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Apache is functioning normally

January 25, 2024 by Brett Tams

When you live in an apartment, you most likely won’t have a backyard or lots of outdoor space. However, a lot of apartment complexes include a patio on the ground level so you can step outside and enjoy some fresh air. Even if a patio is small, it doesn’t mean it can’t be grand. If you are looking for ways to spruce up your patio and turn it into a luxurious outdoor space, here are some small patio ideas to consider.

Small patio ideas you’ll love

Whether you opt for all of these ideas or choose only a handful of these small patio ideas, you can turn any mundane patio into a place you’re dying to spend all your free time.

Just be sure to check with your landlord first before installing or building anything!

1. Add a table and chairs

First on the list is finding a set of chairs and a table. Patio furniture comes in all shapes and sizes. You can get wrought iron, plastic or rattan to name a few. No matter what kind of patio furniture you choose, a table and chairs are essential because it’ll be the place you sit to eat, drink, read or simply relax.

2. Consider multi-use furniture

If your patio is small, you’ll want to consider purchasing furniture that has multiple uses. For example, you could get a foot pedestal that also used as a small table, a footrest and a place to hold plants for decoration. If you can get each piece of furniture to serve more than one purpose, you’ll save money in the process, too.

3. Find foldable furniture

Are you short on space on your patio? This small patio idea is perfect for those with cramped quarters. Buy foldable furniture that you can easily store when you’re not using it. You can easily access and use it when you need to, otherwise, you can quickly fold it and store it to add more space to your patio.

4. Decorate with a mattress

Mattresses don’t just belong in a bedroom. Putting a mattress on your patio is a great way to create a Bohemian-style feel on your patio. Take a blow-up or regular mattress, put some sheets over it, add some blankets and you’ve got created a comfortable and chic patio.

5. Use pillows for comfort and decor

Pillows add both decoration and comfort to any patio space. Get some oversized pillows and add them to your patio, like this idea from Pinterest. You can put them on your chairs or use them as poofs to sit on. Pillows are a great way to add a pop of color to your patio as well as adding an element of comfort and design.

6. Get a blanket basket

Like pillows, blankets are another way to spruce up any patio. On summer nights as the sun sets and it starts to get cooler, people will want to grab a blanket to drape over their lap as they continue chatting and hanging out into the night. Get a basket to fill with outdoor blankets and you’ve got yourself some small patio decor that’s practical and cute.

7. Set up a speaker system

Music can set the mood on any occasion. From outdoor date nights to a casual gathering with friends on the patio, you need music to create ambiance. Invest in an outdoor speaker system for your patio. This could be a small speaker you plug your phone into, a smart home device like Alexa or even a full-blown speaker system. Regardless of what you choose, a speaker is a great small patio idea.

8. Watch movies on a movie projector

Movie projectors are a fun purchase to splurge on for your small patio. You can project a movie onto the wall of the apartment and watch it from the comfort of your patio. They don’t take up too much space but are a fun way to get outside more often.

9. String up a hammock

Opting out of traditional patio furniture? Consider hanging a hammock on your patio. If you’re cramped for space or simply like to hang from a hammock, this is a great small patio idea to go for.

10. Install a privacy screen

Given that patios are on the ground floor, you won’t have as much privacy as on a balcony. But, you can easily install a privacy screen, shutters or even curtains to your patio to create some privacy. Plus, you can have fun with the decorating process as you choose what color of the curtain you want or what color of paint to use on the privacy screen.

11. Burn some candles

Candles are a great small patio idea. They don’t take up much space but add a lot of ambiance to any patio. Get a variety of sizes, shapes and colors and use candles to both decorate and light up your patio.

12. String up lights

Strings of lights are another easy way to decorate your small patio. You can hang the lights from end-to-end, drape them around the table and chairs or hang them above the doorway. White string lights are cute, sparkly and practical and will make any patio feel like a fairy garden.

13. Add a rug

Rugs are a great way to decorate a small patio. First of all, they can add a pop of color to the patio. Second, they can cover up the ugly cement they likely were made of. And third, they make the space feel cozier.

14. Prop an umbrella

Your patio may already be shaded, but adding an umbrella is a great small patio idea. Umbrellas easily move so you can block out the sun anywhere it comes through on the patio. Umbrellas also come in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes.

15. Pot some plants

Potted plants add charm to any patio. You can buy pots of all sizes, depending on how large your patio is. From small pots that fit on a table as a centerpiece to giant ones that take up lots of space, using pots as a small patio idea is a great way to add greenery to your patio.

16. Get flower window boxes

If you don’t have a garden but want to plant some flowers, you can buy a few flower boxes for windows, ledges or gates. Add the window box and fill it with your favorite flowers.

17. Think vertically

Because patios often are small and short on space, think vertically when decorating. You can use ladders, tall planter boxes or racks and decorate upward instead of outward. This allows you to have lots of decorations without taking up too much space.

18. Buy a barbecue

Barbecues go hand-in-hand with summer nights. Barbecues are a great product to invest in and add to your small patio. They may take up some space but it’ll be well worth it when you’re cooking and entertaining all summer long.

Just make sure they are allowed at your property before investing the money. Some cities do not allow grills on patios due to fire codes.

19. Build up a bar cart

Bar carts are a fun item to have on your patio. You can choose a bar cart and start building up the contents over time. You can add different types of drinks, mixers, cups and ice containers to it. Not only is it a great small patio idea, but your friends will also love coming over and mixing themselves up a drink.

20. Splash some paint

If your landlord permits, you can paint your patio. Consider painting the floor a fun color or one of the walls. This takes up no space and allows you to add more color into the space.

Decorating with our small patio ideas

It doesn’t take a full-blown renovation to turn an ordinary patio into a place of relaxation and rest. Your patio can become your outdoor oasis with these easy ideas for decorating your small patio. Any one of these small patio ideas will surely turn it into a place you want to spend all your free time.

Sage Singleton is a freelance writer with a passion for literature and words. She enjoys writing articles that will inspire, educate and influence readers. She loves that words have the power to create change and make a positive impact in the world. Some of her work has been featured on LendingTree, Venture Beat, Architectural Digest, Porch.com and Homes.com. In her free time, she loves traveling, reading and learning French.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

January 22, 2024 by Brett Tams

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

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

By:
Rob Chrisman

7 Hours, 30 Min ago

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

Lender and Broker Services, Products, and Software

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

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

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

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

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

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

STRATMOR on LO Habits

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

Webinars, Events, and Training to Wrap up January

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Capital Markets

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

Apache is functioning normally

January 7, 2024 by Brett Tams

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) faces a potential loss of roughly $7 billion in receipts in 2024, and a failure by Congress to come to terms on certain spending agreements could force across-the-board cuts to non-defense spending of roughly 5-to-9%.

This is according to a letter published this week by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), submitted to the chairman and ranking member of the U.S. House of Representatives budget committee.

CBO projections for FHA

“This letter provides CBO’s assessment of the effects of the caps on discretionary funding in fiscal year 2024,” the letter reads. “Those effects will depend on the nature and timing of appropriation legislation and on decisions by [OMB]. If necessary, the caps will be enforced by OMB through sequestration, the process by which across-the-board reductions are applied to budgetary resources.”

If Congress is unable to come to a compromise on government funding — with current continuing resolutions in place in two phases — sequestration would force cuts to both defense and nondefense government spending. The latter would see far more severe cuts, according to CBO.

“In the scenarios CBO examined, if enacted funding equaled the annualized amount of funding under the continuing resolution, sequestration would be required and would result in across-the-board reductions ranging from 5 percent to 9 percent for nondefense funding and from zero to 1 percent for defense funding, depending on when appropriations were enacted and what form they took,” the letter said.

FHA’s lower expected receipts in 2024 are cited by CBO as one of the reasons that nondefense spending could see more severe cuts in 2024, but both housing groups and the agencies themselves have explained that additional resources from Congress are needed to adequately handle the housing challenges across the country today.

MBA, NRMLA advocate for full FHA, Ginnie Mae funding

Leaders in Congress have been entertaining the notion of a 1% cut to housing agencies. In December, leaders at housing advocacy groups including the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) and the National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association (NRMLA) submitted a letter urging leaders in Congress to fully fund FHA and Ginnie Mae.

“The [budget agreement] enacted this past spring contained an overall discretionary spending level of 1% below FY 2023 spending levels,” the letter said. “At this time, it is unclear whether FY 2024 HUD funding will be approved through a traditional conference report, a continuing resolution, or a reversion to the budget agreement default process.”

FHA, the groups said, provides “the most important mortgage option for affordable mortgage loans for first-time, minority, and other underserved homebuyers – responsibly serving qualified borrowers with low down payment requirements or minor credit blemishes,” while Ginnie Mae maintains a “critical role” in the housing ecosystem with its mortgage-backed securities (MBS) program and its other important roles in rural housing and loans for veterans.

A one percent cut to these agencies, the letter said, would “prove inadequate and substantially undermine FHA’s ability to fulfill its baseline responsibilities and pursue the initiatives identified above,” and would “result in harmful mortgage market impacts and taxpayer risks” for Ginnie Mae.

Possible reverse mortgage impacts

A reduction in FHA’s budget could negatively impact the administration of the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) program, but another reverse mortgage impact could be from potential cuts to Ginnie Mae due to liquidity challenges being faced in the reverse mortgage business.

After assuming control of Reverse Mortgage Funding (RMF)’s portfolio of HECM-backed securities late last year, Ginnie Mae officials explained throughout last year that the assumption of a large portfolio — estimated to contain as much as one-third of all HMBS issuance as of mid-2023 — necessitated more appropriations from Congress to adequately manage it.

In its 2024 budget request submitted to Congress last March, Ginnie Mae explained some of the challenges inherent in managing the RMF portfolio.

“We continue to spot new issues as we take the RMF portfolio in-house,” Ginnie’s budget request document said. “It has become clear that the HECM program requires enhanced governance across how Ginnie Mae makes decisions […] because the HMBS program presents a heightened set of operational risks for Ginnie Mae, we require additional staff to work through these issues.”

A continuing resolution keeps Ginnie Mae ‘flat’

<img data-attachment-id="435980" data-permalink="https://www.housingwire.com/articles/ginnie-mae-president-offers-commitment-to-reverse-mortgage-securities-program/alannamccargo_gnma_hires/" data-orig-file="https://www.housingwire.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/alannamccargo_gnma_hires.jpg" data-orig-size="819,1024" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta=""aperture":"0","credit":"","camera":"","caption":"","created_timestamp":"0","copyright":"","focal_length":"0","iso":"0","shutter_speed":"0","title":"","orientation":"0"" data-image-title="alannamccargo_gnma_hires" data-image-description="

Alanna McCargo, president of the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae).

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Alanna McCargo

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Alanna McCargo

In an interview with RMD late in 2023, Ginnie Mae President Alanna McCargo spoke about some of the challenges in securing additional appropriations considering the narrow political majorities in both houses of Congress.

“We’ve been on a journey to right-size Ginnie Mae since I started, and then the acquisition of this portfolio and with the role we’re playing right now in the reverse industry, [that has] only accelerated our need to have more focus, more resources and more people to do the business that we have to do,” McCargo said.

While there has been some support shown for fully funding Ginnie Mae in Congress, operating off of a continuing resolution has stifled any potential growth in appropriations, she explained.

“Unfortunately, the [continuing resolution] that we’re currently operating under keeps us flat, so it really does slow down our ability to do the hiring and planning that we want and need to do,” McCargo said.

External to the budget issues, Ginnie Mae has taken steps to improve reverse industry liquidity by reducing the minimum size required to create HMBS pools to assist smaller issuers and changing certain pool eligibility requirements to ease some strain.

Apache is functioning normally

December 29, 2023 by Brett Tams

From 9 a.m. ET on December 22, 2023, to 5 p.m. ET on Thursday, February 15, 2024, fans have the opportunity to enter for a chance to win the 2024 HGTV Dream Home.

HGTV and FoodNetwork fans have the chance to win the 2024 HGTV Dream Home giveaway in Anastasia Island, Florida. The prize package, valued at over $2.2 Million, includes keys to the home, all furnishings, an all-new Mercedes-Benz E Class Sedan, and $100,000. Eligible fans can enter for a chance to win daily at HGTV.com/DreamHome and FoodNetwork.com/HGTVDreamHome, where they will also find full details of the official rules and additional home features.

The three-bedroom, four-bathroom home sits at approximately 3,300 square feet with views of the Matanzas River and the St. Augustine Lighthouse. The home combines classic coastal elegance with modern touches and layers of natural textures drenched in soothing blue and white hues. Upon entry, guests will instantly be taken away by the beautiful views of the waterfront. The front door leads to the great room with an open concept, including a living room with sleek sofas and a fireplace, a dining room with a beach-inspired distressed table, and a bright blue cabinet-filled kitchen. The laundry room and well-organized mudroom sit between the kitchen and an attached two-car garage. The main bedroom looks up to airy skylights and offers a private retreat from the rest of the home with a walk-in closet and main bathroom.

The house is perfect for entertaining, with two guest suites and a loft that provides a cosy space with a wet bar and a mini fridge. The spacious backyard is a dreamy getaway with an outdoor kitchen and high-top bar, two fire features, a pool, and multiple outdoor entertaining spaces, including a screened-in porch with lounge and dining and a pergola with conversation seating.

Architect Michael Stauffer designed the home, and local builder Glenn Layton Homes brought it to life. The interior design was done by Brian Patrick Flynn.

2024 HGTV Dream Home features overview:

3-bed, 4-bath home with 3,300 sq ft
Views of Matanzas River and St. Augustine Lighthouse
Classic coastal elegance meets modern touches
The front door opens to a great room with an open-plan concept
Main bedroom with walk-in closet and main bathroom
2 guest suites and loft with wet bar and mini fridge
Spacious backyard with outdoor kitchen, high-top bar, fire features, pool, and multiple entertaining spaces

The HGTV Dream Home inspires millions of HGTV fans who enter for a chance to win every year. With this year’s home, we are showcasing Anastasia Island, which offers something for everyone from historical sites to year-round outdoor adventures.

Loren Ruch, Head of Content, HGTV

Anastasia Island is located off the northeast Atlantic coast of Florida, just east of St. Augustine, considered the oldest city in America. The 14-mile island is connected to the city of St. Augustine by the Bridge of Lions, giving access to everything from the charming cobblestone streets and powder sand beaches to historical sites and a wide range of activities. With a rich architectural history, Anastasia Island sits atop layers of local coquina stone formed from seashells used to build the Castillo de San Marcos, a national monument and the oldest fort in the United States. Visitors can explore the St. Augustine Lighthouse, Anastasia State Park, Matanzas Inlet, St. Augustine Amphitheatre and many other local attractions. With endless water sports, scenic boat rides, campsites and majestic views, this seaside escape is the perfect dreamy getaway to call home.

Sponsors of the 2024 HGTV Dream Home include Belgard®, Cabinets To Go, Delta Faucet, James Hardie Building Products Inc., LL Flooring, Mercedes-Benz USA, The Sherwin-Williams Company, SimpliSafe Home Security, Sleep Number®, Trex Company LLC, VELUX® No Leak Skylights, Viva®, Wayfair® and KitchenAid, and Maytag by Whirlpool Corporation.

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Mihaela Lica Butler is senior partner at Pamil Visions PR. She is a widely cited authority on public relations issues, with an experience of over 25 years in online PR, marketing, and SEO.She covers startups, online marketing, social media, SEO, and other topics of interest for Realty Biz News.

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Source: realtybiznews.com

Apache is functioning normally

December 23, 2023 by Brett Tams

Moving to Mexico, moving house or ready for makeover time? The holidays are upon us, and the shopping season is about to go mad! Buying furnishings within Mexico is the smart way to go, as the price of shipping to Mexico can be astronomical, and the delay in shipping goods might mean a Mexican wait (i.e. a looong time).

The Sales are NOW!

November and December sales in Mexico roll over into January, when stores want to move out stock before their new arrivals. The ‘Back to School’ sales in August later in the year are something to watch out for also, but the time for bargains is from now until February!

MND surveyed the scene of best places to buy cool home decor in Mexico – from basic necessities to up-scale, stylish furnishings with wow factor.

So, where do I begin shopping for home decor in Mexico?

It’s true, there are many sites out there, so we found some of our – and our features editor’s – favorites. The cost of furniture in Mexico is about the same as what you would pay in Canada or the U.S. Sprucing up your space with splashes of Mexican handicrafts, art and design elements is going to be a more affordable, and fun, part of your home interior design project.

Inspirational tip: We liked AD Magazine, Mexico’s Architectural Digest, for awesome design ideas.

Handy tips before you begin shopping in Mexico for home decor

Mexico, like the US, has modern and antique furniture ranging from Contemporary to Victorian, and there’s no reason to pay full price when you can get up to 60% and, in some cases, 80% for last-minute bargains.

Bargains

Beyond the regular sales times, the big department stores like Liverpool and Palacio de Hierro have specials all the time, plus brand ambassadors will often be there to offer even more discounts and big blowout sales. Placencia also has sales currently, offering 40% off (and sometimes more) on living room, bedroom, and dining room sets.

Payment Plans

Remember layaway? Some stores like Moblum and Gaia offer payment plan options with PayPal, scheduled bank transfers or recurring credit card payments. So you can splurge on a bulk buy, especially if you’ve got an empty house, or new rooms to fill, and catch up with payments in a leisurely way.

Delivery

Tiffany and Tom Pence moved to Querétaro from Florida in 2018 and report that “deliveries were the most interesting and entertaining part of buying furniture for us. Sometimes the delivery was scheduled 3 days away; other times the deliveries were 2-3 weeks later. Sometimes it was on an official store brand truck, other times on a pickup truck.” So just double-check check you’re clear on the delivery date and get a contact person’s name and number! You’re in Mexico now, and we came for a more relaxed lifestyle after all! It’s just part of it; no sweat.

Identification (yes, take it!) At each store, you’ll need to provide proof of address, and a passport as a form of identification before delivery approval. “My passport has been copied more times in the first 6 weeks here than all my previous years of having a passport. I’m sure my picture is up on the internet or a public bathroom somewhere,” Tiffany Pence says. So – just a reminder!

Give me the best shopping sites, beyond Amazon and Ikea!

Sodimac

It seems to be the most popular furniture and homewares emporium for the Mexican population, according to Similarweb’s traffic analytics. It’s a bit of a quagmire on the website, but bargain hunters and those on a budget can score.

Why shop here? Cheap and cheerful, all the simple basics. Good for kids.

DICO

Basics and bargains! Like Sodimac, the least expensive.

Why shop here? Deals! And cheap beds. Simple furnishings for a rental investment?

Solutions Mexico

We liked this one in Puerto Vallarta and Nayarit, with its invite to, “easily furnish your home in Mexico, whether one piece or your entire home.” They have professional interior decorators who will customize a furniture package and a wide range of gorgeous goods, from mid-range to higher-end.

Why shop here? They offer furnishing tips, over 200 suppliers and shopping tours to Guadalajara, Tonala and Tiaquepaque to hunt for wall art, rugs, decor items and lighting. They offer rental packages for rental owners who don’t want to invest in all their furniture at once, but want to rent their property right away. And their site is in English also, if that helps you!

Gaia Design

Stylish, modern, functional furniture, with a touch of the Scandi design vibe, and an easy-to-navigate website.

Why shop here? 60% off most items right now, free delivery over 12,000 pesos, and an average of 4.6 stars from all the testimonials. They also offer design services and discovery and design advice calls.

Moblum

Mid-range price, modern and stylish furniture from the basic to the more interesting.

Why shop here? Offers immediate delivery, flash sales, promotions, one year warranties. They also have a blog and a roster of interior designers – so you can brainstorm and seek advice.

Moda in Casa

More upscale contemporary furniture, with prices to match. Very stylish – which is immediately apparent on their home page, where the design editor has put some thought into presentation. They have stores in CDMX, Valle de Bravo and Mérida.

Why shop here? “Each piece is made using the best technology and materials in combination with the expert hands of our artisans who craft each piece to be a unique object.” Say no more.

Mobica

Great standard, mid-range modern furniture with a wide selection. Free design services and ‘lookbooks’ to browse through.

Why shop here? They donate to underprivileged children (always a plus point).

Bakan

They specialize in stylish outdoor furniture – from dining sets to banks and benches, umbrellas, and accessories – which combines functionality with good quality and design.

Why shop here? Their exclusive brands have anywhere from 40% to 60% price reductions right now.

Decada

I couldn’t resist these two hip young businesswomen who run this vintage furniture store in Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City, where “each piece tells a story.”

Why shop here? Every piece of their eclectic collection is thoughtfully curated and hand picked, from a vast range of styles. Adding just one or two pieces might jazz up your basic items.

Lagunilla Market

If you’re looking for a quirky shopping experience, and a vast range of antique furnishings, head to La Lagunilla Market, a weekly morning traditional public market in Mexico City, located about ten blocks north of the city’s main plaza, in a neighborhood called La Lagunilla. There are three big, distinct zones dedicated to food, clothing, and furniture.

Why shop here? The authentic Mexican experience is full of oddities and genuine Mexican antiques to die for. Take a break between shopping and having tacos and a michelada at the lunch counter!

Mercado Libre

Mexico’s “Facebook marketplace” is just as spectacular in its range of offerings as its U.S or abroad equivalents. Anyone can sign up, and it’s user-friendly. You just need the stomach for hunting, a bit like thrift shopping. Pick your region, and dive in. There are many current bargains, coupon offers and payment plans connected to all the major Mexican banks. Interest free installment plans are also tempting for shoppers on a budget!

So, take a deep breath and enjoy the ride of mixing and matching this huge and eclectic range of home decor on offer in Mexico, that suits your style and your wallet. Sign up for their mailing lists to get final sale alerts and flash sales – happening now – and take advantage of their payment plans and free design or delivery services. And don’t forget Google translate – or your ID!

Henrietta Weekes is a writer, editor, actor and narrator. She divides her time between San Miguel de Allende, New York and Oxford, UK.

Source: mexiconewsdaily.com

Apache is functioning normally

December 20, 2023 by Brett Tams

Residential architecture has developed immensely over the years, with unique features helping homes stand out among the rest. Depending on your lifestyle and individual living habits, some features are more important than others. Walkout basements have grown in popularity due to their dual functionality of extra storage and space, offering renters a separate living space to use for whatever their heart desires.

When considering a rental property with this amenity, it’s important to understand what all it entails; how a walkout basement can enrich your life and some potential drawbacks associated with basement living.

What is a walkout basement?

Source: Housing Design Matters

A walkout basement is defined as a lower level of a home with a ground-level exit to the outdoor space. A walkout basement is unique in the sense that it features windows and doors along its wall, whereas other basement types aren’t nearly as open. Walkout basements are traditionally found on homes built on a slope or hill, due to the natural development of levels.

Understanding types of basements: What makes a walkout basement different?

Basements are typically defined in four categories; crawl space, cellar, daylight basement and walkout basement. As you move down the list, the amount of light and liveability in the basement increases, meaning a crawlspace has little to no light and liveable space and the walkout basement has the most.

Crawl spaces small underground spaces with exposed HVAC equipment or sewage piping, typically not used for anything but storage. Cellars are similar, with less functional use for the home itself and a little more liveable space. Cellars are mostly used for storage or small, single entertaining spaces. Both lack natural light and heating capabilities, making them more practical and useful spaces as opposed to being extra living-enhancing spaces.

Moving more into the light, daylight basements are not fully underground meaning more natural light and more liveable space. These basements are becoming more and more popular as the amount of usable space feels like an extra floor. Walkout basements have one major distinction from a daylight basement, an exit or an entrance from the home. Walkout basement house plans are only made with the ability to build arises due to the home location. Both of these basements provide great additional living space, making them a unique amenity and feature to consider when looking for your next home or making house plans.

Positives of a walkout basement

A finished basement, like a walkout basement, can considerably enhance your living space. Learn more about the possibilities of basement living.

Natural light and ventilation

Natural light and ventilation are huge benefits of a walkout basement. This creates a bright and open space that is versatile and open to multiple uses. With such light and openness, you can maximize your outdoor space as this basement serves as a continuation outside to your backyard.

Versatile living space

The options for a furnished basement are truly endless. Aside from storage potential, a furnished basement can serve as a versatile guest suite, complete with a bedroom, bathroom and sitting area, providing a comfortable retreat for visitors. For those who enjoy working from home, the basement can be converted into a spacious home office or a creative studio. The ability to create a space that caters to specific needs is a massive plus.

Outdoor access

For pet lovers, families and outdoor enthusiasts, the walkout basement just serves as an extension of your outdoor area. The basement offers a convenient entry point for pets to roam freely, families to enjoy outdoor activities and enthusiasts to take advantage of the simple transition from indoor comfort to the open air, whenever they please.

Drawbacks of a walkout basement

With so many opportunities, it’s difficult to see any downsides to a walkout basement. There are a few potential downsides depending on your personal preferences and living situation.

Less privacy

Due to the connection of the outdoor space to the basement, there’s a potential for decreased privacy. While this can easily be fixed for homeowners, renters won’t have the same luxury of making permanent changes that would offer more privacy like a fenced-in yard.

Increased security concerns

Another entrance and exit to the home can pose a security risk. It’s important to remember to lock walkout basement doors and windows like you would on the first floor. Renters can go as far as to install renter-friendly security systems when necessary as well.

Maintenance challenges

For those who enjoy low-maintenance living, walkout basements require some level of outdoor area upkeep. Since the outdoor area is exposed from the basement, this creates another place to decorate, clean and maintain. This could dually serve as a perk for entertainment lovers and landscape enthusiasts, though.

Unlocking the appeal of low-level living

Source: Sebring Design Build

A walkout basement is a luxury amenity, that pays for itself. The beautiful natural light and the endless room opportunities that come with a walkout basement have the ability to not only enhance your social life but your overall living experience.

The harmonious blend of indoor comfort and outdoor allure could be just the feature you need in your next home. Search our available apartments to find your walkout basement spot.

Featured Image Source: Maryland Egress Specialists

Apache is functioning normally

December 20, 2023 by Brett Tams

Inside: Looking for a creative and easy way to give money as a gift? Look no further than these Money Gift Boxes! These boxes are perfect for any occasion and can be customized to make the gift even more special.

Gone are the days of simply slipping cash into a card; let’s welcome the creative and memorable gesture of a money gift box!

A money gift box, usually filled with crisp euro or dollar bills, presents a unique, exciting, and personalized way to gift money!

Why settle for boring when you can enchant the lucky recipient with this delightful surprise?

Gifting cash doesn’t have to be impersonal or dreary.

A money gift box makes the act of giving money much more thoughtful and engaging, as it shows that you have gone the extra mile to make your gift special.

The beauty of this idea is that it can be customized to fit various occasions – birthdays, weddings, graduation, or even business events.

No matter the occasion or recipient, a money gift box is not just a gift, it’s an experience that lasts even beyond the moment the box is opened.

Choose to make your gift memorable with one of these curated money gift box ideas.

What is a Money Gift Box?

A Money Gift Box is a unique and creative way of giving money as a gift where cash, often in the form of dollar bills assembled and neatly packaged within a gift box.

These boxes are popular gifts for occasions such as weddings, Christmas, birthdays, and other celebratory events where monetary giving is customary.

Money gift ideas are a hot idea and these are unique ways to wrap your cash gifts in an enticing box, creating a true element of surprise or maybe even a puzzle!

How can I surprise my money as a gift?

Coming up with innovative ways to gift money can transform an otherwise simple and predictable present into a surprise packed with joy and excitement.

One fantastic method is the money gift box — it’s unique, elegant, and speaks volumes about your creative prowess.

The money pull box is not just an exciting twist on traditional greeting cards or money envelopes, but it also allows for personalized notes and heartfelt messages, turning a practical gift into something far more special and sentimental.

This ingenious idea is not only an impactful way to give cash but also easy to accomplish.

Remember, it’s the thought, creativity, and effort that transform money—often perceived as a last-minute and impersonal gift—into something unique, intimate, and forever memorable.

Turn that element of surprise up a notch with the money gift box!

This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.

Why Choose a Money Gift Box?

1. You can give money in a creative way.

2. The gift can be customized according to the occasion.

3. Money is a versatile gift that can fit any budget.

4. The gift is easy to make.

5. Money can be given in many different forms, including coins, dollar bills, and more.

6. The gift can be given in various ways, such as in a card box, on a birthday cake, or in an envelope.

7. The gift can be personalized with decorations and other additions.

8. Money can be given in a memorable way.

9. The gift can be given in a way that is relevant to the event.

10. Money can be given in a way that is safe and secure.

How do you put money in a gift box?

Putting money in a gift box can be a delightful surprise for the recipient. One commonly fun method is to tape dollar bills or Euro notes end to end and roll them up tightly – even easier to use the money dispenser bag.

The rolled-up notes are then placed inside the box, with one end fed through a slit in the box and attached to a tab labeled “pull”. This allows the recipient to unravel a long coiled string of money, adding an element of surprise to the gift.

The type, amount, and currency of money can be chosen based on the occasion, whether it’s for a wedding, graduation, or birthday.

Learn how much to give for high school graduation.

Money Gift Box Ideas

Jazz up your gift-giving game with a delightful surprise: a money gift box!

This innovative yet straightforward gift is perfect for any occasion, and we bet the recipient will love it.

Perfect for anyone you value, from family to friends. It’s an excellent gift for celebrations like birthdays, weddings, graduation, or even anniversaries. Perfect small gift ideas!

We curated the best money gift boxes available and picked our favorites, which we can’t wait to share with you!

Money Box for Cash Gift Pull

Imagine surprising your loved ones with a unique, fun-filled cash gift – the Money Box for Cash Gift Pull! Not your traditional presents, this creative and thrilling gift idea redefines the joy of giving.

Tug at the end, and imagine their thrill as they unfold a continuous string of dollar bills.

This money pull box adds excitement, charm, and a touch of suspense to your gift-giving occasions. It combines love, beauty, and utility, making gifting cash a delightful experience.

Expert Tip: Personalize with heartfelt written notes and be generous with the denomination of bills for a more memorable surprise.

Green Money Machine Cash Dispenser

Ditch the mundane envelopes for gifting cash and add a fun twist with the Green Money Machine Cash Dispenser. It is a gift box that turns your cash gifts into an exciting surprise, adding a layer of anticipation to your presents.

We all want a money machine, right? Sounds like a rack of money to me!

The Green Money Machine Cash Dispenser guarantees a gift-giving experience that’s both exciting and memorable.

To use it, just attach the pull-tab to the first bill and thread it through the slot on the top of the Money Machine. The card stock box is lightweight making it hassle-free to carry or send through mail.

Made in the USA, this money dispenser doesn’t include cash, providing you the flexibility to fill it with your choice of cash amount.

Pink Cash Heart Money Pull Box

Looking for a creative way to gift money? Meet the Pink Cash Pull Box – a unique money gift box designed to add a memorable twist to your gifting moments.

This DIY money pull kit allows you to roll your cash, hide it under the box filler, and insert other surprises like flowers or a gift card. Watch as your loved ones delight in pulling out a cascade of money and gifts – an unforgettable moment!

This versatile gift box features an automatic on/off string light that illuminates when the box is opened, providing an enchanting reveal. It’s suitable for multiple occasions such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, birthdays, or anniversaries, making it a thoughtful gift idea for your wife, husband, mother, father, or grandma.

Imagine your loved one opening this in anticipation of a small gift, only to continue pulling out surprise after surprise, ending with birthday money – a gift that perfectly blends sentiment with practicality.

Black Money Box Cash Pull

Surprise your loved ones in a uniquely thrilling way with Ribbonbonbox’s Black Money Box Cash Pull, a luxurious and unforgettable gift experience.

The black box is elegantly designed, highlighted by beautiful red soap roses and a built-in LED light for an additional extraordinary effect.

Crafted with a durable wooden board and acrylic lid, it’s designed for longevity, ensuring the surprise doesn’t fade with time.

Optimized for everyone — from life partners and best friends to parents and grandparents — it’s a compelling choice for all occasions, from birthdays to anniversaries.

Expert Tip: Add in different types of bills while filling the box, for an extra element of fun when your loved one pulls out the cash!

ThinkMax Money Maze Puzzle Box

If you’re searching for the perfect gift that’s both exciting and wallet-friendly, the ThinkMax Money Maze Puzzle Box is an excellent choice. This unique gift combines the thrill of a puzzle with the sweet success of a hidden reward, making it an unforgettable present.

The puzzle box offers a fun and challenging way to gift money or small items. Just slide the ball to the top and push the latch to open the box.
It’s ideal for teen boys, girls, and co-workers, thanks to its modern design and eye-catching colors. In fact, these are inexpensive gifs for coworkers.
But it’s more than just a gimmick – the money maze puzzle box also fosters the development of motor skills, enhances spatial awareness, and strengthens logical thinking.

To make it even more memorable, consider adding a custom message or inserting a specially chosen gift into the box.

Remember, with a touch of creativity, the ThinkMax Money Maze Puzzle Box can be transformed into the greatest gift of all seasons.

Money Puzzle Box for Cash – Solve the Puzzle

Looking for a fun way to give money gifts in care packages for college students? Let me introduce you to the Money Puzzle Box!

This unique gift box adds a thrilling twist to gift-giving by turning it into a captivating adventure. As one of the best money gift box ideas, it’s not just a box, it’s a rewarding 3x3x3 maze puzzle that stores your precious present inside.

This is a clever cash holder and brain-busting puzzle in one.

Plus gives a delightful challenge to your recipient, improving their spatial awareness, motor skills, and concentration.

3D Escape Game Money Box

Imagine surprising your loved ones with a unique, puzzle-solving gift box experience. How, you ask?

Let me walk you through the marvel of 3D Escape Game Money Box.

Start by acquiring the wooden puzzle escape room game, which doubles up as an impressive gift box.
Upon unboxing, navigate through its various compartments designed to pose stimulating mental challenges.
Once you unravel all the mysteries, find the hidden compartment which is perfect for concealing an assortment of gifts such as jewelry, money, or even a personalized note.

Undoubtedly, this 2-in-1 gift idea holds more than meets the eye. It’s not just about the physical treasure hidden inside, but the thrilling adventure in unlocking it.

Happy Birthday Day Money Box for Cash

A happy birthday money box filled with cash makes for a unique and exciting gift.

This creative alternative to placing money in a pull-out fashion offers a colorful and festive way to surprise the birthday person.

The process is simple: dollar bills are taped end to end, rolled up, and placed in a specially designed box. The recipient then pulls a long string of money out of the box, resulting in plenty of smiles and happy surprises.

Above all, the exhilaration of pulling out a roll of cash is an unparalleled experience that makes it the best gift for friends or family who appreciate fun and creativity.

Wooden Secret Puzzle Box

The Wooden Secret Puzzle Box is an innovative and entertaining way to gift money or small presents. With an additional double lock, it creates a mentally stimulating challenge for the recipient, promoting problem-solving skills and increasing brain fitness.

This wooden keepsake box is not just a puzzle, it’s an experience.

The excitement of unlocking the secret compartment to reveal the gift inside surpasses the typical present, providing hours of entertainment. These boxes aren’t just for adults, children can also enjoy the challenge.

The process to unlock the loot requires some effort but is ultimately rewarding. Tilting the box and navigating the slider right, you’ll hit the lock— rewarding patience and logic with the much-desired gift.

Perfect to add to Easter basket ideas for girls.

Confetti Exploding Gift Box

Experience the thrill of giving and receiving with the Confetti Exploding Gift Box – it’s not just a gift; it’s a party in a box!

Imagine the surprise and laughter as the box explodes with confetti, making for a truly unforgettable gift-opening moment.

This isn’t your typical ribbon-tied gift; the box is beautifully crafted in Europe with premium quality materials, ensuring not just a surprise but also a touch of class. It’s perfect for everyone – children, adults, or even your colleagues celebrating their work anniversary.

Think about it… who wouldn’t love their face sprinkling down with confetti! This gift guarantees not just an explosion of colorful bits but, more importantly, an explosion of emotions.

Remember, this isn’t just for the recipient; bystanders will be delighted too, making your gift the talk of the party!

Brain Teaser Wooden Box with Hidden Cash

Introducing the Brain Teaser Wooden Box, an enthralling blend of puzzles, secret stash, and premium craftsmanship. This mysterious box is a fun, engaging, and stylish way to gift cash or other valuables.

Imagine the thrill of gifting a treasure chest that doubles as a mental workout. Crafted from high-quality wood, its intricate design and precise construction make it an impressive gift. Whether it’s for men, women, or puzzle enthusiasts, they will appreciate the challenge and craftsmanship.

What’s in the box? That’s part of the mystery, making it an intriguing conversation starter.
It’s more than just a puzzle; it’s a secure place to hide valuables or surprise someone with a cash gift.
With its versatility, it can also serve as a chic jewelry box or desk decor.

The journey of unlocking this box is half the fun! Whether you’re playing Santa or looking for a unique anniversary gift or boys Easter basket, the Brain Teaser Wooden Box is your exciting solution.

Secret Puzzle Box

Discover a whole new world of excitement and intrigue with the Secret Puzzle Box – an innovative way to gift money or valuable cards. Delight in the thrill of solving a complex mystery as you explore this extraordinary gift box.

Its design combines the addictive challenge of a brain teaser with the thrill of a treasure hunt. It’s perfect for adults who relish intellectually stimulating experiences.

You can safely conceal valuable possessions such as cash, jewelry, or gift cards in its lockable compartments. Nothing like sparking curiosity by keeping your gift under wraps!

Constructed with high-quality wood, it boasts an intricate design that showcases exquisite craftsmanship. Apart from being a captivating puzzle, it doubles as a unique jewelry box and conversation starter.

Cake Money Box Transparent Bags

Most of the money gift boxes come with transparent bags to load up your cash in.

However, you may need extra. These are perfect if you decide to make a DIY money gift box as well.

Why is it one of the best? Well, here are some compelling features:

The bag has a size of 3.1 x 7.5 inches, an ideal and manageable size to tuck in your cash gift.
It’s constructed from high-quality cellophane plastic; lightweight, reusable, and practically invincible against breaks or deformations.
High transparency ensures your gift is perfectly visible, adding to the anticipation and excitement.
The self-adhesive design simplifies packaging and saves you time.
Plus, it possesses excellent vapor-blocking properties, safeguarding your gift from dust and bugs.

Best for occasions like birthday parties, weddings, and family gatherings, this revolutionary gift idea will surely create unforgettable memories.

Expert Tip: You can use these bags not just for money, but also to include small treasured items or personalized notes to make your gift extra special.

How to make a money dispenser box?

All it requires is taping dollar bills end to end in a long string, rolling them, and neatly placing them inside a beautifully designed box. Add a final touch by attaching a “pull” tab to the end bill, and voila – you’ve created a delightful and unexpected gift.

Sounds easy, right? Well, it is. It just takes some practice like these money cake ideas.

Consider using this idea for occasions like birthdays, weddings, or graduation celebrations. After all, who doesn’t love the sight of cascading cash pulled from an exquisitely crafted box?

Step 1: Choose a Money Gift Box

Opt for a box with a festive allure for birthdays or celebratory events.

The box size and shape determine how much money it can hold and how smoothly it dispenses.

The design showcases your creativity and speaks volumes about the occasion.

Remember, it’s not just a gift, it’s an experience. If you want to surprise a friend, pick a box that pops with colors.

Your chosen money gift box sets the stage; make it count!

Step 2: Prepare the Money Roll

You’re onto a fun-filled step of crafting your own money dispenser box, and preparing the money roll!

This part is crucial, so follow closely.

First, gather your dollar bills. Getting new dollar bills may be a challenge, so make sure you ask your bank first.
Next, neatly insert the dollar bills in the transparency bags. Also, include a few memorable notes.
Then, tape the bills end-to-end or use the small sticky dots. Ensure to connect the bills seamlessly and cleanly to maintain the charm of the constant pull.
Once you’ve crafted a nice lengthy string of bills, begin rolling. Start from one end and maintain a tight, steady roll until it looks like a small, compact money bundle.

A quick expert tip here – if the roll seems loose or flimsy, don’t worry. Tightening it up as you go often helps achieve compactness.

Congratulations, you’re one step closer to creating an absolute hit of a gift!

Remember, the joy is in both the making and the giving! Keep up the great work, and let’s dive into the next step soon.

Step 3: Make the Boxes

This is where you incorporate the money into the box, effectively transforming it into a thrilling dispenser.

Insert your tightly wrapped roll of money into the gift box. Make sure you leave the pull the money out.

Next, you can add trinkets or other mementos to the box if you prefer.

Make sure to securely tape it, ensuring that it’s attached beautifully and strongly.

Step 4: Give Out the Boxes

Now for the fun part! Give your money gift box to the recipient or recipients.

As your friend unwraps the seemingly ordinary gift, the initial confusion transitions into pure delight as they pull out a long string of dollar bills from the box. Their bemused smile and surprised laughter truly makes the effort worthwhile.

Remember, it’s not just the monetary value of this gift that matters, but the joyful surprise and the shared happiness it brings.

Get creative with your gift-giving and make each celebration truly memorable.

Money Puzzle Gift Boxes for Cash

One of the MOST popular gifts!

This maze puzzle cube is a unique cash holder. Perfect for kids and adults, it’s a thrilling puzzle box and money maze.

Get yours now and turn gifting into an adventure!

Buy Now on Amazon

12/19/2023 07:57 pm GMT

Which Money Boxes for Gifts are your Favorite?

In conclusion, these money gift boxes are more than just vessels – they’re tangible expressions of generosity, thoughtfulness, and affection. They instill in the recipients a sense of appreciation and an overwhelming feeling of being valued.

Plus, who doesn’t like a little surprising twist with their monetary gift?

Start shopping now for these amazing money gift boxes to make your gifting experience memorable and cherished.

After all, the best gifts are not only about what you give but also how you give them. Perfect ideas for gifts for kids who have everything!

With money gift boxes, you can add that extra personal touch, making your gift more special and memorable.

Filled with surprise and delight, these money gift boxes are sure to impress and leave a lasting imprint.

So why wait? Begin your money gift box shopping now and lavish your loved ones with a gift they’ll truly cherish!

Embrace gifting in style with a money gift box! Plus these may work perfectly for a no gift Christmas!

Did the post resonate with you?

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

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

Source: moneybliss.org

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Historical landmarks in Cleveland

Exploring Cleveland’s art scene

Cleveland’s music and entertainment industry

Cleveland’s sports culture

Must-visit attractions in Cleveland

Dining in Cleveland

Outdoor activities and natural attractions in Cleveland

Cleveland should be on your shortlist

Point of Sale, LO AI Tool, Underwriting, Servicing, DPA Products; Upcoming Training

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Trend: Working pantries

Trend: Saturated color

Trend: Mixing and matching genres

Trend: Bold bars and beverage centers

Trend: Cozy spaces

Trend: Textured and printed wallpaper

Small patio ideas you’ll love

1. Add a table and chairs

2. Consider multi-use furniture

3. Find foldable furniture

4. Decorate with a mattress

5. Use pillows for comfort and decor

6. Get a blanket basket

7. Set up a speaker system

8. Watch movies on a movie projector

9. String up a hammock

10. Install a privacy screen

11. Burn some candles

12. String up lights

13. Add a rug

14. Prop an umbrella

15. Pot some plants

16. Get flower window boxes

17. Think vertically

18. Buy a barbecue

19. Build up a bar cart

20. Splash some paint

Decorating with our small patio ideas

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

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CBO projections for FHA

MBA, NRMLA advocate for full FHA, Ginnie Mae funding

Possible reverse mortgage impacts

A continuing resolution keeps Ginnie Mae ‘flat’

Related

The Sales are NOW!

So, where do I begin shopping for home decor in Mexico?

Handy tips before you begin shopping in Mexico for home decor

Give me the best shopping sites, beyond Amazon and Ikea!

DICO

Solutions Mexico

Gaia Design

Moblum

Moda in Casa

Mobica

Bakan

Decada

Lagunilla Market

Mercado Libre

What is a walkout basement?

Source: Housing Design Matters

Understanding types of basements: What makes a walkout basement different?

Positives of a walkout basement

Natural light and ventilation

Versatile living space

Outdoor access

Drawbacks of a walkout basement

Less privacy

Increased security concerns

Maintenance challenges

Unlocking the appeal of low-level living

Source: Sebring Design Build

Featured Image Source: Maryland Egress Specialists

What is a Money Gift Box?

How can I surprise my money as a gift?

Why Choose a Money Gift Box?

How do you put money in a gift box?

Money Gift Box Ideas