ingresos extras, sino más bien empresas grandes de administración (en inglés) con múltiples propiedades en sus carteras (algunas con decenas o hasta cientos). A estos grupos de administración de propiedades se les conoce como “megahosts”.
Más del 30% de las propiedades que se anuncian en EE. UU. están administradas por anfitriones con 21 o más propiedades, según datos facilitados por AirDNA. Esta cifra es superior al 26% de propiedades administradas por anfitriones con una sola propiedad.
Es decir, casi tres de cada cuatro propiedades que se anuncian en Airbnb (en inglés) están administradas por anfitriones con más de una propiedad en su cartera. Esta tendencia nos lleva a preguntarnos: ¿es bueno para los viajeros alojarse en propiedades de un “megahost”?
El impacto en la experiencia de los huéspedes
Alojarse en la casa de otra persona tiene su encanto. Si los anfitriones viven cerca, pueden ofrecer recomendaciones locales u otros detalles personalizados. Sin embargo, muchos anfitriones de Airbnb a pequeña escala tienen poca experiencia en hostelería, y pocos están disponibles las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana, para responder a inquietudes de los clientes.
En principio, las empresas de administración a mayor escala podrían ofrecer a los huéspedes una experiencia más profesionalizada, pero esto va en desmedro del factor humano. La empresa de administración probablemente no podrá decirle a usted qué pastelería tiene las mejores galletas, por dar un ejemplo.
A fin de explicar esta dualidad con datos, AirDNA analizó las opiniones de los huéspedes de propiedades en Europa administradas por “megahosts” y las comparó con anfitriones de menor escala. Lo que se descubrió fue una tendencia constante: cuanto mayor es la cantidad de propiedades, más baja es la calificación media.
A primera vista, estos datos parecen sugerir que las propiedades gestionadas por grandes empresas ofrecen de manera constante una experiencia deficiente, pero Jamie Lane, economista jefe de AirDNA, sospechaba que la respuesta era distinta.
“Las calificaciones suelen ser más bajas cuando se valora a una empresa que a una persona”, afirma Lane, lo que sugiere que conocer e interactuar con una persona en lugar de hacerlo con una empresa de administración lleva a los huéspedes a dar calificaciones más altas.
Para explicar este fenómeno, el equipo de Lane analizó las calificaciones en la sección de “ubicación” de la opinión general del huésped, que no debiera depender del tamaño de la cartera del anfitrión.
Se descubrió la misma tendencia: calificaciones más bajas en varias valoraciones para carteras más grandes. Sin embargo, también se revelaron otros detalles interesantes. Los anfitriones de mayor tamaño solo obtuvieron una puntuación ligeramente inferior a la de los anfitriones de una sola propiedad en las calificaciones de limpieza, aunque los anfitriones con más de 300 propiedades en realidad obtuvieron una puntuación ligeramente superior a los que tenían entre 100 y 299 unidades.
Cuantas más unidades tiene un anfitrión, más baja es la calificación media en comunicación. Lane sugiere que esto tiene lógica dada la falta de interacción personal que existe de parte de los “megahosts”.
“Normalmente doy (a un anfitrión de una sola propiedad) una reseña más alta que si alquilara por medio de Vacasa y estuviera comunicándome con su personal de servicio al cliente en Filipinas”.
¿Los anfitriones con carteras más grandes reciben calificaciones más bajas porque su servicio es inferior? ¿O se debe a que los huéspedes son más comprensivos con los anfitriones más pequeños? La respuesta parece ser “las dos cosas”.
Lo que debe hacer un viajero
La elección entre un anfitrión de Airbnb a pequeña o gran escala va a depender de las preferencias que usted tenga. Si desea algo más parecido a un hotel, quizá se sienta más cómodo con una empresa de administración profesional. Si le importa más la experiencia personalizada, considere la posibilidad de buscar un anfitrión con solo una o dos propiedades.
Airbnb no facilita mucho la búsqueda de propiedades según el tamaño de la cartera del administrador, o incluso para ver cuántas propiedades gestiona un determinado anfitrión. De modo que, para encontrar una propiedad y un anfitrión que se ajusten a sus preferencias tendrá que hacer clic en las propiedades que le interesen y consultar los perfiles de los anfitriones.
Y tenga en cuenta que muchas propiedades están administradas por anfitriones de tamaño medio que son personas reales (no empresas) y con mucha experiencia. Esta podría ser la solución ideal para muchos viajeros que buscan un servicio de alta calidad, pero sin tener que sacrificar el trato personal.
“Existe una marcada tendencia a la profesionalización, pero eso no siempre significa que las propiedades estén administradas por grandes empresas”, afirma Lane. “Hay muchas organizaciones de tamaño medio que están utilizando herramientas para que sus operaciones se vuelvan mucho más profesionales”. Por último, no hay que confundir “superhosts”, una designación oficial de Airbnb para anfitriones que constantemente reciben calificaciones altas, con anfitriones con varias propiedades. Los superhosts (en inglés) pueden tener una sola propiedad o cientos, y suelen ser algunos de los anfitriones más fiables de la plataforma.
Este artículo fue publicado originalmente en NerdWallet en inglés.
Contar con una primera o segunda oportunidad de crear crédito con una tarjeta de crédito ha sido más fácil en los últimos años, ya que las empresas de tecnología financiera han creado otras opciones. Estas nuevas tarjetas por lo general evalúan las solicitudes de forma diferente a las tarjetas de crédito tradicionales, con algoritmos y métodos propios que pueden tener menos en cuenta a los puntajes de crédito y fijarse más en factores como sus ingresos o los saldos de sus cuentas bancarias. Los costos más bajos también suelen ser un sello distintivo de estas tarjetas: algunos de estos productos se anuncian sin depósito de garantía (en inglés), sin cuota anual y sin tasa APR (en inglés).
“Muchas fintechs (compañías de tecnología financiera) se enfocan mucho en ofrecer productos a personas que de otra manera no calificarían para ellos en una institución grande”, dice Nick Roberts, director de marketing de Grow Credit, una empresa de tecnología financiera con sede en California. “Algunas fintech se enfocan mucho en ampliar el mercado”.
Si bien muchas de estas empresas relativamente nuevas pueden ayudarle a acumular crédito, hay que tener en cuenta que a veces el camino puede ser accidentado, ya que la empresa que está detrás de la tarjeta sigue expandiéndose.
Anticipe cambios
Todas las empresas de tarjetas de crédito, ya sean o no tradicionales, pueden modificar las condiciones de su cuenta (en inglés), aunque dependiendo de lo que cambie exactamente, deben seguir ciertas pautas.
“Tienen que avisarle con 45 días de anticipación de un aumento de la tasa de porcentaje anual y de cualquier cambio significativo en las condiciones”, dice Lauren Saunders, directora asociada del National Consumer Law Center.
Aun así, en comparación con una tarjeta de crédito más reconocida, una tarjeta alternativa de una fintech tiene más probabilidades de sufrir cambios frecuentes en sus condiciones y funcionalidades. Estas actualizaciones pueden ser novedades bien recibidas o también reducciones frustrantes.
Por ejemplo, una empresa de tarjetas de crédito relativamente nueva puede cambiar de marca o nombre, lo que significa que podrían variar muchas de sus funcionalidades. CreditStacks anunció una tarjeta de crédito con su nombre en 2018, pero en 2020, tanto la empresa como la tarjeta pasaron a llamarse Jasper (en inglés), enviando tarjetas rediseñadas y ampliando el grupo de solicitantes que podrían cumplir los requisitos. Con el tiempo, Jasper pasó a ser una tarjeta de devolución de efectivo para personas con buen crédito.
A pesar del nuevo lanzamiento y rediseño, la tarjeta de crédito de Jasper dejó de existir en 2022.
Grow Credit estrenó una tarjeta de crédito en algunos estados en 2019, y la extendió a todo el país en 2020. La tarjeta permite acumular crédito utilizándola para pagar determinadas facturas o cuentas, hasta un límite bajo de gasto mensual. Está vinculada a un plan de membresía con varios niveles y precios, incluida una opción gratuita. Pero al momento de su lanzamiento, la tarjeta solo contaba con un nivel gratuito.
Con el tiempo, la empresa ha ido incorporando los demás niveles de membresía, que pueden desbloquear y permitir facturas adicionales y límites de gasto mensual más elevados. Según Roberts, estas incorporaciones crearon más opciones de generación de crédito para las personas sin crédito.
Ojo con lo que le llegue a su correo electrónico
TomoCredit, una empresa de tecnología financiera con sede en San Francisco, también ha introducido cambios significativos en las condiciones originales de su tarjeta de crédito. La tarjeta debutó en 2021 sin cuota anual, pero en 2023 las condiciones incluían una cuota mensual (en inglés) de $2.99 y la tarjeta quedó en lista de espera.
La fintech Petal lleva varios años en el sector de las tarjetas de crédito, anunciando tarjetas gratuitas o con cargos bajos para clientes que buscan generar crédito, así como para los que tienen un buen historial crediticio. Sin embargo, en mayo y junio (ambos en inglés) de 2023, Petal informó a determinados titulares de tarjetas existentes de que estarían sujetos a una nueva cuota mensual de membresía.
Jamie Howard, un director de e-learning en Tennessee, era uno de esos titulares. Le dijeron que tendría que pagar una cuota mensual de $8 dólares u optar por no pagar y que le cerraran la cuenta. “Al principio me sorprendió, porque no me agrada tener que pagar cuotas”, dice Howard. “Si opto por no participar, es un componente de tu puntaje de crédito”.
La clausura de una cuenta puede perjudicar el puntaje de crédito (en inglés), ya que podría afectar la utilización del crédito y acortar la antigüedad del historial crediticio. Esa era precisamente la principal preocupación de Howard, dado que había solicitado la tarjeta Petal para generar crédito. Sin embargo, después de unos tres años con la tarjeta, decidió que la cuota mensual no valía la pena porque tiene otras tarjetas de crédito. “Desde entonces me salí del programa”, dice.
Controlar las expectativas
Como en el caso de cualquier producto financiero: investigue antes de solicitarlo. Dependiendo de la empresa de tecnología financiera que se trate, es posible que usted no obtenga la misma experiencia que ofrece un banco tradicional, lo que puede ser parte del compromiso.
“Un problema crónico con las fintech es la falta de servicio humano al cliente”, dice Saunders. “Una de las formas en que pueden abaratar los costos es eliminando las sucursales, eliminando el servicio al cliente en vivo, confiando en el chat y otros canales automatizados o electrónicos. Eso funciona bien, hasta que llega el momento en que uno necesita más”.
No todas las empresas de tecnología financiera funcionan de esta manera, pero es importante saber a qué atenerse. Las opiniones de los clientes en Internet pueden servir de ayuda. Podría ser de provecho obtener una tarjeta, si le ayuda a acumular crédito cuando otras opciones son demasiado caras o le han rechazado una tarjeta de crédito tradicional.
Conforme vaya mejorando su crédito, contar con una nueva tarjeta de crédito (en inglés) de un emisor más consolidado puede servirle de respaldo en caso de que cambien las condiciones de su tarjeta alternativa.
Este artículo fue redactado por NerdWallet y publicado originalmente en inglés por The Associated Press.
Algunos padres le dirán de su propia experiencia que esto de criar hijos no tiene fecha de caducidad. Para algunos, eso significa que brindan ayuda financiera a sus hijos incluso en la edad adulta. Cuando yo tenía 21 años y entré en un programa de máster en la universidad de mis sueños, mi madre me ayudó a pagarme la carrera. Muchos padres han tenido la generosidad de hacer esto y mucho más.
Cuando digo “muchos”, me avala una encuesta realizada en 2023 por Savings.com, según la cual el 45% de los padres con un hijo de 18 años o más gastan una media de más de $1,400 al mes en ayudar económicamente a sus hijos, excluyendo a los hijos adultos con discapacidades.
Pero la pregunta es: ¿es siempre recomendable este apoyo financiero? Una planificadora financiera certificada y una terapeuta con experiencia en este campo nos comparten sus opiniones.
¿Por qué los padres mantienen a sus hijos adultos?
Hay muchas razones por las que un padre o una madre puede optar por dar apoyo económico a sus hijos adultos. Las discapacidades y el deseo de ayudarles a alcanzar objetivos importantes en la vida son dos de ellos. Shelmeshia Hill-Brown, directora general de Wholistic Resolutions LLC en Chesapeake, Virginia, es trabajadora social y terapeuta, y trabaja con padres que ayudan económicamente a sus hijos adultos. Uno de los principales asuntos que trata es la ayuda de los padres para pagar los estudios, especialmente desde la pandemia. La compra de una casa y la búsqueda de tratamientos para la infertilidad son otras de las razones por las que sus clientes ayudan económicamente a sus hijos.
Mientras que algunos padres ofrecen ayuda económica porque lo desean, otros se sienten obligados a hacerlo incluso cuando les resulta económicamente difícil. A veces, la obligación surge de la culpa que sienten los padres por no haber preparado a sus hijos desde pequeños para la independencia económica, dice Hill-Brown.
“No dedicaron ese tiempo individual a sentarse con ellos y enseñarles”, dice. “Pero gran parte de eso también se debió a que sus padres nunca lo hicieron con ellos, así que fueron aprendiendo por el camino, y eso hizo que fuera un poco más difícil sentarse y elaborar un plan para ponerlo en práctica con sus propios hijos”.
Riesgos de mantener a los hijos adultos
Mantener a los hijos puede ser satisfactorio, pero también perjudicial si no se tiene una buena situación económica. También puede afectar a los ahorros para la jubilación, algo que ya preocupa a muchos estadounidenses. La empresa Fidelity, en su Evaluación del Ahorro para la Jubilación 2023, nos dice que el 52% de las familias en EE.UU. podrían no estar en condiciones de cubrir los gastos básicos durante la jubilación (en inglés). Y aproximadamente el 50% incluso tiene previsto trabajar durante los años de jubilación.
No obstante, algunos padres piensan en echar mano de sus ahorros para que sus hijos adultos no tengan que pedir préstamos, dice Kayla Walter, planificadora financiera certificada de Bailey Wealth Advisors en Silver Spring, Maryland. Ella aconseja a los clientes que no lo hagan, ya que existen préstamos estudiantiles, pero no préstamos para la jubilación.
“Estás gastando tus ahorros a un ritmo mucho más rápido, y no te van a durar tanto para los años que quizás esperas vivir”, dice.
Proteger las finanzas y la relación
El riesgo de mantener a los hijos adultos es doble: Puede afectar a sus finanzas y a su relación de pareja. Sí, puede darle un sentido de propósito y hacer que usted se sienta conectado a su hijo, pero también puede causar resentimiento, dice Hill-Brown.
“Hay algunos [padres] que realmente se encuentran en un aprieto financiero porque no fueron lo suficientemente claros con sus propias responsabilidades financieras y cómo se verían afectadas”, dice. “Y ahí es donde aparecen el resentimiento y la culpa”. Añade que el resentimiento puede darse incluso en padres que cuentan con los medios para mantener a sus hijos.
Para proteger su economía, asegúrese de que usted esté en condiciones de ayudar a sus hijos antes de decir que sí, y de que conozca sus propios límites: así podrá comunicárselos a sus hijos. Para los que tienen hijos que dependen económicamente de ellos, reduzca gradualmente la ayuda y establezca límites (en inglés) sobre cómo será la ayuda económica en el futuro, dice Hill-Brown. Además, tenga la voluntad de decir que no cuando sea necesario.
Si se siente culpable por ello, tenga en cuenta que una ayuda económica sin límites podría impedir que su hijo se independice económicamente, algo que, según Hill-Brown, podría transmitir a la siguiente generación.
Fomentar la independencia económica
Después de establecer esos límites financieros, puede empezar a guiar a su hijo hacia la independencia financiera.
Una forma de ayudarles a conseguirlo es integrándoles en sus finanzas, dice Walter.
“Si sienten que no han hecho lo suficiente por sus hijos, un buen momento para ayudarles a aprender más sobre finanzas sería llevarlos a la reunión con su asesor y convertirla en una reunión familiar, para que puedan ver lo que está pasando”, dice.
Otra opción es orientar a los hijos adultos hacia servicios financieros que puedan ayudarles. Por ejemplo, en lugar de prestarles dinero si están muy endeudados, usted puede recomendarles un servicio de consolidación de deudas (en inglés).
Por último, Walter sugiere ser un buen ejemplo para sus hijos y transmitirles buenos hábitos financieros. “Nunca es mal momento para dar un buen ejemplo en cuestiones financieras a sus hijos”.
Este artículo fue redactado por NerdWallet y publicado originalmente en inglés por The Associated Press.
Your backyard is an extension of your living space, offering endless opportunities for relaxation, entertainment, and family bonding. With the right home improvement tips, you can transform your backyard into an oasis that suits your lifestyle and enhances the value of your property. Whether you own a home in Houston, TX, or are renting a house in Sacramento, CA, Redfin has some backyard improvement ideas to inspire your next project.
1. Landscaping magic
Begin your backyard transformation with landscaping that complements your home’s architecture and blends with the natural surroundings. Incorporate lush plants, colorful flowers, and well-maintained lawns to create a serene and inviting ambiance. Consider adding pathways, decorative rocks, and seating areas for an enhanced outdoor experience. If your lawn is struggling, San Jose Tree Service recommends that you overseed, fertilize and repair any damaged irrigation components.
2. Create defined spaces
Optimizing your backyard involves a strategic approach, one that involves dividing the outdoor expanse into distinct functional zones, ensuring you maximize every inch of available space. Consider crafting dedicated domains for various activities, such as al fresco dining, serene lounging, vibrant gardening, and playful recreation. Enhance your backyard by incorporating elements like low walls, charming fences, or lush shrubbery.
3. Outdoor kitchen
Enhance your outdoor living space by incorporating a sophisticated outdoor kitchen, creating an environment that takes your culinary adventures to new heights. The addition of a fully equipped grill, spacious countertops, a functional sink, and ample storage space ensures a seamless outdoor cooking and dining experience. Notably, the thoughtful integration of an outdoor kitchen not only offers unparalleled convenience but also brings about a substantial enhancement in the overall value of your home, promising lasting enjoyment and a smart investment for the future.
4. Add a splash of color to your backyard
“Think outside the box when it comes to sprucing up your yard by placing spots of bright color in your living space, and then continuing the color out into your yard,” says Beckie from Hall Landscape Design.
“You can do that by adding things like bright-colored pots with beautiful plantings, bright yard art such as float balls, a glass birdbath, a colorful statue, etc.a bench with a bright pillow, or add a little stone pathway to those areas as well – have fun with your spaces. This will make your yard inviting, and it will naturally draw your eye out so you can enjoy the entire yard.”
5. Fire Pit
A fire pit stands as a captivating addition that not only introduces warmth but also infuses a charming ambiance into the cool evenings, thereby solidifying its position as a highly sought-after backyard element. Whether you opt for the rustic simplicity of a basic fire pit or the more sophisticated allure of a carefully designed built-in masterpiece, this cozy extension creates a welcoming environment for social gatherings with friends and family.
6. Utilize water features
Enhance the tranquility of your backyard with a water feature, such as a fountain, pond, or waterfall. The soothing sound of flowing water creates a serene atmosphere, inviting you to unwind and escape the stresses of everyday life.
7. Install a pergola
Enhance the ambiance of your backyard by incorporating a charming pergola or arbor, which not only offers shade but also introduces some elegance to the outdoor space. The addition of climbing plants like ivy can artfully adorn the structure, turning it into a lush and picturesque focal point.
8. Outdoor lighting
Enhance the functionality and charm of your backyard well into the evening hours by strategically incorporating a thoughtfully designed outdoor lighting scheme. Use a selection of gentle, inviting lights to cast a warm and enchanting glow that effortlessly transforms your outdoor space. In addition to improving the aesthetics of your backyard, outdoor lighting can also be a safety feature.
9. Playful elements for kids
If you have children, consider incorporating playful elements like a swing set, sandbox, or treehouse into your backyard design. These additions provide endless fun and foster creativity for younger family members.
10. Add eco-friendly touches
Enhance the environmental integrity of your backyard design by integrating a range of sustainable features. Embrace the concept of responsible living with components like advanced rainwater harvesting systems, thoughtfully curated native plantings that thrive in your region’s climate, and the utilization of eco-friendly materials in your landscaping projects. By making these eco-conscious choices, you not only contribute positively to the health of the planet but also reap the rewards of diminished long-term maintenance expenses.
11. Comfortable seating and outdoor furniture
Invest in quality outdoor furniture to make your backyard a comfortable and inviting retreat. Choose weather-resistant materials like rattan, teak, or metal to withstand the elements and ensure durability for years to come.
A final note on backyard home improvement projects
With these backyard home improvement tips, you can transform your outdoor space into a captivating oasis of relaxation and entertainment. Whether you opt for lush landscaping, an outdoor kitchen, a cozy fire pit, or a water feature, each enhancement adds value and beauty to your property. Create your dream backyard and enjoy the perfect sanctuary for memorable moments with family and friends.
Ever wondered what it’s like selling rural real estate or doing land deals? Al Wisnefske specializes in these types of real estate transactions and has set up some unique systems to scale his sales. Hear how he markets to buyers and sellers, where he gets his leads, and what it takes to make out-of-state real estate referrals. Al also shares advice for new real estate agents and talks about his real estate investing strategy. Don’t miss it!
Listen to today’s show and learn:
Al Wisnefske’s start in real estate [3:15]
Al’s real estate transactions in 2022 [7:20]
The type of property $250,000 can get you in rural Wisconsin [8:36]
How Al got his first real estate deals [10:04]
Direct mail marketing, radio ads, and text campaigns [12:40]
How to get leads for texting and what to text [14:31]
Ways to text leads without getting into trouble [17:14]
Approaching properties as an agent and as an investor [20:04]
What Al wishes he knew as a new real estate agent [23:34]
Investing in real estate actively versus passively [24:46]
Wisconsin real estate market predictions [28:17]
What to do with nationwide real estate leads [31:16]
Advice for new real estate agents [36:25]
Where to find and follow Al Wisnefske [40:45]
Al Wisnefske
Al grew up in the rural part of Washington County. It’s there where he grew a fascination with land, farms, and country homes. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point in 2014, he decided to take his knowledge, experience, and entrepreneurial spirit into the real estate industry. As the Managing Partner of Land & Legacy Group, Al knows firsthand that sellers can be assured that their finest asset is being fully showcased, and the relationship they have with a real estate brokerage will be unsurpassed. Since 2014, Al has helped his clients buy, sell, or invest in everything from sprawling rural estates to first time dream homes for young couples. Al has the skills, knowledge, and insight necessary to deliver unsurpassed results for all different kinds of real estate needs.
As a Realtor, communication and connection is what keeps Al’s clients coming back for more. At the core of who Al is and what he stands for is unsurpassed customer service, insightful opinions and negotiation, honest advice, and endless support. For these reasons and more, he is proud to have numerous raving fans and repeat and referral clients. As an advocate, he knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast. People overlook what you can do and who you can become. Through his own personal struggles as being the “shy kid,” he learned how strong he could be. As he fought for what he dreamed of, he learned that no dream is too hard to make a reality. He’s faced scrutiny from teachers, employees, classmates, family members, and friends. He grew stronger each time adversity was put in front of him. It took over 20 years to climb this mountain, but when he did, everything else he wanted to achieve was within arm’s reach.
Al has not only helped hundreds of clients move in and around Wisconsin he is also an active member in our community.
He’s previously served on the Washington County Deer Advisory Council (CDAC)
He’s held the office of branch President for the Quality Deer Management Association (QDMA) Kettle Moraine Branch.
With these groups, he got a firsthand look at the interaction between our local community and Wisconsin’s hunting heritage.
More recently, he has been an active sponsor for:
Kettle Moraine ATV Association
Wisconsin Wildlife Federation
Multiple other local businesses and organizations, including serving on the Community Relations Committee of the Cedar Lakes Conservation Foundation
As a local business owner, he can relate to the walls and barriers one can encounter along their business journey. He believes in a strong investment and giving back to the fabrics of his communities.
His reach goes far beyond real estate and changes the lives of those who interact with him in a positive way.
Related Links and Resources:
It might go without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway: We really value listeners like you. We’re constantly working to improve the show, so why not leave us a review? If you love the content and can’t stand the thought of missing the nuggets our Rockstar guests share every week, please subscribe; it’ll get you instant access to our latest episodes and is the best way to support your favorite real estate podcast. Have questions? Suggestions? Want to say hi? Shoot me a message via Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or Email.
Everyone loves a good celebrity story—the dazzling red carpets, the breathtaking performances, and sometimes… the scandals. From Justin Bieber to Meghan Markle, each star brings their own set of controversies that make us scratch our heads in disbelief. But what’s worse than a scandal is when an influential celebrity gets away with toxic behavior without facing any repercussions.
In today’s blog post, we’re counting down 20 celebrities whose questionable deeds mostly flew under the radar. So if you want to learn more about who wasn’t caught in these webs of drama, keep reading!
1. Nicki Minaj
One user posted, “Nicki Minaj and oh god where to begin…. She paid for the bond of her brother, who was convicted of s-xually assaulting his 12-year-old step-sister, and years later went on Twitter and accused the girl’s mother of extortion, but let’s just say the forensics evidence in court made it VERY clear the child was not lying.
“She dressed as a fairy princess and ‘demanded’ a woman in a wheelchair walk.
“She married a man who had broken into a 17-year-old girl’s home, put a knife to her back and attempted to assault her… She then went on to her radio show and told over 10 million people that the victim was a white woman (she was not) who was lying to an innocent black man due to spite. The victim has been harassed by her fans since, even receiving death threats.
“She gloated in a now-deleted tweet about how she fires her employees who ask for days off. When asked, she would tell them to think about the days she wanted off but never got, and if they still wanted the day off after her spiel, she would fire them.
“She’s consistently a very vile person, and it seems no one cares enough to say anything about it.”
2. Kirk Douglas
“Kirk Douglas. R*ped Natalie Wood and probably more. Still regarded as a legend,” one user shared.
Another user added, “It was a violent [too], from what I read. He was a horrible man. Comparing women to dogs.”
“…And maybe killed a pregnant girlfriend. I don’t think they ever found her body,” one commenter replied.
3. Jack Nicholson
One Redditor said, “In 2000, Jack Nicholson beat a woman so severely that she sustained permanent damage to various regions of her brain.”
Another user asked, “Why haven’t I heard of this? What a [horrible human].”
One user replied, “Nicholson is getting up in years as he’s in his mid-eighties now, and rumour has it that he’s got Alzheimer’s—hasn’t made a film in several years. If some of the more unsavoury and sinister stories about him are true, it’s likely to come out after he passes. Once he’s gone, I don’t know whether his several adult children would have the clout and influence to suppress something like an exposé biography.”
4. Oprah
One Redditor commented, “Oprah. Oprah started the anti-vaxxer movement by bringing on Jenny McCarthy and Andrew Wakefield and didn’t bring out an actual scientist to dispute the claims. She gave them the voice that they should never have had, and because of it, she has the blood of every person who has died because of their anti-vaxxer beliefs on her hands.”
Another user added, “Oprah and Meryl Streep enabled and supported Weinstein for decades. I’ve even heard stories about them directing young hopefuls in his direction, knowing full well what he would do. Somehow they haven’t had a word said against them for their behaviour and are treated as modern-day saints.
“No amount of wearing a ‘Times up’ button and espousing girl power nonsense will cover up the fact that they were complicit in his crimes. But because they are so powerful, rich and (most importantly, women), they have gotten away with it without much mention. I get you can’t be held responsible for someone else’s actions. But they knew, and they were fine with it.”
5. Charlie Chaplin
“Charlie Chaplin treated his children and teenage wives with relentless cruelty,” one user shared.
Another user replied, “There was a documentary on Chaplin where they tried to wave all these ‘[abusing] teenage girls’ [claims] away by basically saying: ‘Oh, women in Hollywood are all jaded cynical;… Charlie just appreciated the pure innocence of young girls before they corrupted themselves.’ I remember thinking they should have just ignored the issue entirely if that was the best they could come up with.”
6. Ellen DeGeneres
One Redditor posted, “Ellen got away with it for a long time.”
Another user shared, “Ellen always had a nasty streak, all the way back to her Carson appearance. Her humour was always based on pain, but she crossed a line when she went from exploring it to inflicting it on others. I honestly think she had some incredible insight into modern culture, but it’s all [thrown] away by being a sh-thead. Losing her sitcom really seemed to have broken something in her.”
One user replied, “Remember when she tricked a celebrity (don’t remember who) into revealing she was pregnant on her show, which is a massive breach of privacy in a world where famous people need to fight to keep anything private.
“Then the woman had to announce sometime later that she suffered a miscarriage. Sure, it’s not Ellen’s fault that it happened, but if she had just minded her own business, this person would not have to deal with her trauma publicly. There’s a reason some people wait a few months to announce a pregnancy.”
7. Paul Walker
“The internet still seems to go all lovey when Paul Walker comes up, but he was literally mid-thirties when he started hooking up with his 16-year-old girlfriend. I never understood why he got a pass for that,” one user shared.
Another user replied, “Cause he died young and starred in a successful franchise.”
8. Antony Starr
One user shared, “[Antony] Starr, who plays homelander on The Boys, was harassing women at a restaurant. A 21-year-old chef tried to be diplomatic with him, and Anthony smashed a bottle against his face; when he literally had glass shards implanted in his eyebrows, Anthony said, “You don’t know who you’ve messed with, you don’t know who I am and what you’ve done. You’ve committed the mistake of your life, and I’m going to look for you. I want to kill you.”
“There’s a reason why his co-stars say he’s most like his characters. The way he got so violent after someone being diplomatic with him and the desire to continue wanting to destroy him, as indicated verbally by him, are clear signs of someone on the psychopathy spectrum and someone with the wealth and status to habitually and casually get away with treating people terribly.”
9. Victor Salva
“Victor Salva. Director of the Jeepers Creepers films. Less toxic, more convicted [child abuse] behaviour, but nobody seems to care and keeps giving his films—which are clearly him living out his fantasies of tormenting young boys—the time of day,” one user commented.
Another user replied,” (Not so)Fun fact. He filmed jeepers and creepers right next door to an elementary school and high school. I was at the high school when it was filmed. Total piece of sh-t.”
10. Dr. Phil
One user shared, “Dr. Phil. He literally sent troubled teens to an abuse camp (‘ranch’) to ‘fix them.’ The workers physically, emotionally and s-xually abused those kids.”
Another Redditor responded, “You can just call him “Phil.”
11. Phil Spector
“Phil Spector used to point guns at everyone in the studio and would threaten people on a daily basis. He made a gold coffin for his wife in case ‘she would ever leave him.’ Yet, people were surprised when he murdered someone.”, one user shared.
Another user added, “He held Ronnie Bennett captive and abused her for years. She gave up custody of her children and all future earnings on her recordings during the divorce out of fear he would hire somebody to kill her. His kids all say he s-xually abused them and kept them captive.”
12. Kobe Bryant
One user commented, “Kobe got away with r-pe…
Kobe’s defenders claim Kobe is innocent by citing something the victim allegedly said after the trial, ‘I’m going to make so much money off of this,’ even though every publication that initially reported this eventually had to take their article down. And even then, maybe it’s ok to be happy considering what Kobe’s PR team, the media, and celeb worshippers who say the same stuff you’re saying put her through?”
13. Steven Tyler
One user posted, “Steven Tyler makes me want to vomit. I hate how Aerosmith is still played all over.”
Another user added, “I am almost certain that when their guitarist went solo in the 80s, Tyler’s BS was part of the issue, and only part of the band wanted to sober up. Amazing what a large contract with tons of money can make some people come back to, though.”
14. Joan Crawford
“Joan Crawford, in her lifetime, physically and emotionally abused her children, and it was not a secret to those close to her. Woody Allen is still welcome in some social circles though he is a [predator] and a sociopath who has groomed and… abused his own children. He married his stepdaughter, a child when they began living together… There’s a long list,” one Redditor posted.
15. Jimmy Page
One user shared, “Jimmy Page. He [abused] a lot of children.”
One user asked, “Wait, what? Really?”
One user answered, “Dude was even caught red-handed with hard drives of child [images]…”
16. Heidi Klum
“Heidi Klum. She’s literally abusing minors on camera AND is making money off of that, but nobody is talking about it,” one user posted.
One user replied, “I couldn’t agree more. I’m from Germany, and just about every woman over the age of 10 watches her show ‘Germany’s Next Top Model.’ In school, my classmates would just talk about this show all the time when it was on, and some of my friends still watch it. I’ve never watched it, and I’m not going to.
“It’s really disgusting what happens there. You are allowed to participate from the age of 16. The participants even have to pose [in nothing] or only in their underwear. Anyone who refuses will be kicked out. There are countless things I could list now, but that would be too much for me. I can not understand how something like this can still be produced and shown. Heidi Klum is a terrible person, in my opinion.”
17. Cardi B
One Redditor asked, “Didn’t Cardi B admit to drugging and robbing guys she had met at the strip club? I was pretty surprised at how quickly the media let her off the hook for that one.”
Another user answered, “Didn’t one of the victims say that being drugged was still a better experience than listening to her music.”
One commenter responded, “That’s hilarious if true.”
18. Woody Allen
“Before Allen v. Farrow HBO came out, Woody Allen used to have supporters on Reddit who would go hard at defending him like the Al Franken supporters do these days. They would link to bullshit publicans and weird pdfs claiming to be from the court case. People would usually give up arguing with them because they were so many, and they were extremely knowledgeable about the case, so they could just keep citing shit whenever people would critique Woody Allen.
“I would keep talking shit about Woody, and sometimes there were no defenders, but weeks later, you would have someone come in and start a point-by-point breakdown about how Woody was innocent and was framed by Mia.
“Then Allen v. Farrow HBO came out, and suddenly, I don’t see these types of comments anymore. I suspect a social media astroturfing campaign was a part of Woody’s PR budget, but then it became exhausted after Allen v. Farrow,” one user posted.
19. Sean Penn
A user also commented, “Sean Penn tied [up] his wife, Madonna,… and beat her. No one seemed to care. Most people don’t even know it, I bet.”
However, one user disagreed, “According to her, it never happened. There are many documented instances of him being an asshole, but I’m inclined to believe her on this.”
20. Billy Joel
“Billy Joel. Dated a 19-year-old Elle McPherson in his mid-thirties. Then moved on to Christie Brinkley. He treated his band, who was co-writing and arranging his songs, like absolute garbage. He then unceremoniously fired them at a producer’s insistence.
“They protested fishing limitations imposed on fishermen on Long Island by getting purposely arrested. The thing is, there were dangerous levels of chemicals in the fish. The restriction was so people didn’t get sick and die.
“He was allowed to play Moscow during the height of the Cold War. They proceeded to act like a total asshole because the film crew documenting it wanted to light the audience. Also, years of being a fat, drunken slob and terrorizing Long Island.” one Redditor posted.
Another user added, “My Father owned an appliance repair company on the south shore of Long Island; he sold it in ’95. Billy Joel was a customer, and my Dad said the man was always a huge [jerk]. He hated doing service calls for Joel and always tried to pawn them off on his apprentice, but that didn’t always happen, and he’d have to go there himself. I wondered why the guy didn’t just buy a new washer, but whatever. Apparently, his brother was a nice man.”
Do you agree with the list above? Tell us below!
Source: Reddit.
These are 10 Things That Completely Destroyed The Love in a Relationship
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Al solicitar una tarjeta de crédito, el alquiler de un apartamento, una hipoteca o un préstamo para un vehículo, hay dos cosas que ayudan a los posibles prestamistas a evaluar la probabilidad de que usted pague según lo acordado: sus puntajes de crédito y sus informes de crédito.
Sus informes crediticios contienen información detallada sobre el uso que usted ha hecho del crédito en el pasado. Esos datos se calculan en una cifra simple que representa su solvencia: el puntaje de crédito.
Piense en los informes como si fueran su historial médico, en el que figuran datos como los síntomas y los resultados de pruebas, y en los puntajes como en el diagnóstico final. Un buen puntaje de crédito es clave para acceder a productos financieros. Entremos en materia:<br>
Puntaje de crédito
El puntaje de crédito es un número que los prestamistas utilizan para evaluar el nivel de riesgo financiero de un cliente. El más utilizado para tomar decisiones crediticias es el puntaje FICO, que existe en múltiples versiones, muchas de ellas puntuaciones especializadas para productos como préstamos para automóviles o tarjetas de crédito. El competidor de FICO, VantageScore, también se utiliza a la hora de aprobar un préstamo. (Puede obtener un puntaje de crédito gratuito de VantageScore semanalmente en el sitio de NerdWallet).
Todos los puntajes de crédito se derivan de la información contenida en sus informes de crédito. Los factores más importantes a tener en cuenta a la hora de administrar su puntuación crediticia incluyen:
Su historial de pagos, y si tiene marcas desfavorables por no pagar puntualmente o por incumplimiento.
Los montos de dinero que usted adeuda en comparación con sus límites de crédito, lo que se denomina el índice de utilización del crédito.
La frecuencia con la que ha solicitado crédito recientemente, lo que se llama “consultas de crédito duras”.
El tiempo que ha tenido sus cuentas de crédito, o su antigüedad crediticia.
Los tipos de crédito que tiene (del tipo con cuotas fijas, como un préstamo para automóvil, o con pagos variables, como una tarjeta de crédito).
Sus puntajes irán cambiando en función de la actividad de sus cuentas. VantageScore y la mayoría de las versiones de FICO oscilan entre 300 y 850. Los puntajes de 690 hacia arriba se consideran “buenos” y los de 720 o más se consideran “excelentes”. El puntaje FICO medio en Estados Unidos fue de 714 en 2022, el mismo que en 2021, según Experian, una empresa que produce informes de crédito al consumidor.
Los dos modelos de puntuación tienen en cuenta los mismos factores, por lo que, si usted tiene un buen puntaje en uno de ellos, es probable que tenga un buen puntaje en el otro.
Cuando solicite una tarjeta de crédito o un préstamo, el prestamista verificará su puntaje de crédito para determinar si usted cumple los requisitos. Es aconsejable que usted mismo consulte su puntaje para hacerse una idea de lo bien o mal que podría evaluarle un prestamista. Esto puede ser de gran utilidad si lo que desea es establecer su crédito.
Utilice siempre la misma versión del mismo puntaje. Es como cuando uno se controla el peso: utilizar siempre la misma báscula elimina las pequeñas variaciones de un aparato a otro.
Informe de crédito
Si usted nunca ha tenido cuentas de crédito, es probable que aún no tenga informes de crédito. Es importante establecer un historial crediticio, dado que los informes pueden utilizarse para determinar la elegibilidad de los solicitantes para préstamos, tarjetas de crédito, alquileres, pólizas de seguro y hasta empleos.<br><br>Si usted ya tiene un historial de crédito, sus informes de crédito incluyen un listado completo de sus líneas de crédito y su historial de pagos, pero no contienen su puntaje de crédito. Los informes son elaborados por tres de las principales empresas de informes de crédito: Equifax, Experian y TransUnion.
Los informes de crédito por lo general tienen muchas páginas, ya que detallan las cuentas y la puntualidad con la que se han pagado los saldos pendientes. La información negativa, como embargos o quiebras, también aparecen en su informe crediticio.<br><br>Sin embargo, en ocasiones los informes contienen errores.
Las quejas sobre datos erróneos en los informes de crédito normalmente representan la mayoría de las quejas sobre informes de crédito o de los consumidores presentadas ante la Oficina de Protección Financiera del Consumidor, la agencia gubernamental que aplica las leyes del consumidor. Solo en 2021, las empresas respondieron a más de 157,000 quejas de este tipo, lo que supuso el 53% de las quejas sobre informes de crédito o de los consumidores de ese año.
Es por eso que es importante examinarlos cuidadosamente y disputar cualquier error que encuentre con la empresa que emitió el informe. La forma más rápida de presentar un reclamo es por Internet, pero también puede hacerlo por teléfono o por correo. Todo el mundo tiene derecho a recibir informes de crédito gratuitos de cada una de las tres empresas de informes de crédito. Solicítelos a través de AnnualCreditReport.com.
Este artículo fue publicado originalmente en NerdWallet en inglés.