The number of mortgage defaults filed during the third quarter fell 10.3 percent compared to a quarter earlier, according to real estate information service DataQuick.
A total of 111,689 default notices were sent between July and September, an 18.5 percent increase from a year earlier when 94,240 hit homeowners’ mailboxes.
“It may well be that lenders have intentionally slowed down the pace of formal foreclosure proceedings, said John Walsh, DataQuick president, in a release. “If so, it’s not out of the goodness of their hearts.”
“It’s because they’ve concluded that flooding the market with cheap foreclosures in this economic environment may not be in their best financial interest. Trying to keep motivated, employed homeowners in their homes might be the most cost-efficient way to stem losses.”
Defaults peaked in the first quarter of this year at 135,431, a number DataQuick believes was inflated due to deferred activity from various foreclosure moratoria.
The median loan origination month of last quarter’s defaulted loans was July 2006; a year ago it was June 2006, so the foreclosure process has moved forward just one month over a year.
“There’s a batch of truly nasty loans that were made in mid 2006. There’s another batch made in late 2006. These are worse than the mortgages before and after, and it’s taking a long time to process them,” Walsh added.
Countrywide originated the most defaulted loans with 7,583, followed by WaMu at 5,146, and Wells Fargo at 4,425.
However, smaller subprime lenders had much higher default rates; ResMAE Mortgage was at 73.9 percent, followed by Ownit Mortgage at 69.5 percent, and BNC Mortgage at 61.4 percent.
Mortgages were most likely to go into default in Merced, San Joaquin, and Riverside counties, and least likely in San Francisco, Marin and Santa Cruz counties.
California homeowners were a median five months behind on payments, or $12,665 on a median $343,200 mortgage, when the mortgage lender filed a default notice.
Trustees Deeds recorded, or the actual loss of a home due to foreclosure, climbed 9.5 percent to 50,013 from the prior quarter, but were down 37.1 percent from the third quarter of 2008, which was the all-time high.
Mike Holmes knows that all home renovations begin with the best of intentions. But if there’s one thing that can send things off the rails, it’s a contractor who isn’t up to snuff.
That’s why Holmes has made it his mission to teach homeowners how to keep projects on track on his show, “Holmes Family Rescue,” which recently premiered Season 2.
On the show, the Toronto-based builder and two of his children, Michael Holmes Jr. and Sherry Holmes, join forces to fix and finish remodels for families who’ve been left high and dry by the workers they originally hired for the jobs.
It’s a situation Mike himself has been in before when he paid someone to redo his driveway.
“It was nothing but a piece of crap, and I never heard from the guy again,” he admits to Realtor.com.
Hoping to help homeowners avoid a battle with a bad builder, Mike and Michael Jr. shared their tried-and-true blueprint for vetting contractors, as well as their personal renovation plans to accommodate the expanding Holmes family, which includes Mike’s newest granddaughter, born just earlier this month. If renovations are anywhere in your future, read on to learn a whole lot about what it takes to get the job done.
What went down with your own bad experience with a contractor?
Mike: I hired who I thought was a great paving guy in the neighborhood. I have a very large driveway, and it was good for the first couple of months, and then after that, it literally fell apart. He did not do what he said he was going to do, and of course, he never came back.
Michael Jr.: Oh, I remember. That was a big job. It had to be completely redone. [My dad] had to bring in a crew of a lot of machines to get that all done.
What is your advice for hiring a reliable contractor, and what are some red flags?
Mike: You need to learn to trust your instincts, because your instincts are almost never wrong.
I have three rules: One, slow down and take your time, because doing any construction on your home is going to take way more work for you than you could imagine. Two, educate yourself. What type of permits do I need? And No. 3, check out your contractor. I mean, we test-drive every single car that we buy in our lives.
Go check out the work that he has given you references for and ask the homeowners 101 questions: Did they start on time? Did they finish on time? Were they courteous? Were they clean? Did they charge you more money at the end of the job?
This is a job for you, and if you don’t do it that way, odds are you’re not going to be in a good position.
What are the most common issues or poor practices that you get called to fix?
Michael Jr.: Electrical is a very common one that we see. You have a handyman or you have a framer, and they’re like, “I can do your electrical as well.” And you end up seeing a ton of fire hazards at almost every job.
Mike: Once you see one thing wrong, odds are there are many things wrong. It’s very rare that it’s just going to be a bad electrician. It just doesn’t usually happen that way. It’s usually a contractor that’s brought in a plumber, or he’s done it himself. The electrical, he’s done it himself. The structural, he’s done it himself. So it tends to be not just one thing, but many things wrong.
A lot of money is inevitably involved in these transactions. How can homeowners protect their investments?
Mike: You should never put more than 10% down because, upon signing a contract, all you’re starting with is tying up their time. In other words, scheduling them.
Everyone needs to pay in milestones. Don’t give them half the money upfront, and then you’re hoping to hell that they come in and do the first half right. In milestones, at least you’re paying upon roughing of carpentry, roughing of plumbing, roughing of electrical.
Once passed by a building inspector, give your money up. That’s what we should be doing.
What rights and recourse do homeowners have if things go south?
Mike: There truly is no recourse. You’re never going to win hiring a lawyer. This is why your instincts need to be very clear. These red flags, start watching them from Day One and know when to stop the job and tell the contractor to leave your home.
What ends up happening is, much like this wonderful family [this season], they’re out their $400,000 and then they’re hoping that he’s going to come back and finish.
“Please, it’s almost done, just finish it, we need to get back in our home!” That is the worst trap you could ever get yourself into. And I wish—because if you stole a pack of gum, you could go to jail—contractors should be going to jail if they’re taking that much money from people and leaving them high and dry. That’s just not right.
What’s the worst state you’ve seen a contractor leave a job?
Michael Jr.: There’s one we did years ago. I was just joining the crew at this time, and this contractor came in, built a new house for these homeowners, and the structure was wrong, the electrical was wrong. Everything this contractor did was wrong, so much so that this house had to be torn down, rebuilt from scratch.
Thinking back to your first personal renovation, what lesson did you learn from that?
Mike: I did my first basement when I was 12! My first personal renovation was probably when [my oldest daughter] Amanda [Holmes] was born. It was the house that I purchased. Soon as I bought it and started renovating—yes, I was living in it, and I tell everyone don’t do that—the recession came and it kicked my butt. That was a whole new learning curve for me.
When it comes to construction, I’m not worried about it—there’s really nothing I can’t do. But I didn’t expect a recession to come in and smack me sideways.
Michael Jr.: Sherry and I, we bought a house together, and one of the biggest lessons I learned was that you need to be organized and you need to have a plan. Without a plan, I ended up turning two rooms into one bigger bedroom. I didn’t have a greater vision of this house and was just doing things off the top of my head, and I ended up having to fix this bedroom multiple times because there was a leak. We bit off a lot more than we could chew.
Speaking of a volatile time in the market, do you have any advice for homeowners taking on a renovation right now?
Mike: Well, now is a different game. It’s just because of interest rates rising, and especially because of the costs of construction materials. You’ve got to be really careful. This is a time that you can really lose a lot of money if you’re not careful. Take your time, and check out your contractor. You can still do things, but be a little more realistic in the times that you’re playing with.
Michael Jr.: And not trying to spread yourself too thin. Prioritize your renovations. Try and work from the outside in. Life in general is just costing more money, and then hiring a contractor, they’re more expensive because there’s a shortage in skilled trade, materials cost more.
When it comes to your own homes, what upgrade have you done that makes you most happy?
Mike: I just finally, after all these years, fixed my house up, the whole first floor—kitchen, bathroom, mudroom, laundry room, new furnace, new ductwork, new electrical, new plumbing, new structure—and I think it was about time.
[My longtime partner] Anna [Zappia] deserved a new kitchen, and she finally got it. And it’s completely open concept, so every window on the first floor sees out to nothing but beautiful nature, trees, bushes, gardens. I love it, I really do.
Michael Jr.: My wife and I, two years ago now, we bought a building in downtown Meaford, Ontario. We opened her business in there, and then we did a major renovation on the second story and put in a yoga, Pilates, and fitness studio, a couple of practitioner rooms, a bathroom—completely redid it.
From the before and after, it was like a nightmare and [now] it’s stunning. There’s herringbone white oak flooring. Everything’s new, brand-new electrical, proper panel, so, pretty happy with that.
What still needs to be rescued or made right in your homes?
Michael Jr.: What you need is a spare bedroom for when your son and daughter and new granddaughter come and visit!
Mike: What we’re doing next is a sunroom off the house, and it’s something we’ve always wanted. And with that sunroom, Michael, I’m going to set up the rooms upstairs as a bedroom so you guys can come over and visit me.
Michael Jr.: There we go!
“Holmes Family Rescue” airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m. on HGTV and streams on Max and HGTV GO.
In an effort to get a pulse on the industry and learn more about the tools available to help real estate agents grow their businesses, I sat down with Robert (Bob) Burns, Real Estate Coach, Trainer and Consultant with Leader’s Edge Training, to discuss the resources they offer for real estate professionals.
While there’s no shortage of training available in the marketplace for agents, I quickly learned that for those real estate agents who want to take their career to the next level there is a vacuum in the real estate training space that few – besides Leader’s Edge – are addressing.
In our discussion, Bob shared the fact that “there’s a whole other side of this conversation [i.e. agent training] that’s not talked about nearly enough, and that’s management…the management side of the real estate business. There’s little to no training available.”
Why is this important?
As an agent, maybe you’re thinking that’s no big deal…I’m great at selling, how hard can it be to manage a brokerage?
Ask anyone who’s done it though, and you’ll quickly realize that it’s a lot tougher. For example, how do you know if your commission plan is truly competitive in the marketplace?
Or if you have the right financial reports with the key information you need to manage the brokerage well? Are things slipping through the cracks, or are you on top of every little thing that needs done?
Maybe you were in management before you got into real estate. That’s great, but were you managing employees or independent contractors?
It’s different, you know…the dynamics are definitely not the same.
For example, if you were a sales manager in the retail industry the methods and processes you used to manage employees will not be the same as the ones you need as the manager of a brokerage firm.
“It becomes not about telling people what to do and having, you know, all of that discipline and structure,” said Bob, “it really is an exercise in leadership in generating followership, and building relationships and trust so that these independent contractors that are like, herding cats, will actually follow you to where you want to bring your organization. And that’s a whole other skillset for most people to develop.
“So I love working with managers to help them with their leadership skills, to build followership and also with the nuts and bolts of actually managing their service delivery, their financials, their process…all the stuff that’s required as kind of foundational to their business so they can do the fun leadership stuff and getting people to follow them and recruit agents to their firm and retain them so they stay and help their agents build their business.”
Interested in learning what makes him tick, I asked Bob about how he got into the business.
“I have basically only ever worked in the real estate business. I came out of college with an education background that I didn’t want to use. I found out that education wasn’t for me and I went in an interview with a local real estate company in South Minneapolis – Coldwell Banker Burnett.
“They walked me through the process to get licensed. I became licensed and started my career as a 20 year old kid trying to live in an apartment, trying to help people with their most valuable asset – their home – so I had to learn fast.
“What I love the most about it [real estate] is that your output is pretty much in proportion to the input. In other words, the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. The harder you work, the more you earn and the better you do.”
[PULL QUOTE HERE] “It’s really a meritocracy, and I love that about real estate.”
“Anyone with the right drive, and the right work ethic can come into real estate and make a respectable living for themselves and their family.”
But what should real estate agents expect from the training offered by Leader’s Edge Training?
There are four components to the training; learning, practice, implementation and accountability.
“With adult learners,” said Bob, “especially in a professional environment, we’ll tend not to just learn something for the sake of learning…it needs to be applicable.”
Agents who enroll in the training offered by Leader’s Edge will not only learn something new, they’ll have the opportunity to learn in a very specific way that will help them really retain what they learn.
They’ll learn through implementation and practice, in an environment where it’s safe to practice the skill before the stakes get high.
Also, agents will experience accountability.
Unlike other training programs there’s no “here’s what you need to know, go do it and have a nice day,” agents receive true accountability that will help them implement what they’ve learned in a practical way.
Their coach will question them…“did you do what you said you would? How did it go? What worked? What didn’t work?”, etc.
Bob noted that continuing education for most agents is thought of as “more of a passive, ‘getting my hours in’ type of learning.” Highlighting what makes him different, he notes that, “The training that I provide is more about making a behavioral change in your business, so you can run a more successful practice.”
If you’re an agent who wants to “create change and growth in your business, that leads to making more money and helping more people,” you’re just the kind of agent who would benefit from Leader’s Edge Training.
“The core program that I deliver with Leader’s Edge Training is a “six week, one day a week in-person course,” said Bob. “It’s an advanced course in real estate; everything you need to know and then some to run a successful business. We do before and after measurements; we’re very big on measurement.
“The average participant increases their business 217% versus what they were doing before they took the class,” continued Bob.
“The other component to it, is that while they’re with me during that six week period of high accountability, high motivation – and this really positive environment – the average participant in the class that I deliver will close six transactions that can be traced back to the activities they did with me in the course. It’s very, very measurable.”
In addition to the training, Leader’s Edge offers agents two other resources that can help them grow their business; an app and a podcast.
“The ‘Agent Success’ app that we developed allows you to put in your business goals as a real estate agent,” said Bob. “And it breaks those goals down into quarterly, monthly and weekly activities that you need to complete on a regular basis to reach those goals.
“So if you want to make a certain amount of money in real estate, you put in those goals; you put in how many weeks a year you want to work, and then every day when you wake up the app tells you exactly what to do, how many calls you need to make, how many mailers you need to do, how many doors you need to knock on, how many social media posts you need to make…it spells it all out for you.
“And you can keep track of your activities as you do them, much like a fitness app such as My Fitness Pal or Fitbit or whatever…you can track your activities. And it will kind of assign you points based on the activities that you’ve done. And if you do those activities, you’ll reach your goals and the app help you get to where you want to go.
“It’s available in the iTunes Store and in the Android Google Play Store. We’ve opened it up to everybody; it’s not just Leader’s Edge clients…we want to contribute to the growth of the real estate industry as a whole.
“We’ve made it available for free to all real estate professionals… they can go out and download it and start using it today.”
Without question, in my experience most real estate professionals love to help others achieve success. One such way they can do that is by sharing their knowledge through podcasts.
Bob’s podcast is called “How They Won” and is available on a number of platforms.
“Every week I interview top real estate professionals, mostly real estate agents,” said Bob, “but also people connected to the real estate industry…and they share the secrets of their success.
“The interviews are typically around 30 minutes, and while some episodes have gone as long as 60 minutes I try to keep it 30 to 40 minutes so you can listen as you walk around your commute or on the treadmill or the elliptical at the gym.
“There’s been a tremendous response…real estate agents like to learn from each other.
“And the other thing about about “How They Won”… as I was doing my market research, I noted that there are a handful of real estate podcasts that are out there.
“I’m a big podcast fan…I love podcasts…but the real estate podcasts that are out there, in general, with the exception of a very, very small few, from a quality and organization standpoint, I just find very difficult to listen to.
“So my goal with “How They Won” was to launch something that was of a very high, professional, listenable quality,” continued Bob, “and that was organized and succinct in a way that listeners could actually implement in a short period of time.
“For their time investment, I wanted them to be able to actually implement some of the things that they learned in the podcast.”
At the time of this writing we’re facing a moratorium on physical gatherings, so I asked Bob how he was adapting to the changes brought by the Coronavirus epidemic.
“What I’m doing right now, is a lot of what’s called mindset and motivational work. It’s very hard in this environment for people to do the right things; to hold themselves to a certain standard. They lose track of the discipline of running their business. You’re not going to close as many real estate transactions in this kind of environment.
“So the focus has shifted from a lot of action-based tasks (e.g. make these contacts, knock on these doors, or send out this mailer,) to more of a ‘where are you’, ‘where’s your head at today’. As a real estate agent what are you thinking about? How can we implement some structure in your day so that when we do wake up to a sunrise in the first day of a post COVID-19 real estate market you’re ready…you won’t miss a beat when the light turns green again.”
Taking the cue, I asked a question that I’m sure is on a lot of peoples’ minds; especially those of us in the real estate industry.
“What do you think the real estate industry as a whole is going to look like…at least for the United States after we get the ‘all clear’ so to speak?”
“It’s really hard to say,” said Bob. “I think it comes down to some basic economic factors. The biggest driver historically of real estate, contrary to what almost every written article wants you to believe, is not interest rates.
“Interest rates are not the biggest driver of the real estate market…it’s employment.
“Just like, you know, the old adage in real estate is ‘location, location, location’… the economics of this industry is ‘employment, employment employment’.
“So depending on how quickly we can get home buyers and home sellers back to work is going to shape whether this is a V shaped recovery or a U shaped recovery.
“For example, if you want to buy a house, typically you’re going to need a mortgage to buy it. Mortgage Lenders aren’t going to lend you money if you don’t have a job.
“So these four levels that we’re seeing in these layoffs; if we’re able to kind of sustain those small, medium and large businesses through however long this is, whether it’s weeks or months, if we’re able to keep those businesses open and they’re able to bring their workforce back to work, then I think this whole thing will have a very little impact on the real estate business as a whole.
“It’ll be a setback, but we have a whole bunch of built-up demand happening behind this dam. And when we’re back open for business, all of that pent-up demand is going to be satisfied. And we’re going to see a fast and full recovery.
“If on the other hand, we’re not able to keep these small, medium, large businesses to the point where they’re able to bring their workforce back in, and these unemployment claims that we’re seeing are permanent rather than temporary, I think it’s going to be a much slower recovery as new businesses have to become established to take the place of businesses that didn’t survive.
“And those business have to grow organically, and eventually get back to the point where they can have a payroll where we did pre COVID-19, then I think you’re looking at a much more protracted recovery or a much, much longer recovery if that happens.”
So what should agents be doing now, as we’re in a state of flux?
Unfortunately, we’re in uncharted territory right now, but one things that is vital for every agent to consider is to take the time to work on their mindset.
Social distancing, and in some cases, stay-at-home orders can wreak havoc on your mindset if you let it.
Pay attention to what you read, and what you listen to. Take care of yourself, your family, and your business and when possible, take advantage of this time to expand your knowledge so that you can hit the ground running when the time is right.
Anita Clark is a Warner Robins Real Estate Agent helping buyers and sellers in middle Georgia with all of their home buying or selling needs.Whether she is selling new construction homes, assisting first-time buyers, or helping military relocating to Houston County, she always puts her customers needs first.
In rearranging our loft to make way for little Carter, I may have given up the Apartment 34 Studio space, but I definitely still needed somewhere to work! We also still needed a spot for guests to stay. And I dreamt about how nice it would be to have a little quiet retreat to escape to…So to the upstairs I went. What was once our bedroom has now been transformed from this….
To THIS!
The first thing I did after our bed headed downstairs was paint the walls white! The lofted room only has 7ft ceilings so I needed to do something to make the space feel as expansive as possible. I’ve been a sucker for Benjamin Moore White 01 paint for quite some time. It’s the perfect soft white. It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do for you!
While the upstairs feels much bigger now, actual square footage is still very limited so I had to hunt out as many space-saving solutions as I could. The first score was my adorable mid-century inspired desk. It’s just big enough to hold my computer and that’s all I really need. Sure, I loved all my gorgeous office accessories, but really, when is the last time you used a stapler – even if it is an acrylic one?!
I also wanted to create a little reading nook for the few spare minutes of relaxation I can grab between naps, so a set of picture rail shelves now serve as my magazine rack + place to display personal photos. I love how I can swap out titles to completely change the look. Two black and white botanic art prints from Buddy Editions, framed beautifully by Simply Framed add a nice contrast to the neutral color palette. They really ground the space. Carter also likes to come up and hang out with mama while she may or may not be catching up on email!
All in all, I’m really pleased with how this room turned out. It’s mult-functional, it maximizes every available square inch and just feels inviting. Now the husband often has to go looking for me because I’m tucked away up here!
If you missed the rest of the loft makeover, check it out right HERE.
home office resources: west elm floor lamp // west elm mid-century mini desk // gold speckled cowhide rug // american leather sleeper sofa // jessie balck throw pillows // simply framed custom frames // buddy edition art prints // gap bag as basket // pottery barn kids activity gym // heath ceramics bud vase // diptyque candle
original photography for apartment 34 by aubrie pick
A new study from credit bureau TransUnion revealed that consumers still don’t get it when it comes to smart credit habits.
Conventional wisdom tells us to halt or limit spending during the lead up to a mortgage application, whether it’s a purchase or refinance, but a lot of folks seem to ramp up spending during this critical time.
The company discovered that those who refinance their mortgages greatly increase credit card spending in the month prior to loan payoff, a departure from long held assumptions about credit behavior.
They found this out after combing through data from some 16.7 million credit files where a mortgage was paid off and subsequently replaced with a new one between the first quarter of 2013 and the second quarter of 2015.
Amazingly, consumers who refinanced managed to increase average monthly spend anywhere from 1.7-3X their typical spend in the 30 odd days before closing on their refi.
It’s as if they knew they were either going to get a lower interest rate, and thus a lower monthly housing payment, or were expecting some cash out, so they could go buck wild.
Unfortunately, this is the last thing you want to do when applying for a mortgage.
Can You Just Wait a Month!
If there’s any likelihood you might refinance your home loan
Anytime in the next several months
It’s wise to pump the brakes on any unnecessary spending
To ensure you don’t jeopardize your mortgage approval
Whatever happened to patience? I mean really. You can’t wait a month to buy that new big screen TV or fancy leather couch from Restoration Hardware?
You do realize your credit score can tank if you increase spending on your credit card(s) before and during the loan process, right?
I proved that when I spent a ton over the holidays. My credit score plummeted to the point where I would have had to accept a higher mortgage rate had I refinanced around that time.
Of course, I knew I wasn’t refinancing so it wasn’t a concern for me.
As expected, borrowers in the “Prime” credit category, characterized as those with 661-720 credit scores, made this mistake the most, at least when compared to those in the “Prime plus” and “Super prime” categories.
Those latter categories include borrowers with credit scores from 721-780, and 781-850, respectively.
So prime really isn’t that good…it’s just above subprime (620 cutoff) depending on how prime you actually are.
You Tripled Your Credit Card Spend
While it sounds too bad to be true
Many consumers who refinanced their mortgages
Increased their spending before and after receiving their new loan
Some we’re probably lucky to still get approved!
The Prime folks tripled their credit card spending during the month before refinancing, and once they got their new loan (I’m glad it all worked out), spending remained elevated for many months afterward.
The Prime plus band saw spending more than double its monthly average and it also stayed elevated.
The Super prime peeps were a bit more responsible, only increasing credit card spend by about 1.7X.
Still, in every case these borrowers were committing a cardinal sin – you don’t increase spending before a refinance.
For one, it can tank your credit score, sometimes significantly depending on how you spend. For example, maxing out one credit card is a big no-no. As a result, you might get hit with higher pricing adjustments and thus wind up with a higher mortgage rate.
So your lack of patience landed you with a mortgage rate of 4.25% instead of 3.75%. Good job. That’s your rate for the next 30 years.
Secondly, it can limit your borrowing capacity because you’ll have higher minimum monthly payments related to those tradelines. If you’re on the cusp of approval DTI-wise, it could potentially make a difference, especially if your mortgage rate is also higher to boot.
The solution is really, really simple. Don’t swipe before you refi…that’s it. Just lay off the spending for a month or two and once your loan funds you can go nuts.
Or even go a step further and pay down your debts before refinancing to lower your DTI and potentially improve your credit scores to receive a more favorable interest rate.
By the way, the study also found that prime or better mortgage applicants are 50%+ more likely to open a new credit card during the 12 months following a mortgage inquiry compared to the rest of the population. That actually makes sense.
Read more: Reasons why you can’t refinance your mortgage.
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I’m not really sure about this whole expensive holiday gift thing. I know it’s supposed to be a way of showing love and appreciation, but I think it is too much pressure. Why not give a cheap holiday gift that they will actually use?
Plus a lot of people struggle with finding a Christmas gift for their loved ones, regardless of price.
Some people say that the best gifts are homemade, but not always. I am going to show you 101+ of my favorite cheap but thoughtful Christmas gifts ideas for someone who is on a budget or does not want to spend too much money.
These cheap Christmas gift ideas are for everyone on your list, from the family member you don’t know what to get them to the coworkers who always complain about not getting anything.
You will find the best advice on how to find the perfect present without breaking your budget.
The holidays are right around the corner, and it is time to start thinking about those gift lists! The holidays are about spending time with those closest to you, for many Americans it can be exceedingly difficult to find a decent gift for those from your close circle.
Why Cheap Christmas Gift Ideas
I know that you’re looking for some great gift ideas this year and we have you covered: adults, teens, kids, fashionistas, athletes, teachers, plus so much more!
There are so many inexpensive Christmas gift ideas that it can be hard to know where to start. This article will help you find the perfect present for everyone this holiday season.
The price range will be cheap Christmas gifts under $10 or nice cheap gifts for Christmas under $20. Some items maybe a little bit more expensive, but well worth the extra cost based on the idea!
Find over 250 cheap last-minute Christmas gifts (delivered by Amazon) on this list that I know the recipient will love!
Cheap Christmas Gifts for Adults
Easy cheap Christmas gifts for adults are those that can be afforded by the budget-conscious and the best part is still are awesome gifts.
These gifts usually have a handmade flair or personal touch to them to reflect the recipient’s personality.
To find cheap Christmas gifts for coworkers, you can pick any present on this list.
DIY Jewelry: This is one of the best ways to make multiple gifts for cheap. You can make many types of homemade jewelry.
Mug with their name on it: Make them smile with a customized mug just for them!
Coloring Books: Coloring isn’t just for kids. Adult coloring books are extremely popular and inexpensive to pick up an adult coloring book and colored pencils.
Magazines Subscriptions: Some ideas include National Geographic or Smithsonian. Great way to find new inspiration and ideas.
A Photo Album of your Memories: This can be a physical or digital photo album. A simple way to portray your friendship and experiences together.
Journal: Write down thoughts, ideas, or quotes that they love in the journal. Pick up a plain journal at Target for $5-$10.
Stickers: Add a few stickers from your collection, some ribbon, and scrapbook papers to decorate it!
Movie Night: A movie night with popcorn and some of their favorite movies is a thoughtful, inexpensive gift that everyone will enjoy. Buy a streaming movie or pass to the local cinema.
Handmade Gifts: If you have a knack for the arts and crafts, making a handmade gift is not only thoughtful but also can be very inexpensive!
Coffee or tea from their favorite coffee shop: There’s nothing better than a cup of joe or tea to start the day off right.
A Bouquet of Flowers: Get a bag of those colorful hair ties, and tie them to the stems for an extra special touch!
Collage Frame: A collage frame can be used as a picture frame, or it can be used as a decoration on the wall.
Holiday Decor: This is an affordable and practical gift for someone who loves to decorate their home for the holidays.
DIY-ed Ornaments: Get creative with this craft and let their imagination run wild!
Homemade Treats: Who doesn’t love cookies, chocolates, or homemade baked goods? Even canned salsa or jelly make great gifts!
Stockings: With any number of crafts available to make-you can’t go wrong with a stocking full of goodies for the holidays.
Cookies: Bake up some of your favorite holiday cookies and package them in a festive container for a sweet treat. Perfect to host a cookie exchange as a fun experience!
Comic Books: It can be no surprise to some adults when they think of all the hard work that goes into creating a comic book and see the end product. What’s even more surprising is that more adults don’t try them.
Handmade Gifts from Kids: If your child loves to paint, draw, or make things with their hands-this is the perfect opportunity for them.
Cheap Christmas Gifts for Teens
Coming up with Christmas gift ideas for teens can be tough. Teens are often too old to play childish games like Monopoly or Jenga, yet they’re not quite ready for more grown-up games like Trivial Pursuit.
There are a lot of inexpensive gift ideas for teens from the mall, but teens often want something more personal and unique to show they are maturing.
If you are looking for cheap gifts for teens, you can try any of these present ideas.
Gift cards are always a huge hit with this age group! Double bonus if you can make it a fun way to spend some time together. Make sure that your teen is comfortable with this idea.
iPod Touch / iPhone / iPad Accessories: A new case, screen protector, and a few apps are always great. Whether it’s to show off or just something fun, this is a great idea.
Journal: This gift will help your teens reflect on the year and all of the good things that happened!
Fun Colors to Write With: The festive design on these pens will make teens want to use them all year round. Fun gel pens are wonderful gifts for all ages; they are inexpensive and come in a variety of colors.
Fashion Designer Scarf: This gift will help your teen express his or her individuality while also staying warm during the winter months.
Room Decorations: Checking out new colors and themes for the room is a fun way to spend some time together. Plus they may be ready for a change from their younger decor.
Makeup: Teens love makeup and skincare items, so make it their job to pick out a few new things they want.
Candles: Having a nice scent can help relax and soothe your teen before bedtime. These versatile gifts come in many shapes. It is also how teens feel more grown-up.
Hand-Painted Mug: Handpainted mugs are perfect for all the coffee and tea lovers in your house, and they are so easy to make! This can be an experience gift, too!
Handmade Jewelry: this is an affordable yet creative holiday present
Trendy Socks: These are always a great gift for anyone. Not only does it keep your feet warm, but it can be fashionable too!
iTunes Gift Card: Let them download a favorite song or album.
Movies: Movies are a great gift to give especially if it’s one of their favorites or they’ve been wanting to see it!
Clothing: The recipient will love getting some new clothes-especially if they’re trendy and stylish, or their favorite store has a sale going on that you know about.
Special Treat: A special treat is a great way to show someone that you care about them and appreciate all they do.
Cheap Christmas Gifts for Kids
Kids are the most precious gift of all. They’re also notoriously hard to buy inexpensive presents for – they normally want gifts that are outside your price range! Fortunately, these Christmas gifts will have your child smiling from ear-to-ear.
Cheap easy Christmas gifts for kids are especially not difficult to find and you have plenty of inexpensive gift ideas, – plus your bank account will thank you for it.
At the end of the day, kids don’t really care what it costs as long as they like it.
Stuffed Animals: Give them the gift of a new favorite toy that they can hug and take with them everywhere-just make sure to tuck in an extra battery for their new favorite toy.
Paper & Stickers: A package of paper and stickers is perfect for kids who love to create their own projects or write notes, letters, or holiday cards. This pack is also perfect for young ones who are just learning how to write.
Colored Pencils & Crayons: Colored pencils and crayons are a fun way to keep kids focused on their art. These pens will help them create original masterpieces.
Customized Shirts: A new shirt is a great way for kids to express their personality, and it can also be an easy outfit of the day solution when they’re running out the door.
Puzzles: Puzzles are a great way for kids to learn new skills and stay entertained on rainy days. They also make excellent stocking stuffers!
Ice Cream Variety Pack: A yummy variety pack of ice cream will make their day.
Play Doh: Kids love play doh, and it’s a great way to keep them entertained for hours! It also makes a great stocking stuffer.
Colorful Pens: Kids love to color, so give them the opportunity with some bright new pens! They’ll have fun for hours doodling on all their things.
Slime: Slime is all the rage right now, and kids can make their own with this kit.
Sippy Cups: Kids love sippy cups because they’re fun and easy to drink from! They also come in a variety of designs and colors.
Kitten: They will love this sweet little creature that they can cuddle up with in winter.
Fidget Toys: Fidget toys are a great way to keep kids entertained and focused with some fun. They come in a variety of colors and shapes, making them perfect for all ages!
Star Night Light: This was one of my daughter’s favorite gifts (even her older teen brother was jealous). Huge hit to light up the wall at nighttime.
Remote Controlled Car: A remote-controlled car is a great gift idea because it can be played indoors or outdoors. It also makes for hours of fun!
Make Your Own Soap Kit: This kit will allow your child to make their own soaps at home with some fun ingredients. They have a variety of colors and scents available which they can use to customize the soap for their own preference.
Board Games for Kids: Board games are a great way to keep entertained while bonding with their friends and family. They come in different levels of difficulty, making them perfect for all ages.
Nature Exploration Set: A nature exploration set will help to inspire your child’s curiosity and creativity. The kit includes a journal, binoculars, magnifying glass, and more!
NERF: NERF toys are classics for kids of all ages. They’re great to take on family vacations or just to play with friends.
Dolls: Dolls are a classic toy for girls and they come in all shapes and sizes. From Barbie to Baby Alive, there’s plenty of options available!
Spirograph: A Spirograph can keep kids entertained for hours. They design pictures with the help of an included pen and paper.
Rock Painting Kit: A rock painting kit will allow kids to express their creativity by decorating rocks.
Bead Kit: A beading kit is a great way to teach kids about colors and patterns. It also teaches patience as they work with the small beads
Sewing Kit: Sewing kits allow kids to create their own stuffed animals and clothes for themselves.
Drawstring Backpacks: Helpful to keep their stuff organized on outings, vacations, or events when the kids need to be entertained.
Kids love getting gifts, and these cheap Christmas gifts ideas are perfect for any child!
Best Cheap Gifts for the Foodie Cook
One of the most difficult parts about shopping for a gift is coming up with creative ideas.
This list is full of affordable gifts is perfect for that friend or family member who loves to cook and bake!
Here are some of the best cheap gifts for the foodie cook.
Charcuterie Board Set: This is the perfect gift for the foodie that loves to cook with meat. It provides an assortment of meats, cheeses, fruits, and bread in a beautiful wooden tray.
Mason Jar Set: This gift is perfect for a friend or family member who loves to cook. The set includes six pint-sized jars with lids and can be personalized with the recipient’s name.
Salt and Pepper Grinder: This set comes with salt and pepper grinders for the foodie who loves to cook.
Gourmet Spices: Spice up a friend’s cooking experience with this assortment of spices from around the world.
Frother: Perfect for milk frothing for coffee, lattle, milk shares, hot chocolates, and matcha powder. You need one of these and everyone else around you does too!
Mini Stand Mixer: This is a perfect gift for a friend who loves to cook and bake! The mixer comes with attachments such as a whisk, dough hook, and flat beater.
Fondue Pot: This pot is perfect for families that enjoy eating together! The set includes a fondue pot, forks, skewers, dippers, and dipping sauces.
Cookie Press: This press is perfect for a friend who loves to bake! The set includes a cookie press, dough sheet mold, rolling pin, and recipes.
Oven Mitts: You don’t want your foodie gift receipeint to burn their hands. Replace their worn-out oven mitts with one of these stylish oven mitts.
Hot Sauce Set: Every foodie needs some hot sauce in their fridge. This set includes 3 bottles of the hottest sauces around, plus a recipe book for beginners.
Spice Rub Set: Give your foodie friend the gift of spices especially if they love to grill or have a Traeger! This set includes salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder.
Teapot Set: This is for all those tea drinkers out there. This set includes a teapot and infuser ball.
Tea Bags: Add on to the teapot set and deliver a set of tea bags with a bunch of different flavors.
French Press: French press brewing prevents an over-extraction of flavors; the grounds only add flavor regardless of how little or how much coffee is steeped. Expand their coffee experience!
Coffee Grinder: This is for all those coffee drinkers out there who like to make their own custom blends.
Bamboo Cutting Board: Over time, we all have to replace our words cutting boards at some point. So, this makes a chop-worthy gift.
Tea Towels: These are great for drying dishes, wiping counters and so much more. Find a catchy saying they will love to display!
Sourdough Banneton Proofing Basket: If they are hooked on the sourdough trend, then they need one of these to elevate their breadmaking skills.
Bread Lame Scouring Tool: A must for anyone who makes sourdough breads!
Batter Bowl: This is a great kitchen tool for mixing batters, making pancakes, and more. It will be a welcome addition to the kitchen!
Flour Sifter: This is another one of those necessary tools in the kitchen.
Coffee Mug: For coffee lovers, this is a great gift idea!
Salt Cellar: This is a nice addition to the kitchen and it will hold those hard-to-reach salt and pepper.
Cheese Plane: This tool makes cutting cheese into perfect, uniform slices – making cooking and serving a breeze.
Saute Pan: This pan is great for frying, sautéing, and more! It’s perfect for the average home cook or budding chef.
Zester: This handy tool is perfect for adding flavor to dishes with just the slightest touch.
Meat Thermometer: This is a tool that can’t be beaten especially for the grill master. This one is by far the best on the market!.
Pizza Cutter: This is an essential kitchen tool for any pizza lover!
Ice cream scoop: This ice cream scoop is perfect for any ice-cream lover. It comes in 2 different sizes of scoops and they come in a variety of colors.
Cooking Class: Give them the gift of cooking skills-it’ll be something they can use for years to come!
Best Cheap Gifts for the Homebody
Holiday shopping can be a stressful time, but not to worry. Here are some great gifts for the person who has everything and doesn’t want anything.
Consider these cheap, homey gifts that will please any loved one or host.
Weighted Blanket: For those who love to cozy up with a blanket, this one might be the perfect weight and size for them.
Hot Cocoa Mix: This is an easy way to ensure that your loved ones have a delicious treat from their kitchen.
Wool Socks: This is a great item to have on hand for the winter months.
Tea Infuser: This one will help your loved ones in their journey of self-discovery.
Homemade Snow Globe: Grab a this snow globe kit and make your loved ones their own little winter wonderland.
House Shoes: A pair of these comfortable shoes will be something your loved ones can wear around the house.
Cozy Blanket: These blankets are made to keep you warm and cozy during those cold winter nights.
Popcorn Popper: This is a fun gift that they will all enjoy especially on movie night.
Jigsaw Puzzle: Give them a puzzle that will keep their mind sharp and occupied.
Board Games: More than likely they prefer to have people over to enjoy good old-fashion board games and a night of laughter with friends!
Comfy Pajamas: A new set of cozy pajamas is sure to be a hit with the kids.
Robe: A new robe is a great gift for those who love to lounge around in their comfiest clothes.
These are some Cheap Christmas Gift ideas for those who are on a budget!
Best Inexpensive Gift Ideas for Spa Lovers
The perfect gift for anyone who loves to pamper themselves is a spa gift card. Spa gift cards are the perfect present because it gives the recipient freedom over what they would like to do during their stay.
There are many different spa gift cards available on the market, so it is easy to find one that suits the recipient’s personality and budget.
If you can’t find a group of people to go in on this idea, then turn their home into a spa experience.
Bath Salts: These are perfect for the person who loves to relax and take baths. All they will need is a nice scented candle or bath bomb, their favorite book, and these salts to make themselves feel like royalty.
Candles: These are perfect for the person who loves to relax and read, or just has a nice smelling home. There are many different scents available so it is easy to find one that suits the recipient’s personality.
Aromatherapy: This gift idea is perfect for those who want an inexpensive yet thoughtful gift. There are many aromatherapy oils to choose from, but the two most popular would be lavender and peppermint
Diffuser: These are perfect for someone who enjoys a deep and restful sleep, as well as those who enjoy shut-eye at night to take away any stresses or worries. A few drops of these oils in a diffuser or humidifier will soothe the recipient and ease them into relaxation before bedtime.
Tea: This is perfect for the person who enjoys a good cup of tea. A nice box of loose leaf teas is sure to be appreciated and used for many, many years to come!
Cookies: This may seem like a typical and uninspired gift that most people would choose, but it is thoughtful and they will appreciate the thoughtfulness.
Scalp Massager: This is great for those with a sensitive scalp. It helps to soothe the skin and will leave them feeling relaxed
Shower Speaker: This is a great gift for someone whose favorite song isn’t Top 40. They will be able to listen to their music while they shower.
Manicure Dip Starter Kit: This is a great gift for those who love to paint their nails
Hyaluronic Acid: Help maintain the hydration of the outer layers of skin, which helps to improve its appearance.
Hair Mask: This is a great gift for someone who loves to pamper themselves, especially if they are in need of moisture.
Lip Sleeping Mask: A gentle overnight moisturizer for dry, sore lips.
Microfiber Hair Towel Wrap: This is a great gift for someone who spends a lot of time in the pool or at the beach. It is quick and easy to help dry your hair faster.
Handheld Massager: Seriously, this is the best gift ever. Plus the cost has been coming down each year.
Cheap Gift Ideas for the Fashionista
If you are looking for an affordable, fashionable gift idea that is also fun and creative then this list has something to offer you.
Here are some ideas for the fashionista on a budget.
Scarf: Scarves are always in style and can be found anywhere. You can get a nice one for only about $25, depending on the brand.
Tote bag: A tote bag is a necessity for school, the mall, and even just running errands around town. You can find them anywhere from $5-25 depending on what type you want.
Pandora Bracelet: The Pandora bracelet is a beautiful piece of jewelry that can be bought with any budget in mind, and it’s a great option for people who want to give something that will last. Great gift to add charms each year.
Earrings: Earrings can be a great gift for someone you know who is really into fashion. You can find them at the drugstore or even in some clothing stores, and they cost anywhere from $5-20.
Belt: A belt is great for someone who doesn’t have too many accessories, or if you just want to spice up an outfit with a new piece of jewelry.
Hair Clips: Hair clips are a great gift for someone who spends most of their time at home because you can clip them in your hair to keep it out of the way while you do chores. Also, great for those trendy messy up-dos!
Felt Hat: A felt hat can be a great gift for someone who goes to the beach a lot, or just likes wearing hats because it’s cold outside. They last longer than other types of material and they can be a really inexpensive gift.
Jewelry Dish: Find a small dish at the dollar store and decorate with paint or fabric to make it look pretty!
Re-gift Jewelry: Add jewelry from your old collection that you don’t wear anymore (maybe some old costume jewelry?).
Sunglasses: Sunglasses are one of the most popular Christmas gifts, and they can be found cheaply at many stores. I bought a pair for under $15!
Watch: Watches can be found at many stores for a cheap price. Watchmakers are competing to lower their prices as they try and go against the trend of cell phone watches, which is why you can find a nice watch for under $10.
Sweatshirt: A good sweatshirt is a woman’s best friend. It will keep you warm during the winter and can easily be dressed up or down depending on what you’re wearing-It doesn’t have to be too expensive either, with most stores having sales or clearance racks that are perfect for picking up gifts.
Nail Polish: The best thing about nail polish is that you can buy it in a lot of sizes, from the little bottles that are perfect for stocking stuffers to larger ones that come in packages of 5 or more. Great stocking stuffers!
Yoga Pants: We all know yoga pants are a girl’s best friend. But, y’all the prices of these yoga pants are amazing, and did I mention how many I have given as cheap gifts?!?!
Winter Gloves: Some people might think winter gloves are odd to put on a Christmas list, but they make such great stocking stuffers!
Shopping Bag: This is a great present for someone who likes to shop! I know what you’re thinking, “how do they not have one?”
A New Outfit: Even if the person you are buying for is not a fashionista, clothes still make great gifts. And if you know what their favorite style of clothing is then nows the time to indulge them in some new clothes!
Some suggestions are old and some are new, but all of them will be perfect for the person you want to give a gift to.
Cheap Gift Ideas for the Makeup Artist
Check out these cheap beauty Christmas gifts for the makeup artist on your list. These are great for anyone that has a budget of $10 or less.
Makeup: Find out what brands your friends, family members, or classmates like and buy them the makeup in that brand. You can find this information at their favorite retailers or by asking around to see which brands they wear.
Nail Polish: Buying nail polish as a gift is a great idea because you can buy them the exact color they want to wear and it’s usually not too expensive.
Perfume: If your budget is $10 or less, you can buy a nice perfume that smells great and it will be something they use often.
Bath Bomb: If you’re shopping for someone who needs to relax, then a bath bomb is the perfect gift.
Specialty Coffee Mug: You can find these for fairly cheap and they’re something that people will use every day so it’s great. Find a fun coffee mug with an artsy flair!
Lip Stain: Lip stains are a really popular product because they’re long-lasting and come in so many colors. This is perfect for someone who loves makeup!
Makeup Brushes: Any good makeup artist knows the quality of the brush makes a difference. You can find a decent brush at an affordable price!
Silicone Makeup Sponges: These are perfect for applying makeup evenly and providing coverage.
Reusable Beauty Products: For the eco-conscious, find plenty of reusable beauty products. You will be surprised at this list.
Gather all of these makeup supplies and put them together for a creative gift basket!
Cheap Gift Ideas for the Athlete
Sweating is gross, so this guide has come to help! It’s tough when you have an athlete in the family because they are always on the move.
Athletes will have to replace their equipment and clothing because of use.
Here are some nice, thoughtful gift ideas for the athlete on your list!
Water Bottle: Sometimes I feel like I can never have enough water bottles!
A pack of compression pants: I wear them for my sport because they help with the swelling and protect against injury.
New backpack: I use mine all of the time!
Headphones: These allow people to listen to their favorite music or podcast while getting the sweat on.
Full-zip fleece jacket: I love being able to bundle up when it gets cold! This is a thoughtful guide for the athlete on your list for before and after workouts.
Polarized Sunglasses: These help protect eyes from glare and add style to any outfit.
Music Subscription (ad free): This is a great gift for the athlete who loves music!
Yoga Mat: Yoga mats are great because they’re environmentally friendly and also come in a bunch of different colors. Sometimes it’s nice to be able to stretch out and do some poses on your own. Plus the experts say we should stretch every day.
Sports Watch: Preferably with stopwatch and alarm clock. THey need to time those tabata crossfit workouts.
Running Gloves: These are thoughtful gifts for someone who loves the outdoors and running.
Foam Roller: A great gift for the athlete who is looking for a little bit of extra relief.
Folding Bike: This is a thoughtful gift idea for someone who loves to bike ride but doesn’t have space for a bike. This one is more expensive, but a great idea to go in with others on!
Sports Massage Oil: This is a thoughtful gift for the runner, cyclist, or anyone who gets sore muscles. Pick a hand massager to go with it!
Camouflage Pillow: This is a great present for an outdoorsy person who has their head in the clouds.
Good Socks: Have you ever smelled the stinky socks?!?! Enough said.
Sports Tape: The runner in your life will need this present to keep them on the go.
Sports Bra: This is a great present for someone who participates in any activity that requires it! One that fits well and is made of quality materials. Plus an affordable price!
Fleece Headband: This is a great present for the runner in your life who also likes to wear their hair up when they’re not running.
Yoga Pants: This is a great present for someone who likes to keep their activities active. Or just wears yoga pants every single day to be trendy. No one needs to know why! These are my favorite brand.
Athletic Shorts: This is a great present for the person in your life who likes to wear their athletic shorts outside of working out. Plus, come on it’s not like they’re going to be wearing them over clothes so people would notice.
Resistance Bands: These are great for the person who likes to keep their workouts active, but doesn’t have a ton of space.
Light Set of Weights: Everyone needs to have some weight training as part of their workouts. Pick up three or five pound weights to help them reach their workout goals.
Armband for Phone: When you workout, you may want to keep your phone with you to track the steps or distance you worked out. This is an armband to keep your phone and simple enough to change your workout music.
Latest Fad Cookbook: In need of a great gift idea for the person in your life who likes to cook but always seems to have not-so-perfect dishes? This is perfect! Gift them this latest fad cookbook and they’ll be able to make all the popular, Instagram-worthy dishes that you see on TV.
Sneakers: Maybe you are lucky enough to score a pair of comfortable, breathable athletic sneakers on clearance!
I’m sure they’ll be appreciative of any one of these gifts!
Cheap Gift Ideas For Teachers
This list of cheap teach gifts for Christmas will help you choose a thoughtful and useful present that won’t break your budget.
Essential Oil Set: A true favorite for teachers who like to use aromatherapy in their classrooms or at home. This is our favorite essential oil set.
Stress-relief Hand Sanitizer: Teachers are always on the go, so they can use a little help to keep them stress-free. Plus, germs are no fun for anyone!
Personalized Mask Lanyard: Personalize your teacher’s mask with their name, school mascot or work logo.
Tiger Balm: This is a classic product for teachers and athletes alike! Tiger balm will help soothe your aches and pains.
Lounge Pants: Nothing reminds a teacher of home like their favorite TV show! A few years ago my mom gave me a really cute pair of lounge pants and I still wear them. The cut is oversized with pockets for my phone and remote which make it perfect for relaxing on the couch.
Smart Plugs: These plugs can be controlled on an app from anywhere. That means the teacher doesn’t have to worry about forgetting to turn their lights off before they left for work.
Personalized Stamp: A teacher’s stamp of approval is the best kind. This personalized stamp will help teachers quickly get through their paperwork.
Amazon Gift Card: Teachers deserve to take a breather and use some of their hard-earned cash on themselves. A gift card is the perfect way for friends or family members to say “thank you.”
Wireless Headphones: Music is a great way to get the energy going and keep kids psyched up, but it can be tough when they’re working on group tasks. Wireless headphones like these ones from Sony
Day-by-day Calendar: The last thing teachers need is to scramble for a blank piece of paper whenever they want to jot down notes. The day-by-day calendar is perfect because it’s got enough space for writing, but it’s compact enough to tuck into a drawer.
Magnetic Dry Erase Whiteboard: After all the long hours spent at school, who wouldn’t want their own personal whiteboard where they can write, draw, and erase?
Lunch Boxes: There is nothing better than a home-packed lunch. These stainless steel containers are compact enough to carry with you, but they’re also roomy enough to hold a sandwich, fruit, and veggies.
Educational Activity Books: If you’re looking for something that’s not only fun, but chock full of learning activities and information, these books are perfect for further learning.
Cheap Christmas Gifts for Mom or Her in your life
All of these are great inexpensive ideas for buying on a budget
Shopping for a great gift for women or moms can be hard, but not too much with these affordable options.
Little Succulents: This is a cute DIY gift. All you need are succulents, a pot with dirt, and some other accessories if desired.
Bath Bombs: These are great for anyone, including people who enjoy a good bath every now and again. They come in various scents so you can find something that is sure to please.
Chapstick: This is perfect for the person in your life who always has chapped lips or complains about dry skin on their hands when they are outside too long during winter months.
A Book: It may seem like the most unimaginative gift, but it’s perfect for someone who enjoys reading and is looking for something they haven’t read yet. Books are also a great way to get someone hooked on a series so you can recommend their next read.
Slippers: These are perfect for the person in your life who is constantly complaining about how cold their feet are.
Candles: This is a perfect gift for someone who enjoys relaxing or reading after dinner and the scent fills up the whole house with aromatherapy benefits.
A Scratch Off Map: This is a great gift for someone who enjoys traveling or seeing the world. It’s very personalized and they can see how many countries they have visited.
A Coffee Mug: This is a great gift for the coffee lover in your life. You can put anything on it such as their favorite book, television show or artist and they will be reminded of you every time they drink their coffee.
A Memory Blanket: This is a great gift for people who are always cold and it can go with them anywhere in the world because it folds up easily.
A Personalized T-shirt: This is a great gift because it’s very personal and you can put anything on the shirt that has meaning to them such as their favorite sports team, favorite food, or where they have traveled.
A Personalized Finger Drum: This is a great gift for anyone who loves to play drums because it has their name engraved right on the drumhead.
Cheap Christmas Gifts for Men
The following items are inexpensive and will make any man, dad, or boyfriend insanely happy! The cheapest gifts can be the best!
Here are some budget-friendly, manly, fun, and creative ideas for Christmas presents.
A New Shirt: You can find many options for cheap shirts. Grab one with a funny saying he would enjoy for an out-of-the-park win!
Belt: Belt prices vary by brand, but can be found for as low as $10.
Wallet: Wallets can also vary by brand and cost, but often end up being around $15.
New Socks:: Many men enjoy their sock collection. You can always add on to replace their worn-out socks.
A Tie: Ties can be found for as low as $5.
Watch: The watch market is a tough one to navigate, but if you know your partner’s style and budget beforehand it can be easier to find what you’re looking for.
A Tie Clip: You can usually pick one up for $5 or less, and it’s something that he’ll wear every day!
Old-school Vinyl Record Player: Old school vinyl is making a comeback and can be found in all sorts of different styles.
Latest Board Game: Board games are always a fun gift idea. You can pick up the latest hot game for less than $20
A Good Book: A good book is always a great gift idea. You can find them for as low as $5 and books are something that never goes out of style!
Cash: Let’s be honest… most men like to have the cash to spend as they please with no questions asked.
Cheap Christmas Gifts for Friends
You may not have a lot of money for this Christmas, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give your friends something thoughtful.
These inexpensive items may not be the most lavish of presents to give a friend this year, but they are sure to be appreciated and useful!
Whimsy Kit: A Whimsy Kit is a small package that includes activities such as drawing, coloring, and collaging. It can be used in classrooms or at home to relax and have fun.
Poster Board & Markers: A poster board and markers are perfect for making holiday cards to send out or decorating with a festive design.
Fun Scrapbook Pens: Fun pens are a wonderful gift for any age to bring color to their writing, coloring, or journaling.
Scented Candles Kit: Scented candles can be used for the holidays, but they also make a great gift for any time of the year. The smell will bring a warm and cozy feeling into your home.
Gold Foil Blanket: A gold foil blanket is perfect for snuggling up in the car when you are stuck in the car!
Cute Pillow Case: A new pillowcase is a fun way to change things up in your bedroom or living room. The best part about these gifts are that they can be given with other items, like the gold foil blanket or a fun pillow.
Comfy Socks: When it’s cold outside, there is nothing more comforting than a good pair of socks. These make a great gift for someone who spends most of their time at home or just loves to relax.
Bracelets: Jewelry is a great way to show someone you care. Bracelets are not only cute but they go with any outfit!
Christmas Ornament: A Christmas ornament makes for the perfect stocking stuffer. They are usually inexpensive and they can be used year round to decorate your home for the holidays.
Christmas Fun Pack: It is always fun when Santa sends a surprise in the mail, so why not surprise your friends with a Christmas Fun Pack!
Shower Steamers: These will make a great gift for someone who is your best friend, especially if they like to take long showers.
Flashlights: These are fun and practical gifts that will come in handy during the dark days of winter.
Tissue Box Covers: A unique and inexpensive gift for the person who has everything, these tissue box covers will make any house seem a little more homey during cold winter months.
Chocolate: For the person that has everything, you can’t go wrong with some chocolate.
Cheap Christmas Gifts for Coworkers:
A quick, easy, and affordable way to get the perfect gift for your coworkers this Christmas is by giving them a coworker appreciation gift basket.
These inexpensive gifts are great for bosses or employees. They can be personalized so it’s a gift that will really stick with your coworkers.
Planner: This is a great way to give your coworkers something they will really use. They can write down their goals, schedule, and use it as a to-do list.
Personalized Stationery: This is such an adorable idea and can be so much fun for everyone involved. These are the perfect gifts that will make your coworkers feel special this holiday
Putting Green: This is a great gift that they can use to practice their putting skills in the comfort of their own office.
Desk Organizer: A desk organizer is a great way to start your day off with a clean and organized workspace.
Timeless Candle: This candle helps you enjoy the holidays or winter season while relaxing in the office.
Coffee Mug: Every office needs a good coffee mug to stay energized and motivated throughout the day.
Personalized Mouse Pad: You could get them their favorite movie, sport or hobby as a personalized mouse pad and they’ll enjoy using it every day at their office.
Luxury Pen: This is the perfect gift for that person who has everything and needs something to help them write down their thoughts and ideas.
Desk Lamp: A desk lamp can help you read in your office when it’s dark outside so all the daylight hours are available for working on projects or catching up on paperwork.
Ink Pen: This is a great gift idea for anyone who likes to write or doodle. You could get them this as a refillable pen and they can use it to write down their thoughts or ideas.
Laptop Tote Bag: This is the perfect gift for anyone who likes to travel and needs something stylish but functional to carry everything in one place.
Plant pot & planter: This is a great gift for someone who likes to spend time in their garden or on the porch. You could give them this as an opportunity to grow something new and have something beautiful in their office that is all their own.
Journal: This is a classic gift that people like to get for themselves or others. You can find many different styles and sizes of journals, making it easy for you to find the perfect one for your recipient.
Watercolor set: This is a great gift if you know someone who loves to paint or draw. It is an opportunity for them to tap into their creative side while also having the materials that they need to create something beautiful or special for someone else.
Keychain: This is a great gift for anyone because everyone needs keys! You can get them a keychain that has their name on it, or you can get them a cute one for someone they love.
Laptop sleeve: This is a great gift for anyone who has to have their laptop with them at all times. They come in so many different colors and designs, so you can find one that fits your friend or family member perfectly!
Monitor riser: If you know someone who has a desk job, they’re probably struggling to stay focused on their screen. This is the perfect gift for anyone who spends time at work looking down all day!
Best Cheap Christmas Gift of them All – Gift Card:
A gift card is a prepaid credit or debit card that can be spent in any number of stores, restaurants, and other venues as desired by the purchaser.
This option is great for people who are the “hard to buy for” type.
Even a $10 or $20 gift card to somewhere they like is better than a gift to sit on the shelf unused.
Giving a gift card is always an easy way out, but it can be more useful than materialistic gifts they may not use.
You can never go wrong with a gift card to their favorite store!
You can Buy Cheap Christmas Presents that Look Expensive
I know that this time of year can be so busy and stressful. It’s hard to find the perfect gift for everyone on your list, especially when you have a tight budget. But there are so many fun and creative ideas that won’t break the bank.
You’ll find the perfect gift for everyone on your list!
Hopefully, you can find cheap Christmas gifts under $20 or less. Most of these power ideas you can pick up on Amazon or Etsy.
Christmas is often a time where people try to get the best gifts for their loved ones. In order to make these gifts more affordable, it’s smart to think about ways that can lower expenses.
One way to do this is by choosing gifts that can be combined with other items. Or even choosing a no gift Christmas.
It is always fun to give a gift to someone special on Christmas. However, sometimes you feel uncertain about what the perfect present is for somebody else.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our cheap but thoughtful Christmas gift ideas!
With these items, your loved one will have a great Christmas! Be sure to check our blog for more money saving tips!
Need More Inexpensive Christmas Gift ideas?
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
If Memorial Day 2023 was any indication, travelers should brace for big Fourth of July crowds at airports. On the Friday of Memorial Day weekend, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened roughly 2.7 million people at U.S. airports, the highest checkpoint volume thus far in 2023.
And summer travel is only just getting started. In 2019, the Friday before Memorial Day was the third-busiest day at U.S. airports for the entire year, losing only to the Sunday after Thanksgiving and the Sunday after July Fourth. This may indicate that airports could be even busier around Independence Day than Memorial Day weekend.
Making Fourth of July travel predictions is tricky this year because the holiday falls midweek, on a Tuesday. Some folks may take Monday off to enjoy a long weekend, while others may save their vacation time for a different holiday.
With that in mind, here’s some guidance around booking July Fourth weekend air travel and how you might be able to avoid the crowds (and potentially save money on airfare).
The best and worst days to fly July Fourth weekend
TSA collects data daily to capture the number of passengers screened at its U.S. checkpoints. NerdWallet analyzed the past four years of this data for the seven days before and after July Fourth.
In each of the past four years, the Friday before July Fourth was the busiest travel day ahead of the Fourth of July weekend. If that trend continues this year, travelers should expect U.S. airports to be especially full on Friday, June 30.
Are airports busy on July Fourth? The data shows the holiday is the least busy day to fly, with airport crowds averaging just 81% of what they are relative to the busiest travel day.
Based on an average of the past four years, here are the worst days to travel around July Fourth weekend, ranked from most to least crowded.
Pre-holiday:
Friday before.
Thursday before.
Monday before.
Post-holiday:
Sunday after.
Monday after.
Thursday after.
Instead, consider these options. Here’s what the data showed as the best days to travel over July Fourth, ranked from least to most crowded:
Pre-holiday:
Saturday before.
Tuesday before.
Sunday before.
Post-holiday:
Saturday after.
Friday after.
Wednesday after.
The smarter, cheaper Fourth of July travel itinerary
Based on recent historical trends, most people will kick off their Fourth of July weekend as early as possible, jetting off on Friday, June 30 — or even ducking out of the workweek early by departing on Thursday, June 29. Most travelers will likely maximize their weekends, waiting until Sunday, July 9, to fly home.
But following typical July Fourth holiday travel patterns could mean costs in terms of airfare and time spent waiting in line at the airport. Deviate from that schedule to find lighter crowds and perhaps better July Fourth flight deals, too.
Try these travel days instead:
Embrace Saturday travel: Rather than rush out from work on Friday afternoon to jump on a flight, relax at home that evening and depart Saturday morning instead. Simply shifting your trip by one day could likely result in going from one of the busiest to lightest travel days of the July Fourth travel period.
The same goes for traveling back home. While it can be tempting to extend your trip as long as possible before work starts on Monday, skip the Sunday flight and fly home on Saturday instead. Bonus: You’ll give yourself a day at home to rest and recover before you hit the next workweek (how responsible of you).
Fly on July Fourth: If you don’t mind traveling on the holiday, you’re looking at the single emptiest air travel day of the period.
Do one better by flying out early on the holiday. Travel booking app Hopper’s spring 2023 Flight Disruption Outlook found that flights that depart from 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. are half as likely to be delayed versus flights with scheduled departure times after 9 a.m.
Plus, a morning flight improves your odds of catching the fireworks at your final destination.
Fly on Wednesday, July 5: Will July 5 be a busy travel day in 2023? Likely no. This year, July 5 falls on a Wednesday, one of the cheapest days to fly year-round. Plus, according to TSA’s data, July 5 has been a consistently light travel day. In 2019, July 5 was the lightest travel day for the week after the holiday (July 5 fell on a Friday that year).
Moreover, for U.S. domestic economy tickets in 2022, Wednesdays were about 22% lower than peak prices on Sundays, according to a NerdWallet analysis of Hopper data.
July Fourth travelers in 2023 can feel confident that a July 5 flight itinerary will afford them cheaper airfare plus less congested airport queues.
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:
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Berkeley Property Management: Understanding General Wear and Tear in Rental Properties + Precautions Landlords Should Take (2023)
The third quarter of the 2021 Market Medians Report indicates a significant rise in new tenancies in Berkeley, with a 104% increase (1863 new tenancies) compared to the same period in 2020 (913). If you own a residential property in Berkeley and are hesitant about finding a new tenant due to concerns about general wear and tear, it may be worthwhile to reconsider your decision.
As a landlord, finding reliable tenants for your Berkeley property management is crucial. It is essential to comprehend the natural deterioration in rental properties and the precautions landlords should take.
Did you know?
The total average rent ceiling in Berkeley for the year 2021 stood at $2,137.60.
The concept of ‘wear and tear’ usually refers to the expected deterioration of a residence and its fixtures due to regular and foreseeable usage over a period of time. It is common to encounter damages in any residential property due to regular, everyday usage. Examples include faded wall color or cracks in corners or on the floor. Such deterioration takes place throughout a tenant’s occupancy of the property.
It is typical for your property to experience wear and tear as a result of tenant usage, so you should anticipate the following damages.
Faded or cracking paint is a common occurrence in residential properties that are in use.
As part of your Berkeley property management responsibilities, it is important to address any damages or cracks in the flooring that you may encounter and ensure they are repaired.
The doors or door frames may suffer damage due to humidity.
It is common to discover cracked window panes in the house, which can be attributed to various reasons.
Over time, the color of the carpet may diminish due to cleaning and exposure to light or chemicals.
Regular usage can damage bathroom tiles, bathtubs, and other similar fixtures.
It is essential to be aware of significant damages that can be categorized as losses to your property. Furthermore, the tenants may have purposely caused the following damages:
Carelessness can lead to the breakage of windows or doors.
Unwanted stains on the wall or wallpaper may be present, which were not approved.
Mishandling can result in a broken sink or bathtub.
Habitability and Maintenance
As a Berkeley property owner, you must understand the concept of habitability and repairs. It is mandated by regulations that rental units must be in a condition suitable for living, meeting the habitable standard. A rental unit is deemed habitable when it meets the standards outlined by state and local building and health codes, ensuring its suitability for human occupancy and prioritizing the well-being and safety of tenants.
Did you know?
California law assigns different repair responsibilities to landlords and tenants. However, landlords ultimately bear the legal obligation to ensure the habitability of their rental units.
Maintenance Duties of the Tenant
Your Berkeley property management task won’t seem difficult if you are planning to find tenants if you are aware of the maintenance rules of the tenants. According to the law, tenants are responsible for maintaining the rental units in good condition. It includes keeping the areas clean and free from damage. Tenants are also accountable for repairing any damages caused by their neglect and addressing damages caused by individuals under their responsibility, such as family members and pets.
Did you know?
According to law, when a rental unit is uninhabitable, the landlord may not have a legal obligation to make repairs if the tenant has failed to fulfill their responsibilities.
Precautions That Landlords Must Take
Making Withdrawals from Security Deposits:
If you clearly understand the concept of general ‘wear and tear,’ you would know that it is a normal occurrence. If you come across any damages caused by tenants’ negligence, you can deduct the necessary amount from their security deposit. The leading providers of property management services always suggest that it is important to familiarize yourself with local laws before taking any action in this regard.
Have Before and After Images:
Prior to the tenant’s occupancy, it is essential to capture photographs of every area within the rental unit. Remember to share these pictures with the tenants when handing over the keys. Similarly, when the tenants vacate, take photographs of the previously documented areas and compare them. This will enable a discussion on any damages that may have occurred and facilitate finding a resolution.
Tenant’s Background Check:
Among your Berkeley property management responsibilities, you must perform comprehensive background checks to ensure that responsible tenants occupy your property. Additionally, you can review all prospective tenants’ complete eviction history report before making a decision.
Endnote
As a landlord, it is wise to make informed decisions regardless of who you choose to lease your residential property to. It is advisable to familiarize yourself with state and local laws for tenants and landlords. Furthermore, finding responsible tenants is of utmost importance, so it is recommended not to rush into decisions. If you encounter difficulties reaching satisfactory resolutions even after discussions, seeking assistance from legal experts is highly recommended.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. Rental providers will not refuse to rent a rental unit to a person because the person will provide the rental payment, in whole or in part, through a voucher for rental housing assistance provided by the District or federal government.
Editor’s note: TPG’s Erica Silverstein accepted a free trip from Oceania Cruises to attend the unveiling of Vista. The opinions expressed below are entirely hers and weren’t subject to review by the line.
“Is this a luxury cruise ship?” That was the question on everyone’s lips during the maiden sailing of Oceania Cruises’ Vista, the first new Allura-class vessel to debut for the upscale cruise brand.
We gawked at the beautifully designed public spaces, with their detail-oriented accents, eye-catching light fixtures and highly textured materials. (Yes, I petted the walls of the elevators and stroked every chair.) We luxuriated in enormous standard cabin bathrooms and sumptuous Tranquility Beds. We dined on exquisite freshly made pasta, perfectly cooked fish and decadent desserts. We ordered smoked, bubbled, herbed and ice-balled cocktails at the ship’s craft cocktail bar and took photos of each creative concoction.
Vista is clearly a ship for travelers who love to explore new destinations, prioritize fine dining and premium beverages and immerse themselves in chic surroundings. However, in the cruise space, this ship is clearly in the upscale category and not true luxury.
Then again, when you’re curled up on a circular day bed, drink in hand, on a resort-style pool deck in the Mediterranean, Vista might just provide all the luxury you need.
Overview of Vista
Vista debuted in May 2023, the first new ship for Oceania Cruises in a decade and the flagship of the line’s new Allura class. It carries 1,200 passengers in cabins and suites that all have either a true balcony or a French veranda (meaning you can open doors to the fresh air but can’t step outside).
The ship’s target demographic is well-off, mature couples who are looking for destination-focused itineraries on a ship with elevated dining. For a small, 67,000-ton ship, Vista wows with eight restaurants, plus a bakery and private dining rooms for wine-paired meals. It also stands out for its expanded Culinary Center, for cooking classes and demos, and Artist Loft, where passengers can get crafty under the tutelage of resident artists.
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Fans of the line will appreciate that Vista is modeled from sister ships Marina and Riviera, and the layout is strikingly similar.
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Vista is not an all-inclusive ship, but it’s more inclusive than lines such as Celebrity Cruises or Holland America. Its fares cover all dining (except for private, wine-paired dinners), fitness classes, nonalcoholic beverages and in-port shuttles. Its booking promotions may offer additional inclusions, like free Wi-Fi, airfare, excursions, beverage package or shipboard credit.
What I loved about Vista
Dining choice
Some people love to return again and again to their favorite restaurants; others prefer to try a new venue every time. I fall into the latter category, so I loved that I could eat at a different restaurant each night of my cruise on Vista.
I could get dolled up and go to a steakhouse or Italian restaurant, or I could play it casual and eat on the buffet’s outdoor terrace or at the pizzeria. I could enjoy a multi-course sit-down lunch or take my pick of eight burgers at the grill. Vista also had plenty of options for between-meal grazing – a quiche from the Bakery, a scone at Horizons’ afternoon tea, or a cookie from the Concierge Lounge.
Not only did Vista’s large selection of eateries keep my meals interesting, but there wasn’t a bad option in the bunch. Sure, sometimes I didn’t order the right dish, but I enjoyed every meal I ate on board.
Design
Vista will wow you with its gorgeous looks from the moment you step on board. The atrium gives a knockout first impression with its stunning floor-to-ceiling sculpture with a changing light display.
The bold center archway of the Grand Dining Room will immediately catch your eye, as will the ceiling design of the intimate Privee dining room. Each specialty restaurant has been designed with care, from the brick oven-inspired ceilings of Ember to the pagoda-style floor lamps in Red Ginger.
The noteworthy Grand Lounge sports geometric chandeliers and glass shelves of vases and glass sculptures, while the faux wood paneling on the pool deck sets it apart from any cruise ship Lido you’ve ever seen. The glam settings make you feel like you’re a movie star and add to the decadent feeling of being on vacation.
Cocktails and mixology program
The new mixology program on Vista is one of its standout features. I happily ordered cocktail after craft cocktail at the Founders Bar in the name of research, trying drinks with smoke bubbles on top, frozen fruit balls in their center and unique ingredients (like tea) in their centers. The concept turns your standard pre-dinner drink into a playful and exciting event. It also makes a ship carrying mainly retirees feel hip and trendy.
Vista also carries a line of nonalcoholic “liquors” to make zero-proof cocktails that taste like the real deal, as well as nonalcoholic beer. It’s a fabulous option for sober cruisers or travelers who need to rest their livers after a lively evening. Unfortunately, not all bars carry nonalcoholic cocktails. On my cruise, I found them on the menu at the new Aquamar restaurant and Horizons observation lounge.
What I didn’t love about Vista
Nightlife
I failed to find anything serious to critique about Vista, so what I didn’t love about the ship is more about my personality than any real failing of the cruise line.
Evenings on Vista do not offer a variety of pursuits. You can go to a bar, with or without music. You can try your luck at the casino. You can attend the one show each evening, but only if your dinner time allows for it. That’s pretty much it.
My cruise did not offer karaoke night, evening trivia and games, or a pool deck party. I missed the two special-guest acts, a pianist and a guitarist, and the song-and-dance performances by the onboard cast failed to impress. The ship didn’t offer any secondary shows at night — no comedians or musical acts you came to listen to and not talk over.
To be fair, small-ship upscale cruising isn’t about nightlife, and most travelers on Oceania are perfectly content with a long dinner, an evening dancing or drinking in Horizons and an early bedtime. The library does have some board games you can borrow, so consider that as an alternative activity.
Service
One should never judge a ship’s service based on its first sailings when the crew is still getting used to each other and the layout and procedures of a new ship. I mention service solely to answer the question of why Vista isn’t considered a luxury ship.
In terms of hardware, Vista is one fine ship, which rivals the vessels belonging to luxury lines like Silversea Cruises and Seabourn, even nipping at the heels of over-the-top sister line Regent Seven Seas Cruises. It’s in the “software,” so to speak, where the line relegates itself to the upscale sector. And that’s fine.
In addition to not offering truly all-inclusive fares, Vista doesn’t offer the personal, often fawning service you find on true luxury lines. I barely met my room steward. No one offered to carry my plate at the buffet. The chefs weren’t offering to make me dishes off-menu, and on occasion, I had to work to flag down a waiter to bring me a drink. Personally, I’m fine with this level of service, but it does not put Vista in competition with ultra-luxury ships.
The few service issues will improve over time. But Vista, by nature, will never offer the crew-to-guest ratio or over-the-top service levels you’d expect to find on a more expensive cruise line.
Vista cabins and suites
Vista has only eight major cabin and suite types, making cabin selection a relatively straightforward process. Its three main non-suite cabin types – French Veranda, Veranda and Concierge Level staterooms – have identical interior layouts, so you’re really only choosing between perks and exterior space.
New and noteworthy on Vista are Oceania’s first dedicated solo cabins, 270-square-foot balcony cabins with a twin bed, smaller bathroom and slightly narrower design than a regular veranda room. They’re Concierge Level rooms, so solo travelers get extra benefits, such as access to the Concierge Lounge and Aquamar Spa Terrace.
My cabin was a regular Concierge Level room with a private veranda. At 291 square feet, it was the same size as a Veranda room, but with a slightly nicer interior design. (French Veranda rooms are identical to Veranda rooms in design, but where the Veranda cabins have a private balcony, French Veranda rooms have floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to a railing; you can get fresh air but you can’t step out.)
I was very happy in my Concierge Level room on Vista. Oceania’s Tranquility Beds are some of the best in the business, and I loved falling asleep between a snuggly duvet and 1,000-thread-count sheets. Even better, the bed is flanked by three-drawer nightstands, 100V plugs and USB ports and reading lights.
Storage is decent with a two-door closet, two deep drawers in the desk, two coat hooks on the wall and a few additional shelves. It was the perfect amount of space for me, but I could see how a couple might fight over the drawer space.
The room had a mostly forgettable love seat, other than it looked nice and pulled out into an extra bed. The oval marble table was a perfect size for room service breakfast.
The highlight of the room, in my opinion, was the spacious, marble-tiled bathroom. Here, there was storage in spades: two glass shelves in the large shower, one large drawer and shelf space in the vanity and a corner unit with four deep drawers and three shelves in a mirrored cabinet. The shower had a rain head and a wand on an adjustable mount. The large no-fog mirror lit up at the touch of a button, perfect for putting on makeup.
I also appreciated the comfortable, padded balcony furniture. Standard balconies on Vista come with two upright chairs and a round drinks table, but the cushions made the seating comfier than the mesh-and-metal versions you find on many big-ship cruise lines.
Other thoughtful touches in the room include an electronic thermometer and do not disturb sign touchpad, quiet-close drawers, wooden hangers and carafes of Vero water, plus reusable water bottles to take on tour (to reduce single-use plastic water bottles). The mini fridge was stocked with soft drinks, though my cabin attendant didn’t seem to notice that I was drinking exclusively club soda. You’ll also find the requisite safe and hair dryer (neither of which I used), an umbrella and a shoehorn.
Concierge Level rooms come with extra perks, most of which are useful but not necessary. You get access to the lovely Aquamar Spa Terrace, with its hot tubs, day beds and thalassotherapy pool. You also get access to the Concierge Lounge on Deck 9; I don’t know why you’d want to watch TV in this windowless lounge, but I appreciated the 24/7 drinks and snacks and access to a concierge.
Other amenities include a welcome bottle of Champagne, pashmina-style cashmere lap blankets for use in your cabin and a tote bag. Perks include priority embarkation, lunch and dinner room service from the Grand Dining Room menu (I totally missed this one), priority specialty restaurant reservations, and complimentary laundry (up to three bags), pressing (on embarkation day) and shoeshine service.
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Penthouse Suite on Vista. ERICA SILVERSTEIN/THE POINTS GUY
For those with an urge to splurge, Oceania has four additional suite categories, each with butler service and access to an Executive Lounge. The Penthouse Suites are simply an expanded version of the balcony rooms, with additional closet and seating areas. The Oceania Suites have a full living and dining room, a separate guest or TV room, large balcony, guest bathroom and marble-clad master bath and dressing area. They are mostly found on Deck 12, but two on Deck 11 aft have wraparound corner balconies.
The eight Vista Suites, which I didn’t see, are even bigger than the Oceania Suites and located at the front of the ship, so they have extra-long wraparound balconies. The three Owner’s Suites span the entire aft width of the ship, with two balconies, and are designed by Ralph Lauren Home. A light-filled grand foyer opens onto the living, dining and bar area on one side and the enormous master bedroom with king-sized bed, walk-in closet and generous bathroom with soaking tub and ocean-view shower.
Vista restaurants and bars
Oceania prides itself on being a foodie cruise line, and Vista carries on the line’s tradition with six major dining venues included in the cruise fare, over-the-top extra-fee wine-paired private dinners and a new mixology program that goes above and beyond what its competitors are offering.
It’s hard not to nitpick a line that brags it has “the finest cuisine at sea” (and has even trademarked that tagline). Each meal may not be the best you’ve ever had on a cruise ship, but each meal you have will be solid, with plenty of choice of both where to dine and what to select from the menu. Vista is certainly a ship foodies will appreciate.
Restaurants
I made a point to try every restaurant on board during my weeklong cruise, and it actually took some scheduling to make it happen. It’s a good thing most of Vista’s sailings are 10 days or longer, so you have ample time to sample all the dining venues and even make repeat visits to your favorites.
You are allowed to make at least one advance reservation for each of Vista’s four specialty restaurants — possibly more depending on the length of the cruise and the type of cabin or suite you book. Once on board, you can ask if there’s walk-in availability for additional meals.
The Grand Dining Room is perhaps the most gorgeous main restaurant I’ve ever seen on a cruise ship. The design, with white archways in the center of the room, is also functional; it separates the giant venue into nooks, so it doesn’t have that hotel ballroom feel.
At breakfast, you can order everything from grilled lamb chops and broiled kippers to omelets, pancakes and lighter fare, such as yogurt parfaits. The highlight of the lunch menu is the “Taste of the World” sampler platter themed around a different country each day.
The dinner menu makes three suggestions for themed meals: selections from Jacques Pepin’s namesake French restaurant on Vista’s sister ships, global cuisine and Aquamar Vitality cuisine (ie lighter dishes). Don’t miss the creative Humphry Slocombe ice cream for dessert, with flavors like Elvis the Fat Years and Harvey Milk & Honey Graham.
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Terrace Cafe on Oceania’s Vista. ERICA SILVERSTEIN/THE POINTS GUY
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The Terrace Café is Vista’s buffet venue with indoor and outdoor seating. The stunning wall mosaics set the tone for the sophisticated spread you can sample here. Think daily sushi, an array of fine cheeses, made-to-order omelets, pasta and steaks and premium ice cream (including one Humphry Slocombe flavor at lunch and dinner). The vegetarian options weren’t always the best at the Terrace Café, though it often had gluten-free pasta.
On either side of the Terrace Café are several new and returning casual dining venues that should not be overlooked.
Waves Grill has always been one of my favorite grill venues at sea. Midday, it serves sandwiches, hot dogs, grilled entrees (mahi mahi, cajun chicken) and a huge selection of burgers, including Wagyu, veggie and salmon, in addition to the classic cheeseburger.
In the morning, it offers a downsized breakfast buffet with made-to-order omelets. At night, it transforms into a pizzeria with Italian-style pizza, a burrata menu (do not miss the burrata and tartufo dish) and a sinful Nutella pizza dessert. Pro tip: You can place an order at Waves and ask for your dish to be delivered to your table at the Terrace Café, so you don’t have to choose between the options.
Past Oceania cruisers might wonder where Waves’ famous smoothies and power bowls got to. The answer is Vista’s new “healthy” dining venue, Aquamar, set up on the opposite side of the Terrace Café from the Waves Grill.
In the morning, don’t miss Aquamar’s selection of avocado toast or its freshly made juices, unusual lattes and smoothies. (You haven’t lived until you’ve spiked your morning OJ with turmeric and cayenne pepper.) Energy bowls, banana pancakes and omelets round out the breakfast menu.
The lunch menu at Aquamar is vast. You can order poke-style bowls or compose your own, do a breakfast repeat with omelets and avocado toast, or order sandwiches from around the world, including tuna tacos, falafel pita, a Mexican chicken wrap or an Impossible burger. Wash it all down with a nonalcoholic cocktail that will have you convinced you’re drinking the real thing.
All the previously mentioned restaurants allow you to dine at will, but Vista has four reservations-required dinner spots that are the stars of the show. Three return from sister ships Marina and Riviera, while one is new, replacing French restaurant Jacques.
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Ember restaurant on Oceania’s Vista. ERICA SILVERSTEIN/THE POINTS GUY
The new entrant to Oceania’s food scene is Ember, serving inventive American fare. Though the venue is one of Vista’s signature restaurants, it has a more casual vibe than the others, and meals here don’t take quite as long. Consensus on my sailing is the standout dishes are the spinach and artichoke dip, lobster mac and cheese (with an actual hunk of lobster-in-the-shell on top) and the triple chocolate brownie sundae.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is Polo Grill, Vista’s fanciest restaurant, where dinners can take hours. It’s a classic steakhouse in a dimly lit setting with an enormous menu where protein is the star.
While it was perhaps not my favorite dining venue on board, the salmon I ordered was cooked perfectly, so moist and tender that I raved about it for the rest of the cruise. Folks at my table ordered everything from filet mignon to a whole Maine lobster, and everyone was satisfied with their choices.
Also, you may be understandably tempted to order the Polo Quartet of four desserts to finish your meal. I will save you the trouble by telling you the key lime pie is hands down the best of the bunch, and you should order the full-size version and skip the tasting plate.
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Polo Grill on Oceania’s Vista. ERICA SILVERSTEIN/THE POINTS GUY
Toscana is Oceania’s long-standing Italian restaurant, but on Vista, it’s newly enhanced with dishes created by the ship’s godmother, Italian food star Giada De Laurentiis. If you enjoy veal, this is your spot; nearly half of the secondi menu consists of veal dishes (you can also order lamb and roast suckling pig here). I tried Giada’s branzino and wasn’t wowed.
Whatever you order, make sure to order at least one pasta dish with Toscana’s incredible ship-made pasta. You can’t go wrong with Giada’s lemon spaghetti or the pesto gnocchi. If you need to skip dessert at one specialty restaurant, this is where I’d pass … unless you are a die-hard tiramisu fan.
The final specialty restaurant is Red Ginger, a pan-Asian dining experience. Perhaps it’s because I love Asian food, but I have a hard time choosing what to eat at Red Ginger because everything looks so good. You could make a meal on appetizers alone.
To start, try the sushi, duck and watermelon salad or summer rolls. For your main, consider the miso-glazed sea bass, lobster pad thai, bulgogi ribeye steak or red curry chicken. You might think dessert is a non-starter, but the caramel tapioca was tasty, and the soft ice cream with Japanese togarashi is a fun mix of sweet and spicy.
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Red Ginger on Oceania’s Vista. ERICA SILVERSTEIN/THE POINTS GUY
Vista also offers multiple options for intimate or private wine-pairing lunches and dinners on board. They include a wine-pairing lunch at Ember and wine-themed dinners in private dining rooms attached to Toscana and Polo Grill. Hidden between those two restaurants is Privee, another intimate dining room where two special dinners are held: Odyssey (described as a “gustatory journey for the senses”) and the Dom Perignon Experience that pairs special Champagnes with equally special dishes.
But the food options don’t end with the restaurants. The Bakery by Baristas was a popular spot for daily beignets, quiches and pastries. Afternoon tea in Horizons is an Oceania specialty, with your choice of Twinings tea, scones with jam and clotted cream, tea sandwiches and cakes and petits fours all wheeled around in glass carts by formally dressed waiters.
Bars
Vista’s bars are hopping before and after dinner because there’s not much else to do on board at night.
The Martini Bar is the most happening lounge, located near the Grand Dining Room, several specialty restaurants and the casino. A pianist performs here on and off throughout the evening. You can find all your standard mixed drinks here, as well as a special martini menu. At peak times, you might not be able to find a seat.
On the other side of the casino is the Founders Bar, a new concept for Oceania, dedicated to creative craft cocktails. If you like your drinks topped with smoke bubbles, frozen balls of fruit or sprigs of herb or dried fruit slices, this is your spot. Seating is limited, but you can request your drink be delivered around the corner to the Grand Lounge, a stunning scenery area where a classical string quartet plays in the evening.
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Founder Bars on Oceania’s Vista. ERICA SILVERSTEIN/THE POINTS GUY
Be careful — it’s so fun trying out all the crazy concoctions that you might bust your drink budget if you haven’t upgraded to the premium beverage package.
Horizons is the observation lounge at the top of the ship, looking forward. We heard rave reviews of the live band here and some choice words about the resident DJ, but if you want to watch the sunset or get your groove on after deck, Horizons is the bar for you.
Baristas is the coffee bar by day and aperitif bar by night. Get your daytime caffeine fix with Illy espresso, macchiatos, cremas and more, including coffees spiked with booze. After 6 p.m., you’ll find an Italian-influenced list of aperitifs and digestifs (amaretto, Campari, limoncello), as well as wines and cocktails (such as an Aperol spritz or negroni).
The pool bar serves all the daiquiris and coladas you can drink while lounging on Vista’s gorgeous, resort-style pool deck. You can also order drinks at any of the restaurants. Aquamar has a lovely menu of nonalcoholic cocktails, fresh juices, lattes and smoothies.
Vista is also introducing new immersive cocktail experiences for the cruise line, which unfortunately had not yet debuted on my sailing. These will include a customizable Bubbly Bar in Baristas, a Bloody Mary Bar at lunch in the Terrace Café, a Macallan whisky and chocolate pairing, and cocktail-making seminars pairing Brugal 1888 rum with ice cream or tea.
Vista activities and shows
An Oceania cruise is a destination-focused trip, so onboard activities are kept to a minimum. You’ll find trivia contests, spa seminars, casino tournaments and technology classes at the LYNC Digital Center, such as travel photography and photo editing for social media.
Where Oceania excels in onboard activities are with cooking classes and demos in the Culinary Center and art classes at the Artist Loft. Oceania brings on real chefs and working artists to lead the workshops. Sign up as soon as you get on board because these popular classes fill up quickly.
I tried a “drip technique” painting class where we decorated glass plates, and it was a far cry from the watercolor or needlepoint classes you might find on other ships. The two-part class explored a unique technique, and even though I’m not experienced in crafting and my plate looked pretty bad after the first class, the artist knew what he was doing, and my final product was surprisingly good. It’s also a fun way to socialize with other passengers and the artists in residence.
Vista’s culinary center is three times larger than the versions found on sister ships Marina and Riviera. In addition to the test kitchen with 24 individual cooking stations, a second room can be arranged for lectures or even dinners. Classes are themed, often related to the ship’s destination, and yes, you can eat what you cook. They do cost extra; fees start at $79.
On a warm, sunny day, Oceania’s gorgeous resort-style pool deck is the place to be with padded loungers and day beds, a main pool with a wading area around it and a couple of hot tubs. Sporty types should head to the ship’s topmost half decks for an outdoor running track, shuffleboard, croquet/bocce, pickleball, mini-golf and a golf-driving cage.
The Aquamar Spa on Deck 15 offers a barber shop, salon, fitness center with aerobics studio and sauna and steam rooms in the men’s and women’s locker rooms. Concierge Level and suite guests receive complimentary access to the Aquamar Spa Terrace at the front of the ship, with two hot tubs and a thalassotherapy pool.
If it’s cool and rainy, consider decamping to the nook- and book-filled library, where you can borrow games, settle in with your laptop or peruse guidebooks. Baristas is right around the corner. The ship also has the requisite shops selling fine jewelry and logo items.
In the evenings, you can find a singer-pianist in Martinis, a string quartet in the Grand Lounge and a band followed by a DJ in Horizons. I heard great things about Vista’s Music Station Band, but somehow I was always eating dinner when they were performing.
Each night, there’s a show in the Vista Lounge, either a guest performer or a typical cruise ship song and dance show by the onboard performers. One of the new shows on Vista was choreographed by Britt Stewart, a professional dancer who’s worked with “Dancing with the Stars.”
Vista itineraries and pricing
Vista will spend its summers in the Mediterranean and winters in the Caribbean. In fall 2023, the ship will also visit Canada and New England and transit the Panama Canal twice. Cruises range in length from seven to 90 days, but most are one to three weeks in length.
Cruise-only prices start from $1,799 for a French Veranda cabin or $2,049 for the lowest-category balcony room on a seven-night Caribbean cruise. Alternatively, you can choose Oceania’s more inclusive and expensive OLife fares; these start from $2,599 for the French Veranda cabin or $2,849 for a regular balcony room.
The current OLife promotion runs through June 30 and includes round-trip airfare and transfers, plus your choice of four shore excursions, a beverage package or $400 onboard credit per cabin. Starting in July, the line will offer a set of included perks, without the need to choose, but the actual inclusions may change during promotional periods.
What to know before you go
Required documents
The travel documents you need for your Vista cruise are determined by your itinerary and homeports. For most cruises, you will need a passport that is valid for six months after your trip ends. For round-trip sailings out of U.S. homeports, a birth certificate and government photo ID will suffice. It’s up to each passenger to determine if any of the ports of call require additional visas.
When you finish checking in online for your cruise, Oceania will email you a boarding pass that you should print out and bring with you to the terminal.
Gratuities
Crew gratuities are added to your onboard bill and amount to $18 per person, per day, in Concierge-class rooms and below, or $23 per person, per day, in upper-level suites. Gratuities can be prepaid. You are always welcome to tip above the auto-gratuity for exceptional service. All tour guides should be tipped in cash at the end of a tour.
A 20% gratuity is added to onboard bar and spa bills.
Wi-Fi
Vista is one of the first Oceania cruise ships to use Starlink high-speed internet. I can attest to the speed of Oceania’s premium plan after attending a 90-minute Zoom meeting with only the slightest of lag.
Every cabin comes with one free Wi-Fi login (for one device at a time), or you can pay to add additional devices or for the premium plan that accommodates music and video streaming.
Carry-on drinks policy
Passengers can bring up to six bottles of wine per cabin for consumption in their room. If you wish to drink your own wine in a restaurant or public area of the ship, you will need to pay a $25 per bottle corkage fee.
Smoking policy
Vista offers designated areas on the Deck 12 pool deck (forward, starboard corner) and in the smoking lounge on Deck 14 forward, outside Horizons. The latter is a gorgeous space with forest-green walls, but it is entirely indoors. This policy applies to e-cigarettes, pipes and cigars, in addition to regular cigarettes.
Smoking is forbidden everywhere else on board, including in cabins and on private balconies. Passengers who are caught in violation of the smoking policy will be disembarked at the next port of call and may also be required to pay additional fees to cover costs for cleaning or replacing damaged furniture or decking.
Laundry
Vista has complimentary self-service launderettes on decks 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11. Each is outfitted with a detergent dispenser, washers and dryers, an ironing board and a seating area with a TV if you choose to wait for your load to finish. You can walk away while your load runs, but set a timer because folks will remove your clothes if you don’t pick them up in a timely fashion.
Alternatively, you can pay to send out your clothes to have them washed and/or pressed.
Electrical outlets
Vista’s cabins and suites offer electrical outlets and USB ports on both sides of the bed and by the desk. You’ll find both U.S. 110V and European 220V outlets. Americans may want to bring an adapter for charging devices in public rooms where the outlets are all European-style.
Currency
The onboard currency is the U.S. dollar. The reception desk can change dollars for the local currency.
Drinking age
You must be 21+ to drink alcohol onboard all Oceania cruises. When the ship is in international waters, young adults ages 18 to 20 may purchase and drink beer or wine (as well as the House Select beverage package).
Dress code
Oceania does not have a complicated dress code with specific attire required on certain evenings. Instead, the line suggests “elegant casual resort wear” for evenings and requests that guests do not wear casual jeans, shorts, T-shirts, baseball caps, casual sandals or sneakers in the restaurants after 6 p.m.
For casual dining, choose the Pizzeria or Terrace Café for your evening meal. Shorts and baseball caps are allowed; athletic wear is not.
Elegant casual resort wear translates into date-night dresses (but not full-on cocktail attire), skirts and blouses or dressy pants and tops for women, and collared shirts and slacks for men. Jackets and ties are not required.
During the day, casual attire is fine, but please don’t wear swimwear, bathrobes or pajamas in public areas. You’ll need footwear if you leave the pool deck.
Bottom line
Vista is an elegant mid-size cruise ship that’s the perfect home base for travelers who appreciate dining variety, enjoy interesting cocktails and fine wines and wish to explore the Mediterranean and the Caribbean.
Cabins and suites are thoughtfully designed, though, for longer voyages, you might need to take advantage of onboard launderettes as cabin storage might be tight.
Vista offers a high-end experience on a beautifully designed ship, but you’ll have a choice in how you spend your vacation budget rather than paying upfront for all-inclusive fares.
During her recent vacation in St. Martin, TPG reader Emily Monarch’s rental car was extensively damaged by vandals. It was an unpleasant experience during what was meant to be a relaxing Caribbean getaway with her husband.
However, Monarch took comfort in knowing she wouldn’t be on the hook to pay for the repairs. Having paid for the rental with her Chase Sapphire Reserve® card, she was covered by an excellent primary car rental insurance policy (as opposed to the secondary insurance most credit cards offer).
Or so she thought.
It was only after the vehicle was vandalized that Monarch took a close look at her rental contract with Sixt. That’s when she noticed a critical error on the legally binding document: Monarch was not listed as the primary renter.
Because Chase requires the Sapphire Reserve cardholder to be the primary renter for its insurance to kick in, that little mistake meant the couple had been driving the rental car without the card’s critical protections. As could be expected, this created a significant roadblock to filing a successful claim through Chase’s eClaimsline insurance underwriter.
When Chase did not approve her insurance claim for the damage to the vandalized rental car, Monarch turned to TPG for help. She hoped we could convince eClaimsline that this clerical mistake at the rental car counter wasn’t her error and that she shouldn’t be responsible for the $5,542 repair bill.
But whose responsibility is it ultimately to review all the details on a rental car contract before driving away with the vehicle? Monarch’s case may hinge on that detail.
Renting a car in St. Martin with Sixt
In January 2023, the Monarchs flew to St. Martin to kick off the new year with a tropical break from Kentucky’s wintry weather. Landing late in the afternoon at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) on the Dutch side of the island, they made their way to the rental car counter at Sixt.
“We handed the agent both of our driver’s licenses with my Chase Sapphire Reserve card,” Monarch recalled.
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The Sixt employee printed out the rental contract and placed it on the counter in front of the couple. Monarch knew that to be covered by the insurance provided by her credit card, she was required to decline the insurance offered by Sixt.
Confirming that the contract showed that the couple had declined both the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Theft Protection (TP), Monarch signed the rental car contract.
The agent then led them outside to inspect the rental car, a dinged-up Hyundai i10. The couple looked over the vehicle and noted all the pre-existing damage.
Satisfied that they had documented all of the nicks, bumps and scrapes on the car, Monarch’s husband signed the inspection form. He handed the paper to her, and she signed it as well. Lastly, the agent affixed his signature to the preexisting damage report and gave the Monarchs the keys.
Then the couple hopped into the little car and drove away, eager to start their romantic vacation.
What happened to this rental car?
For the next week, the Monarchs enjoyed all the island had to offer, soaking up the sun and eating great food. It had turned out to be just what they needed for a winter break.
However, things took an unpleasant turn on the morning they were set to fly home. Monarch walked out to the parked rental car and found it in worse shape than ever. The back window was broken, and it was clear someone had tried to steal the vehicle.
“The rental car was parked behind a security gate, and we didn’t leave any valuables inside. But someone had broken the window and then disassembled the ignition. We couldn’t drive the car, so Sixt sent a tow truck and took the vehicle away.”
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EMILY MONARCH FOR THE POINTS GUY
Monarch filed a police report and called Chase eClaimsline (888-675-1461) and received a case number. Confident that they had done everything they could do at that moment to ensure that eClaimsline would cover the damage, the couple flew home. It was an unfortunate end to what had been a wonderful trip.
But Monarch was relieved she had used her Chase Sapphire Reserve for the CDW protection it provided.
When the couple arrived back home, Monarch signed into the eClaimsline online portal using the claim number she received when she first reported the damage to the rental car. She reviewed the additional documentation that she would need to provide to process the claim which included:
The rental car contract showing that she had declined the CDW from Sixt.
Proof that Monarch had paid for the rental with her Chase Sapphire Reserve.
A copy of the police report.
The estimate for the repairs of the rental car.
Photos of the damage.
After providing all of the requested items, Monarch assumed that in 30 days or so, eClaimsline would pay the repair bill, and that would be the last she would hear about the damaged rental car.
However, over a month later, the repair bill still wasn’t paid. Monarch became concerned, and with good reason. Due to how the Sixt agent had prepared the rental car agreement, she could be on the hook for the over $5,000 in damages.
We need additional documentation to process your claim
Monarch received the following email from Chase eClaimsline explaining why it had not yet approved the payment and requesting additional documentation.
“Dear Emily Monarch,
Thank you for submitting your Car Rental Collision Damage Waiver claim. We have carefully reviewed the information provided to date and note that additional documents are required to promptly process your claim. Please assist us by providing the following:
Documentation that confirms the renter listed on the rental agreement was an authorized user of the covered card. (Card Benefit Services, eClaimsline)”
The message seemed strange to Monarch since she was the primary driver of the rental car and had paid with her Chase Sapphire Reserve. However, when she looked carefully at the contract, she froze. In the field on the document where the primary driver was listed, her husband’s name was written, and he isn’t an authorized user of her Chase Sapphire Reserve.
Monarch realized she couldn’t provide the documentation that eClaimsline required to process the $5,542 insurance claim.
Recalling a recent story about another TPG reader who had an eClaimsline problem related to a rental car, Monarch reached out to us for assistance.
Asking TPG for help with this damaged rental car eClaimsline
When I received Monarch’s request for assistance, it had been two months since the day she had found her rental car damaged by vandals. She hoped to put this experience to rest, but now there was a real possibility that the claim wouldn’t be paid by insurance.
“Would you be able to help me with the collision damage waiver claim coverage on my Chase Sapphire Reserve card?” she wrote. “I am the only cardholder on the card. As you will see, I signed the rental agreement.”
“However, my husband and I are both listed on the rental, but he was inadvertently listed as the renter, and I was listed as the driver. Chase is now trying to deny the claim saying that I was not the renter and I, therefore, do not have coverage.”
Monarch’s paper trail included the contract that showed that the Sixt agent had listed her spouse, Will Monarch, as the primary renter. The couple had paid an additional $5 per day for an additional driver, who turned out to be Emily. Since Will is not an authorized card user of Emily’s Chase Sapphire Reserve card, that meant the rental would not qualify for the car insurance coverage per its terms and conditions.
However, Emily Monarch had signed the car rental contract.
Because of that detail, I thought a case could be made with eClaimsline that this shared mistake between the Sixt agent (who listed the wrong primary driver) and the Monarchs (who didn’t thoroughly review the contract), shouldn’t end up costing loyal Chase customers $5,542.
It was time to see if eClaimsline agreed with me.
Asking eClaimsline and Allianz for help with this rental car claim
I sent Monarch’s case over to our executive contact at Allianz, the administrator of Chase eClaimsline. This is not a customer-facing person but rather someone I can reach out to as a consumer advocate and a member of the media.
After I explained all the details of the case to him, the good news came quickly for the Monarchs. eClaimsline agreed with me – this innocent mistake shouldn’t cost the couple $5,542.
Here was the reply I received:
“Hi Michelle,
Thanks for your email. We’re sorry that Ms. Monarch experienced problems with her rental car.
I asked our Claims team to look into this; as you’ve mentioned, it was a complicated situation. The fact that the rental car company listed Ms. Monarch as Renter #2 created a delay in processing this claim.
Our Claims team has reached out to Ms. Monarch and let her know that her claim in the amount of $5,542 was approved, and she should receive her payment shortly. (Allianz spokesperson)”
Monarch and her husband are extremely relieved that their oversight didn’t cost them $5,542. But it easily could have. They learned a valuable lesson: Not to walk away from the car rental counter again without inspecting every detail of that contract.
How to protect your car rental
Travelers often arrive at the car rental counter tired and distracted after a long day of flying. To avoid most car rental mistakes, it’s critical to remain vigilant, though.
Here’s what you need to do before you drive off the car rental lot.
Make sure your rental is fully insured
One thing you never want to do is to drive away without making sure you have insurance coverage. If you’re relying on credit card coverage, review your membership benefits and ensure you understand the requirements, exclusions and limitations. Remember, Chase requires you to decline the car rental company’s insurance for its coverage to kick in.
If you intend to rely on your personal car rental insurance, call your provider to confirm that you are covered for your destination and the type of vehicle you want to rent.
Review the contract carefully
Don’t worry about holding up the line at the rental counter. This is the moment that you’re agreeing to take complete responsibility for a vehicle that could cost upwards of $20,000. Look carefully at all parts of that contract and make sure you understand it.
If you want to use the insurance provided by your Chase Sapphire Reserve or other card, then make certain that you (or an authorized user on the account) are the primary driver. You must also decline the insurance offered by the car rental company.
Always carefully inspect the rental vehicle before driving away
I often receive complaints from consumers who get slammed with car rental damage charges after they return a vehicle. Many of these travelers insist the damage was already there when they took possession of the car – but they have no proof.
The best way to protect yourself against such surprise charges is by taking photos and videos of the entire vehicle before you leave the lot. And when you return the rental car, do the same. The more you document the condition of the car before and after the rental period, the less chance you’ll have of getting charged for damage someone else caused.
Bottom line
Monarch and her husband found themselves in a precarious situation that might not have been resolved in their favor if they hadn’t reached out to TPG. We’re happy to help fix these types of problems, but even happier to help you avoid them in the first place. If you follow the guidance above, you won’t likely end up in a similar situation.
If you do find yourself in a battle with a car rental company, hotel, airline, cruise line, or vacation rental agency, send your request for help to [email protected], and I’ll be happy to help you too.