Keeping a dog in an apartment is much easier with a dog park right next door.
As much as we love our pets, it can be hard to be a dog owner living in an apartment. There isn’t as much space and you likely don’t have a private backyard where they can run and go to the bathroom.
Plus, some breeds simply aren’t suited for apartment living. That means that most apartment-dwelling dog owners need to use neighborhood or community dog parks. But this isn’t always the most convenient option. Maybe the nearest dog park isn’t within walking distance, meaning you need to drive there. Maybe your dog is still learning social skills and you still aren’t comfortable taking them to a large dog park.
The solution could be found in choosing an apartment complex that has its own dog park on the property. Exclusively available for the use of four-legged residents and their human companions, apartment dog parks have many benefits for apartment dog owners from their proximity to your home to reduced attendance. Plus, dog parks are amenities commonly found at higher-end luxury apartment buildings, meaning that there are likely tons of other desirable perks and amenities for you to enjoy.
13 reasons to look at apartments with dog parks
Every dog has its day, or at least it will once it lives in an apartment with its own dog park. Here are 13 benefits to dog owners and their canine roommates of choosing apartments with dog parks.
1. Your dog can get more frequent exercise
If you have a dog park in your apartment complex, you don’t have to drive or walk long distances to reach a nearby park. It’s easier to fit in multiple visits per day, giving your dog more opportunities to stretch their legs, run around and get some fresh air and exercise. Your dog will be happier and healthier for it.
2. Get in your daily steps
It’s not just your dog who can get in some exercise during dog park visits. It also gives you a chance to get in more daily steps while walking to, from and around the dog park. If your dog likes to run around, you can even get in some light jogs and cardio during dog park playtime. Having an on-site dog park gives you a chance to fit some easy exercise and stretching into your day as well.
3. It’s easier and more convenient
In general, having a dog park close at hand is more convenient for everyone. If you work from home, it’s easier to fit dog park visits into your schedule when it only takes a few minutes to get there. Instead of needing to plan outings around your work schedule, you can quickly run your dog down to the park to use the bathroom and exercise before a meeting starts. If it’s late at night and your dog needs to go out before bed, you don’t need to get dressed again and walk around the neighborhood. Early mornings are also better when the dog park is a few minutes away.
It’s also easier for pet sitters. If you don’t work from home and someone needs to let your dog out during the day, they don’t even need to take the dog off-site.
4. Meet and connect with other dog owners in your apartment complex
Apartment dog parks are also great places to socialize and meet your other neighbors who are dog owners. If you’re new to the complex and want to introduce yourself, saying “hi” and chatting at the dog park is a casual, easy way to get to know other dog owners in the complex. You can also meet and welcome new residents to the complex.
Not only can you make new friends this way, but knowing who among your neighbors are dog lovers can come in handy. If you’re going on a trip and need someone to watch your dog, you can simply ask trusted neighbors instead of needing to find someone new. If you’re away for work during the day, you can also ask work-from-home neighbors if they’re willing to help out with getting your dog their daily bathroom runs.
5. Your dog can make friends as well
It’s not just you who can make new friends and acquaintances while hanging out at your apartment dog park. Your dog can also make friends and become playmates with other resident pooches.
Larger neighborhood and community dog parks usually attract a bigger crowd, but a small apartment dog park that only caters to a particular complex will have a smaller pool of dog visitors. That way, your dog is more likely to bond with other dogs that they see more frequently and become friends.
6. Extra safety and security
Apartment dog parks are also generally safer for both dogs and their owners. At larger neighborhood dog parks where everyone is welcome, there may be run-ins with aggressive or untrained dogs. At a smaller apartment dog park, you’re more likely to know all the dogs there and whether or not they’re well-behaved or can become aggressive.
Having a dog park just steps from your apartment is also safer for humans too. For early morning or late nights, you don’t need to walk around a dark neighborhood or an empty dog park where there’s no one else around in case something happens. If your dog park is on your apartment complex’s grounds, it’s in a secure, safe area that likely also has better lighting.
7. Keeps messes to a minimum
The whole reason to take your dogs to a dog park is so they can have a good time, but sometimes they get messy in the process. Maybe they roll around in the mud or get covered in dust. If you need to drive to your nearest dog park, that return trip will get dirt, mud and other messes around your vehicle.
While your dog can still get dirty at an apartment dog park, at least your nice, clean car doesn’t have to pay the price. Plus, your apartment is right there for a fast clean-up.
8. Let your dog run free
Apartment dog parks may be one of the few places where you can let your dog off-leash for some untethered fun and exercise. Not all dog parks allow this because of the risk of violent or aggressive encounters. But in quiet apartment dog parks, you can usually give your dog free rein to run around and have fun.
Plus, you can quickly leash them back up if someone else comes to use the dog park that isn’t comfortable with off-leash dogs. Since you’re more likely to know all the other residents who use the dog park, that also means you can preemptively avoid encounters with aggressive or reactive dogs.
9. The apartment may have other pet amenities like dog washes
If your apartment complex has pet-friendly amenities like a dog park, they definitely cater to and understand the needs of pet owners. That means there’s a good chance they have other pet-friendly amenities like dog washing stations or dog spas like these dog-friendly apartments in Los Angeles.
No more getting your bathroom all dirty giving your dog a bath or hauling them to the pet groomers. You can take care of it yourself at your apartment’s on-site dog-washing spa.
10. Some dog parks may come with agility equipment
Offering chances for more enrichment play or learning new tricks, some apartment dog parks also come with agility equipment. These can help your dog keep their health and agility up, train for competitions or just have a good time.
11. Your dog will be less restless
Taking your dog out more frequently during the day means they’ll be less restless back at the apartment. Instead of hassling you to play or give them attention, they’ll relax or take a nap.
If you work from home or have lots of chores, it’s easier to work through your to-do list without a dog in the way. You’ll be more productive or can simply unwind and relax as well.
12. Better behavior both in and out of the apartment
Not only will having closer access to a dog park make your dog less restless, but they’ll be less disruptive. Dogs who are stuck indoors all day can bark, be noisy or make messes around the apartment.
This isn’t just disruptive to you, but can also impact your neighbors. A barking dog can lead to noise complaints and issues with your neighbors and building management. Making sure your dog gets plenty of fresh air and exercise at a dog park that’s close and accessible can help avoid these issues.
13. Living in a pet-friendly community
Living in an apartment complex that has its own dog park means that the overall community is pet-friendly, and there are many benefits of living in a pet-friendly apartment building. Firstly, it can be hard to find pet-friendly apartments sometimes. Even if you do live in an apartment that allows dogs, your neighbors might not, which can create conflict.
In an apartment complex that caters to pet owners with amenities like dog parks, odds are that many of the residents love and have their own furry best friends. You’re living in a community of understanding, like-minded people who share a common interest and passion, which makes for a more comfortable, happy living situation.
Find the perfect apartment for you and your furry best friend
From its convenience to helping you and your pooch make new friends, living in an apartment with a dog park offers numerous benefits for both you and your dog.
To find apartments with dog parks in a dog-friendly city, use the Pet Policy tools on Rent.com to look for apartment complexes that allow dogs. This will filter results to only dog-friendly apartments, which you can then browse to find complexes that come with pet amenities like dog parks.
Inside: Looking for some great Easter basket ideas for girls? Our list has you covered! They will love these easter gifts for special ladies in your life.
Easter is just around the corner and if you’re like me, that means it’s time to start thinking about Easter baskets!
I love putting together Easter baskets for my girl.
Girls love getting unexpected presents, and they love trying out new things. Plus girls are also often very creative, so they can come up with unique and interesting gifts.
It’s so much fun to pick out festive and colorful Easter fillers!
If you’re looking for some inspiration for what to put in your little girl’s Easter basket this year, look no further!
Here are 25 great ideas:
What do girls like for Easter?
Girls can enjoy a wide variety of Easter gifts and treats.
Thus, shopping for girls is so much fun!!
The love items such as jewelry, nail polish, art supplies, plush toys, beach towels, tote bags, backpacks, and notebooks. You can’t go wrong with any of our ideas below.
Find Easter gifts to show your little girl how special she is, while still being fun and age-appropriate.
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What can I put in my daughters Easter basket?
Looking for creative ideas to put in your daughter’s Easter basket?
From fun jewelry, nail polishes, and art supplies to sunglasses, we have plenty of ideas to keep you covered.
You need to consider her interests and personality to make her basket special.
The 25 Best Easter Basket Ideas for Girls
If you are looking for some inspiration for what to put in your little girl’s Easter basket this year, look no further!
This is where you will find Easter basket ideas for teens.
We have gathered together 25 of the most awesome girl Easter basket ideas
Pressed Flower Art Kit
A pressed flower art kit is a great Easter basket idea for girls of all ages, as it encourages creative exploration and allows for unique, handmade projects.
These tools can be used to create a variety of fun projects such as cards, bookmarks, trinket boxes, and more.
Moreover, the recommended age of 5 years and up means the kit is versatile enough to engage both younger and older girls.
Grow ‘N Glow Terrarium Kit
The Grow ‘N Glow Terrarium Kit for kids is packed with amazing features for young botanists to explore and enjoy! The kit includes everything you need.
Perfect opportunity to combine the fun of arts and crafts with science for creative and screen-free activity.
Cross Pendant Necklace
A cross pendant necklace is a popular and meaningful choice for faith-based Easter baskets.
It is a stylish and symbolic way to express one’s faith.
The simple design makes it a timeless item and is a popular choice for teens and adults alike. It is a great way to show your devotion to Christ and to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.
Kindle Paperwhite
This is something we have purchased before for our kids.
It is such a hit!!
We prefer the paperwhite version over the Kindle Kids.
Spot It Classic Card Game
The Spot It! Classic Card Game is a fun, engaging game for the whole family.
It works by having players search for matching symbols or pictures on cards.
It is an excellent option for an Easter basket for young girls because it encourages critical thinking, visual perception skills, and fine motor skills. It also develops quick reflexes and helps players hone their observational skills.
Squishies Squishy Toy
Squishies Squishy Toys are excellent stress relievers and are great for improving blood circulation in the hands.
These Squishies Squishy Toys make great Easter Basket ideas for girls because they are not only fun and cute to look at, but they are also very safe to play with.
Additionally, they are small enough to fit into Easter eggs and baskets without taking up too much space.
Butterfly Garden
This pop-up, reusable habitat is 11.5 inches tall and made of mesh to allow for easy viewing of butterflies as they go through the transformation from caterpillar to butterfly. It also comes with a feeding dropper and instructions for setting up the habitat.
Watching the caterpillars grow and morph into butterflies is a fun and engaging activity that can teach children about the beauty of the natural world and the life cycle of butterflies.
Make sure to order caterpillars separately! https://amzn.to/3YIM2Uy
Easter Lego Set
The LEGO Creator 3-in-1 White Rabbit is a great Easter basket idea for boys because they can enjoy building the 258-piece rabbit, complete with a carrot!
Plus, the set is compact, making it easy to stow away for later use. Not to mention, it’s perfect for the Easter season, with its cute bunny and carrot design.
So, your child can have fun building with their LEGO set and then decorate their room with the finished product!
Fidget Toys
Easter baskets for girls can be filled with a variety of fidget toys
Girls will love the variety of sensory toys in the set and they can use them to reduce stress and anxiety.
Plus, they trade them all the time! So, it is better to buy a bigger set!
Beautiful Hearted Women of the Bible: A Creative Mother-Daughter Devotional
This beautiful month-daughter devotional by Linsey Driskill is a creative and interactive way for moms to connect with their daughters ages 6-10 years old.
Simple step to help grow their relationship with God.
The bonus is quality time with your daughter digging into God’s word.
Sidewalk Chalk
Sidewalk chalk is a perfect Easter basket item for girls since it encourages them to explore their creative side and get outdoors.
As the chalk is washable, it’s also a safe and mess-free option to let kids express their creativity while having fun outdoors.
Furthermore, the vibrant colors of sidewalk chalk add a splash of color to any outdoor space and bring a lot of fun and excitement.
Temporary Henna Tattoos
Temp henna tattoos are an excellent addition to any Easter basket, as they are a fun, creative way for kids (and adults!) to add a special touch to their celebrations.
They’re great for adding a personal touch to gifts and can even be used to dress up Easter eggs or other decorations.
Plus, they are a safe and non-toxic alternative to permanent tattoos, meaning they won’t cause any lasting damage to skin.
Personalized Beach towels
Why not be in style with a personalized beach towel?
Choose your favorite design, add your own text, and let us do the rest.
You can be sure that your towel will make a statement at the beach this summer.
I Spy Easter Book
The I Spy Easter Coloring Book is a popular Easter basket idea for girls because it provides a fun and creative way to celebrate the holiday.
This book is packed with easy-to-color illustrations, featuring bunnies, eggs, chicks, and other Easter themed treats, on single-sided pages that prevent bleed-through.
With its inspiring Easter themes, this activity book is sure to spark creativity and imagination for toddlers.
Easter Bubble Bath Bomb
Bath bombs are a fun way to get clean and enjoy a spa-like experience at home.
They come in all different flavors, but the most popular is probably the bubble bath bombs. These bombs are filled with a variety of scents and ingredients, including bath salts, oils, and even toys.
When you drop them into a hot bath, they form small bubbles that burst and release.
Non-toxic Nail Polish
An Easter nail polish basket is a popular gift idea for girls.
Look for nail polishes that are usually free of harsh chemicals, vegan and cruelty-free, and eco-friendly, making them safe for all ages, including young children.
The Easter nail polish basket is a popular gift idea for girls because it provides them with a fun and safe way to express themselves and decorate their nails with vibrant colors and designs.
Facial Sheet Mask
Facial sheet masks are a popular Easter basket idea for girls because they are an affordable and easy way to enjoy a variety of skincare benefits.
A facial sheet mask is a skincare product that is made from natural ingredients such as shea butter, aloe, tea tree, peppermint, green tea, and lemon, among others.
Not to mention, they are a fun way to show your skin some love and pamper yourself.
American Girl Doll
There are many different American Girl Dolls to choose from, the options are endless.
You can fill the baskets with different types of clothes, shoes, and accessories. They can also be personalized with the child’s name.
Self Love Journal
Journaling is one of the best practices we can teach our girls.
Positive affirmations work wonders! Our brain is so powerful.
This is a gift you will not regret.
Glitter Double Line Outline Pens
The Glitter Double Line Outline Pens feature vivid metallic silver color surrounded by colored borders.
These pens have a unique technology that produces outlines for you automatically to create a beautiful dual-color effect.
The pigment ink is waterproof, chemically stable, and UV resistant, making them perfect for crafts, cards, and other creative projects.
The Armor of God – Teen Bible Study Book
This highly acclaimed bible study by Priscilla Shirer is what teen girls need today.
Learn how to overcome the war raging around you – in your mind, in your emotions.
Make an action plan for putting on your armor and developing a personalized strategy to secure victory against the enemy.
Selfie ring light
Yep, this is exactly what every teen wants!
A selfie ring light is a device used to take selfies, video chat, and live stream videos. I
It also comes with an adjustable phone holder and a weighted tripod, making it easy to take pictures no matter where you are.
Selfie ring lights are popular gifts for Easter baskets because they make it easier to take great selfies in dark areas or whenever natural light is not available.
Crossbody Purse
It is a popular Easter basket idea for girls because of its convenience and versatility.
The faux leather material and small size of the bag make it a stylish and comfortable accessory that can be worn with just about any outfit.
All in all, a crossbody purse is a great Easter gift idea for girls of all ages because of its stylishness, convenience, and versatility.
What stuffed animals can I include in a girls Easter basket?
A girls Easter basket should include an array of plush stuffed animals!!
Here are the most popular:
Personalized Hop ‘N Cuddle Plush Bunny
Squishmallow
Melissa & Doug Burrow Bunny Rabbit Stuffed Animal
FAQ
Girls are more likely to want the frills and ribbons than boys!
A themed Easter basket is a great idea and there are so many fun and creative themes to choose from.
Consider a princess-themed basket with items like princess jewelry, nail polish, art supplies, and a unique tie-dye beach towel.
Or, think of a pool-themed basket with a beach tote, sand toys, and a colorful beach towel.
Make the basket even more special with a few extra touches like a colorful bow or ribbon, a few Easter eggs, or a special note.
With these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a custom Easter basket for your girl that she’ll love!
Are there any Easter basket stuffers specifically for girls that are non-candy items?
Indeed, there are!
From glitter and sparkles to fun friendship art, you can find a wide selection of unique non-candy Easter basket stuffers for girls.
There are so many little fillers you can choose from!
Easter baskets for girls come in a variety of styles and colors, from bright pinks and pastels to custom designs.
From cute gift baskets with lock and key to sporty sparkle backpacks, there is something for every girl.
No matter what kind of Easter basket she’s looking for, you’re sure to find something special for every girl.
Time to Shop for Easter Bunny Baskets
We hope this guide has given you some inspiration for the perfect Easter basket for the special girl in your life.
Shopping for Easter should be fun for your daughter, nieces, or granddaughter.
The ideas are endless and open to inspiration based on their personalities.
You can be sure you’ll find the perfect Easter basket for the special girl in your life.
Don’t forget ideas for boys’ easter baskets!
Happy Easter!
Oh, and don’t forget those Easter basket stuffers!
So what are you waiting for? Get shopping!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Waking up in a place of your own with the birds chirping right outside your window is a great feeling.
You go outside and enjoy your coffee on the back porch, simply enjoying the quiet that comes with not living in an apartment.
Your neighbors are friendly, the sun is shining, and you know it is going to be another great day of owning a home.
Everything is going great… until the peaceful morning is ruined by the sound of your air conditioner going out.
As romanticized as owning a home has become in America, there are some significant costs associated with buying, owning, and maintaining a place of your own.
The True Cost of Home Ownership
Let’s break down some of the areas on how to value home ownership. There are some obvious costs like your monthly mortgage payment, but hidden costs sneak in there and can break the bank.
Obvious Home Cost: Principal and Interest
For most, the cost and financial benefits of renting versus homeownership are the deciding elements. The traditional logic is that renters are throwing away their money by paying someone else’s mortgage. Though true, this is a simplistic view.
On a $150,000 home purchase with 20% down (so a mortgage loan of $120,000) at 3.5 percent APR, the monthly principle and interest payment is $538.35 per month.
This sounds like a smart deal since most houses increase in value over time, while the monthly payment lowers the principle balance and increases the equity. If you are paying $600 per month in rent, owning your own home for about the same amount sounds like a great deal.
While principal and interest is a big chunk of your monthly costs of owning a home, there are a lot of other costs to consider.
Hidden Home Cost: Property Tax and Insurance
When you speak to a real estate agent about looking at homes, they generally speak of how much a home is going to cost you in a monthly payment. Many agents will focus on quoting you prices based just on the principal and interest because it means they can get you into a more expensive home — pulling you toward that dream home — thus earning a larger commission check on the sale.
Unfortunately, your monthly payment will have other costs associated with it, namely property tax and homeowners insurance. Depending on the area, these costs can increase the payment significantly. Unlike principal and interest, taxes and insurance payments is money that you are not getting back.
You might pay an extra $150 to $450 per month in tax and insurance cost depending on the area you live in, what the tax structure is, and how much insurers charge to protect your home’s area.
Tax and insurance costs are not fixed unlike your principal and interest payments (assuming you get a fixed rate mortgage). Your local municipality can raise taxes over the years, and homeowners insurance companies are constantly changing annual premiums.
Some states have homestead exemptions that lower a homeowner’s tax burden, so check to see if your state allows this.
Obvious Home Cost: Down Payment
When you rent an apartment your costs are an application fee, security deposit, your first month’s rent, and getting renters insurance. With just a few thousand dollars you can be completely moved in and setup in an apartment or rental home.
When you purchase a home of your own you need to save up money for a down payment. Back in the heyday of the housing boom you could buy a property with little or no money down.
Those days are gone. (This is a good thing!)
Home ownership is a serious commitment and requires serious cash to get started. Many lenders want to see you have a 20% down payment in order to be approved for a loan. On a $150,000 home that means you need $30,000 in straight cash sitting in an account waiting to be used once you find a home.
That’s a lot of dough to be sitting on. I highly recommend using one of the top online savings accounts such as Capital One 360 Savings to hold your down payment so you earn interest until you find the home you want.
Still not sure if you should keep renting or buy your first home? Use this nifty calculator to help you decide:
Hidden Home Cost: Home Maintenance and Upkeep
Owning your own home means you get to decide how your home looks inside and out, including the property’s landscaping. Unless the home is in a designated historic neighborhood, or one with zoning restrictions or homeowners association rules, homeowners are generally free to apply for permits and make changes to a home’s look, structure and more.
It also means you get the “honor” of mowing, trimming, dealing with weeds, and footing the cost of repairs.
Rental properties usually outsource a maintenance crew for maintenance and lawn care so you don’t have to spend time on those items. While a homeowner may have to spring for a new Husqvarna, he or she can landscape as desired. Just remember, it takes time and money to keep up the home and yard.
Most rental management companies will have an itemized checklist of all appliances, flooring quality and states of repair. Often these will be accompanied by photos. Any changes to the rental property outside of normal wear and tear need to be put back to the original state. Renters usually can’t make material changes to the property. You’ll also have to find affordable renters insurance.
This is not the case for a purchased home property. You can change what you like, but all of the cost comes from your pocket.
How much money should you have on hand for home maintenance? A general rule of thumb is to have at least 1% or 2% set aside for home repairs. If you own a $150,000 home that means having $1,500 or $3,000 set aside for when the roof leaks or the HVAC unit goes out in the middle of summer.
Even that amount of money won’t cover major repairs, but it is better to have a starting point in paying the repair bill than to be starting from scratch.
An easy way to make sure you don’t spend your home repair fund is to use a low risk investment like a certificate of deposit. CDs allow you to earn higher interest and only charge a few month’s worth of interest if you need to pull the funds out before the CD matures. One of the best places to get a CD is online with Discover Bank.
You might create a separate category in your budget to hold maintenance money and a separate category to hold money for landscaping or yard maintenance.
Hidden Home Cost: Higher Utility Bills
Living in a 800 square foot apartment can keep your utility bills down simply because you don’t have much space to heat or cool. There can be some financial shock when you get your first set of utility bills after moving into a much larger home.
If you are used to spending $600 on rent, and $100 on monthly utilities, buying a home with a $600 mortgage payment leaves you with the same amount of money to heat and cool a much larger space. Depending on how old the home is your HVAC unit might be older than the one in your apartment building and thus be less efficient. A less efficient unit combined with a larger square foot area can result in some shocking utility bills.
How much should you anticipate to spend on utilities? Ask the sellers.
Pro Tip: When looking at homes ask the sellers to provide utility bills for the last 12 months and a description of where they kept the temperature set. This can give you a rough idea of what you’ll be spending each month. Even if your exact use of the area isn’t the same — they set it at 73 degrees and you prefer 71 — you’ll at least have a ballpark figure.
Hidden Home Cost: Termite Protection
It’d be nice if we could buy a home and never have to worry about termites ruining the structure. Unfortunately this is one of those hidden costs that many people don’t think of.
You can get a termite bond to protect your home. When you purchase a termite bond (usually a couple hundred of dollars) the termite extermination company comes out to inspect your entire house inside and out for signs of termites. Assuming none is found, they spray a preventative down and right a bond that essentially guarantees against termites.
Each year the company comes back to renew the bond for a smaller fee, does another inspection, and sprays again if necessary.
After the initial cost of the bond it is usually $50 to $100 to renew the termite bond. That doesn’t sound like much, but it is just another hidden cost that you need to prepare for.
Hidden Home Cost: Realtor Fees
Where a home can be the cornerstone for growth for some, it can be an anchor that prevents movement for others. Housing markets fluctuate. The housing values and mortgage rates that make it ideal to purchase a home now may not be there five years from now. When purchasing a house, be prepared to stay with it for at least five year or else plan on losing money.
Selling a home is a giant unknown that you need to consider when first purchasing the home.
Can you live here long term?
What happens if the housing market tanks around you?
Can you afford to pay 6% realtor commissions if you use a real estate agency to sell the home?
The commissions paid to realtors are a hidden cost that reach into the thousands of dollars. A 6% realtor commission (3% for the buying realtor and 3% for the listing agent) is $9,000 on a $150,000 home. That means your home has to go up by at least that much in value if you want to sell it, and that’s assuming home prices are going up in your area.
Anticipating Home Ownership Costs: Use a Budget
Putting together a budget is one of the best things you can do before you even begin to consider purchasing a home of your own. You need to have a solid understanding of where you are currently spending money each month. Having a baseline for your current costs will make it a lot easier to compare to potential home ownership costs than if you are just shooting in the dark.
There is a lot of great personal finance software available. For budgeting we recommend You Need a Budget for your core budgeting needs. You can use other programs like Manilla and Mint to add additional monitoring as needed, but YNAB is a great piece of software.
Is Owning a Home Worth It?
Don’t underestimate the security and stability of a family home. According to a study from the Pew Research Center, housing stability shows the world you are stable, dependable and devoted to the community.
Other studies have shown that children of homeowners tend to be better at math and reading, have fewer behavioral problems, and stay in school longer. This is linked to the safety that a child feels when they have a stable home. Since a house is a long term investment that can have a mortgage of 40 year or beyond, a house becomes very closely linked to a family’s architecture, community standing, stability and more.
A Look at the Future
What will life look like in five years? Ten years? Fifty years? Whether playing the role of savvy investor or new couple thinking about a family, these are the questions that need to be addressed. Of course, without a time machine or a crystal ball, there are no certainties as to what will happen with the housing market in your area.
But those weighing the pros and cons of home ownership must have an idea of how they want to spend their future. The online real estate database, Zillow, recommends having a plan before jumping into the home buying jungle.
If you plan to live in one area for a long time then buying a home is a great decision that provides stability to your family. If you don’t know if you will be in the same area five years from now it usually makes sense to keep renting.
Either way, having an understanding of the true cost of owning a home can help you crunch the numbers to make a housing decision.
Transforming a small bedroom into a comfortable sanctuary may seem impossible, especially for those living in a small apartment or dorm. But there is good news: You can convert your cramped quarters into a cozy and organized space with a few simple tips and tricks.
From storage solutions to affordable decor hacks, this guide has all the advice you need to make the most of your small bedroom.
One way to maximize your space is to think vertically. This means using the bedroom walls, in any way, to your advantage. Built-in shelves extending from the floor to the ceiling offer storage space for books, decor, and more. You can also hang floating shelves.
If shelving isn’t your thing, choose wallpaper with a vertical pattern to create the illusion of a higher ceiling. To add texture, you can also hang floor-to-ceiling curtains (avoid heavy drapes). Opting for sheer or thin cotton curtains will allow natural light to flow into your space while giving you a sense of privacy.
Pro Tip: A glossy finish can help reflect light and make the room bright and spacious. Dark paint can make a small room feel even smaller. Instead, opt for light, neutral colors like soft gray, beige, creamy white, or pale blue to make your space more open and airy.
For a pop of color, consider painting an accent wall in a bright or bold hue to add personality to the space. Just be sure to choose a color that complements the rest of the room’s color scheme.
Use Wall-Mounted Lighting
While having a little light to read by at night is lovely, bedside lamps can crowd your nightstand. Wall-mounted lighting (e.g., sconces) can free up space on your nightstand and draw the eye upward, creating an organized and modern look. Plus, you can find hundreds of affordable and easy-to-install options online, from antique-looking beaded wall sconces to brass-plated industrial-style lights.
Install a Full-Length Mirror
Mirrors reflect natural and artificial light, making any space instantly larger. A full-length mirror can also serve as a statement piece and make getting ready a breeze. If you’re uncomfortable having a heavy mirror on your wall, try hanging a set of mirrors in different sizes and shapes to add depth and create a visually appealing focal point.
Buy Space-Saving Furniture
If you’ve yet to buy furniture for the space, consider purchasing pieces that serve multiple purposes. For example, a storage or loft bed with risers and drawers underneath can help you save space and declutter your room.
You can also look for ottomans or benches that offer hidden storage space or even a foldable desk that you can tuck away when you’re not using it. Just remember to use furniture proportional to the room’s size, as oversized furniture can make any room feel cramped.
Follow the “Cantaloupe Rule”
Have you ever heard the saying “less is more?” Well, this idiom holds when it comes to decorating small spaces. According to Christine Brun, interior designer and author of “Small Space Living,” dividing your knickknacks and other items into categories and rotating them every season is one way to maximize space and showcase your favorite things. She calls it the cantaloupe rule: an interior design principle that advises against using home decor items smaller than a cantaloupe. By sticking to this rule, you can minimize clutter and create a clean, organized space that feels spacious, inviting, and stylish.
Living in a small space can be challenging, but these simple (and affordable!) tips can make all the difference in transforming your space into a cozy and functional place to relax and unwind.
Home Sweet Home is brought to you by the Washington State Housing Finance Commission’s Washington Homeowner Assistance Fund. The Homeowners Assistance Fund helps homeowners who have fallen on hard times because of the pandemic. Call 1-877-894-4663 for more information on how they can help.
He quickly curbs his exuberance in reining in what could border on braggadocious – decidedly un-Springsteen-like behavior. “Stay humble, but enjoy small victories,” he adds like a mantra of short penance. “ACC in 24 years has seen lots of good days and bad days. Much like the emotional heartbreak that Springsteen talks about. Many people … [Read more…]
By Peter Anderson2 Comments – The content of this website often contains affiliate links and I may be compensated if you buy through those links (at no cost to you!). Learn more about how we make money. Last edited December 4, 2017.
This past month or so we’ve been highlighting savings tips for the summer, and we’ve talked about things like saving on food, saving at the movies, saving on summer travel and so much more (see the links below).
Before we end this summer savings series, however, I thought it would be nice to highlight some of the summer savings tips that were submitted by our readers during our contest. There are some good ones here:
Summer Savings Tips From Our Readers
Here are a few of the tips our readers sent in on ways to save money this summer.
Joey – My summer savings tip – Use coupons when buying my groceries. Every little saving makes a difference.
The Happy Rock – Get your air conditioning unit checked and tuned up to help save on energy costs.
otherdeb – Know that bicycle that’s been moldering against your back porch/in your attic/in your garage, etc? Get it out, get it checked over, and start using it for local errands!
Rachel – For a cheap sun burn treatment that won’t require an extra trip to the pharmacy, freeze some of the lotion you already have on hand on a piece of tin foil. Once it’s frozen, it cools and soothes the burn and also moisturizers to ease peeling and blistering. Works great too for those who are allergic to Aloe Vera like me! Source: top10pharma.net
Sam – Turn you thermostat up to 80 and use your ceiling fans or box fans.We also turn off the AC at night and just use our ceiling fans.
finaidgirl – Since we’re moving 1000+ miles with a car and moving truck, I’m concentrating on more gas-friendly driving habits, like driving the speed limit or slower, braking more slowly and steadily, not idling, and paying to tune up the car before the trip to prevent any big issues from happening on the way.
RachaelfromNJ – Sometimes items that you own just need a good cleaning and they will look like brand new. Alot of men don’t realize that their baseball caps can be cleaned, in the dishwasher. Go to any Walmart, Target, Footlock, or any store that sells hats and you can get this plastic thing to put the hat in and all you have to do is place it in the dishwasher to clean it. It will make the hat nice and clean and save your man alot of money in buying a new hat everytime it gets dirty!
ThatOneCaveman – Vacation in or near your hometown. There are often a lot of cheap or free ways to entertain yourself – you just have to look for them. We’ll be visiting a few local museums (free entrance + free air conditioning), the zoo, the lake, and a few parks this summer – all for free!
Cindy – I’m saving money in a number of ways this summer. The first way is riding my motorcycle to work every day it’s not raining. I use about half the gas I would in my small car. Some of my co-workers, who live closer than I do, are riding thier bikes to work. That’s free and they’re getting excercise to boot, a double benefit.
Diana Corlett – Combine going green with economizing. Be inventive…come up with new ways to use and re-use. Repair what you have instead of throwing it away and buying new. Make a hobby out of garage sales…you never know what treasure you might find.
Christin – Dry your laundry on a rack outside. This saves $$ and your clothes will last longer too!
Mercedes – This summer I have decided to quit driving my kids around for activities and stay local. I have been lucky to have found things to do in the small town that I live. So far I love this simple summer life. I am kicking back and enjoying the nice weather without a hectic lifestyle.
Melinda – Continue to start our summer vacation (December here) 2 weeks before summer school holidays officially begin. No crowds at the amusement parks, lower airfares & greater discounts on accommodation
Morgan – Go on a long walk with your significant other on a nice summer evening. This is a great way to get exercise, communicate, and not spend money.
Bunny – Use ceiling fans instead of AC. Dry your laundry outside under the sun. Go to the parks for nice family outings.
EL – My summer savings tip is to use the community pool, if you have one. It’s a great, cheap outing for hot days, great exercise, and keeps you from using the air conditioner.
Lauren – I’ve planted a vegetable garden to help save money at the grocery store, not only for the summer, but into the fall and winter months as well thanks to the joy that is freezing and canning!
CelticBuffy – 1)Keep the ceiling fans going to make the house feel cooler. 2)Close the curtains on sun-facing windows to cut down on the amount of heat coming into the house 3) Grill out or eat “cool” evening meals as using the oven can really heat up the house.
Mrs.Micah – My tip is to try wearing as little as possible indoors to help keep the need for a/c down. We didn’t turn ours on until mid-June when a heat wave hit DC and I found this a useful part. Of course, if you have kids what you can get away with is probably warmer than what you can if you don’t have kids. And it requires shutting the blinds/curtains, but that’s probably a good idea anyway for reducing heat in the house.
Donna V -My husband and I have been trying to save money on our date nights this summer. We love going to the movie theater and have saved money by going on Saturday before noon when tickets are $4-5 depending on the theater.
Shawna – My tip – hang dark colored sheets/blankets over your windows to prevent the sun from coming in and warming it up too much inside (and prevent the AC from running too much). I take push pins and put one on each side of the window at the top, then I take binder clips and put one on each side of the blanket and hang them that way so that it is easy to take them down. The setting sun really heats up some of my rooms and I do this with success.
Christopher – Go out and have a family day. Go to the zoo, the park, the beach, or another inexpensive place. Pack a picnic lunch to avoid the overpriced concession stands. Play games like volley ball or baseball, build a sand castle, or ride the swings.
So there you have it! Submit your own tips in the comments below!
Money Saving Posts From The Summer Savings Series
Have your own tips? Leave a comment with your tip, or a link to your own post!
An impressive number of online banks offer relatively high yields on savings accounts, money market accounts, and even checking accounts. Yes, even when interest rates are low.
And everyone needs a checking account. Why not choose one with a yield that rivals the best high-yield savings accounts?
Best High-Yield Checking Accounts
Many of these high-yield checking accounts are on our roundups of the best free checking accounts and best checking accounts with monthly maintenance fees. If you hate monthly service fees, know that most banks happily waive those fees when you meet minimum balance or monthly transaction requirements.
Wealthfront Cash Account
Our Rating
The Wealthfront Cash Account earns 4.30% APY on all balances — one of the best cash account yields on the market. It links seamlessly with Wealthfront’s other core product, a low-cost robo-advisor.
Account APY
Minimum Balance
Monthly Fee
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Wealthfront pairs a low-cost investment management solution with an excellent high-yield checking account, the Cash Account.
The Wealthfront Cash Account has a virtually nonexistent minimum opening deposit, high yields on all balances, no account fees, and a great lineup of value-added features, including Self-Driving Money™.
Self-Driving Money™ is a powerful money management automation tool that effortlessly allocates deposits among near-term expenses, variable-term savings goals, and longer-term investment objectives, all while making sure your emergency fund is topped up and you’ve got enough left over to enjoy life.
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Aspiration Spend & Save
Our Rating
Get up to 3.00% APY on the first $10,000 in your account and earn up to 10% back on purchases with select Aspiration partners.
Account APY
Up to 3.00% APY on the first $10,000
Minimum Balance
Monthly Fee
$0 for a standard account, $7.99 for Aspiration Plus
Our Rating
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Aspiration Spend & Save is two accounts in one:
Aspiration Debit, a rewards checking account that pays up to 10% back on eligible purchases with Conscience Coalition partners, companies that have committed to helping the planet (and caring more about their bottom line in the process).
Aspiration Save, a high-yield savings account that links seamlessly to Aspiration Debit and earns up to 3.00% APY on the first $10,000 in the account.
You need to pay $7.99 per month for an Aspiration Plus membership to earn 10% back and 3.00% APY. Otherwise, cash back maxes out at 5% and your yield is 1.00% APY on the first $10,000.
The Aspiration Save Account’s up to 3.00% Annual Percentage Yield (“APY”) is variable, subject to change, and only available to customers enrolled in Aspiration Plus after conditions are met. Customers not enrolled in Aspiration Plus receive 1.00% APY after conditions are met. The Aspiration Spend & Save Accounts are cash management accounts offered through Aspiration Financial, LLC, a registered broker-dealer, Member FINRA/SIPC, and a subsidiary of Aspiration Partners, Inc. (“Aspiration”). Aspiration is not a bank.
Go2Bank
Our Rating
Earn up to 7% cash back when you buy eGift cards in the app. Plus, earn 4.50% APY paid quarterly on savings balances up to $5,000.
Account APY
Minimum Balance
Monthly Fee
$5, waived with direct deposit
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GO2Bank combines a rewards checking account and a high-yield savings account into one package. The savings side has an impressive yield on the first $5,000 (4.50% APY), while the checking side pays up to 7% cash back on eligible electronic gift card purchases (GO2Bank calls them “eGift cards”) made in the app.
GO2Bank does have a monthly maintenance fee, but it’s waived with any qualifying direct deposit. Another highlight: the option to deposit cash at more than 90,000 retail locations nationwide.
Active GO2Bank account required to receive an eGift Card. eGift Card merchants subject to change
GO2Bank, Member FDIC. Interest paid quarterly on the average daily balance of savings during the quarter up to a $5,000 balance and if the account is in good standing. 4.50% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) as of April 2023. APY may change before or after you open an account. The average national savings account interest rate of 0.05% is determined by the FDIC as of 12/14/20. Visit https://www.fdic.gov/regulations/resources/rates/ to learn more. Fees on your primary deposit account may reduce earnings on your savings account.
Direct deposit early availability depends on timing of payor’s payment instructions and fraud prevention restrictions may apply. As such, the availability or timing of early direct deposit may vary from pay period to pay period. The name and Social Security number on file with your employer or benefits provider must match your GO2Bank account exactly or we will decline your deposit.
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Signature Federal Credit Union might not be as well-known as banking giants like Citi and Chase, but its high-yield checking account is definitely worth going out on a limb for.
Meet the qualifying activity requirements each month and you can earn 4.00% APY on balances up to $20,000. That’s many times higher than the national checking account average.
To qualify for the advertised yield in any given statement cycle, do all of the following:
Receive a direct deposits totaling $1,000 or more.
Enroll in electronic statements.
Use your debit card to make at least 15 eligible purchases online or in person.
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M1 Spend
Our Rating
Earn 3.30% APY with no minimum balance when you upgrade to M1 Plus. Additional benefits include 1% cash back on debit purchases and up to 10% back on credit card purchases.
Account APY
Minimum Balance
Monthly Fee
$125 per year to earn interest (after year one)
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M1 Spend is a free cash management account from M1 Finance, a digital banking, investing, and lending platform. But if you want to earn interest on your M1 Spend balances, you need to upgrade to M1 Plus, which costs $125 after the first year.
It’s worth upgrading. In addition to 3.30% APY on all M1 Spend balances, M1 Plus gets you 1% cash back on debit card purchases and up to four ATM fee reimbursements each month. And that’s just on the checking side — M1 Plus comes with investing and borrowing benefits too.
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Quontic High Interest Checking
Our Rating
Earn 1.10% APY on eligible balances when you make at least 10 qualifying transactions in a statement period. Plus, enjoy fee-free access to more than 90,000 ATMs across multiple networks in the United States.
Account APY
Minimum Balance
Monthly Fee
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Quontic High Interest Checking is a free checking account with an attractive yield for anyone able to clear the relatively low qualifying activity bar: making 10 or more qualifying debit card point-of-sale transactions valued at $10 or more within the statement cycle. Do this and you’ll earn 1.10% APY on all balances.
Note that Quontic used to limit interest payments to the first $150,000 in the account. This restriction has been void for a while, but there’s always the chance it could come back.
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Nationwide Advantage Checking
Our Rating
Earn up to 0.90% APY with qualifying activities — $1,000 or more in total direct deposits and at least 10 transactions per month.
Account APY
Up to 0.90% APY
Minimum Balance
Monthly Fee
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Nationwide Advantage Checking has much in common with other interest checking accounts, albeit with a slightly less generous upper yield tier than some.
In any given month, complete qualifying direct deposits (at least $1,000 total) and transaction requirements (at least 10 of $3 or more) to earn 0.90% APY (variable with prevailing rates). Do one or the other to earn half the advertised yield — and enjoy no monthly maintenance fees and expansive ATM network access even if you can’t do either.
One catch: The debit card transactions must occur in-person to qualify. So early in the month, focus on those types of transactions rather than online purchases until you clear 10.
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Methodology: How We Select the Best High-Yield Checking Accounts
We evaluated dozens of checking accounts to build this list. We considered several key variables along the way. The accounts that made the final cut scored well on most or all of them.
Account Yield (Interest Rate)
Remember, these are high-yield checking accounts we’re talking about. Yield is a key selling point for the banks marketing them, which is why it’s the most important factor in our analysis.
Monthly Fee & Waiver Options
The best high-yield checking accounts are either truly free, meaning they don’t charge monthly fees under any circumstances. Unfortunately, truly free checking accounts aren’t as common as they used to be, so we make exceptions for accounts that make it easy to get monthly fees waived with a qualifying direct deposit or clearing a reasonable minimum balance.
Bonuses and Rewards
The best high-yield checking accounts tend to offer sign-up bonuses for new account holders, rewards programs that pay you back for eligible purchases, or both. It’s not a deal-breaker when high-yield checking accounts lack these features, but all else being equal, we prefer that they do.
Balance Requirements & Limits
We believe you shouldn’t have to save up a fortune to benefit from a high-yield checking account. Most of the accounts on this list have no minimum balance or very low minimum balances. A few do have maximum balances to earn interest, but those are high enough not to impact most users.
ATM Access
Cash is less and less common these days, but ATM access is still important for many checking account users. And we believe you shouldn’t have to pay a fee to get your money. This is why, all else being equal, we prefer high-yield checking accounts with big fee-free ATM networks.
Geographic Availability
Some high-yield checking accounts have geographic restrictions, either because you have to open them in a branch or the banks offering them simply don’t operate in certain states. We exclude accounts with strict geographic restrictions and prefer 50-state coverage when possible.
High-Yield Checking FAQs
Choosing a checking account isn’t as simple as it sounds. You’ll almost certainly have some questions as you get into it, so we’ve preemptively answered some of the most important.
How Much Interest Do High-Yield Checking Accounts Pay?
It depends on the bank’s policy and prevailing interest rates. However, a good rule of thumb is that the best high-yield checking accounts pay interest on par with the top high-yield savings accounts.
Are There Any Requirements to Earn Interest?
Some high-yield checking accounts attach no strings at all to interest payments, but many do. The most common requirements include:
Setting up and maintaining a qualifying direct deposit
Meeting a monthly transaction minimum
Meeting a monthly or daily minimum balance
What’s the Maximum Balance to Earn Interest?
Many high-yield checking accounts pay interest on all balances, which is ideal if you keep a big financial buffer in your checking account. Others cap interest payments though. Usually, the cap is relatively high — $5,000 or more.
How Much Do High-Yield Checking Accounts Cost?
Ideally, nothing. And the best high-yield checking accounts are indeed free checking accounts. For accounts that do charge a monthly maintenance fee, we prefer easy waiver options, such as any direct deposit or a low minimum balance ($500 or below).
Are High-Yield Checking Accounts Actually Savings Accounts?
Sometimes. The line between checking and savings is blurrier these days because many banks and financial technology apps package checking and savings products into the same digital interface. Several of the accounts on this list are package deals.
Final Word
Like mortgage rates and CD yields, checking account yields rise and fall as benchmark interest rates change.
During periods of economic uncertainty, when benchmark rates tend to be more volatile, these changes can occur with disorienting frequency. The yield you expect on that shiny new online checking account might not be the yield you actually receive.
The silver lining is that competition for new checking account customers remains fierce, especially among online banks and smaller brick-and-mortar institutions without household name status.
That means checking account yields will continue to entice new account holders, wherever interest rates go and irrespective of what happens on the savings account front.
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Brian Martucci writes about credit cards, banking, insurance, travel, and more. When he’s not investigating time- and money-saving strategies for Money Crashers readers, you can find him exploring his favorite trails or sampling a new cuisine. Reach him on Twitter @Brian_Martucci.
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One of the subjects we talk about most frequently on The Financial Diet, and have been hearing about at every stop of our book tour with Mint, is dealing with debt. It’s one of those things that can loom over a person like a sad, dark cloud from a ‘60s comic strip, making everything they do feel like more of a challenge (and more of an obligation), even things which the debt doesn’t technically effect. We recently heard from a viewer on our YouTube channel, who wrote in asking for advice in dealing with her massive student debt from an emotional perspective. (It weighs on her so heavily that she panicked in the middle of an otherwise-great date, overrun with the fear that he would find out that she is basically strapped with a mortgage-worth of loans and no clear way to pay it off before she’s near retirement age.) It’s one of those questions that doesn’t just remind you of how all-consuming debt can be, but shows that the real issue for most people day-to-day is the emotional side of it: the anxiety, the shame, the guilt when doing anything that feels “frivolous,” which, when you’re paying off six figures of debt, can entail essentially anything else in life.
TFD is a place where the personal side of money is always explored first, and debt feels like one of the most crucial places to speak with a much more emotionally nuanced language. Because ultimately, if we don’t look at these decisions in terms of their human meaning — if we don’t think about what each dollar means to us in terms of joy, future value, and peace of mind — the numbers on a loan statement or in our bank accounts can start to feel simultaneously overwhelming and meaningless. When I asked TFD readers for their debt stories (both living with it and repaying it), one reader wrote to me,
“I used to think of my debt in terms of ‘the biggest mistake I ever made.’ I’m one of those sad statistics: someone who got a really expensive graduate degree and basically doesn’t use it. I was on several different debt repayment plans throughout my 20s that made me feel hopeless, and because of the field I work in, I knew that there wasn’t going to be a light at the end of the tunnel in terms of having more money for basically the rest of my young adult life. I watched all these big dreams I’d always had — a house, kids, semi-frequent travel — go Slam! Slam! Slam! Like doors in the hallway of my life.
When my dad died, I went to a therapist for the first time in my life to talk about my relationship with my mother, because I wanted it to improve in his absence. We ended up talking primarily about my debt, and working with [my therapist] was the first thing that really changed my view on it. She taught me that rather than constantly beating myself up about having made that choice at 21 is pointless, and that I should look at it as an Value-Neutral Truth of my Life. I owe money, but it is not who I am. The money I spend repaying it is not money I am robbing myself of, it was never mine to begin with.”
And maybe that’s one of the most key elements of the “getting out of debt” equation: realizing that, ultimately, this money you owe is totally value-neutral. No matter your individual strategy to pay off what you owe, the endeavor can’t be an emotionally-loaded one. When I finally paid off the credit card debt that had tanked my credit at 18 years old and haunted me for several years after, I was only able to do it because I’d stopped running from it, and stopped fearing it. I’d stopped dodging the collection calls, stopped feeling an acute feeling of embarrassment any time a remotely financial subject arose, stopped thinking of all the things I was excluded from doing because of my absurdly-low credit score. I became cold about it, because ultimately, a few numbers on a sheet of paper are a cold thing. I made a conscious choice that “freedom from this debt, and a rehabilitated credit score, are more important to me than this other stuff I’d like to buy with the money I’m using to pay it off.”
But part of that becoming “neutral,” emotionally, about your debt, is realizing that the life you might be constantly (even unconsciously) reaching for — the life of someone at your income level, but without your level of debt — is something you can’t constantly be fighting against. If your taste level is somewhere you can’t afford, and your brain is perpetually convincing you that you “deserve” the things that will cost you debt repayment, you are destined to feel deprived and bitter. One of the readers who wrote about her personal repayment story put it this way,
“We poured nearly all of our expendable cash made into our debt (while setting aside some for an emergency fund). This strategy contrasted pretty heavily with all of our peers who, for instance, were enjoying $500 dinners at Alinea and purchasing extravagant handbags to celebrate their new jobs. This extends beyond just controlling spending to also adjusting our standard-of-living – our housing situation is fairly low key and costs well below our means. But hey, as of today, we are actually an entire year debt-free!
Our strategy was far from perfect and had a lot of drawbacks. We were cash-poor for that period of time in which we were working shiny new jobs, and we of course wanted to celebrate that as much as the next person. So it required real discipline on the spending front. But overall, I am really proud of our work. Now we now feel incredibly free to leave our high-paying but extremely time-intensive and, let’s be real, boring, jobs and can pursue things we find interesting.”
Making the choice to live below your means requires an active rewiring in your mind, a resolution that where you are living is not “below” anything at all, but rather exactly where you need to be to accomplish what you want (in this case, getting rid of your debt). And while that approach might feel cold or detached on its surface, it’s really just an acknowledgement of all the fraught emotion that is usually such a huge part of this process, and actively deciding to reject it. (Similarly, the hit that Lauren and I took when we left our stable, decent-paying jobs and decided to start a business required a recalibration of what we felt our lives should look like.) But getting steadfast about that shift means that you don’t have to live under its thumb in terms of guilt, shame, or resentment. Living with your parents to maximize debt repayment, or going to community college to save money (raises hand!), or making any other decision that someone might judge on its surface but which is deeply right for you is the only way to live. Because you are ultimately the person who needs to live in your life, with your bank account, and within your day-to-day budget. Debt does not have to be that dark cloud, but in order to blow it away, you have to acknowledge it for what it is, head-on. You have to look in the face of all that fraught emotion, choose to laugh at it, and choose to move forward with your life.
Chelsea is the co-founder of The Financial Diet, a media company for women who want to talk about money. She tweets.
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personalized gift, we go to Etsy. When we’re looking for a hand-crafted kitchen item to accentuate our countertops, we go to Etsy. And, when we renovate our homes — be it furniture or decor — we (you guessed it) go to Etsy.
The direct-to-consumer marketplace is unmatched when it comes to bringing artisans, DIY-ers and skilled entrepreneurs to life to showcase their designs to life. Now, the e-commerce company has become a leader in home and design, so much so that it recently launched its 2023 Decor Trends Guide for shoppers worldwide to gain inspiration on what to add to their home’s interior next.
“In an age of social media, shoppers are increasingly looking to stand out from the crowd, and many are turning to handmade and vintage pieces that are totally unique and no one else has,” Dayna Isom Johnson, Etsy trend expert, exclusively told the New York Post. “We’re also seeing shoppers buying in line with their values more than ever, whether that means shopping sustainably or supporting small businesses, and Etsy is home to millions of items made by real people around the world.”
Ahead, find our full exclusive interview with Etsy, along with an overview of each decor trend. More, we outlined some of our favorite pieces to grab from top Etsy shops that seamlessly fit the bill for each trend.
“Etsy is also one of the top and most popular platforms for buying vintage items — in fact, someone searches for a vintage item on Etsy every two seconds,” Johnson points out. “Shoppers are particularly loving vintage lamps, furniture, and wedding items — like dresses and engagement rings — as many turn to secondhand styles as a way to own something truly unique while also shopping sustainably.”
While you’re shopping, be sure to check out our guides to the best Amazon home products and interior designer-backed 2023 design trends for even more inspiration.
1. Dark Woods
According to the 2023 Decor Trends Guide, there has been a 337% increase in searches for walnut desks and accessories and a 28% increase in searches for brown seating or furniture. This isn’t to say that light rustic beige is ‘so long, farewell,’though, even though Etsy has been seeing a 14% decrease in searches for raw or light wood and a 29% decrease in searches for beige decor.
“Darker woods create a sense of warmth and coziness in a space, while also providing a touch of character and sophistication,” Johnson says. Another reason why to love darker woods? They’re timeless and versatile.
“Take a classic vintage walnut credenza, for example, which can effortlessly be styled with anything from playful disco ball decor to a modern accent rug to an old world, Parisian-inspired mantel,” she offers.
A top Etsy pick coinciding with this trend is the Walnut Serving Board (starting at $50) from shop CattailsWoodwork.
This top pick is from the shop LayerTree.
This top pick is from the shop KaraLoganStudio.
2. Mermaidcore
If you’re keen on following TikTok trends, then you’ve likely heard of Mermaidcore. It’s slowing zero signs of coming to a halt — and is even paving a clear path into the home decor territory.
“This emerging ocean-inspired look is a much-welcomed extension of some of our favorite existing trends – like last summer’s crustaceancore and coastal grandmother – but with a more whimsical and playful twist,” Johnson explains. “In addition to shoppers looking to add a touch of under-the-sea-inspired glam to their spaces, many are also likely leaning into the nostalgic feelings that this trend evokes ahead of a soon-to-be-released upcoming sea-themed movie.”
In the last three months, there has been a 125% increase in searches on Etsy for scalloped runners, a 30% increase in searches for oyster shell ring dishes, a 24% increase in searches for mother of pearl trays and a 22% increase in searches for bubble light fixtures or pendants, per the 2023 Decor Trends Guide.
A top Etsy pick coinciding with this trend is the Conch Shell Planter ($15) from shop miasorellagifts.
This top pick is from the shop ShopDotOnEtsy.
This top pick is from the shop PastelloStudioCo.
3. Paper Lights
Tapping into ancient China-inspired decor, shoppers worldwide are embracing paper lighting in a multitude of sizes and styles. Because of its unique nature of diffusing light, its soft and warm moody glow appeals to a variety of aesthetics.
“Nothing creates a cozy atmosphere quite like the perfect lamp — and these days our favorite shades are taking a leaf right from a time-honored style that dates back to ancient China: paper lighting,” Johnson reveals. “Opt for a pastel blue pendant [starting at $174] or a mushroom-shaped tabletop lamp [$65] for a soft and warm glow that creates an inviting atmosphere.”
According to the 2023 Decor Trends Guide, there has been an 85% increase in searches on Etsy for hanging paper lanterns, a 61% increase in searches on Etsy for rice paper lighting and a 24% increase in searches on Etsy for paper floor lamps.
A top Etsy pick coinciding with this trend is the Paper Origami Lampshade ($15) from shop DinaLockerDesign.
This top pick is from the shop Akirastudioart.
This top pick is from the shop LapaStudios.
4. Rugs with Personality
As of late, shoppers are adding some spice and flavor to their floors with statement rugs. On Etsy, you’ll find patterns galore, a fully stocked repertoire of colors, textures and sizes.
Etsy has seen an astonishing 401% increase in searches on Etsy for handwoven rugs, a 62% increase in searches for custom rugs, a 55% increase in searches for colorful rugs and a 49% increase in searches for wavy rugs, per the 2023 Decor Trends Guide.
“Rugs are a great way to have fun with color, pattern and print without overwhelming a space,” Johnson points out. “Whether you choose a 70s-inspired shag, handwoven geometric Moroccan design or an intricate vintage Turkish stunner, a new rug is one of the fastest ways to make a statement.”
A top Etsy pick coinciding with this trend is the Vintage Pink Moroccan Rug ($525) from shop BabaHandmadeRugs.
This top pick is from the shop happytapis.
This top pick is from the shop shopEZStudio.
5. Jewelry for the Home
Long live the days when jewelry was for accessorizing your outfit. Now, jewelry is also making a statement for the home! Namely, these decorative accents and little luxuries adorn rooms with grandeur and vast appeal — accessorizing in a unique way.
“Pepper your space with sun-catchers that joyfully reflect light and crystal-studded knobs that take your cabinets from ordinary to boho-chic in the blink of an eye — and don’t forget to dress up your houseplants with a gemstone-adorned plant stake while you’re at it,” Johnson recommends. “These finishing touches add a dose of glamor and can even be swapped out seasonally.”
In the last three months, Etsy has seen a 139% increase in searches for gemstone decor, a 50% increase in searches for sun-catcher prisms, a 46% increase in searches for unique wall hooks and a 13% increase in searches for brass kitchen hardware.
A top Etsy pick coinciding with this trend is the Lucite Drawer Pull Angled Handles (starting at $33) from shop LuxHoldups.
This top pick is from the shop HooksKnobsHardware.
This top pick is from the top-rated shop BespokeGlassTile.
6. Vintage Patterns
Enter the revival of old school patterns. They’re making a grand leap, mostly channeling cozy, eclectic and nostalgic looks and feels. In turn, one’s space instantly can become more sophisticated and refined, while also being unique and playful.
“Vintage patterns are on the rise, showing up in new and unfamiliar places,” Johnson says. “Reminiscent of old country charm, traditional patterns like toile, chintz, and vintage floral prints are popping up everywhere from textiles to teacups, introducing a touch of eclectic nostalgia straight out of our regency romance dreams.”
Etsy has seen a whopping 1,041% increase in searches for embroidered botanical items, while searches for vintage wallpaper are up 162%, searches for floral home decor are up 118% and searches for toile art are up 32%.
A top Etsy pick coinciding with this trend is the Chintz Throw Pillow ($45) from shop Chezshipra.
This top pick is from the top-rated shop LinenIsLove.
This top pick is from the shop MomoChardoSTUDIO.
Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.
The thought of selling your home can be overwhelming. There is a lot to consider, like finding and working with a real estate agent, determining market value, deciding what you need to do to sell your home in a timely manner, and even settling on the right time of year.
As a result, many homeowners become overwhelmed with making repairs, painting, and sprucing up curb appeal to attract buyers. Although there is a lot a homeowner can do to attract buyers and increase their chances of a sale, there are some things out of their control, such as the season.
Many homeowners who are under pressure to sell their homes in a certain amount of time might not be able to control the season in which they need to put their homes on the market. In fact, statistics consistently show that spring is the ideal time of year to sell a home, but what if you have to sell your home during the winter?
Winter home selling isn’t impossible, but it can be more difficult. However, there are some small, inexpensive measures you can take to improve the look, feel, and comfort of your home so that it appeals to buyers, even during the colder winter months. In this article, we provide nine simple tips for selling your home during the winter that won’t break the bank.
1. Spruce Up the Front Door
Something as small as a festive wreath or a coat of paint on the front door can drastically improve the overall look of your home and make it feel more welcoming. In addition to adding a bit of flair, make sure your porch area is clean and well maintained. The first thing buyers see is the entry, so it’s setting the precedent for the entire house.
2. Avoid Over-the-Top Holiday Decor
Although sprucing up your front door is a great idea, avoid decorating your home and yard with over-the-top holiday decor. White holiday lights are nice, but overdoing it and littering your front lawn with tacky, plastic holiday decor and blow-up characters will turn potential buyers off. It’s okay to get into the holiday spirit, but when you are trying to sell your home, less is more.
3. Keep it Warm and Cozy
Before you host an open house or open your home to showings, make it warm and welcoming! Make sure the heat is set at a warm, but not hot level, and light the fireplace if you have one. Not only will this help your home feel more comfortable in the winter, it will also help it feel, well, homey.
Learn about the Homie way: Selling your home.
4. Curb Appeal Matters
When the weather is cold and frightful, it’s more difficult to keep up with the exterior of your home. Although it’s normal to forget about landscaping until the spring, if you are trying to sell your home, there are a few things you can do to boost curb appeal. Keep the sidewalks and driveways free of snow, and make sure to salt any ice. You don’t want buyers slipping and sliding while they visit! Go the extra mile by clearing snow off of bushes and shrubs so buyers can get an idea of what the yard will look like when it’s in bloom.
5. Let in Natural Light
The winter is naturally a darker time of year than other seasons. Keeping curtains closed and shades drawn can leave a home feeling dark and empty, even if it isn’t. Let natural light in as often as possible to show potential home buyers how bright it can be.
If your home has smaller windows or is located in a shady area, be sure to pull open the blinds or shades. You can also adorn your rooms with light-colored curtains to help bring in more natural light. Avoid room-darkening curtains and blocking out your windows with clothing or blankets. It is also a good idea to throw away any broken blinds or shades.
6. A Fresh Coat of Paint
There are a lot of things you can’t control during the winter, like a blizzard on the day you had four scheduled tours. However, you can control how your home looks on the inside. A fresh coat of paint is a great way to show off how well you’ve taken care of your home, inside and out.
7. Outdoor Lighting
Lining your porch, walkways, driveway, or gardens with exterior lighting is a great way to light up your home—literally. You don’t even have to hire an electrician or purchase expensive light fixtures. You can purchase exterior lights that stick in the ground or sit atop the posts on your fence or porch, go the “green” route and purchase solar lights.
8. Repair It
Although we’ve primarily focused on easy and inexpensive ways to improve the curb appeal and interior look of your home, more in-depth repairs may be necessary.
If you are on a budget, take the time to prioritize repairs and upgrades. Start by making a list of issues that need to be addressed.
Are any windows broken? Are any shingles missing on your roof? Are there any holes in your walls or broken pieces of trim or tile? These issues can make your home undesirable compared to others in the area. No one wants to buy a home that needs major work in the winter.
9. Sell With Homie
Although the winter may not be an ideal time to try to sell your home, it is possible. Start with the tips above, and finish by selling your home with Homie! You can save tons of money to invest in a new home because you’ll pay a low fee to list, market, and sell your home with Homie.
Start now!
Want more blogs about selling?
Who’s Involved in Selling a Home? What’s a Listing Agent?