Meticulously reimagined by former copywriter-turned-designer Tom Givone, the Floating Farmhouse — a circa 1820s manor home perched on the edge of a creek — is undoubtedly one of the most unique and inviting homes in the Catskills.
Set in the picturesque hamlet of Eldred, just two hours north of New York City, this dream property has earned quite a reputation as one of the area’s most charming rentals, winning tourists’ hearts with its mix of stunning modern architecture and old-world charm.
Now, a lucky new owner might get to enjoy it full-time, as the Floating Farmhouse has recently hit the market.
The Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil Mansfield
Asking $2.35 million, the famed Catskills property provides a substantial income stream to its future owner via its lucrative short-term rental popularity. Agents Chelsea McGowan and Katy Porte with the Upstate Curious Team at Compass hold the listing.
Originally built in the 1820s, the house was completely transformed by its designer owner
The original home was built in the 1820s and needed a massive overhaul when Tom Givone purchased it in 2007. The designer — who has a knack for transforming rundown 19th-century structures into modern-day masterpieces — spent four years and about $1.75 million revamping the property, according to Mansion Global.
The Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil Mansfield
Givone’s renovation included additions like a glass-paned wall in the kitchen overlooking the property, polished flooring, and modern elements to enhance the original, period construction.
The Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil Mansfield
The self-taught designer retained the house’s original colonial revival touches, but overhauled the interiors and transformed the previously dilapidated building into a light-filled residence with generous kitchen, dining, and lounge spaces.
The Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil MansfieldThe Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil MansfieldThe Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil MansfieldThe Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil MansfieldThe Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil MansfieldThe Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil Mansfield
This wasn’t Givone’s first architectural undertaking, but quite possibly his most well-known. Unsurprisingly, his work on the Floating Farmhouse has garnered attention from a range of prestigious architecture and design publications, with the property being featured on Dezeen, Dwell, Design Milk, Travel + Leisure, and many more.
The Floating Farmhouse
The gorgeous home’s namesake can be attributed to the custom veranda Givone added that projects out across the surface of the water. This unique touch creates a “floating” effect to the eye. One glance and you’ll think the home is floating on the pond.
A private creek and waterfall accentuate the grounds around the home.
The Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil Mansfield
The Floating Farmhouse is now an incredibly popular option for an overnight rental in the Catskills. During the high season, a one-night stay will run $1,800, while holidays may go as high as $2,100 a night. The home is commonly rented for photo shoots and executive retreats but is also an ideal family home in a picturesque setting.
There is no shortage of space at the idyllic property. The home boasts five bedrooms and two bathrooms. When entering the home, you are welcomed by an oversized great room, pine wainscotting, and majestic windows reaching to the tall ceiling. Two beautiful staircases lead the way upstairs.
The Floating Farmhouse is perfectly placed on almost 9 acres of lush green meadows and forest. The property also features a centuries-old barn, an herb garden, and a gravel driveway.
The Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil MansfieldThe Floating Farmhouse in Eldred, NY. Photo Credit: Phil Mansfield
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While we’ve come a long way since housing bottomed, the memories of how we got there still don’t feel very distant.
A lot of things contributed to the complete breakdown of the real estate market, with exotic financing being one of them.
So it’s no surprise that the new hot trend of “1% down mortgages” is now coming under the microscope.
Update: UWM has re-launched the 1% down payment mortgage.
Freddie Mac Is Changing the Rules Pertaining to 1% Down Mortgages
While 1% down mortgages have been all the rage lately
Freddie Mac is cracking down on the higher-risk home loans
Requiring a minimum 3% borrower contribution
That can’t come via the transaction itself via lender credits, points, etc.
Over the past couple years, many large lenders have introduced home loan programs that require just 1% down from the borrower, including big names like Quicken, Guaranteed Rate, Guild Mortgage, and even wholesaler United Wholesale Mortgage.
In fact, just this week another lender joined the party, Garden State Home Loans, giving home buyers in Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania the chance to achieve the American Dream with just a 1% down payment.
As far as I can tell, most if not all of these programs rely upon Freddie Mac’s Home Possible Mortgage program, which is its 97% LTV offering.
However, it turns out that some lenders may have taken it a little too far because Freddie Mac doesn’t seem comfortable with their interpretation of the program.
Last week, Freddie Mac released a bulletin pertaining to lender gifts and grants on Home Possible Mortgages (their 3% down program) that is effective November 1st, 2017.
Basically, they’re revising their guidelines for Home Possible Mortgages to require a 3% borrower contribution that isn’t funded through the mortgage transaction.
Specifically, Freddie notes that the down payment money can’t come from “differential pricing in rate, discount points, or fees.”
So it sounds like some of these programs offered the 1% down option in exchange for a higher mortgage rate, kind of like how a lender credit allows borrowers to pay nothing out of pocket in the way of closing costs.
A borrower may be able to put less down, but they could wind up with a higher mortgage rate as a result.
Some may say there’s nothing wrong with that – heck, you see it on mortgages where borrowers put less than 20% down too.
But Freddie seems to think this practice is skirting the rules, or perhaps taking advantage of a loophole, and thus they’re closing it in the coming months.
That could mean that some (or all) of these 1% down mortgage programs will fall by the wayside, but that remains to be seen.
In any case, Freddie will still allow gifts or grants from the seller as the originating lender, but only after a minimum contribution of 3% of the value (lesser of the appraised value or the purchase price) is made by the borrower.
What This Means for You
While 1% down home loans may still be available via other avenues
It does mean it’ll get more difficult to obtain one going forward
This means having down payment funds at the ready is imperative
Especially in today’s competitive housing market where multiple buyers bid for the same property
These 1% down programs may not be done entirely, but the lenders offering them could have to figure out a new way to offer such financing. Or do it without Freddie Mac.
In the meantime, it might be advisable to set aside enough money to cover a 3% down payment, which is still a pretty small amount to put down on a home.
It’s a slightly smaller requirement than what the FHA calls for (3.5%), making it one of the most flexible loan programs around, even without the gift/grant money.
Furthermore, you pay for the privilege of putting down so little, often in the form of a higher mortgage rate and/or mortgage insurance, so consider that when deciding on an appropriate down payment.
It could make financial sense to put down more on a home if you have the means, and it could also help you secure a winning bid with all the competition in today’s housing market.
Read more: 3 ways a low down payment raises your mortgage payment
Incorporating sumptuous materials, textures and rich hues in your living room trends is a great place to start, while art and sculptural features will add colour, pattern and grandeur.
To give your space an injection of luxury, it is all about confidence. This doesn’t mean overcrowding the space with lots of items, as a cluttered home can look unsophisticated.
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Here are some tips to follow:
1) Enhance your feature wall with high-end materials
Living room feature walls are here to stay: they add interest to a room and could be especially helpful in a space lacking any natural or architectural features. Another very important job they do is provide a focal point and a sense of direction to the living room.
But if you don’t want to pick up a paintbrush, or want to take your feature wall to the next level, try using a different material, like marble decorating ideas, for an upscale aesthetic.
As green is a trend that’s also here to stay, the marble feature wall above is particularly on-point. ‘The great thing about natural surfaces is that each one is unique and gives people the opportunity to do something different and ultimately have fun..
‘Coordinating colours with the furnishings and accessories will ensure the walls integrate seamlessly into the space but bring that final touch of luxury to a space.’
2) Show some class
Wall panelling ideas can dramatically enhance a living space. Popular in interiors for many years, design lovers are adding this decorative element into their homes to add grandeur to their spaces.
Therefore, it is no surprise to see that they are enjoying a resurgence in many modern properties, to elevate them into more spectacular and grandeur. Panelling also serves as an excellent way to decorate doors, frames, cupboards and shelves.’
3) Bring some play with high-styled printed wallpaper
Wallpaper shows a continued liking for all things nature-related, and printed wallpaper, in tropical, botanical or garden structure finishes, is a stylish way to add interest and drama to a room.
Metallic wallpaper brings your walls to life and is a great choice for rooms with low lighting. Popular wallpaper is reimagined in a larger scale in the living room above, and the dramatic black and gold colourway creates a close, moody elegance that allows the jewel-toned velvet sofas to shine.
4) Bright, energetic colours are making a return
White, clean walls and minimalist tones are still on trend, but there has been an emergence of bright, refreshing splashes of colour to bring some pop back into the home. The interior design palette now includes rich, warm tones that feel earthy, such as warm reds, dusky yellows and even emerald greens.
5) Incorporate a well-placed area rug
An expansive area rug gives a living room a sense of space and drama while also working to ‘zone’ your sofas and coffee table in a stylish manner.
An area rug is a particularly effective living room flooring idea when placed beneath your sofas and side tables to create a bundle-up, luxurious feel under foot. It also offers an easy way to inject colour and pattern into the space.
‘One way of creating a luxurious interior is by implementing statement pieces like sculptural lighting, a bold patterned area rug or a memorable piece of artwork within a quieter, more pared-back scheme.’
6) Dramatic statement textures
Dramatic, colourful marble and stone, and woods with deep veins and contrasting colours top the leaderboard for organic materials in 2023. Acreage properties provide the perfect backdrop for bold, eye-catching designs and textures. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colours and patterns in your home’s design. You can also make a statement with architectural styling, glamourous feature walls, vibrant wallpaper and colourful splashback tiles.
7) Oversize art living room
Since bare white walls can veer toward ‘sterile’ territory, liven up your room’s ambience with some oversize art. The large piece over the low-slung sectional brings a lived-in, layered effect to the living room. However, the abstract shapes featured offer a hint of modernity.
8) Say hello to era elements
One of the latest interior trend is the use of antique, retro, and repurposed pieces in your home to give your place an era look. Key elements to this theme are the use of strong colours and traditional-style furniture with just a pop of colour. Contrast works well, too.
9) Deep and comfy colours
Even though it is sunny all year round in Dubai, comfy colours can work well in these conditions as well. We expect to see a lot of burnt oranges, deep blues, deep emerald greens coupled with more muted tones like charcoal grey and navy, which can create a lot of depth and cosiness in your space.
10) Significant collections
It’s the objects we fill our homes with that hold the most power to ease our anxieties and reaffirm whatever it is that brings your truest self to your living space.
11) Invest in a day bed
While should not always be trend-driven as a rule, an element I continue to embrace in living rooms is incorporating a daybed into the space. It’s versatile and helps define a seating area without adding heaviness.
12) Cocooning curves
As we continue to find new ways to make our homes even more comfortable, cozy and relaxing, many designers are moving away from harsh and strict straight lines and incorporating more curvaceous, free-flowing forms, across furniture and lighting trend accessories. ‘Curved furniture, especially sofas and armchairs, bringing a welcome softness to living spaces. These will be adorned in light colours and textured fabrics like shades of white and cream, with bouclé remaining a favourite.
For over five years now, I’ve spent most of my waking hours reading and writing about money. I’ve learned a lot. Using this knowledge, I’ve been able to get out of debt, build savings, and even begin pursuing my passions. What’s next? As time passes, I find myself thinking more about financial independence and early retirement.
No surprise then that over the last couple of months I’ve been obsessed with Jacob Lund Fisker’s Early Retirement Extreme blog. And no surprise that my first book review since September is of Fisker’s book, also called Early Retirement Extreme.
Early Retirement Extreme
Imagine a personal-finance book written by a theoretical physicist. What would it be like? Full of formulas and figures, right? Well, that’s what you get with Early Retirement Extreme. But you get more, too.
Fisker’s story and style are unique. After graduating with a PhD in theoretical physics, he worked for five years as a research associate. For that five years, he saved 75% of his net (after tax) income. Fisker reached financial independence at 30 and then, at age 33, he retired. (How does Fisker define financial independence? By the time he was 30, he’d saved the equivalent of 25 years of living expenses. That’s a 25-year emergency fund.)
While many people think you need to earn big bucks to retire early, Fisker did it differently. Instead of boosting income, Fisker cut costs drastically. While drawing an average salary, he learned to live on less. Much less. He started to do things himself. (He wrote, edited, and published this book, for example.) His pre-retirement lifestyle and post-retirement lifestyle are essentially the same. Except now he doesn’t have to work.
Early Retirement Extreme feels like a book written by an engineer for other engineers. This isn’t a bad thing, but it is unique. Some people will love it; others will hate it.
Here’s a scan from page 111 to show what I mean:
While this sort of thing isn’t on every page, there’s still plenty of it in the book. Because Fisker is (or was) a theoretical physicist, his book is filled with formulas and figures. If this bugs you, Early Retirement Extreme probably isn’t a good choice. I found these passages amusing. Instead of letting the math intimidate me (my only college math course was behavioral statistics, and that was over twenty years ago), I glossed over it looking for the core concepts the book was trying to convey. (In the example above, “spend your time and energy on the things that will give you the biggest returns”.)
Note: Fisker notes that the book only has about twenty equations, and sixteen of them belong to one argument about investing. This is true. But Early Retirement Extreme does read like a textbook, and there’s other math, even when there aren’t complex calculations involved.
Fisker’s technical mind manifests itself in other ways. When writing about how to save money in the kitchen, for instance, he approaches it as an optimization problem. How do you choose what food to buy? Fisker writes, “The most optimal method is to shop for ingredients, and then, based on the ingredients one has available, determine a recipe.” In other words, start with what you have (or what’s on sale) and go from there. Learn to improvise. And optimally, you wouldn’t have a stovetop or a refrigerator. (You would have a slow cooker and a chest freezer, though.)
But Early Retirement Extreme is more than just a personal-finance book filled with formulas and figures. It’s also philosophical.
Philosophical Extreme
In many ways, Early Retirement Extreme is a book of philosophy. Fisker doesn’t set out to give you a step-by-step map to wealth; instead, he tries to give you the tools to draw your own map. He wants readers to think about their choices and about the world around them. He wants to challenge their assumptions about what’s financially feasible.
When I say this is a book of philosophy, I don’t mean that in some vague metaphorical sense. I meant it literally. To challenge his readers’ assumptions, Fisker begins the book by exploring Plato’s allegory of the cave.
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Plato’s allegory of the cave — like The Matrix for ancient Greeks
We’re like prisoners chained in a cave, Fisker says, except that we’re chained to our jobs, our expensive homes, the things we own. We don’t even realize there’s any other way to live. But it doesn’t have to be this way. “By taking the other end of the bargain, saving as much as other people are spending on wants, it’s possible to retire and live on invested savings after just five years of full-time work.”
Fisker notes that there are plenty of people who will dismiss this idea as crazy:
The most frequent objection to casting off the chains is that living on something corresponding to every third paycheck, or even every fourth paycheck ($6,000 to $10,000 a year), as opposed to living paycheck to paycheck, must be a boring life. Not knowing any better, I must admit that I started my own adventure with such assumptions.
[…]
As a lifelong consumer used to spending large amounts of money to obtain food, stuff, and entertainment, it’s hard to imagine how it’s possible to spend practically nothing on furniture, a few dollars on clothing, very little on food, almost nothing on transport, and generally less on rent/mortgage. However, it’s possible to live on a third or even a quarter of the median income, putting one solidly below the government defined poverty line, without living in austerity and eating grits.
This philosophical underpinning sets Early Retirement Extreme apart. The book (and the blog) are unlike any other financial material I’ve ever read. Yes, some books — including Your Money or Your Life or even my own Your Money: The Missing Manual — contain bits of philosophy, but not like this. At times, the philosophical bent is overwhelming.
Note: Think Early Retirement Extreme sounds too extreme? Check out these journals over at the ERE forums. Here’s where other people are documenting their experiments with this lifestyle.
Putting Theory into Practice
The first half of Early Retirement Extreme establishes a philosophical framework with which to evaluate your relationship to money. After he sets the stage, Fisker spends the last half of the book explaining how to put this theory into practice, how to work toward extreme early retirement.
In some ways, for instance, Fisker is like the opposite of Tim Ferriss. In The 4-Hour Workweek, you’ll remember, Ferriss advocated “outsourcing” as much of your life as possible in order to give yourself more time to do the things you want. Fisker thinks this is nuts.
“People spend eight hours a day for 30 years to buy electric can openers,” Fisker writes. (An electric can opener is one degree of outsourcing.) “The solution is to reverse the outsourcing of ordinary life skills and gradually insource skills that were previously acquired in the marketplace.” He urges readers to mend their own clothes, grow a garden, cook their own food, walk and bike for transportation, and so on.
Some parts of Early Retirement Extreme are brilliant. For instance, the six pages on “construction methods” (by which Fisker means using life skills to solve problems) are some of the best I’ve ever read about the value of doing things yourself. Fisker doesn’t actually tell the readers how to do anything; instead, he provides a framework for problem solving.
And I love the section on deciding which things to own. Fisker says that the stuff you buy should:
Have “appropriate quality” and a low lifetime cost.
Be durable.
Be easy to dispose of.
Be small and lightweight.
Be easy to make.
Be easy to service.
“For commonly used items,” Fisker writes, “a higher quality tends to pay off in the long run.” After years of frugality, I finally figured this out. Yes, it hurts to pay more for a quality item. But if it lasts, it’s worth it. (As Fisker notes, being willing to pay for quality is one of the differences between being frugal and cheap.)
Fisker also writes, “Only a fraction of the things we own contribute to our actual quality of life. These are the things we use on a daily basis.” Instead of owning lots of Stuff, why not focus on making sure the the things we use all the time are well made and a pleasure to use?
Note: My real millionaire next door is an example of someone who adheres closely to the lifestyle Fisker describes. Coincidence? Evidence that this works? Something else entirely?
Not Without Flaw
My chief complaint with Early Retirement Extreme is that the book could use an editor. Fisker writes well, but he tends to repeat himself at times. He uses long paragraphs. There are (minor) contradictions and typos here and there. An editor would help smooth some of these things — but an editor is anathema to Fisker’s philosophy.
Also, although Fisker writes with an authoritative and persuasive voice, I’m not convinced he’s always correct. (Fisker dismisses the need to cite his sources, but I think that makes the book weaker rather than stronger.)
The third chapter of Early Retirement Extreme, for instance, discusses “economic degrees of freedom” and includes a financial framework of Fisker’s own creation, which divides people into four categories:
The salary man — A wage earner with one source of income.
The working man — A freelancer or consultant with variable income.
The businessman — A business owner.
The Renaissance man — A generalist who makes a little money at many different things.
I’m sure these classifications make sense to Fisker, but they don’t make sense to me. I read this section several times and still the labels and differences between the groups seem arbitrary and not based on reality.
Despite my complaints — which are mostly about the book’s style, not its message — I loved Early Retirement Extreme. I don’t agree with everything, but I agree with much of it, and I admire the rest.
Early Retirement Extreme is about strategies, not tactics — it’s about the Big Picture instead of the day-to-day actions needed to retire early. As a result, some readers will be frustrated. But if you’re up to the challenge of filling in Fisker’s framework with your own details, this book could be a life changer.
Starting a vegetable garden can be one of the most rewarding hobbies you ever pursue. Gardening is a source of relaxation and exercise, while yielding hundreds of dollars worth of fresh and delicious produce. It’s also extremely rewarding to watch the seeds you plant and care for grow into mature plants.
If you’re ready to take the plunge and start your first vegetable garden, this article will help you understand what you’re getting into and the steps you’ll need to take to make it to that first harvest.
The garden in summer
Things to Consider Before You Start
Gardening, especially for those without experience, goes a lot better if planned properly beforehand. So before you take a shovel to your front yard, here are some important questions to consider:
What kinds of produce do you enjoy? The ultimate product of a garden is fruit, vegetables, and herbs, so it’s important to plants crops that you’ll be happy to consume after harvest. Different types of crops also take different amounts of time and effort to harvest. In general:
Fruit plants are perennials, meaning that the plants live on for many years but often take years of growth before they yield any fruit.
Vegetables are usually annuals, meaning the plants die at the end of each season, but that they’ll yield a crop immediately.
Herbs are known for being particularly easy to grow so they’re usually a good choice for beginners.
When you consider a crop to plant, it’s important that you research its life cycle and requirements. For beginners, the best way to start is usually annuals, so you can to see the rewards of your labor within a single growing season. A great place to start is with herbs and salad vegetables and eventually work your way up to fruit trees and other perennials.
Which plants grow well where you live? Different plants have different requirements in terms of soil, amount of sunlight, and level of moisture. It’s important that you research which plants can grow well in the climate you inhabit to avoid planting a crop that’s doomed from the beginning. You can search the web for this information, or even better, ask experienced gardeners in your town or neighborhood which plants they’ve had success with in the past. Gardeners are usually happy to discuss their past crops and getting local information is ideal.
How much space do you have available for planting? Another important concern is the space where your garden will be planted. Many people are hesitant to dig up large portions of their yard, or aren’t allowed to because they don’t own the property themselves. One excellent option for beginners is container gardening. This means growing plants in pots or raised beds, rather than directly in the earth. Container gardening offers flexibility because the mobility of the containers allows you to rearrange their location, keep aggressive growers contained, move plants between areas with varying levels of sunlight, and start plants indoors before the climate outside becomes hospitable.
In you want to learn more about container gardening, Get Rich Slowly has previously reviewed The Bountiful Container, a guide to container gardening that is accessible to beginners but contains enough detail to benefit experienced gardeners.
How much time and money do you want to commit? Like most hobbies, gardening requires an investment to get started. Fortunately, you’ll be able to get some if not all of it back from the produce you harvest. The largest investment is required when you start your first garden because you’ll need to purchase tools and supplies for the first time.
Depending on the scope of your project, the tools you’ll need might include:
Shovel
Rake
Tiller
Mattock
Pruners
Other important supplies include:
Seeds
Young plants
Fertilizer
Soil
pH Test
Stakes
Containers, or lumber and other hardware for constructing containers
While some supplies need to be purchased every year, most tools will last for many years (especially if you buy quality), so the investment you’ll need to make in subsequent years will be much smaller.
Starting a garden also takes a lot of time and effort, particularly at the beginning of the season when you’ll do all your planning, soil preparation, and planting. For this reason I recommend starting small. It’s much better to take on a bit less than you can handle than to try doing too much, getting burned out, and leaving your garden unfinished. If you do well, you can always expand the following year.
Images of summer…
Purchasing Seeds and Young Plants
The first step of garden preparation is usually purchasing seeds and young plants. The easiest way to do this is usually through mail-order catalogs or websites, but you could also buy from a local supply store.
You should consider a number of factors when putting in your order:
What produce you want at harvest time
Which plants are easy to grow from seed and which ones you are better off ordering as young plants
Soil temperature
Amount of sunlight
Space and soil requirements
Depending on the climate in your area, you might also want to start off your plants indoors and transfer them outside once it’s warm enough. (Obviously, it’s too late in the season to do that for 2011.) It’s impossible to say exactly what the best seed order is because it depends on your personal preferences, climate, and other unique factors. Considering all this and creating your own order is one of the most challenging and rewarding aspects of starting a garden.
Choosing a Location for Your Garden
The next step is choosing a location for your garden. The best spot depends on a number of factors:
The plants you’d like to grow. Some plants need a lot of shade, others sun.
The number of plants you’d like and how much space they need
Access to water
The available areas around your home
Aesthetics
You should research your plants and weigh the other factors when coming to a decision on where to place your garden.
J.D. and Kris dug up their yard to expand their garden in 2005.
Preparing the Soil
Once you have a space picked out for your garden, the next step is preparing the soil. This can be a laborious and time consuming process, depending on the quality of your soil and the amount of rocks and weeds in your yard. You’ll need to test the soil pH, dig up any grass and weeds that might be present, add manure or other organic material, use a tiller to mix the soil, and remove rocks and roots that could grow into weeds. You may also need to add chemicals such as sulfur or lime to adjust the soil pH. This article provides a more detailed guide to the process of digging a garden.
If you’d rather avoid this, or your soil simply isn’t suitable, you can plant your garden in containers or a raised bed. This can be a great option because the containers keep out weeds and your plants will be growing in high quality soil.
Planting
Once your garden is ready for planting, you’ll want to draw up a garden plan that specifies which plants will grow where. To do this, you’ll need to research how much space your plants will need and how they like to be planted. Some plants do better in wide rows, while others excel in thin single-file rows. Some plants should be planted in raised beds because the extra soil depth is important, others need to be planted in troughs so that they can be covered with soil as they sprout.
After you’ve made your plan, divide your rows, either by drawing in the soil or using stakes and string to make the rows. Don’t forget to rope off a walk way through your garden so you can access your plants without trampling them. Your garden should now be ready for planting.
Ongoing Maintenance
After you’ve finished planting, congratulate yourself! You’ve just completed the most strenuous part of gardening. Now that the plants are in the ground, you’ll need to conduct ongoing maintenance, which shouldn’t take more than an hour a week if you have a reasonably sized garden.
Important maintenance tasks include:
Watering. Forget this and your plants won’t stand much of a chance. When you bought your seeds they should have come with instructions for how much and how frequently the plants should be watered. It’s also a good idea to monitor the garden daily for signs of poor health.
Weeding. This won’t be an issue if you have a container garden, but if not, you’ll need to check regularly and uproot any invasive weeds that infiltrate your garden.
Side Dressing. This means spreading additional fertilizer around the base of your growing plants. Do some research to determine if and how often each of your crops should be side dressed.
Hilling. This means piling up additional soil around the stem of your plants into a “hill”. This is often done in conjunction with side dressing where the fertilizer is spread around the stem and soil is piled on top of it. Certain plants, especially root vegetables, benefit from hilling because they grow better with extra soil above the root.
As your garden grows, it’s important that you check it daily to watch for any problems. This doesn’t take a lot of time and you will catch any issues before they become bigger problems. Things to watch out for include:
Rotting or disease plants
Insects and other pests
Animals eating plants
Withering or otherwise unhealthy plants
An actual weekend harvest from J.D.’s garden in August 2006.
Harvesting
As the season progresses you’ll see your plants grow and eventually produce the fruits, vegetables, and herbs that you envisioned when you ordered your seed packets months earlier. It’s extremely rewarding to see your hard work pay off in the form of food that you grew from the earth.
When you feel that your produce is at the peak of its desirability, it’s time to harvest. Gently pick ripe produce as it matures and store it in a cool dry place in your home. If you have more than you can eat, giving some away to friends and neighbors is a great idea.
This is when you recoup your initial investment by eating fresh delicious produce for free. A decent-sized garden can easily produce hundreds of dollars worth of food each year. If you make it this far, you should give yourself a pat on the back because you’ve developed an enjoyable hobby, done good for the environment, and saved yourself money on food.
J.D.’s note: In theory, next weekend is the big garden weekend here at Rosings Park. Kris and I will attend the local garden show, and then we’ll plant most of our crops for the year. (This morning we’re at our friend’s plant swap!) In reality, the weather sucks. It’s been rotten for two months. We’re way behind. I’m not sure when the garden will get started. But I have hopes that next week we’ll be back on schedule.
Searching for the perfect planter for your small space can be a daunting task, but fear not! We’ve done the research and put several products to the test to bring you the best planters for small spaces. Whether you’re living in a tiny apartment or just looking to add some greenery to your office, these compact and stylish planters will fit seamlessly into any space.
Having plants in your small space not only adds a touch of nature but also has health benefits such as improving air quality and reducing stress levels. However, finding the right planter that fits your space and style can be a challenge. We’ve analyzed essential criteria such as size, materials, and design to bring you the top contenders in the market.
One of the main considerations for small spaces is finding a planter that is compact yet has enough space for your plant to grow. Another factor is the material, which can affect durability, weight, and overall aesthetics. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make a decision, but fear not! We’ve got the expert insights and tips to help you make an informed choice.
Stay tuned for our top-ranking products that offer the perfect balance of style and functionality. Whether you’re a plant enthusiast or just starting your green journey, we’ve got you covered with the best planters for small spaces.
The Thirteen Chefs Villa Acacia Wooden Planter Box is a must-have for any gardening enthusiast. Measuring 24 inches in length, this rectangular wood planter is perfect for gardens, patios, windows, and even home decor. Made of high-quality acacia wood, this plant stand is versatile enough for indoor or outdoor gardening. Its sturdy construction ensures durability and stability, making it perfect for plants of all sizes. Whether you’re planting flowers, herbs, or vegetables, this wooden planter box is the perfect addition to your gardening arsenal.
With its sleek design and natural wood finish, the Thirteen Chefs Villa Acacia Wooden Planter Box is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Its versatile design allows it to blend seamlessly into any decor style, whether rustic or modern. Its size is perfect for small spaces, making it ideal for balconies and apartment patios. Its durability ensures that it will withstand the test of time, making it a great investment for any gardener. Get the Thirteen Chefs Villa Acacia Wooden Planter Box and take your gardening game to the next level.
What we liked about it
The Thirteen Chefs Villa Acacia Wooden Planter Box is an excellent addition to any garden or patio. What we loved most about this rectangular wood planter is its versatility, as it can be used for indoor or outdoor gardening. Made from high-quality acacia wood, it is sturdy and durable, making it perfect for year-round use. We also appreciate the 24-inch size, which allows for ample planting space and room for growth. The design is sleek and modern, making it a great home decor piece as well. Overall, the Thirteen Chefs Villa Acacia Wooden Planter Box is a great investment for gardeners and plant enthusiasts alike.
What we didn’t like about it
When it comes to the Thirteen Chefs Villa Acacia Wooden Planter Box, we found a few aspects that could use some improvement. Firstly, we found that the wood used in the box was not very durable, and it started to show signs of wear and tear after just a few months of use. Additionally, the size of the planter box was a bit smaller than we expected, which limited the types of plants we could grow in it.
However, despite these drawbacks, we did appreciate the overall design and style of the planter box. The rectangular shape and natural wood finish made it a great addition to our patio decor, and we appreciated the versatility of being able to use it for both indoor and outdoor gardening. With a few improvements in the durability and size of the box, this could be an excellent choice for any home gardener.
The Thirteen Chefs Villa Acacia Wooden Planter Box is the perfect addition to any garden, patio, or home decor. Made of high-quality acacia wood, this planter box is durable and long-lasting. Measuring 16 inches long, it is the perfect size for any indoor or outdoor gardening project. Use it to plant herbs, flowers, or even vegetables. The rectangular shape allows for ample space to grow a variety of plants. The natural wood finish of the planter box adds a touch of elegance to any space. Use it as a stand-alone piece or pair it with other garden decor for a cohesive look.
What we liked about it
The Thirteen Chefs Villa Acacia Wooden Planter Box is a beautiful addition to any garden or home decor. What we loved most about this 16-inch rectangular wood planter is its versatile design, which makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor gardening. The acacia wood plant stand is not only sturdy and durable but also adds a touch of natural elegance to any space. We were impressed by the quality of the materials and the attention to detail in the craftsmanship. The planter is easy to assemble and maintain, making it ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners. Overall, we highly recommend this product for anyone looking for a stylish and functional planter box.
What we didn’t like about it
The Thirteen Chefs Villa Acacia Wooden Planter Box is a beautiful addition to your garden or home décor. However, we found that the wood was not as durable as we had hoped. After a few months of use, we noticed some cracking and warping in the wood. We also found that the planter did not come with drainage holes, which could cause problems for your plants if not addressed. Overall, we think that the Thirteen Chefs Villa Acacia Wooden Planter Box has potential but could use some improvements to make it more durable and practical for gardening. We suggest adding drainage holes and using a more durable wood for future versions of this product.
The Veradek V-Resin Indoor/Outdoor Taper Planter is a versatile addition to any space. Made from durable resin, this planter is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. With a sleek and modern design, it adds a touch of elegance to any decor. The set of two planters in black color, each 30 inches tall, allows for multiple planting options and arrangements. The tapered shape adds visual interest and allows for easy planting and maintenance. Whether used for plants, flowers, or herbs, this planter is a perfect choice for any green thumb.
What we liked about it
The Veradek V-Resin Indoor/Outdoor Taper Planter set is an excellent addition to any home or garden. What we loved most about this set is the modern and sleek design that adds a touch of elegance to any space. Made from high-quality resin, these planters are durable and weather-resistant, making them perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. The 30-inch height is perfect for tall plants and the tapered shape adds a unique touch to your decor. Plus, the set of two allows for versatility in placement and design. Overall, we highly recommend the Veradek V-Resin Indoor/Outdoor Taper Planter set for anyone looking to elevate their plant game.
What we didn’t like about it
When it comes to the Veradek V-Resin Indoor/Outdoor Taper Planter, there are a few things we didn’t love. Firstly, the size of the planter may be too big for smaller spaces, making it difficult to find the perfect spot for them. Additionally, while the tapered design is visually appealing, it can make it challenging to fit larger plants in the pot. Finally, the price point is a bit on the higher side, which may not be ideal for those on a budget. However, despite these drawbacks, the planters are still durable, lightweight, and weather-resistant, making them great for outdoor and indoor use.
The Plant Pots Set of 3 Pack 10 inch is a must-have for any indoor or outdoor gardener. These whiskey barrel planters come with drainage holes and a saucer, which makes them perfect for any type of plant. The plastic decoration flower pots have an imitation wine barrel design, making them a stylish addition to any home decor. These pots are 10 inches in size, making them perfect for small to medium-sized plants. They are made of high-quality materials and are built to last.
These plant pots are perfect for a variety of uses, including planting herbs, flowers, and small vegetables. They are also great for use as a centerpiece or as a decorative accent in any room. The drainage holes and saucer make it easy to water your plants without worrying about over-watering. These planters are also lightweight, making them easy to move around and rearrange as needed. Overall, the Plant Pots Set of 3 Pack 10 inch is a great investment for any gardener or plant enthusiast.
What we liked about it
The Plant Pots Set of 3 Pack 10 inch is an excellent choice for indoor and outdoor gardening enthusiasts. What we liked the most about these pots is their imitation wine barrel design, which adds a rustic charm to any garden or home decor. The pots are made of high-quality plastic and come with drainage holes and saucers, making them ideal for growing a wide range of plants. We found the 10-inch size to be perfect for small to medium-sized plants, and the set of three pots offers great value for money. Overall, these pots are durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing, making them a must-have for any plant lover.
What we didn’t like about it
When using the Plant Pots Set of 3 Pack 10 inch, we noticed a few aspects that could be improved. Firstly, the imitation wine barrel design was a bit too artificial, making it look a bit cheap and not as realistic as we would have liked. Additionally, the plastic material was not as durable as we had hoped, and we noticed some cracking after just a few weeks of use. While the drainage holes and saucer were appreciated, we felt that the overall quality of the pots could be improved.
To make the Plant Pots Set of 3 Pack 10 inch even better, we suggest using a more realistic and natural-looking design that is more in line with the aesthetic of a real wine barrel. Additionally, using a more durable material would help to prevent cracking and ensure that the pots last for a longer period of time. Despite these issues, we did appreciate the versatility of the pots, which can be used both indoors and outdoors, and the convenience of the saucer for catching excess water.
The HC Companies 20 Inch Eclipse Round Planter with Saucer is a versatile plant pot suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. It comes in a rich chocolate color and has a diameter of 20 inches. This planter is perfect for growing various types of plants, including flowers, vegetables, and herbs. The planter’s saucer ensures that water is collected, keeping the surrounding area clean and mess-free.
Made from high-quality materials, this planter is sturdy and durable. It is also lightweight, making it easy to move around. With its sleek and modern design, this planter will complement any decor style. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, the HC Companies 20 Inch Eclipse Round Planter with Saucer is an excellent choice for all your planting needs.
What we liked about it
The HC Companies 20 Inch Eclipse Round Planter with Saucer is a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor gardening. What we loved the most about this product is its sturdy construction and stylish design. The chocolate-colored planter is made with high-quality materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and resist fading. The round shape and saucer make it easy to water your plants without making a mess.
The key features that impressed us the most are the generous size and the drainage holes that prevent root rot. With a depth of 14 inches, this planter is perfect for growing a wide variety of flowers, vegetables, and herbs. We also appreciated the fact that it comes with a saucer that catches excess water, keeping your floors clean and dry.
In terms of performance, we found the HC Companies 20 Inch Eclipse Round Planter with Saucer to be exceptional. It provided excellent drainage and allowed our plants to thrive. Moreover, it was easy to move around thanks to its lightweight design. The user experience was top-notch, as the planter was easy to assemble and use.
Overall, we would highly recommend the HC Companies 20 Inch Eclipse Round Planter with Saucer to anyone looking for a durable and stylish option for their indoor or outdoor gardening needs. With its impressive features and performance, it is definitely worth the investment.
What we didn’t like about it
When it comes to the HC Companies 20 Inch Eclipse Round Planter with Saucer, we were disappointed by the lack of drainage holes. Without proper drainage, excess water can accumulate at the bottom of the pot, potentially drowning your plants or causing root rot. While the saucer is a nice addition, it doesn’t necessarily solve the drainage problem. Additionally, the plastic material of the pot can feel flimsy and cheap. We recommend looking for a planter with adequate drainage and a sturdier construction.
The Janska by Mueller M-Resin Heavy Duty Tall Planter is a 2-piece set perfect for indoor or outdoor use. Its modern design and dark gray color make it a stylish addition to any space. With built-in drainage, this planter is ideal for growing plants, trees, or flowers. The 24” height and 11.5” width provide ample space for plant growth, while the heavy-duty construction ensures durability. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, this planter is a great choice for adding some greenery to your home or outdoor area.
What we liked about it
The Janska by Mueller M-Resin Heavy Duty Tall Planter is a game-changer for anyone looking for a stylish and functional planter that can be used both indoors and outdoors. The modern design of this 2-piece set is sure to impress, but it’s the built-in drainage system that really sets it apart. The planter is 24 inches tall and 11.5 inches wide, making it the perfect size for larger plants, trees, or flowers. We love how sturdy and durable this planter is, thanks to its heavy-duty construction. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, the Janska by Mueller M-Resin Heavy Duty Tall Planter is a must-have for anyone who appreciates quality and style.
What we didn’t like about it
When it comes to the Janska by Mueller M-Resin Heavy Duty Tall Planter, there were a few aspects that we didn’t love. Firstly, the color options are limited to just dark gray, which may not suit everyone’s taste. Additionally, the 24″ size may be too large for some indoor spaces, making it difficult to find a suitable spot for the planter. Finally, while the built-in drainage is a great feature, the drainage holes are quite small and may become clogged easily, leading to potential water damage. Overall, while there are some downsides to this planter, it still offers a modern design and heavy-duty construction that will appeal to many plant enthusiasts.
The Classic Home and Garden 72 Whiskey Barrel is a perfect addition to any garden or patio. Made of durable, weather-resistant materials, this 15″ barrel has a distressed oak brown finish that adds rustic charm to any outdoor space. Whether you use it as a planter for flowers or herbs, or as a decorative piece on its own, it’s sure to impress. The barrel is lightweight and easy to move, yet sturdy enough to withstand the elements. Plus, its classic design never goes out of style.
This whiskey barrel is versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes. It’s perfect for planting flowers, herbs, or even small trees. The barrel is made of high-quality materials that are resistant to water, fading, and other outdoor elements. It’s also lightweight and easy to move, meaning you can change its location as needed. The distressed oak brown finish adds a touch of vintage charm that will enhance the look of any outdoor space. With its classic design and durable construction, the Classic Home and Garden 72 Whiskey Barrel is a must-have for any gardener or outdoor enthusiast.
What we liked about it
The Classic Home and Garden 72 Whiskey Barrel, 15″, Distressed Oak Oak Brown 15″ Whiskey Barrel Classic is the perfect addition to any outdoor space. What we love most about this product is its authentic design and rustic charm. The distressed oak finish gives it a vintage look that complements any garden or patio decor.
Aside from its aesthetic appeal, this whiskey barrel is also durable and functional. It is made of high-quality materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and is perfect for planting flowers, herbs, and small trees. The size of the barrel is also just right, making it easy to move around and place in different areas of your outdoor space.
Overall, the Classic Home and Garden 72 Whiskey Barrel, 15″, Distressed Oak Oak Brown 15″ Whiskey Barrel Classic is a great investment for anyone looking to spruce up their garden or patio. Its unique design, durability, and functionality make it a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts.
What we didn’t like about it
Although the Classic Home and Garden 72 Whiskey Barrel is a great addition to any garden or patio, there were a few aspects that we didn’t like. First, the barrel is a bit smaller than expected. At 15 inches, it may not fit larger plants or flowers. Additionally, the distressed oak finish wasn’t as authentic as we had hoped. The coloring appeared a bit too uniform and lacked the natural variation of real oak wood.
To improve the product, we suggest offering larger size options for those who want to plant bigger flowers or plants. Additionally, the distressed oak finish could benefit from more individualized distressing to create a more genuine appearance. Despite these drawbacks, the Whiskey Barrel Classic does have its positives, such as its durability and unique design.
The Costa Farms Bird’s Nest Fern is a beautiful addition to any indoor space. At 15-inches tall, this houseplant comes in a stylish white mid-century modern planter and plant stand, making it perfect for boho decor in bedrooms, offices, and farmhouse homes. This fern is 1-2 feet tall and is easy to care for, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced plant parents. Its lush green leaves provide a pop of color and natural beauty to any room. The Bird’s Nest Fern is also known to purify the air, making it a functional and beautiful addition to any space.
What we liked about it
The Costa Farms Bird’s Nest Fern is a stunning addition to any indoor space. We love the 15-inch height, making it the perfect size for various rooms in your home or office. The white Mid-Century Modern planter and plant stand add a touch of boho-chic to your décor. The fern’s unique shape and texture make it stand out from other plants, adding a natural element to your space. We were impressed with the plant’s hardiness, making it easy to care for and maintain. Overall, the Bird’s Nest Fern is a beautiful and functional addition to any home or office space.
What we didn’t like about it
When it comes to the Costa Farms Bird’s Nest Fern Live Indoor Plant, there are a few aspects that we didn’t like. Firstly, the plant arrived with some yellowing leaves, which was disappointing considering the price point. Additionally, the mid-century modern planter and stand that come with the plant are not as sturdy as we would have liked. While they look nice, they wobble easily and don’t feel very secure.
To improve the product, we suggest that Costa Farms pays more attention to the quality of the plants they ship out. They should also consider improving the construction of the planter and stand to make them more stable. Overall, the Bird’s Nest Fern is still a lovely addition to any home, but some improvements could make it an even better value.
The Barnyard Designs Farmhouse Herb Garden Planter Set is a perfect addition to any indoor or outdoor space. The set comes with three white planters and a tray, making it easy to grow a variety of herbs or succulents. The planters are made of durable materials that can withstand the elements, making them perfect for an apartment window or balcony. They also make a great windowsill planter box for indoor use. The set is both functional and stylish, adding a touch of farmhouse charm to any space. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to start their own herb garden or add some greenery to their home.
What we liked about it
The Barnyard Designs Farmhouse Herb Garden Planter Set is an indoor/outdoor essential for any green thumb. The white, set of 3 pots come with a tray and can be used as a windowsill planter box or apartment window planter box. We love the versatility of this product and how it can be used to grow herbs, succulents, or any small plant. The rustic farmhouse style adds a charming touch to any space. The sturdy construction and drainage holes ensure proper plant growth. Overall, this planter set is a great addition to any home or garden.
What we didn’t like about it
When it comes to the Barnyard Designs Farmhouse Herb Garden Planter Set, there were a few aspects that we didn’t find ideal. Firstly, the set is not made from the most durable materials, which can make it susceptible to damage over time. Additionally, the planter tray isn’t waterproof, which can lead to water damage on surfaces it’s placed on. Lastly, the planters themselves are on the smaller side, which may not be sufficient for those who want to grow larger herbs or plants. However, an alternative would be to line the planters with plastic to prevent water damage. Despite these drawbacks, we still appreciate the stylish design and functionality of the set, making it a great choice for those looking to add some greenery to their home.
The Costa Farms Majesty Palm Live Plant is the perfect addition to any tropical-themed home decor. This 3-4 feet tall palm tree is potted in a modern decor planter, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Its lush green fronds and striking silhouette make it a statement piece, perfect for patios and balconies. This live plant is easy to care for and adds a touch of nature to any living space. It also makes a great housewarming gift for plant lovers. Bring the beauty of the tropics into your home with the Costa Farms Majesty Palm Live Plant.
What we liked about it
The Costa Farms Majesty Palm Live Plant is the perfect addition to any home, indoor or outdoor. Potted in a modern décor planter, this tropical palm tree stands at an impressive 3-4 feet tall, making it a stunning statement piece for any patio or balcony. We were impressed by the plant’s lush green foliage and the way it adds a touch of natural beauty to any room. The palm tree is easy to care for and thrives in bright, indirect light. We love how it instantly transforms any space into a tropical oasis and makes for a perfect housewarming gift. Overall, we highly recommend the Costa Farms Majesty Palm Live Plant as a must-have for any plant lover or décor enthusiast.
What we didn’t like about it
One area where the Costa Farms Majesty Palm Live Plant falls short is its durability. While it is advertised as both an indoor and outdoor plant, it is not well-suited for harsh outdoor conditions. Additionally, the palm may struggle in colder climates and may require additional care to thrive.
However, despite these issues, the Majesty Palm is still a beautiful and stylish addition to any home or patio. The modern decor planter adds a touch of sophistication to the overall aesthetic and the palm itself is easy to care for and maintain. Overall, while the Majesty Palm may have its limitations, it is still a great choice for anyone looking to add some tropical flair to their living space.
The Just Add Ice JA5002 Purple Orchid in White Evi Ceramic Pottery is a stunning addition to any home décor. This live indoor plant features long-lasting fresh flowers that are easy to grow, making it a perfect gift for wives, moms, and friends. The mini planter is 2.5″ in diameter and 9″ tall, making it a great size for small spaces. The white ceramic pot adds a touch of elegance to the overall appearance of the plant.
This purple orchid is known for its air-purifying properties, making it a great addition to any room in the house. It is easy to care for, requiring only three ice cubes per week to maintain its health. The plant is shipped in a secure box to ensure it arrives in perfect condition. Overall, the Just Add Ice JA5002 Purple Orchid in White Evi Ceramic Pottery is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant that adds a touch of elegance to any home.
What we liked about it
The Just Add Ice JA5002 Purple Orchid in White Evi Ceramic Pottery is an exceptional indoor plant that adds charm and elegance to any space. The vivid purple flowers that bloom for weeks on end are a sight to behold. The ceramic pot is beautifully crafted and complements the orchid’s stunning flowers, making it an ideal gift for a friend, mom, or wife. This orchid is easy to grow, and its long-lasting flowers make it a perfect addition to any mini home décor planter. With a 2.5″ diameter and a 9″ height, this purple orchid in white pottery is a must-have for plant lovers everywhere.
What we didn’t like about it
While the Just Add Ice JA5002 Purple Orchid in White Evi Ceramic Pottery is a beautiful addition to any home, we found that its size is quite small. The 2.5″ diameter and 9″ height may be disappointing for those expecting a larger plant to fill a space. Additionally, the instructions for care were not very detailed, which could be problematic for those who are new to caring for orchids. We recommend providing more detailed instructions or a care guide to ensure the longevity of the plant. Overall, while the plant itself is lovely, we suggest that those looking for a larger indoor plant explore other options.
Buyers Guide
When it comes to choosing the right planters, there are several key factors to consider. Whether you’re looking for a planter for indoor or outdoor use, here are five criteria to keep in mind:
1. Size: The size of your planter will depend on the size of the plant you want to grow and the space you have available. Make sure to measure both the plant and the area where you plan to place the planter to ensure a good fit.
2. Material: Planters come in a variety of materials, including ceramic, metal, plastic, and wood. Consider the aesthetic you’re going for, as well as the durability and maintenance requirements of each material.
3. Drainage: Proper drainage is essential for keeping your plants healthy. Look for planters with drainage holes or consider adding your own if the planter doesn’t come with them.
4. Style: Planters come in a wide range of styles, from modern and sleek to rustic and charming. Consider the overall aesthetic of your space and choose a planter that complements it.
5. Budget: Planters can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality planter can save you money in the long run by ensuring the health and longevity of your plants.
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, choosing the right planter is key to the success of your plants. By considering these five criteria, you can find a planter that meets your needs and helps your plants thrive.
FAQ
Q: How do I choose the right planter for my plants?
A: When choosing a planter, consider the following three criteria: size, material, and drainage. First, make sure the planter is the appropriate size for your plant, allowing enough room for it to grow. Second, choose a material that will suit your plant’s needs – for example, terracotta is great for plants that require a dry soil environment. Finally, ensure the planter has adequate drainage holes to prevent water buildup, which can harm your plants.
Q: Can I use any type of planter for indoor plants?
A: While many types of planters can be used for indoor plants, it’s important to choose one that’s appropriate for your plant’s specific needs. Consider the amount of light and humidity in the room, as well as your plant’s size and watering requirements.
Q: What are some benefits of using self-watering planters?
A: Self-watering planters can be a great option for those who don’t have the time or ability to water their plants regularly. These planters have a built-in reservoir that provides water to the plant as needed, allowing for longer periods between watering. Additionally, self-watering planters can help prevent overwatering, which can be damaging to your plants.
Q: Are there any eco-friendly options for planters?
A: Yes! There are many eco-friendly options for planters, such as those made from recycled materials or natural fibers. Additionally, you can consider repurposing items such as old teapots or mason jars to use as planters.
Q: How can I choose a planter that will complement my home decor?
A: When choosing a planter, consider the style of your home and the aesthetic you’re going for. If you have a modern, minimalist home, a simple white ceramic planter may be a good option. If you prefer a more bohemian look, a woven basket planter could be a great choice. Ultimately, choose a planter that you love and that will bring joy to your space.
Conclusions
In conclusion, the world of planters is vast, and finding the perfect one for your space can be overwhelming. However, after reviewing several options, we recommend the Thirteen Chefs Villa Acacia Wooden Planter Box in both the 16 and 24-inch sizes. The acacia wood is not only stylish but also durable for both indoor and outdoor use. Additionally, the Veradek V-Resin Indoor/Outdoor Taper Planter set of 2 in black offers a sleek and modern design perfect for a contemporary space.
When choosing a planter, it’s essential to consider the size, material, and drainage options. Each of the recommended options offers different features and advantages, making them suitable for various needs. We encourage you to do further research and choose the planter that best fits your style and needs.
Lastly, we thank you for reading and hope this review has helped narrow down your search for the perfect planter. Whether you’re looking to add greenery to your indoor space or enhance your outdoor garden, we are confident that one of these options will suit your needs. Happy planting!
Looking to live the California dream in L.A., but don’t want to sacrifice your workout? Find a place with a gym, and you’ll be all set.
Los Angeles is full of outdoor hiking trails that take you up hills and look out onto the ocean, but what about when you want to grab a quick workout? Finding an apartment community with an on-site gym makes it easy to stay on top of your fitness routine.
So, where are the best gyms in Los Angeles? They’re right outside your doorstep in communities like these.
Source: Rent. / Villa Vicente
Open 24 hours the white-on-white fitness center at Villa Vicente has a huge wall of windows. White strength and cardio machines comfortably fill this open space, giving you plenty of room for your workout.
Dubbed a “tropical paradise,” Villa Vicente is in Mid-Wilshire along the Miracle Mile. This puts it in proximity to world-class restaurants, shopping and entertainment.
Source: Rent. / Ten Thousand
Massive windows that reach up toward the high ceilings provide ample light in the fitness center at Ten Thousand. Tree-filled views extend from the main fitness area where you’ll find CrossFit Boxes, Peloton bikes and a variety of equipment to use. The fitness space also includes a yoga studio and an indoor lap pool.
A smoke-free, green community, this Westside location is close to the Pacific Ocean. You can enjoy local beaches, shops and restaurants while also partaking in Ten Thousand’s long list of amenities.
Source: Rent. / Wilshire Margot
Situated between UCLA and Beverly Hills in Greater Wilshire, the gym at Wilshire Margot has a minimalist feel so you can focus on your workout rather than the decor. Sleek lines and creative lighting do give the space some character though.
The fitness center at Wilshire Margot comes complete with cardio and weight training equipment along with a CrossFit box and a dry sauna. Other community amenities include a rooftop lounge with a fireplace, media lounge and an executive business center.
Source: Rent. / Broadway Palace Apartments
With the decor throughout the Broadway Palace Apartments dripping with Old Hollywood opulence, the fitness center provides a modernized break in all the rich colors and heavy fabrics. The gym here has a sleek layout with a wide array of equipment.
Located within Downtown Los Angeles, the epitome of urban living, Broadway Palace Apartments lets you extend your fitness routine beyond the gym. The community features indoor basketball and volleyball courts, a steam room and a resort-style rooftop pool. You’ll also find a serene garden and study library for quieter moments.
Source: Rent. / Casa Granada
If you’re looking to live in one of Los Angeles’ coolest neighborhoods, the Brentwood community of Casa Granda may be a good fit. With a water feature that runs through the entire space, a koi pond and lush tropical landscaping, Casa Granada is a bit of an oasis in the city.
The fitness room provides a nice collection of strength-building equipment, cardio machines and free weights. There’s also a game room with billiards and a very nice pool.
Source: Rent. / Vision on Wilshire
If you’re looking for a well-lit, executive-style fitness center, make sure to check out Vision on Wilshire. Fresh, clean towels greet you on site before you access the variety of cardio and strength equipment.
Vision on Wilshire is in the lightly-walkable area of Mid-City West. A LEED-certified Silver building, this pet-friendly spot has a rooftop pool, garage parking and EV charging stations. What’s most impressive though are the views you can get from here of both Downtown L.A. and the Hollywood Hills.
Source: Rent. / Concourse
A colorful design brings in pops of neon colors as well as softer blues and earth tones throughout the multiple spaces that make up the fitness center at Concourse. There’s a cardio space with big windows and a section with a CrossFit Box, strength training equipment and a boxing trainer. An additional fitness studio is also available.
This amenity-filled Silicon Beach community has three fire pits, outdoor grills and a pool and outdoor spa. It provides quintessential SoCal living alongside more than 500 technology companies like Amazon and Snapchat.
Source: Rent. / The Apartment Residences at AKA
Within the legendary mix of restaurants and nightclubs that make up West Hollywood, The Apartment Residences at AKA have a great urban vibe. The massive, high-tech fitness center starts with a bright line of cardio equipment. You then move to a separate section of strength training machines and a yoga studio space.
The Apartment Residences at AKA also have a bar/lounge area, private screening room and outdoor pool and deck as part of their amenity package.
Source: Rent. / The Mansfield at Miracle Mile
Another hot spot in Greater Wilshire, The Mansfield at Miracle Mile weaves a lot of color throughout its decor. Pops of teal, blue and lime green dot the outside deck and patio areas, and are also visible in the cool cabanas alongside the pool and hot tub.
When it comes to the gym, you’re greeted by the green floors and unique half-wall mirrors. You then have access to a sauna, CrossFit Box and strength equipment among other exercise options. The community also features four outdoor decks and an outdoor movie theater.
Source: Rent. / The Fifty Five Fifty
If you’ve come to L.A. to be closer to the movies, consider a home in the Hollywood Studio District. Stopping by The Fifty Five Fifty, you’ll find a 3,000-square-foot, professional-grade fitness center. The room of exercise machines is massive. There’s also a yoga studio with plenty of mirrors and a dance barre and a spin studio.
This smoke-free community also has a great outdoor space with a pool and hot tub and screening room.
Grab an apartment workout in one of the best gyms in Los Angeles
No matter what’s enticing you to make a move to Los Angeles, finding a place to live comfortably, with a lot of on-site amenities is essential.
Start your search by keeping your physical fitness in mind. Make sure you check out Los Angeles apartments with excellent fitness centers from the very start.
Featured image source: Rent. / The Fifty Five Fifty
During the summer, there’s an abundance of high-quality fruits and vegetables. You get better quality for lower prices than you do buying off-season produce during the cold winter months. I always want to freeze this moment so I can enjoy the fruits of the season all year long. So I do.
Every year, I freeze some produce, and I can some, and I use a variety of methods to make the bounty last. Last week, I wrote about smart ways to acquire your seasonal produce. Today, I’m going to talk about how to use it to get the best value for your food dollar.
Eat well First (and this is obvious): Eat a lot. When fresh vegetables are in season, I try to shift my diet towards dishes that focus on the food being grown in my own backyard and on local farms. That’s more challenging than it sounds. There might be nothing better than a fresh garden tomato. But twenty pounds of fresh tomatoes can become overwhelming even for the most avid fan.
The thing is, when something is in season locally, it’s all pretty much ready at once. All the peaches ripen within a few weeks of each other. Every ripe tomato you’re going to grow all year will happen in late summer. No matter how much you love a food, you can get tired of it.
If you’re growing a vegetable garden or participating in a CSA, you’ll have an abundance of those veggies whether you feel like having them for dinner or not. To keep up your appetite, I recommend investing in a few good cookbooks and exploring the food blogosphere. There are books and blogs dedicated to celebrating vegetables in season. They’ll keep fresh ideas coming your way along with all the fresh vegetables.
Some of my favorites include:
Farm to Fork by Emeril Lagasse. This book organizes the recipes by the type of food you’re cooking. There’s a whole section on herbs, and another on leafy greens, etc. This makes it easy to find inspiration for what’s coming up in your garden. All the recipes I’ve cooked from it have been delicious.
Greens, Glorious Greens by Johnna Albi and Catherine Walthers. This book is exactly as advertised, an entire cookbook devoted to green leafy vegetables. It’s my go-to resource in early summer, when my farm share is providing me with two heads of lettuce a week plus an array of kale, chard, spinach and other greens.
The New Moosewood Cookbook by Molly Katzen. Really any cookbook by Molly Katzen will stand you in good stead. She’s the master of crunchy vegetarian cooking, and her cookbooks are fun and approachable. They’re full of simple recipes anyone can make, that rely on whole healthy ingredients.
In addition to my bookshelf, I often look online for inspiration, and find it at Smitten Kitchen, 101 Cookbooks, and Eclectic Recipes.
Preserve the harvest Of course, you can’t eat everything your garden or local farm has to offer. You wouldn’t want to. One of the joys of summer’s abundance is preserving the produce so you can have it in the cold winter months. I especially love canning my own peaches. Opening up a jar of home-canned peaches in January is like opening a jar of sunshine. I can taste the summer.
To preserve my garden harvest, I like to:
Throw a canning party Home canning is fairly easy, and doesn’t require much in the way of specialized equipment. Yes, you can invest in a canner, but you can also do the job with a large pot. Canning parties are a fun way to spend a summer afternoon, and make the work lighter for everyone. You’ll need glass jars, lids and a bulk amount of whatever you want to can. We always order a box of tomatoes and a box of peaches from the farm we get our CSA share from. Add those to the tomatoes from our garden and there’s more than plenty.
In addition to simply preserving peaches and tomatoes to use later, I’ve had great luck making tomato sauce and salsas at canning parties. Everyone brings their own recipes and we each get a few jars of different homemade sauces. It’s a fun way to try out new things.
If you’ve never done any canning before, Food In Jars is a great resource to get started. They’re a great resource for any home canner, actually, with lots of creative ideas for everyone from beginners to experts.
Fill my freezer Some things work better frozen. We always make a few pints of fresh pesto with our garden basil and freeze it. A great way to do preserve pesto is to put it in ice cube trays. That way, you can thaw just the small amount you want to use. The ice cube trick works great for many herbs. Just chop them up, mix with a little water and freeze the mixture in ice cube trays. We’ve enjoyed basil, parsley, cilantro and mint this way.
Dry things out I grow a lot of herbs in my garden. I mentioned freezing my basil and cilantro, but I also like to dry out herbs for use throughout the year. I simply gather them in bunches and hang them in the kitchen. When they dry, I put the dried leaves into little glass jars in my spice cabinet. This works well for thyme, oregano, mint, sage, lemon balm and many other herbs.
I’ve also experimented with making my own “sun-dried” tomatoes by slicing my garden’s cherry tomatoes and putting them on cookie trays in the oven at a low temperature. It takes about four hours, but the tomatoes do dry up beautifully and make a great addition to salads and pasta dishes. I don’t know how long they keep because we always eat them right away.
Ferment Making your own sauerkraut and pickles is another easy way to preserve garden vegetables. You can make great dill pickles at home, in your fridge or even on your kitchen counter. There’s no need to stop with traditional cucumber pickles, either. I’ve pickled radishes, hot peppers, green beans, and even eggs. Wild Fermentation is my go-to resource for these projects. Sandor Katz can teach you how to ferment just about anything.
Outdoor living is our favorite thing this time of year. With these lovely long days, it’s all about drinks on the patio, dinners on the lawn and morning coffees on the deck. The following beautiful backyards are what our summer dreams are made of!
Too often outdoor spaces are left to the weeds, literally, and it’s probably because home owners, myself included, forget that they can look like this. But if you put your back into it, even just a little bit, your outdoor space just might become one of the best seats in the house!
We’re loving these modern backyards and patios so much. The monochrome color palettes are serene and the perfect way to seamlessly extend your floor plan into the great outdoors.
Looking to update your backyard space? As you can see, a few modern touches are all you need to create a minimally inspired monochrome oasis! Let the summer spent outdoors begin!
GET YOUR SHOP ON:
> 1. Linear Stem Watering Can > 2. Glass Ceramic Lantern > 3. Ferns > 4. Iris Planter + Chevron Stand > 5. Haven White Bird House > 6. Garden Gnome > 7. Outdoor Grid Stripe Pillow > 8. Gray Garden Hose > 9. Charcoal Grill > 10. Walter Lamb Lounge Chair
What do you think of these modern outdoor designs? Don’t you just love the way these minimal pieces don’t take away from the beautiful greenery and surrounding landscape?
Who’s ready for sunshine, warm evenings and dining al fresco?!
image 1 via Est Magazine // 2 via Arch Daily // 3 via Garden Drum // 4 via Est Magazine // 5 via Hecker Guthrie, photography Eve Wilson
Company Webinars and Training, Internal Audit, CRM, Servicing, Marketing Tools; Another Lesson in “Don’t Fight the Fed”
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Company Webinars and Training, Internal Audit, CRM, Servicing, Marketing Tools; Another Lesson in “Don’t Fight the Fed”
By: Rob Chrisman
Thu, Jun 15 2023, 11:08 AM
Here’s a couple informal reads on the economy. When I have a few extra ducats in my pocket, sometimes I’ll spring for the more expensive Shrimp Alfredo at Olive Garden instead of the cheaper Lasagna Classico. When Freedom Mortgage’s Stan Middleman is faced with a similar situation, instead of buying a couple seats near the dugout of the Philadelphia Phillies, he bought a piece of the entire team. I have some Tupperware that I never bought. You? My Mom went to Tupperware parties: Not expensive, lasts forever, people would have their favorites pieces, using it better than thousands of miles of plastic wrap clogging the landfills every year. But Tupperware is faltering. And so is San Francisco’s 127-year-old, iconic Anchor Brewing Company. The brewer of Anchor Steam, owned by Japan’s Sapporo, confirmed that it would not brew its beloved Christmas Ale this year due to time and cost constraints. America’s first microbrewer is planning to pull back its 50-state distribution footprint to just one: California, where the Anchor brand does roughly 70 percent of its business. (Today’s podcast can be found here and this week’s is sponsored by SimpleNexus, the homeownership platform that unites the people, systems, and stages of the mortgage process into one seamless, end-to-end solution that spans engagement, origination, closing, incentive compensation, and business intelligence. Today’s has an Interview with 1st Signature Lending’s Matt Bridgman on all aspects of the construction-to-permanent (CTP) space.)
Broker and Lender Services and Software
Last year, one man made headlines after turning $26 into $283K by correctly predicting the winners of 6 major championships. Now that’s one investment that certainly paid off. In today’s market, lenders are betting on their tech stacks to help them win big as well. But how do they know if their bets are paying off? PRMG recently set out to answer that question and found that TrustEngine’s Mortgage Coach platform beat out all other technologies and helped its users generate 237% more annual loan volume than their peers. Similarly, PRMG found $121M of fundings in just 9 months was directly attributed to TrustEngine’s Sales Boomerang. Are you looking for a safe bet that will help increase production volume and revenue? Read more about how PRMG LOs doubled down with Mortgage Coach and Sales Boomerang to win big.
“Now is the time for mortgage servicers to take full control of their businesses. While many servicers may believe they are already in control, those using yesterday’s servicing software are not. Success will require mortgage servicers to become disrupters, according to MortgageFlex. Consumers may drive it, technology partners may enable it, but the servicer is the only party that can actually do it. The three main reasons this has to happen now are changing compliance requirements, increasing prices and the need to provide a better borrower experience while controlling costs. If the software the servicer is currently using doesn’t make it easy, or even possible, to take control of their business, the only thing they’ll be able to do is what they have always done in the past. That won’t work. Contact John McCrea today to see what will work or visit us.”
Did your team, like so many others, let good retail marketing practices go by the wayside during the height of the refi boom? Are you now scrambling to reestablish or up your marketing game? You should copy smart lenders and talk to Velma! With Velma CRM, you have the power to effortlessly manage and automate your marketing campaigns. Whether you prefer to centralize the process and handle all the marketing for each loan officer or empower individual loan officers to log in and market for themselves, Velma has the marketing solution for you. Easy, automatic, and brand compliant. Learn more about Velma CRM so you can start marketing like a machine!
What’s an internal audit anyway and do you need one? An internal audit acts as a third line of defense for your mortgage operation. It provides comprehensive assurance based on the highest level of independence and objectivity to evaluate the effectiveness of management’s internal controls. This function should advise your mortgage operation on plans to achieve the company’s strategic, operational, financial and compliance goals. An effective internal audit should go far beyond just checking a compliance box; it should be an integral part of protecting your company. If you want to ensure you’re adhering to regulatory requirements and demonstrating good faith business practices, a Richey May internal audit is a good fit. If you’re looking to be Fannie Mae approved in the future or want to maintain your approved status, it’s required. If you’re unsure whether you need an internal audit, ask one of Richey May’s experts today or learn more here.
TPO Products for Brokers and Correspondents
AmeriHome Correspondent, backed by the strength and stability of Western Alliance Bank, continues to grow market share in the correspondent space. When you combine AmeriHome’s industry leading loan purchase platform with Western Alliance Bank’s warehouse lending and treasury management services, this is one “must-have” relationship for mortgage bankers of all shapes and sizes. IMBs and financial institutions alike benefit from AmeriHome’s Delegated and Non-Delegated options, full suite of conventional and government products, and Bulk, Bulk/AOT and Best-Efforts delivery options. They are currently running a pricing special for Purchase loan amounts of $200,000 or less and offer a stable of temporary rate buy-down options. Check out their Upcoming Events page for details on where they’ll be this summer, find your sales rep here or send them an email to learn more about the advantages of partnering with AmeriHome.
Company Sponsored Webinars and Training
“Register for QC Industry Trends Webinar to learn how to navigate volatile financial landscape. ACES Quality Management just released its Q4 2022 Mortgage QC Industry Trends Report, showing defect rates declined 25.5% over Q3, while the annual defect rate remained above 2%. Join us for our QC Trends and Industry Insights webinar on June 28th at 11:00 AM PDT as ACES Quality Management’s President, Phillip McCall and EVP, Nick Volpe cover an analysis of the Mortgage QC Industry Trends Report, a deep dive into mortgage quality control trend reporting and how it aligns with the current state of the industry, and industry insights and how to best navigate through the volatile financial landscape. As the GSEs begin taking an aggressive stance on repurchase requests for loans with curable defects, now is the time to take steps towards ensuring true loan quality. Register today.
“Free webinar alert! With volumes down 40% or more midway through 2023, large-scale digital transformation feels more out of reach than ever. Instead, many lenders are focusing on smaller projects to produce short-term ROI gains. Join executives from Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp., Lennar Mortgage, Stavvy, Wolters Kluwer and Falcon Capital Advisors as they discuss the shift in approach from open-ended “digital journeys” to targeted incremental “sprints.” We will delve into various aspects such as the prioritization of digital transformation projects, the evolving objective of achieving fully digital closings and eNotes, and the potential impact on the upcoming cycle. Don’t miss out: register now for this July 19th event.”
Join ACUMA and MCT on June 22nd at 11am PT for their upcoming webinar on Strategies for Credit Unions to Mitigate Market Risk. This webinar will provide a current market overview and include actionable insights and recommendations for credit unions to mitigate market risk. ACUMA’s President, Peter J. Benjamin, CMB, and MCT’s Phil Rasori and Andrew Rhodes will also review strategies to improve profitability to add value for members. MCT also recently released a new whitepaper on Mortgage Pipeline Hedging 101. The whitepaper reviews information on moving to mandatory, the strategy of hedging, the benefits of hedging, and how to determine if you are ready. Read the whitepaper to learn how you can use hedging as a tactic to mitigate risk and optimize profitability when selling mortgage loans.
One For All and All For One
Benjamin Franklin, during the Revolutionary War, sagely observed, “We Must Hang Together or Surely We Shall Hang Separately.” Things are not that dire in residential lending, but it is important to know we’re better off standing together as an industry.
With that in mind, the week of June 12-16th, the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) is hosting its eighth annual action week, a national, industry-wide campaign to grow its FREE grassroots advocacy network, the Mortgage Action Alliance (MAA). MAA is non-partisan and one of the most effective ways to participate in the political process. The industry’s well-being and future are in our hands. To help strengthen our industry’s voice, we encourage all mortgage industry professionals to support this effort. MAA unites all industry advocates and allows them to have an active role in shaping legislation and regulations, impacting our company, customers, and the broader economy. To join this free grassroots advocacy network, click here or text “MAA” to 50457 to receive a signup link. Renewing or joining takes less than 30 seconds! MAA members receive many benefits with real-time news alerts impacting our industry, “Calls to Actions,” pre-drafted communications directly to their elected officials or federal regulators when immediate action is needed, monthly newsletters with legislative developments, and access to MAA quarterly webinars/townhalls. Our legislators and regulators shaping policies impacting our industry must hear from you. You are the experts; your voices are needed to share the vital work we do. I have joined MAA, and I encourage you to do the same. The larger the group, the louder the voice.
Capital Markets
The FOMC concluded its two-day policy meeting yesterday with the unanimous interest rate decision of “pause, not stop,” keeping its benchmark rate range from 5.00-5.25 percent as well as the door open for future rate hikes.
While the pause was widely predicted via much foreshadowing by Fed officials, the “dot plot”, used by analysts to predict Fed activities, showed two more rate hikes projected in 2023 (for up to 50 basis points, which would make for an overnight rate as high as 5.6 percent), making the decision a “hawkish pause” (or skip). This is the first pause since the Federal Reserve began a historically aggressive round of monetary tightening 15 months ago, hiking the fed funds rate 10 times for a total of 500 basis points. However, there was plenty of hawkishness in the accompanying commentary and in Chair Powell’s press-conference.
Powell went out of his way to remind market participants that it may raise rates down the line as the Fed remains focused on taming inflation and bringing it back in-line with its 2 percent target. With inflation cooling, though the core reading is still above 5 percent, and America’s employment picture remaining robust (the unemployment rate sits below 4 percent), the Fed certainly has rationale for more raises.
It’s now wait and see how it all shakes out until the Fed’s next meeting in July. The Fed is hoping to bring the post-pandemic U.S. economy in for a gentle landing, and “judged it prudent” to hold rates steady given how quickly they have risen, wanting to take time to assess. Powell added that the pause is a continuation of its moderating pace of policy measures and the full effects of the Fed’s tightening have yet to be felt at a time when inflation has already decelerated to 4 percent.
With GDP up, unemployment down, CPI and PPI going marginally in the Fed’s desired direction (we learned yesterday that the Producer Price Index benignly declined 0.3 percent month-over-month in May to register up 1.1 for the year, which is below the Fed’s target rate for inflation), another 25 basis points hike is currently priced in for the July meeting. The likelihood of an additional hike after that has also increased given the dot plot and the lack of credit crunch the Fed was expecting from the banking sector. Banking challenges have already resulted in a tight credit environment, and the threat of further hikes will only further slow economic activity.
But lenders care about mortgage rates, and they’ve generally increased in the past month, and this has slowed the pace of housing market activity, as potential homebuyers have been very sensitive to any changes in rates this year. The yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury is sitting around 3.8 percent. That normally means the 30-year mortgage rate would be around 5.6 percent. However, mortgage rates have been near 7 percent recently, so there is the potential for a decline as we progress through the year.
With pull through rates jumping, the selling needs of originators have jumped significantly as pipelines extend with pull through rates rising. It is certainly notable that pipelines are much more reactive to rate moves now than they were in early 2023. After the Fed’s decision, the yield curve immediately flipped from “calm steepener” to “angry bear flattener” on the news. The 2s/10s spread went as far as 95 basis points inverted and 2-year Treasury notes are now officially in technical no-man’s land. Some yield curve steepening is desperately needed.
Today’s calendar is packed with market moving potential starting with the latest rate decision from the European Central Bank (+.25 percent to 3.50 percent, as expected) and ECB head Lagarde’s press conference. The U.S. calendar is under way with retail sales (+.3 percent, ex-auto +.1 percent, stronger than expected), Empire and Philadelphia Fed manufacturing (6.6, a huge jump, and -13.7, respectively), weekly jobless claims (262k, unchanged) and import & export prices (imports were -.6 percent). May industrial production and capacity utilization, April business inventories, Treasury auction sizes for next week’s reopened 20-year bonds and 5-year TIPS, and Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Markets Survey are also on tap. We begin the day with the 2-year up at 4.74 percent, Agency MBS prices roughly unchanged from the ugly Wednesday afternoon, and the 10-year yielding 3.81 after closing yesterday at 3.80 percent.
Employment
“At Planet, we understand you’re facing ever-increasing challenges of running a successful nonbank retail organization: the relentless competition for shrinking volume, perpetually squeezed profit margins, and the unpredictable evolution of the marketplace. You’ve built an extraordinary empire, and a move to Planet can ensure it continues to thrive. With us, you’re not just plugging into a platform. You’re joining a multichannel family of companies that works with you to ensure your business operates at peak performance. Go beyond just keeping the lights on. Gain the confidence to shine brighter than ever. Benefit from the unparalleled stability, scalability, and competitive pricing generated by $26 billion a year in volume and an $82 billion servicing portfolio. Considering the potential advantages of selling your purchase-centric distributed retail company? For a comprehensive and confidential discussion of the benefits of acquisition, reach out today to Planet SVP Talent Acquisition Brian Miller ( 214-223-9986) or VP Talent Acquisition Peter Briggs (435-709-6278).”
“PrimeLending is the ultimate destination for loan originators seeking to fuel their rise to greatness. Through May of this year, we’ve experienced a remarkable growth surge, adding over 100 top performing LOs and establishing seven new branches nationwide. Why are so many producers choosing PrimeLending? It’s simple: our strength, stability, experienced leadership team, extensive loan product offerings, and world-class operations. Our commitment to excellence is further validated by our rankings: 11th among top retail lenders and 15th overall, according to the Scotsman Guide. Contact Nic Hartke to discover how PrimeLending provides an unparalleled platform for loan originators to shine. Unleash your potential and experience extraordinary opportunities with PrimeLending today.”
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