.css-b6hwm3-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:inherit;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:#9a0500;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;word-break:break-word;.css-b6hwm3:hovercolor:#595959;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;Black Friday and Cyber Monday are less than two months away. I repeat, Black Friday and Cyber Monday—a.k.a. the biggest sale events of the year—are just six weeks away. The fourth Friday and last Monday of November might still seem far off, but serious holiday shoppers know all too well the festive season creeps up out of nowhere, and fast, meaning now’s the time to start thinking gifts.
Historically, several retailers such as Amazon and Nordstrom have offered major deals on fashion finds, coveted beauty, and top-of-the-line luggage, but if you’re in the market for the best home decor gifts, in particular, you’ve come to the right page. In addition to Amazon and Nordstrom, brands like Serena & Lily, Lowe’s, and Wayfair have also become the go-to places for all things chic accents, furniture, and luxury bedding. While most sites have yet to announce this year’s discounts, there are still several items currently on sale that you can snap up early.
Whether you’re looking to pick up high-end furniture for your place, know of new homeowners who could use a thoughtful housewarming gift, or wish to bestow a cozy present for the homebody in your life, here you’ll find all the best home deals to shop ahead of the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. Word to the wise: Watch this space as we’ll be continuously making updates as more brands announce their discount offers.
Nobody wants to think about dying, which is why many people actively avoid planning for their death. Creating a will, buying life insurance, making funeral arrangements—none of these are fun Friday night activities. Not only can it be unpleasant to think about, but life insurance can also be incredibly difficult to figure out. In fact, only 57% of Americans have life insurance.
Part of a new trend of online companies offering life insurance, Bestow breaks down a sometimes complicated topic so you can easily apply for term life insurance to better help your family plan for the future.
About Bestow
Bestow makes the life insurance
application process easy. You can get a quote in seconds—and coverage in
minutes—when you apply online.
It offers 10- and 20-year term life insurance policies with coverage from $50,000 up to $1 million. Premiums are as low as $8 per month—and they never change throughout the life of the policy, so you’ll always know what to budget for. One of the biggest benefits of Bestow is that it doesn’t require a medical exam as part of the application process.
Insurance companies can be notorious for being stuffy. Lucky for you,
Bestow is technically a life insurance agent: it acts as an intermediary
between you and the insurance provider. Bestow
works specifically with North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, a well-established life insurance company. So even
though Bestow is new, you don’t have to worry about your policy. Bestow makes
the application process simple, while North American
Company for Life and Health Insurance® issues the policies, plus processes and pays claims.
Who Can Use Bestow
According to the website, you need to be
between 21 and 55 years old, have never had a felony charge, and be generally
in “good health” to qualify for a policy offered by Bestow.
It doesn’t clarify what “good health” means, but the application process asks
questions about your medical history, lifestyle and hobbies. Bestow also says they will
not be able to extend coverage if you have been diagnosed or treated for cancer
in the past ten years. As of publication, 20-year policies are only available
to individuals younger than 45.
Bestow is currently available in every state except New York.
Application Process
Bestow uses data points and artificial
intelligence to determine premiums and coverage. Unlike many other companies that offer life insurance, Bestow does not
require a medical exam for coverage.
The application process pulls available data about you—such as prescription and credit history, driving records, and prior insurance applications—to make a decision.
To start, you’ll need to provide your
name, gender, birth date, height, weight, and state, as well as whether you use
nicotine. That’s all you need to get your free quote! If you like what you see,
you can create an account and answer a few more in-depth questions about your
health and lifestyle, including citizenship, employment, HIV status, and
disability. After you provide your Social Security number and sign, you’ll get your approval and final premium. Your final
number may be higher than your quote based on your health and lifestyle.
You also get a 30-day free “look” period:
you can cancel for a full refund within the first 30 days of purchasing.
Coverage continues through a 60-day grace period from the date of your last
payment.
Making Claims
Your beneficiaries can start the claim
process simply online as well. After you initiate a claim with Bestow, the
claim is processed by its insurance provider, North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®.
The beneficiary will need to provide information about themselves as well as
information about the insured person—including the original policy number.
After that, you’ll receive a claimant’s packet and will be required to fill out
more paperwork. If there is no dispute, your claim should be processed within
ten days.
Term Life vs. Whole Life
Bestow offers only term life insurance
policies. If you’re interested in a whole life insurance policy, you’ll need to
look elsewhere.
Term life insurance lasts only as long as
the policy, making it a good choice for people who want to cover a specific
time in their life—the length of their mortgage, or while their children are
still dependents living at home, for example. Because these policies do not
last as long, they tend to be less expensive than whole life policies.
Benefits of Bestow
So you’ve spent your Friday night
deciding you want to get life insurance.
Congratulations! Why should you choose Bestow? Here are some reasons why you
might:
No medical exam required
Low premiums
Easy application
As with everything, though, there are
some downsides to getting a policy through Bestow:
No whole life policies available
Relatively low coverage capped at $1 million
Not available to people over 55
Why Get Life Insurance
If you have dependents—people who depend on your income, like your children, spouse, or older parents—life insurance is a way to help ensure that they will be covered should something happen to you. If you’re ready for a free quote from Bestow, check it out now!
Inflated home prices and elevated mortgage rates have made affordability a challenge for many homebuyers. Fortunately, joint home loans combine financial resources and can make qualifying for a home loan significantly easier.
If you’re thinking about buying a home with someone else, you’ll want to understand how joint mortgages work. While joint mortgages have many benefits they have some potential downsides to consider, as well.
Check your home buying options. Start here
In this article (Skip to…)
What is a joint loan?
A joint mortgage is when two or more individuals apply for a home loan with the purpose of buying a house. Each applicant’s income, credit history, and financial situation and factored into determining the eligibility for the mortgage and the loan amount.
This type of mortgage loan is commonly used by couples, family members, friends, or even business partners who want to purchase a home together.
An important distinction is that a joint mortgage does not equate to joint ownership.
Check your home loan options. Start here
Joint mortgage borrowers share the responsibility for repaying the loan with the other applicants. However, unless there is joint tenancy or full joint ownership – meaning all parties are on the loan and the title – only one party may truly own the property.
On a joint mortgage, both you and the other mortgage borrower’s credit scores will come into play. Your lender will review each of your credit scores from all three of the major credit bureaus and see which one is the “lower middle” score.
If you decide on a joint mortgage, the best idea is to check your credit scores early. Taking steps to improve your credit scores can result in a better mortgage rate and lower payment.
If you find that your co-borrower has bad credit, you may want to consider finding a different co-borrower, or seeing if you can qualify on your own.
Who qualifies for joint mortgage loans?
Most lenders accept joint mortgage applications. Rarely do lenders have specific requirements as to who is allowed on a joint mortgage.
Verify your home buyer eligibility. Start here
Commonly, joint mortgages are obtained by married couples. When two people enter a marriage, or similar commitment, finances are often shared. So, it may make sense to share the obligation of home ownership, including the mortgage.
Qualifying criteria for a joint mortgage application is like those for individual mortgage applications. For conventional loans, while lender guidelines may vary slightly, most require the following:
Credit score of 620 or higher
Minimum down payment of 3% – 5%
Debt-to-income ratio of 40% – 50%
Employment history and verifiable income
Loan amount that is at or below the conforming loan limits (currently $726,200 in most areas)
Some lenders are more flexible than others so it’s wise to shop around and compare.
Pros of joint mortgages
Joint mortgages can have many advantages. They bestow homeownership on individuals who may otherwise not qualify for a loan due to insufficient credit or income.
Check your home loan options. Start here
Because the financial burden of monthly mortgage payments is shared, it can make it more affordable and manageable for all parties. Joint mortgages can also offer tax advantages, such as shared deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes.
Business partners or friends may pursue a joint mortgage as a way to get into real estate investing. Pooling your resources could potentially generate rental income or profit from the home’s appreciation.
Another advantage to a joint home loan is that you may be able to borrow more than you’d be able to if borrowing individually. Lenders combine all incomes on joint mortgage applications to determine how much you may qualify for.
Cons of joint mortgages
Joint mortgage can also come with potential challenges. These disadvantages should be carefully considered prior to entering into a joint mortgage agreement.
Even if you do everything right, make your portion of the shared payments on time, etc. there’s no guarantee that your co-borrower will do the same. If there’s a breakdown in communication or unexpected changes in circumstances, such as divorce or unemployment, all parties could be affected.
See what mortgage rate you qualify for. Start here
It’s important to remember that all borrowers are on the hook in the event of default. If one borrower fails to make their share of the payment, the remaining borrowers must cover the shortage.
Not only can defaulting negatively impact everyone’s credit and potentially lead to legal consequences, professional and/or personal relationships can be impacted should either person fail to hold up their end of the bargain.
Moreover, important decisions regarding the property need to be agreed upon by all parties. These shared decisions include putting an addition on the home, when to sell and for how much. Coming to a mutual agreement on such big issues could be tough.
How to know if a joint mortgage is right for you
One of the main benefits of getting a joint mortgage is it means you may be able to purchase or own more home than you could on your own.
But it’s important that each party is in full agreement when it comes to the decisions about the home, as well as the shared responsibilities.
Check your home buying options. Start here
Bear in mind that being a co-borrower on a joint mortgage could impact your ability to obtain other loans. Typically, when applying for other forms of credit, the entire mortgage payment is considered your obligation. This is regardless of how the monthly mortgage payments are shared.
Ideal candidates for joint mortgages include those who already share financial responsibilities. Spouses or life partners — or people who currently cohabitate and share financial interests — tend to be “safer” co-borrowers.
If you can afford to purchase a home with great loan terms, it may make more sense to eliminate the potential risks of adding co-borrowers and just go at it alone. Your lender could assist you and answer any questions you may have.
The bottom line on joint mortgage loans
Joint mortgages come with the advantage of combining the income and assets of multiple borrowers, potentially increasing your borrowing power and affordability.
See what mortgage rate you qualify for. Start here
A joint mortgage also involves shared liability, however. Prior to entering a joint mortgage agreement, all parties should carefully consider all the advantages and potential disadvantages. Open communication and trust are key.
Don’t forget to speak with your lender about whether you qualify on your own, or if a joint mortgage is your best option.
Time to make a move? Let us find the right mortgage for you
If you’re a home buyer in today’s market, there’s a bit of good news: an influx of new construction. In response to the low levels of existing home inventory, residential builders are working to meet demand. In June 2023, new home sales in the U. S. made up 14.35 percent of total home sales, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) — an increase of 4.46 percent year-over-year.
On top of building the home, a residential developer often can help you buy it, too. Called home builder financing or preferred lending, getting a mortgage this way can mean a speedier closing, discounts and special perks for borrowers. However, it can also result in higher interest rates, more stringent qualifications and potentially more expensive loans overall.
So is it a good idea to finance your home purchase through a construction company? Here’s how borrowing from a builder works, and what you should know before filling out any applications.
What is home builder financing?
Home builder financing simply means a mortgage for a newly built home that’s offered through the construction company or developer. Some of the largest firms have their own standalone home-financing arm: National builder Toll Brothers, for example, provides loans through its subsidiary, Toll Brothers Mortgage Company. Other builders have ongoing partnerships/arrangements with independent mortgage companies or banks, known as their “preferred lenders.”
This can be a mutually beneficial relationship. However, to ensure there are no conflicts of interest, lenders must closely follow the terms of the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA), which dictates that they cannot legally receive kickbacks, referral fees or other unearned fees from the builder — or bestow them, either.
Home builder financing requirements
If you’re buying a production or a spec house — a move-in ready home built in a development before there’s a buyer — qualifying for a loan with a preferred lender is similar to getting a mortgage from any lender. You’ll likely be able to choose between a variety of financing products such as a conventional loan or FHA loan. These kinds of mortgages typically require a minimum down payment of 3 to 5 percent and a credit score of at least 620 (for conventional) or 580 (FHA). Some lenders even offer jumbo or other non-conforming loans.
If you aim to have a home custom-built, financing can be more complicated. You’ll need to get a construction loan (either independently or through a preferred lender), which can have stricter requirements, as well as higher fees. You’ll generally need a 20 percent down payment and a credit score of 680 for this sort of financing, though the terms can vary by lender.
Home builder financing deals
To encourage borrowers to use their financing, home builders often offer deals. In fact, nowadays “we are seeing incentives of some sort in most new construction developments,” says Patty Zuzek, real estate broker at Fieldstone Real Estate Specialists and vice president of sales and marketing for Fieldstone Family Homes in Minnesota.Through these deals, home buyers may be able to increase their buying power by financing through the home builder.
Home Equity
Bankrate insights
In August 2023, 55% of builders provided incentives to bolster sales, up from 43% in 2022, according to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). A quarter of builders (25%) reduced their home prices, by 6% on average.
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Financing incentives
Special offers may include upgrades for the home (like better appliances) or downgrades of the home price, a credit towards closing costs or a discount on the mortgage rate. The particular incentives the builder (or their preferred lender) offers are dependent on the type of construction and financing, according to Zuzek. For instance, a borrower going with a preferred lender’s FHA loan to buy a new home in an existing development will be offered different incentives than someone financing a custom-build on their own lot.
Mortgage rate buydowns
Home builder incentives are also highly market-driven, Zuzek says. For example, home builders are responding to current high interest rates by offering a mortgage rate buydown on new construction if you go with their preferred lender. Mortgage rate buydowns — also known as temporary buydowns — are discounts on loan interest rates. They involve the builder, lender and/or buyer paying upfront to knock percentage points off the interest rate for the first one to three years.
Mortgage 30 Year
Bankrate insights
One common type of temporary buydown is the 2/1 buydown, which lowers the borrower’s rate by 2 percent for the first year, then by 1 percent for the second year. For example, say you take out a 30-year mortgage with a rate of 7.25 percent and have a 2/1 buydown. The first year, your rate will be 5.25 percent, the second year it will be 6.25 percent and the third year it will be 7.25 percent, where it will remain for the rest of the loan.
To get a buydown, “depending on which builder you work with, you’ll need to work with their preferred lender and their preferred title company,” says Zuzek. That’s because the lender pays for some portion of the buydown. Aspects like the borrower’s credit score and what type of mortgage they’re using will affect whether they’re offered a temporary buydown, she adds.
A temporary buydown can be a good option, but you need to be aware of the risk when the rate resets. “In general, buydown loans tend to end up at a much higher rate than what you’re going to get for a straight fixed ,” says Jeff Lazerson, President of Mortgage Grader, a mortgage brokerage in Laguna Niguel, California.
Still, they can be a shrewd move when mortgage rates are rising. “Right now the timing might not be too bad, as long as it’s a lender or builder-paid buydown,” Lazerson says. If mortgage rates fall in the next year or two, the buyer could refinance to a better rate after the buydown ends, he adds.
The pros of borrowing from a builder
1. Good interest rates
A big reason a borrower should consider borrowing home builder financing: cheaper loans. Pulte, for instance, is one of the nation’s largest home builders with their own mortgage company — Pulte Mortgage. As of this writing, Pulte is offering a 30-year fixed rate mortgage with an interest rate of 5.5 percent and an annual percentage rate (APR) of 5.69 percent. That interest rate is 1.62 percent below the current national average.
2. Home upgrades
One benefit of working with a preferred lender is you may be able to more easily upgrade the home. “The builders will allow you to finance improvements into the loan,” says Lazerson. The best reason to go with builder financing is when you want a significant amount of extras or customized features — such as top-of-the-line kitchen appliances or specialty flooring — but don’t have the money, according to Lazerson.
Because builders can pay for materials and labor at a reduced rate, the upgrade could be negotiable if you go with their preferred lender. You could get a better deal on a mortgage with an independent lender, but you’ll have to pay out of pocket for your own upgrades or take out a home renovation loan.
3. Streamlined mortgage process
Since builders work closely with a specific lender (or they’re owned by the same parent company), they can have more confidence that the loan will close if the borrower is approved. Builders don’t want to have a sale fall through at the last minute due to a hiccup in underwriting.
Every extra day they keep a finished home on their books is costing them, not only in taxes and maintenance, but in opportunity cost as well. With a preferred lender, the lender and the builder have strong reasons for the process to go smoothly. The builder benefits from selling the house and the lender benefits from the continued referral business. And of course, you the buyer could benefit from a faster and easier closing. It’s not guaranteed that you’ll get approved, of course, but your relationship with the builder certainly won’t hurt.
The cons of borrowing from a builder
1. Higher fees and costs
Going with a builder’s preferred lender can cost you more than going with an independent lender. “When you’re having to split your profits three ways — between the mortgage company, the builder and the loan officer — you just mark up the loan more because everyone’s got to get paid,” Lazerson says. That means a higher interest rate (after a buydown ends) and more fees.
Also note: for using their preferred lender, builders may throw upgrades like nicer flooring in for free. But, what they don’t tell you is that they inflate the value of these perks, according to Lazerson. “I don’t remember one time that a builder deal was cheaper than what the consumer could get through the mortgage broker,” he adds.
2. Stricter qualifications
To take advantage of some financing deals, you may have to meet stricter guidelines. For example, Pulte’s advertised APR of 5.69 (mentioned above) isn’t for everyone. The minimum credit score is 780 and you have to put at least 20 percent down. This rate is based on purchasing a $500,000 home. That means a minimum $100,000 down payment. The national median down payment for Q1 of 2023 was $24,100, according to Realtor.com. So, to qualify for this specific reduced APR, you’ll need to make a down payment that’s four times the national median down payment.
3. Limited choices
If you want to get discounts or other benefits from financing through a builder, you may be limited in the house you can buy. Obviously, it’s got to be one of the developer’s — and not all builders and lenders work in every area. Also, with some builders and preferred lenders, the discounts their offering may only apply to already-built homes in specific communities. If you want a different house or a different location, the discount may not work for you.
Should you use home builder financing?
It’s important to know that builders can’t require you to use their preferred lender. It’s just another option for buyers. “Asking the correct questions to the lender and the builder is really important,” says Zuzek. You want to know what to expect in terms of timeline, discounts and fees. And read the fine print on any and all incentives.
And, while going the preferred-lender route is certainly convenient — like getting an auto loan at the car dealership — studies show that shopping around saves money for mortgage-hunters. You should compare new construction mortgage rates from three different lenders, at least.
That way you’ll be able to make an educated decision as to whether the builder’s loan offer, with all its enticing incentives, is the best way to finance your new home.
Looking for a stylish and comfortable mid century lounge chair for your home or office? We’ve got you covered. Our team of experts has researched and tested numerous options to bring you the best products on the market. With so many choices available, we understand that finding the perfect chair can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve taken into consideration essential criteria such as quality of materials, comfort level, and overall design, as well as customer reviews, to create a list of top recommendations. Whether you prefer a classic or modern twist on the mid century design, our selection has something for everyone. So why wait? Invest in a high-quality mid century lounge chair today and enjoy the benefits of improved comfort and timeless style.
Modway Bestow Mid-Century Velvet Accent Chair Green
The Modway Bestow Mid-Century Performance Velvet Upholstered Tufted Accent Lounge Chair in Green is a stunning addition to any living space. Made with high-quality velvet upholstery, this chair is both comfortable and stylish. The tufted backrest and armrests provide excellent support, while the solid wood frame ensures durability. This chair is perfect for relaxing, reading, or enjoying a cup of coffee. Its mid-century design will complement any decor, and its vibrant green color will add a pop of color to your room. Don’t miss out on this gorgeous armchair!
The Modway Empress Mid-Century Modern Upholstered Leather Accent Arm Lounge Chair in Black is a stylish and comfortable addition to any living space. Made with high-quality leather and a sturdy frame, this armchair is both durable and luxurious. Its mid-century modern design adds a touch of sophistication, while the comfortable cushioning ensures a cozy seating experience. Perfect for lounging, reading, or simply relaxing, this armchair is a versatile piece that will elevate any room.
The Aoparts Mid Century Modern Shell Lounge Chair is a beautiful addition to any living space. Made with high-quality faux leather and solid wood accent legs, this chair is perfect for lounging, reading, or simply relaxing. The comfortable backrest and seat cushion provide ample support, while the classic design adds a touch of Scandinavian elegance to any room. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your living room or a comfortable chair for your office or salon, the Aoparts Mid Century Modern Shell Lounge Chair is a must-have. Available in white, this chair is sure to complement any décor.
Mid-century modern design, Comfortable faux leather, Solid wood accent
May not suit all decor
OAKHAM Mid Century Modern Chair White
The OAKHAM Mid Century Modern Chair is a stunning addition to any living space. Made with high-quality leather and featuring a sleek, Scandinavian design, this chair is both comfortable and stylish. Its shell lounge design provides excellent support while also adding a touch of elegance to any room. Perfect for use as an accent chair or side chair, the OAKHAM Mid Century Modern Chair is sure to impress. Available in a beautiful white color, this chair is a must-have for those looking to elevate their home decor.
Stylish mid-century design, Comfortable leather accent, Durable and sturdy construction
May not fit all decor
Furgle Shell Lounge Chair PU Leather Style-16
The Furgle Mid Century Modern Shell Lounge Chair is a beautiful and stylish addition to any living room, reading nook, or office space. Made with high-quality PU leather and a solid wood tripod base, this chair combines both comfort and durability. The classic design and sleek style make it a versatile piece that can fit into any decor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to curl up with a book or a statement piece for your home, the Furgle Mid Century Modern Shell Lounge Chair is the perfect choice.
Stylish mid-century design, Comfortable and supportive, Durable materials used
Limited color options
KINFFICT Mid Century Accent Chair
The KINFFICT Upholstered Mid Century Accent Chair is a stylish and comfortable addition to any living room or bedroom. With its thicken cushion and sturdy wooden frame, this armchair offers both durability and relaxation. Its 300 lbs weight capacity ensures that it can accommodate a wide range of people, while its coffee color adds a touch of modernity to any space. Whether you are reading a book or watching TV, this lounge chair is perfect for any cozy night in.
Mid-century modern design, Thick and comfortable cushion, Sturdy and durable construction
May not fit all decor styles
BELLEZE Shell Chair Avalon Black
The BELLEZE Shell Chair is a sleek and stylish addition to any home or office. Made with a solid wood tripod base and a faux leather padded seat, this mid-century modern accent chair is both comfortable and durable. Perfect for use in the living room, bedroom, or office, the armless design and compact size make it easy to fit into any space. The black Avalon color adds a sophisticated touch to any decor. Overall, the BELLEZE Shell Chair is a great choice for those looking for a comfortable and stylish seating option.
Mid-century modern design, Comfortable padded seat, Solid wood construction
Limited color options
ZHENGHAO Swivel Accent Chair with Ottoman
The ZHENGHAO Swivel Accent Chair with Ottoman is a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of mid-century modern flair to their home. The chair’s faux fur material and fluffy armrests provide ultimate comfort, while the 360-degree metal base and footrest allow for easy movement and relaxation. Whether you’re reading a book in your living room or lounging in your bedroom, this chair and ottoman set is the perfect addition to any space. Available in white fur with a white base, this chair is sure to elevate your home decor.
Comfortable and cozy, Sturdy metal base, Swivels 360 degrees
May shed fur
ANJHOME Mid Century Modern Accent Chairs Set of 2
The ANJHOME Mid Century Modern Accent Chairs Set of 2 are a great addition to any living room. These armchairs are made with a solid wood frame and upholstered with a comfortable fabric that makes them perfect for reading or lounging. Assembly is easy and straightforward, and the chairs come in a beige color that complements any decor. Not only are they stylish and comfortable, but they are also durable and made to last. These chairs are perfect for relaxing after a long day or for entertaining guests.
The Guyou Mid Century Modern Accent Chair with Ottoman Set is a stylish and comfortable addition to any home. Made with high-quality materials, this chair is both durable and comfortable. The beige upholstery is easy to maintain and complements any décor. The lumbar cushion provides extra support, making this chair perfect for long periods of sitting. Whether you’re lounging in your living room or need a comfortable place to sit in your bedroom, the Guyou Mid Century Modern Accent Chair with Ottoman Set is the perfect choice.
Comfortable, Stylish design, Includes ottoman
Assembly required
FAQ
Q: What is a mid-century lounge chair?
A: A mid-century lounge chair is a type of indoor lounge chair that was popularized in the mid-20th century. It typically features clean lines, organic shapes, and a minimalist design. Mid-century lounge chairs are often made from high-quality materials like leather and wood, and are known for their comfort and durability.
Q: What should I look for in the best lounge chair?
A: When searching for the best lounge chair, there are a few important factors to consider. First, look for a chair that is both comfortable and supportive. It should provide adequate cushioning and support for your back and neck. Additionally, consider the chair’s design and style to ensure it fits with your existing decor. Finally, look for a chair made from high-quality materials, such as leather or wood, to ensure it will last for years to come.
Q: Can a mid-century lounge chair be used in modern decor?
A: Absolutely! Mid-century lounge chairs are known for their timeless design and versatility, making them a great choice for modern decor. They can be paired with a variety of different styles and colors, and can be used to add a touch of warmth and texture to any space. Whether you’re going for a minimalist, bohemian, or industrial look, a mid-century lounge chair is a great option.
Conclusions
After conducting thorough research and analysis of multiple mid century lounge chairs, we have come to the conclusion that these chairs offer a timeless aesthetic and comfortable seating experience. From the classic design of the Furgle Mid Century Modern Shell Lounge Chair to the sleek leather upholstery of the Modway Empress Mid-Century Modern Upholstered Leather Accent Arm Lounge Chair, each product has its own unique features that cater to different preferences. Whether you’re looking for a statement piece for your living room or a cozy reading nook chair, there is a mid century lounge chair out there for you. Overall, we highly recommend considering a mid century lounge chair for your home or office space.
For better or worse, you know you’re really an adult when it’s time to buy life insurance.
For me, it was immediately after having our daughter, Molly. I bought a term life insurance policy so that, in the event the unspeakable happens, my wife, Lauren, wouldn’t have to worry about making ends meet or paying for Molly’s education after I’m gone.
But as I set out to shop for life insurance, I didn’t really know how much life insurance I even needed.
In case you’re like I was, we’ve put together a simple life insurance calculator to help you determine the right amount of term life insurance to buy.
Read more: Term Vs. Whole Life Insurance: What’s the Difference?
What’s Ahead:
Calculator: How Much Life Insurance Do You Need?
How to Determine How Much Life Insurance You Need
How much life insurance you need is both somewhat subjective and a moving target. Your life insurance needs may be quite different today versus in five years.
Put simply, in the event you die, you want life insurance payouts to allow your spouse and children to continue their lifestyles without worrying about money. You may also want to provide for future expenses like your children’s education.
If you have investments or other assets, however, you may only need enough life insurance to make up the difference between your assets and your family’s potential needs.
Here’s a simple calculation, which is similar to what we use in our life insurance calculator above.
1. Annual income to replace: ________________ 2. Predicted retirement age: ________________ 3. Current age: ________________ 4. Years until retirement (line 2 – line 3): ________________ 5. Total income to replace (line 1 x line 4): ________________ 6. Amount for children’s education: ________________ 7. Amount to pay off mortgage or other liabilities: ________________ 8. Total amount needed (sum of lines 5-7): ________________ 9. Existing nonretirement assets: ________________ 10. Existing life insurance in force: ________________ 11. Life insurance needed: (line 8 – sum of lines 9-10): ________________
As you get older, earn more money, have kids, and live a correspondingly more expensive lifestyle, how much life insurance you need will go up — to a point. As you get closer to retirement age and accumulate more wealth in savings and investments, you will need less life insurance to make up the difference.
Read more: The Average Cost of Life Insurance by Age
Other Considerations when Buying Life Insurance
Paying Off Mortgages and Other Liabilities
In the event of your death, you may want to ensure that your surviving family doesn’t have to worry about a mortgage or other debts. Although they could continue making payments using the annual income from the life insurance payout, you may want to leave them with enough to pay off the debts right away.
Many lenders sell insurance policies that will pay off the loan balance in the event of death, but it’s typically more affordable to get a higher-value traditional life insurance policy.
Co-Signed Loans
If you have student loans or other obligations that were co-signed by somebody other than your life insurance policy’s beneficiary (for example, a parent), you’ll also want to ensure the life insurance policy provides enough to repay this balance, so the co-signer isn’t saddled with the remaining debt after your death.
Ask your insurer if they will allow you to designate multiple beneficiaries with specific amounts. If not, you’ll need to draft a will that stipulates who gets what.
Read more: Life Insurance: Is it Worth it and When Do You Need it?
Where to Buy Life Insurance
Policygenius
If you want an easy way to start looking for life insurance, check out Policygenius. They now offer term life insurance that requires no medical exam.
They’ve partnered with Brighthouse SimplySelect℠ to offer policies with up to $2 million in coverage, and you’ll get the same low premiums you get with companies that do require an exam.
To get started, call a Policygenius agent and take their over-the-phone questionnaire. Once you’ve done that, you can get insured in as little as three to four days.
Bestow
If you need to get life insurance quickly and don’t want to deal with a long waiting period, Bestow is another great option.
Bestow offers no-medical-exam life insurance and instant approvals. All you have to do is provide some basic information and Bestow takes it from there, using big data to issue a quote.
Bestow issues life insurance policies through the North American Company for Life and Health Insurance.
Get a quote with Bestow.
Ladder
Ladder offers affordable term life insurance that’s easy to understand and quick to set up online. It only takes a few minutes to apply for coverage and you can get an instant decision.
Ladder’s policies are issued by reputable providers, including Fidelity Security Life Insurance and Allianz Life Insurance Company of New York.
Get a quote with Ladder.
Read more: Best Life Insurance Companies: Find the Best Quotes
Summary
So, how much life insurance do you need? Enough to allow your surviving dependents to live their current lifestyle for a determined amount of time.
Typically, you’ll want your life insurance to provide for your children until they turn 18. You may also want to provide for your spouse until they reach retirement age. However, you may also need less life insurance coverage if you already have assets, such as investment accounts.
Overall, how much life insurance you need is a personal decision that you should make with your spouse and financial planner, if you have one (if you don’t, check out our handy tips for finding the right financial advisor for you).
Our rights as women have come a long way since we earned the power to vote on August 26, 1920.
But the financial playing field between men and women still isn’t level. Not even close.
To help you make waves in your own financial life, I interviewed several Millennial and Gen Z women to find out what financial advice they’d give to other women today
Here’s what they had to say.
What’s Ahead:
1. “Don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary.”
Anna Barker, Founder of LogicalDollar, offered me this advice.
There’s no question that it can be scary to ask for more money. Especially as women, we often internalize the feeling that we’re going to be seen as pushy or demanding if we ask for a raise.
However, various studies show this is actually one of the reasons women end up earning less over their lifetimes than men, who tend to be more likely to ask for more money.
2. “Take advantage of any employer match ASAP.”
Barker also talked with me about retirement. One of the best things that you can do for your future financial security is to start investing as early as possible.
If your employer offers any matching of your 401(k) contributions, this is basically free money and you should do everything you can to invest up to the limit of the match.
3. “Avoid high-interest debt.”
According to Barker, a big money mistake that a lot of women in their 20s and 30s make is signing up for high-interest credit cards. To be clear, credit cards can actually be a great tool if used correctly — which primarily involves paying the balance off in full by the end of each billing cycle.
The problems start to arise once those interest-free periods run out and you realize you’re not able to immediately pay off the debt you’ve accrued.
4. “It is SO cliché, so hear me out… please start saving early for retirement!”
Heather Albrecht, Financial Coach and Founder of Balance Financial Coaching, discussed this with me.
It’s hard because when you’re young, you seem to have SUCH a long time until that money is needed. But the math doesn’t lie.
Starting young makes it easier because you can save less. Gosh, I wish I had made the space in our spending plan to save earlier even though it seemed impossible. The $25 here or there would have been huge by now.
5. “Start using a spending plan or budget. Zero it out each month, and save the rest.”
Albrecht also spoke with me here. And I have to say if I had been able to get myself into the mindset of “saving money is spending money on my future freedom” at a younger age, there would have been a lot less stress at times.
Budgeting doesn’t have to be difficult, either. Just pick the right method and it’ll become just another habit.
6. “As a Millennial myself, the best money advice I would give women in their 20s and 30s is to diversify how you save and spend money.”
Siobhan Alvarez, Founder of Budget Baby Budget, shared this wisdom with me.
I am a big believer in not being dependent on one checking and savings account! I have a long-term high-yield savings account for an emergency fund, a savings account at my local bank for big purchases, a checking account for everyday expenses; and a checking account for fun purchases throughout the month.
This has helped me not only pay off a huge amount of debt over the past few years but do it in a way so I didn’t feel like I was missing out on life and fun!
7. “Protect yourself and your people financially.”
Brittney Burgett, Head of Communications at Bestow, gave this little nugget of advice. Emergency savings, disability insurance, and life insurance matter, especially if you have financial dependents.
Insurance, in particular, is more affordable to buy the younger and healthier you are. I, for example, have life insurance because I own a home.
My mom is my beneficiary, so if anything were to happen to me, the payout from a policy would enable her to continue the mortgage payments and decide later on what to do with my house — keep it, rent it or sell it. Life insurance would give her flexibility when it’s needed most.
8. “Educate yourself so you understand how money, interest, and debt works.”
Lindsay Feldman, Publicist and Founder of BrandBomb Marketing, broke down this for me.
It wasn’t until I really started reading financial books and listening to podcasts that I really began to take control over my financial situation. Understanding how money, interest, and debt works are key to being able to make your money work for you. I look at everything differently now which has empowered me to make smarter decisions.
9. “Sign up for Experian Boost. It’s free and will report monthly bills that generally don’t boost your credit like a phone bill, gas, and power!”
Feldman offered up a way for folks to finally help their credit the easy way. Experian Boost™ is free and it takes just a few minutes to sign-up.
Always be on the lookout for ways to improve your credit – it’ll only help you in the long run.
Feldman shares a great tip that can help homeowners own their home sooner (and pay wayyy less in interest). If it’s possible, work those extra payments into your budget.
11. “When it comes to money, you can have your cake and eat it too.”
Youmna Rab, Founder of Brilliantly Budgeting offered me this quote.
You don’t need to save every penny you earn and give up your favorite indulgences like spa days or dinners out.
If you make a plan for your money, you can enjoy what you like while also saving money for the future.
12. “Do not share bank accounts with anyone you’re dating but not married to, even if you live together.”
Shannon Vissers, the Financial and Retail Analyst of Merchant Maverick, shared some tough love here.
If you break up or your partner spends on things you don’t agree with, you’ll have no legal recourse to get your money back apart from suing them in small claims or court (which is expensive and stressful and may not go in your favor).
13. “Do not lease your car. Take out a loan instead.”
Vissers makes a good point here as well. A lease is essentially a very expensive car rental, and it’s a bad choice unless you’re wealthy enough to comfortably afford this luxury.
This doesn’t mean you can’t get a new car when you’re young. Rather than leasing a car out of your price range, opt to finance a cute, reliable car that you’ll own in three or five years (ideally three). You’ll build credit history this way and, in a few years, you won’t even have a monthly car payment.
14. “Be a minimalist, especially if you rent.”
While this tip may not be for everyone, there’s a good reason Visser’s offers this pearl of wisdom as well.
A good case can be made for spending on experiences when you’re young – trips, concerts, etc. — but overspending on retail goods is another story. Ever heard of the saying, what you own, owns you?
It’s true.
Remember, you’ll have to deal with all your clothes, shoes, furniture, kitchen items, knick-knacks, etc. the next time you move — and your headaches will be compounded if you have to move to a smaller place.
15. “The greatest gift you can give yourself is to save and invest early.”
Sarah Jane Paulson, CFP® at Valkyrie Financial, gave me this bit of guidance.
The classic pay yourself first mentality is the easiest way to a financially strong future. Build that emergency fund (or F*** You fund, if you prefer) of three to six months worth of expenses in a separate account other than your everyday checking.
Then go out and open an IRA or Roth for yourself. Put your money into cheap, diverse index funds and keep adding to it. The greatest money strength you have on your side is that you have years for the market to create an avalanche out of the first few snowflakes of money you invest.
16. “Becoming a financially grown-up woman means unlearning a lot of money lessons society taught us as girls: that men are better at money and math (they’re not), that investing is scary (it’s not), and that the best route to financial stability is to marry a high earner (absolutely not!).”
Sara Rathner, credit cards expert at NerdWallet, wanted to share this with other women.
So throw all those old lessons in the garbage, because that’s where it belongs. Now, today, learn everything you can about managing your finances on your own.
There is nothing more empowering than being the boss of your own life, and of being an equal partner in your relationships. No one will ever care as much about your money as you will.
17. “Surround yourself with people with similar money values.”
Sue Hirst, Co-Founder and CFO of CFO On-Call shared her experience when we talked.
When I was in my 20s, I used to hang out with many people who didn’t share my money values. As a result, almost every time I went out with my friends, I splurged money recklessly due to peer pressure.
This was one of the top reasons I was unable to save as much money as I would have liked each month. Looking back, I wish I had either told my friends directly that I wasn’t comfortable spending huge amounts of money routinely, or made new friends whose financial values aligned with my own.
18. “Make saving a habit as soon as you start making income.”
Imani Francies, Finance Expert at US Insurance Agents, shared this little mind shift.
Saving becomes easier when you look at yourself with the same significance that you look at your power bill or any other bill. No matter what, you are going to do your best to pay your power bill. You should feel the same way about putting money into your savings.
Paying yourself first every month is investing in your future. Even if you can only put $5 into a savings account once a month, start early.
19. “Budget, but give yourself room to indulge.”
Lisa Thompson, Savings Expert at Coupons.com, offered up ALLLL the good tips when I spoke with her.
What’s your weakness: designer handbags, weekend getaways, fine dining with a great bottle of champagne? Make room for things you love by controlling what you spend in other areas.
20. “Cash back offers are everywhere, from brands like Rakuten, to credit card perks, to apps like Coupons.com. Use them!”
Thompson also offers this bit of advice. Refuse to pay full price for anything until you’ve looked for an offer. If you can pair a coupon or cash back offer with a store discount or sale, bam! That’s a savvy way to shop.
21. “Learn to use credit cards wisely.”
To tack on, Thompson also had this to say.
She makes a good point, too. Today, there are so many options for credit cards that offer perks from cash back to miles to points, as well as incentives, like a free Dash Pass for DoorDash or money toward a Peloton membership. The key, of course, is to not carry a balance and pay so much interest that it cancels out the perks. But if you can learn to use credit cards wisely by paying them off each month, the perks and incentives can help make everything from dining out to travel more affordable.
22. “Get a side gig by turning a passion into a money-making opportunity.”
Finally, Thompson ended our conversation with the quote above.
Do you love essential oils? Make balms, rollerballs, and pillow sprays, and sell them on Etsy or at pop-up shops.
Do you love thrifting, going to estate sales, and visiting antique shops? Find items worth more than what you’re paying and resell them! Facebook Marketplace is the perfect spot for that, and it’s free.
If you can turn a hobby into a source of income, that’s extra money for you to invest, save, or use as your slush/entertainment fund.
23. “Know your worth and advocate for yourself when negotiating.”
Amy Maliga, Personal Finance Consultant at Take Charge America, tells it like it is with her wise advice above.
Since the gender pay gap is still a real thing (ugh), it’s important to do your research on salaries for your position and advocate for yourself when negotiating a new job or discussing your annual performance review.
24. “Set goals and actively work toward them.”
Maliga offered me a simple but strong piece of advice above.
Whether it’s buying a home, starting a business, or embarking on world travel, setting financial goals gives a structure and framework to how you plan your finances.
25. “Forget FOMO. Don’t be afraid to say no.”
Maliga also makes a good point here.
TikTok made me buy it – or did it?
It’s way too easy to shop these days, and social media knows exactly what it takes to get you to press “add to cart.” When you’re tempted to buy something you hadn’t planned on, or friends are trying to talk you into activities you can’t afford, keep those long-term financial goals in mind, and don’t be afraid to say no.
Summary
We celebrate Women’s Equality Day every August 26th to commemorate the day the 19th Amendment finally recognized that women have the right to vote. But that same equality hasn’t trickled to the financial space yet, where the gender pay gap, wealth gap, and investing gap still exist today.
We’ve made a lot of progress over the decades, but a lot still needs to happen at the company, state, and national levels to achieve equal pay and equal opportunities for equal work. Until then, I hope these financial tips from awesome Millennial and Gen Z women serve as inspiration for how you can up the ante in your own financial life.
Are there any tips you’d add to the list? Let me know in the comments below!
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