Crate & Barrel will never let you down. And now that it’s Cyber Monday, it won’t let your wallet down either.
The coveted retailer is commonplace for wedding registries and, of course, holiday gifts. Now, Crate & Barrel is hosting its first-ever Cyber Monday Warehouse Sale where you can find up to 30% off sitewide.
From dinnerware sets and sectional sofas to the most festive of candles and the plushest of blankets, we’re all about its online catalog right now.
So, the New York Post rounded up a cheat sheet of the best Crate & Barrel finds that are all on sale and waiting to be placed into your online shopping cart.
Now through Nov. 29, enjoy up to 50% off furniture, up to 20% off best-selling sofas and sectionals, free threshold shipping for orders of $99 or more and up to 30% off favorites (including entertaining items, holiday decor, kitchen brands and select bedding and lighting).
More, find up to 60% off clearance items while supplies last. In short, it’s a shopping soiree we’re marking as one word: sensational.
The Hague Mid-Century Sofa has a contemporary charm we love — and it’s $300 off for Cyber Monday. Its flared arms, tapered conical legs anad nestled cushions make it a bit more upscale than other models you may see online, too.
It’s not the time to skip on Crate & Barrel’s outdoor patio furniture offerings. For a limited time, invest in the Jeannie Teak Outdoor Chaise Lounge by Leanne Ford. We love its well-made silhouette and resort-grade cushion, most of all.
KitchenAid Artisan Series Matte Milkshake 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer
As a top gifting pick, the KitchenAid Artisan Series Matte Milkshake 5-Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixer is on sale for $100 off at Crate & Barrel in a sea of beautiful colors to best suit your kitchen and aesthetic. From mixing cake batter and whipping cream to kneading bread dough, it’s a surefire staple.
Le Creuset Signature 7.5-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Chef Oven
Meet one of the most beautiful pieces of kitchenware we’ve ever seen: the Le Creuset Signature 7.5-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Chef Oven. This Cyber Monday, enjoy nearly $200 off this stovetop decor piece and versatile cooker.
Faux Hemlock 74″ Pine Pre-Lit LED Christmas Garland
No, it’s not too late to pick up elevated Christmas decor. We’re all about the Faux Hemlock 74″ Pine Pre-Lit LED Christmas Garland, especially now that it’s just over $100 right now.
Nespresso Lattissima One Silky White Espresso Machine by De’Longhi
The Nespresso Lattissima One Silky White Espresso Machine by De’Longhi is one of the most aesthetically pleasing coffee makers that crafts barista-style brews in a flash. Trust us when we say, a Nespresso machine is the *best* gift we’ve ever received.
Cuisinart Custom 14-Cup Food Processor
If you’re on the hunt for a newly minted food processor, we have the Cyber Monday deal for you. The Cuisinart Custom 14-Cup Food Processor is on sale for $50 off at Crate & Barrel and from a brand we trust.
Pick up the J.K. Adams Heritage Serving Board at Crate & Barrel — the serving essential for your next charcuterie. It’s just shy of $100 for a kitchen grab you’re sure to use on repeat.
Upgrade your indoor botanical center with the Wesley Metal Plant Stand. We love the traditional, timeless look of these sleek and tall planters. Oh, and there are two sizes to choose from (or, our idea: purchase both for added dimension).
If you’re all about finding cookware on sale for Cyber Monday, we recommend the Zwilling Clad Xtreme Hard-Anodized 10-Piece Cookware Set at Crate & Barrel. This set includes 8- and 10-inch fry pans, 2- and 3-quart lidded sauce pots, a 3-quart lidded sauté pan and a 6-quart lidded Dutch oven.
The Doret White Jersey Quilt Full/Queen is your solution to clean, white bedding — at a discount, nonetheless. Not to mention, Crate & Barrel has some exquisite duvet covers, if we do say so ourselves.
The Cassi White Table Lamp has to be one of the most beautiful table lamps we’ve seen. Worth the splurge, its neutral charm is just what we love to adorn our dressers and coffee tables for a little home decor refresh.
The Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro is a kitchen appliance the New York Post team raves about (simply because it’s one of the best air fryer and toaster oven hybrids). Now, you can score it for even less.
The Cuisinart Espresso Defined Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Machine is easily one of the coolest coffee makers we’ve seen, thanks to versatility and entertaining hotspot. Additionally, you can choose your ideal brewing temperature, espresso volume, milk volume and standby time.
Pick up a multi-purpose furniture piece — the dining table and the home office desk. Thanks to Crate & Barrel’s Seb Oak Wood Desk/Dining Table, you’ll be scoring this stunning two-in-one showpiece for just under $1,000.
Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.
It’s not your imagination: America is pet-crazy. Two out of three households have a pet, and as the holidays roll in, these furbabies are increasingly part of the planning.
Perhaps they occupy the center of the holiday card (wearing a cute Xmas sweater… or an ugly one), travel with their pet parent to Grandma’s house, or receive a pile of presents.
Consider these pet spending statistics: Last year, consumers spent almost $137 billion year-round on their animals, an increase of 11% year over year. Could this spending soar still higher as the winter holidays unfold?
To learn more about this trend, SoFi surveyed 1,200 pet-owning adults from coast to coast in October 2023. Here, you’ll learn more about how animals are making the season more magical and memorable… and how they are being gifted with holiday goodies.
For starters, did you know the following pet spending statistics?
• 70% of people typically buy their pets gifts. Of those, more than a quarter (27%) spend more than $100 on gifts.
• 89% plan to dip into their wallet in some way to maximize their pets’ holiday joy.
Read on to learn the full story on pet owners’ habits and their holiday spending statistics. You may be surprised!
Holiday Joy: Pets Play a Major Role
The holidays are all about togetherness, whether that means watching a game, baking holiday treats, or watching “A Charlie Brown Christmas” on heavy repeat. But SoFi’s survey revealed that people love sharing the season with their pets.
In fact, more than one in four respondents (27%) say they can’t stand the idea of spending the holiday season without their pet by their side. If they can’t take their four-legged friend with them, over the river and through the woods, they might even wish they could just stay home!
So, how do pet owners celebrate the holidays with their pets? Besides getting them gifts, including pets in holiday photos is a popular choice for many (58%), as is putting up decorations, such as stockings, personalized for their pet (47%).
“Why include pets in holiday traditions? It’s simple — these traditions create bonding moments,” says Chris Allen, founder of Oodle Life, a pet blog . “One year, Max actually unwrapped his own gift, a squeaky toy, and the joy on his face was priceless. It not only made our day but also made us feel more connected as a family, furbaby included.”
Here’s are respondents’ favorite ways to include pets in their holiday celebrations:
• 70% get holiday pet gifts.
• 58% include pets in their holiday photos.
• 47% have personalized holiday decor for their pet (such as a stocking or ornament).
• 45% make a special holiday meal for their pet.
• 40% dress up their pets in holiday attire (such as sweaters and hats).
• 40% let their pet be a taste-tester when cooking or baking holiday meals.
• 30% take their pets to holiday events.
• 28% bake holiday treats for their pets.
It just may be that the pet owners who forgo gifts for their critters are taking the extra time to bake holiday biscuits for them.
Including pets can help bond a family. “Our furry friends are integral family members, and holidays just aren’t complete without their spirited participation,” says Dr. Mollie Newton, DVM, founder of pet care resource site, PetMeTwice, “My own whiskered sidekick has his own stocking, which hangs proudly beside the family’s every December.”
Pets Dress the Part for the Holidays
Is there anything cuter than a grumpy cat in a Santa hat? Or a pooch dressed up to look like Max from “How the Grinch Stole Christmas?” Not really! And when pet people party, you can bet most will deck their pet out in special garb: 68% dress up their pet for holiday celebrations.
So let’s take a closer look at exactly how pet people like to deck out their dogs, felines, and other beloved pets for the holidays.
Of the pet owners who dress up their pets, here are the most popular ‘fits:
• 71% bought their pet a holiday sweater.
• 61% put a holiday-themed collar/harness on their pet during the holidays.
• 59% made their pet wear a holiday hat (think Santa hats, antlers, and elf ears).
• 47% bought their pet snow and cold-weather gear (such as snow jackets or boots).
• 35% bought themselves and their pet matching pajamas.
“Every Christmas, we put a little reindeer antler headband or Santa hat on our Labradoodle, Max,” says Oodle Life’s Allen, “He struts around, and it’s like he knows he’s the center of attention!”
What better way, after all, to prepare for a pet family’s holiday photo than donning matching hats or pajamas!
Pet Owners Go Big for Holiday Gifts
The vast majority of pet owners will likely go holiday gift shopping for their furry companion, and we wouldn’t be surprised if they wrapped the present and put it under the tree. After all, owners want pets’ holidays to be jolly and joyful, too.
About those presents: Many of these aren’t just random impulse purchases. Nearly half of pet owners (46%) say their pet has a holiday wish list. And almost one in five (18%) say their pet’s list is longer than their own!
The SoFi survey revealed that 70% of people typically buy their pets gifts. Wondering how much people spend on their pets? Consider this: Of those who dip into their wallets, more than a quarter (27%) spend more than $100. Talk about pampered pets! This year, 75% of pet owners plan to buy their pets gifts, so the numbers appear to be growing.
Overall, two key factors are likely to impact how much people spend on pets: their earning power and whether or not they have kids.
Household Income Plays a Bigger Role in Pet Gifting
According to SoFi’s research, the more financial means a person has, the more likely they are to go big on gifts for their pets. Perhaps if they are used to buying themselves more luxurious items, they may be more inclined to do the same for their animal. There are designer dog clothes, for instance, costing hundreds of dollars per garment.
In short, as income rises, so too does spending on gifts for our furry friends:
• 42% of respondents with a household income of $100,000 and up spend more than $100 on pet gifts.
• Only 12% of respondents with a household income under $100,000 spend more than $100 on pet gifts.
39% of Dual-Income Families With Kids Plunk Down $100+ on Pet Presents
Among pet owners, you might think that dual income families who don’t have kids would spend the most, overall, on holiday gifts for their pets. Think again. The SoFi survey uncovered surprising stats on pet gifting:
Dual-income families with kids actually spend more on pet gifts than those families with no kids.
• 39% of dual-income families with kids spend more than $100 on pet gifts.
• 21% of dual-income families with no kids (DINKs) spend more than $100 on pet gifts.
Perhaps seeing how much joy pets bring kids has an impact: It might encourage parents to dip into their wallets more deeply.
Overall, Families With Kids Spend More on Their Pets
Nearly everyone aims to celebrate the holidays affordably, but a much-loved pet may encourage people to spend more freely during the festive season.
More than eight out of 10 (82%) pet owners spend at least $25 more than usual on their pets during the holidays. Some spend still more freely, with 34% of SoFi survey respondents doling out at least $100 more than their norm.
Just as kids inspire families to splurge on pet gifts, they also appear to inspire holiday pet spending overall.
Pet owners with kids tend to spend more on their pets during the holidays:
• 46% of dual-income families with kids spend at least $100 more.
• 35% of single-income families with kids spend at least $100 more.
• 30% of dual-income, no kids households (DINKS) spend at least $100 more.
• 23% of single-income, no kids households spend at least $100 more.
While 43% of pet owners say: “My pet is spoiled so I splurge on them during the holidays,” it probably comes as no surprise that those with kids say this most often:
• 78% of families with kids agree with this statement.
• 22% of families with no kids relate to this statement.
Nearly Half Budget Ahead of Time for Holiday Pet Spending
When the holidays approach, many pet parents assess how much they have to spend for the holidays. Whatever type of budget they use, there’s a good chance it includes funds to make the season special for their animals.
Interestingly, nearly half know how much they will spend on their pets for the holidays and sock that money away in advance — that’s good financial planning in action. Here are the details:
• 49% say “Yes, I know how much I’ll spend on my pets and put that money aside for holiday spending.”
• 51% say “No, I don’t plan for how much I’ll spend on my pet during the holidays.”
Note: No word on how much pets are planning to spend on their parents….
Generally, pet parents take a number of different pet-related costs into consideration during the holidays. It’s not just about squeaky toys and catnip, after all. It’s about photos with, say, Molly, the beloved guinea pig, front and center. Yes, nearly half of our respondents budget for holiday photos with their pet. And more than one out of three pet owners account for the cost of getting their pet groomed for the season. Got to look sleek for those pictures, right?
Take a closer look at where the dollars go. Aside from holiday gifts, pet owners told SoFi that they plan for the following costs:
• 45% budget for taking holiday photos.
• 38% budget for getting their pet groomed for the holidays.
• 38% budget for seasonal veterinary needs.
• 35% budget for bringing their pets along when they travel for the holidays.
• 33% budget for buying holiday attire for their pet(s).
• 26% budget for boarding or care for pets because they’re booking holiday travel without their animal.
How to Spoil Your Pet… Without the Debt
Just because many SoFi survey respondents may spend lavishly on their pets over the holidays (as many Americans do), that doesn’t mean they abandon their financial savvy and become bad with money. They apply the same money-smart tactics for their pet purchases as they do for their own gear. Coupon clipping? Check. Signing up for emails that might bring rewards? You bet.
Here’s how they make the most of their cash during the holidays:
• 62% say they use coupons to help save money on holiday spending for their pets.
• 48% say they subscribe to pet company marketing emails to scan for deals.
• 40% get money-saving tips from friends and family.
• 24% say they follow influencer recommendations (yes, petfluencers can really have pull).
Recommended: A Guide to Budgeting for Beginners
Sometimes Naughty, Always Loved
Much as people adore their kitties, rabbits, and dogs, let’s face it: The answer to “Who’s a good boy?” is not always “You are!” Pets can be rascals — chewing shoes, shredding upholstery to ribbons, and leaving muddy pawprints.
Indeed, while many pet parents will be rewarding their good boys (and girls) this season, not all critters may deserve their gifts.
In fact, 22% of pet owners surveyed by SoFi say they’d put their pet on the naughty list.
What’s more, the holiday season gives animals ample occasion to run wild. You know the drill: cats deciding to climb the Christmas tree, or a dog dragging lovingly prepared food off the table (Remember how “A Christmas Story” ended?).
Here’s what the SoFi survey respondents had to say on this aspect of the holidays with pets.
What do pet owners dread most during the holidays?
• 37% of respondents say it’s their pet knocking over the Christmas tree or knocking ornaments off the tree.
• 27% say it’s their pet tearing open gifts early.
• 26% say it’s their pet stealing food from the table or counter.
• 24% say it’s their pet misbehaving around family and friends at gatherings.
• 17% say it’s untangling their pet from holiday lights.
Holiday Pet Safety Also a Concern
Amid all the revelry, pet parents are also focused on keeping their animals safe. After all, most people know facts like poinsettia being mildly toxic to dogs. Here’s how SoFi survey respondents feel about protecting their critters, because happy holiday pets are healthy holiday pets.
Almost one in four (23%) worry about needing to use pet-safe holiday decorations. The same percentage fear their pooch might get sick because friends and family overfeed them or slip them slices of forbidden foods just because, hey, it’s the holidays.
Here’s another source of anxiety for pet parents: being separated from their animal companion during the season. Nearly one-third of them worry about having to travel without their pet. They want to make sure wherever they are over the holidays, they have their furbaby right by their side… or in their lap.
“Involving our pets in our holiday celebrations helps us all feel a little more connected during the holiday seasons,” says Devin Stagg, Marketing Manager at dog-training provider, Pupford. “While I think they enjoy the treats and toys, I believe the greatest benefit is to the pup parent!”
Recommended: Tips to Cut Costs When Traveling With Pets
Pets Inspire the Spirit of Giving
If anyone needs further proof that pets are really and truly part of the family, take note. Pets have a way of inspiring gift giving across the generations. Few can resist giving them a little treat, whether that’s a fancy organic dog biscuit or a cat teaser.
According to SoFi’s survey, among families with children, 61% say their kids give gifts to the pet. And grandparents love their grand-furbabies, with almost one in three putting a pet present under the tree.
Pets themselves are often a favorite gift, too: 39% of pet owners say they’ve given someone else a pet as a holiday gift. Of those, 36% say they spent more than $100 on the pet, and 5% say they spent more than $1,000.
Takeaway
It’s no secret that Americans love their pets, and so when the holidays roll around, those animals get lavished with love, gifts, and special treatment. SoFi’s survey of 1,200 pet owners in October 2023 uncovered just how much people splurge on their furbabies, what they buy, why, and how pets can leave their imprint (or pawprint) on the holiday season.
When budgeting for the holidays — whether shopping for people, pets, or any other seasonal expense — having the right banking partner can make a difference. A solid financial institution can help give you the tools to make the most of your money.
Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.
Better banking is here with up to 4.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.60% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.
SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant.
SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.
SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.
Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.
Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/24/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet..
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United sent out an email that TravelBank credit can now be gifted to family and friends.
You can now gift TravelBank cash to friends and family. we’re making it easy to give the gift of travel this holiday season. Our newest feature allows you to gift TravelBank cash to friends or family — all you need is their MileagePlus® number and last name.
Useful for gifting travel to a friend. This can also be useful for churners bartering their various airline credits: some travel credits or incidental credits are triggered with United TravelBank credit purchases, and it’s now easier for one person to load the account of another.
Selling a house amid a divorce can make an already-complicated situation even more complex. The need to manage a real estate transaction while also managing your interpersonal conflict is stressful, but sometimes financially necessary. Every couple’s situation will be a little bit different, of course, but if you need to sell the marital house due to a divorce, here are answers to some common questions and other things to consider during this difficult process.
Should I sell the house before getting divorced?
You can sell a property before, after or during a divorce, and the best option may be different for each couple. A number of factors can impact the best timing, including housing market conditions, how amicable your split is and the financial needs of each spouse.
One thing that can be useful is to work with a real estate agent who has experience in divorce transactions. “The common denominator for a divorce sale is that the divorcing parties must mutually agree to sell the marital property,” says Lou Rodriguez, an agent with United Realty Consultants in South Florida and author of “Selling Your Home During Divorce: How Everyone Can Win.”
An additional consideration for the timeline of your home sale is the potential profit you stand to make. If the value of the property has gone up significantly since you purchased it, you may have to pay capital gains tax, and the amount is very different depending on whether your taxes are filed jointly or as single individuals. For single tax filing status, you must pay taxes on anything over $250,000 in capital gains. That number doubles to anything over $500,000 if you file jointly as a married couple.
If you sell before the divorce is finalized, be sure you have a plan for what will happen with the earnings. “You’ll want to be careful how you handle the proceeds of the sale so that those proceeds are divided fairly during the divorce process,” says Randi Dukes, an agent with Repeat Realty in Dallas–Fort Worth and a divorce real estate specialist who has earned the RCS-D (Real Estate Collaboration Specialist–Divorce) designation. “It’s often recommended that those proceeds go into a separate account that can be divided upon divorce, rather than mixing the proceeds into other joint accounts.”
What are the options?
When you are going through a divorce, there are several different ways you could decide to sell the family home. Here are some common options.
Sell the house outright
“Often, selling the house makes the most sense because it provides both parties with a lump sum of money to establish a new home and a fresh start,” says Dukes. Selling the property outright means the proceeds can be more easily divided between two people. It also gives both partners the opportunity to establish the next phase of their lives.
Sell it to your spouse
Sometimes it makes more sense for one partner to continue owning the house. This can happen when one partner will have primary custody of the children, for example, as it eliminates the need for the children to move out of their home and be uprooted.
However, this option only works if the partner buying the home can make it work financially. “The spouse keeping the house needs to do their due diligence to make sure keeping it is a sound decision,” Dukes says. “A real estate agent can look at the title to see if there are any liens or second mortgages that one spouse may not know about, and the spouse can talk to a lender or financial advisor to see if they can actually afford to keep the house.”
If this is your plan, make sure you get all your legal ducks in a row. The partner selling the house will likely need to sign a quitclaim deed giving up their rights to the property and transferring them to the other partner — have a real estate attorney manage this process.
Co-own it
You could decide to hang on to the property and continue to own it together. Co-owning might allow you to rent out the property and both gain rental income, for example. Or, you could make the property work for both of you to live there with a renovation that divides it into two units. This can be a viable option for parents who both want to stay near the children.
Give it to your kids or family members
If you’d rather keep the home in the family than sell it, you could consider gifting the property to your adult children or another relative. This option eliminates the need to prepare the property for a sale and could be a way for both partners to put the property in the hands of someone they love. Again, be sure to have a real estate attorney handle the deal for you to ensure that ownership is properly transferred — and it’s a good idea to talk to a tax professional as well, to understand any tax or estate planning implications.
Community property states vs. equitable distribution states
There are two main legal approaches to how property is divided after a divorce. It all depends on whether you’re in a community property state or an equitable distribution state.
The majority of states fall into the category of equitable distribution, which means if one party earns or purchases certain assets, those assets are considered theirs individually. The assets don’t become shared property unless both parties agree to share them. “I live and work in Florida, an equitable distribution state, which simply means Florida courts will divide marital property in a manner which it considers fair, but not necessarily equal,” says Rodriguez.
Community property states, on the other hand, consider all assets acquired during a marriage to be jointly owned by both parties, and they are divided equally in the event of a divorce. Only nine of the 50 states are community property states, according to the IRS: Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin.
How to sell a house during a divorce
Selling a house can be stressful and time-intensive no matter what. Follow these steps if you decide to sell your house during your divorce proceedings.
1. Hire an experienced real estate agent and lawyer
Not every real estate agent or attorney knows how to navigate the conflict and tension that can come with selling a house during a divorce. It’s important to work with someone who has experience in sales like this, or even specializes in them.
“I would recommend that you work with someone who knows how to work in high-conflict situations and has experience in getting people moving in one direction to accomplish shared goals,” says Rodriguez. “Because whatever happens during the sale — accepting an offer, countering an offer, all the way to signing closing documents — requires that both parties agree each step of the way. It makes a difference having a transactionally experienced listing agent who has worked with other divorcing clients.”
2. Get a home estimate and agree on a sale price
It’s important that both parties come together on pricing. There are various ways to determine how much your home is worth, from online estimators to a thorough analysis of your local market prepared by a real estate agent. But a professional home appraisal, which will cost several hundred dollars, is probably the most accurate assessment of a home’s market value.
3. Sell the home and split up the net proceeds
Once you agree on the terms and price for selling the home, your agent will guide you through the home-selling process. This will involve preparing the home for the market, taking professional photos for the listing, listing and marketing the property, coordinating showings, reviewing offers and preparing all the closing paperwork. Once the sale is closed and complete, the proceeds will be shared as required by your state and established by your attorney.
Next steps
Ready to sell? It’s important to find a local real estate agent both of you feel you can trust. “Look for someone with additional training in divorce real estate, and ask them about their experience,” says Dukes. This type of agent will be skilled in handling not only the home sale but also any interpersonal conflict that may arise.
FAQs
The best time to sell a house will be different for different couples. “If both spouses agree, then selling your house before filing for divorce is an option — if you’re trying to take advantage of a strong seller’s market, this might be a good idea,” says Randi Dukes, a Dallas–Fort Worth Realtor who specializes in divorce real estate. However, selling the house after the divorce may be the right choice for other couples. Whichever timeline you choose, it’s important that both partners agree on the process.
In some cases, if both parties can’t come to an agreement on how to sell the property, yes, a court may intervene to force the sale. The laws will differ depending on your state and your specific circumstances, so be sure to consult both your divorce lawyer and a real estate attorney in your area.
The investing information provided on this page is for educational purposes only. NerdWallet, Inc. does not offer advisory or brokerage services, nor does it recommend or advise investors to buy or sell particular stocks, securities or other investments.
“Two is better than one” is an old adage that translates to finances, too. Two incomes can go much further than one, especially between married couples.
People who say “I do” also have access to various tax breaks that can give them a financial edge when it comes to building wealth. For instance, married couples filing their taxes jointly get a standard deduction of $27,700 in 2023, while single filers get a $13,850 deduction.
How can married couples act on the many tax breaks they have access to and use them to build wealth? Two certified public accountants share a few strategies for couples to consider.
Strategy 1: Investing
When married couples get a tax deduction or tax credit, there’s an opportunity to invest that extra money. There are a string of ways to invest the money, but couples could benefit from investing in themselves, says Sheneya Wilson, a CPA and founder of Fola Financial in the Bronx in New York City. Couples may choose to use their tax savings to invest in courses that improve their skills, market value and salaries, she says.
Retirement accounts like 401(k)s, IRAs or regular brokerage accounts are also an option for couples. Investing those extra dollars from tax breaks means couples have more money that can potentially grow and enjoy the benefits of compound interest.
Wilson adds that married folks can also consider alternative investments, such as commodities, gold, silver, royalties or music catalogs.
Ultimately, couples can choose investments that align with their goals and legacy.
“The best investments are going to be in line with how that person wants to leave an influence on the world,” Wilson says.
Strategy 2: Real estate
Married couples who own a property may be able to sell it and exclude some of the real estate capital gains tax from their income. For married couples filing jointly, that means they can keep up to $500,000 of the profit tax-free. Single filers, on the other hand, are capped at $250,000.
“Now think about what you can do with around $500,000 of tax-free income,” says Williams. That extra money could go toward investing in another property, she adds.
Note that couples have to own the house, use it as their main home, live there for at least two of the five years before selling and meet other rules in order to qualify for the exclusion.
Strategy 3: 529 plans
529 plans — investing plans for education that allow tax-free growth and withdrawals — are another way couples can use tax breaks to build wealth, says Jasmine Young, a CPA and founder of Southern Heritage Financial Group in Atlanta.
“It could be your niece, your nephew, your cousin, it could be you, whoever’s gonna use the money for educational expenses,” Young says. ”That’s one way for you to reduce your tax liability and put the money somewhere that’s going to give you a resource to build generational wealth.”
Some states offer deductions or credits for 529 plan contributions. A perk for married couples is that in many states, joint filers can deduct double the amount than single filers, lowering their taxable income. The amount joint filers can deduct varies from state to state.
Another way married people can benefit from 529 plan tax benefits is with the federal gift tax exclusion. While 529 plans don’t have an annual contribution limit, contributions are considered “gifts” by the IRS, which means gifting over a certain amount could lead to extra paperwork at tax time. In 2023, those married filing jointly could gift $34,000 without needing to file a gift tax return versus $17,000 for single people.
Married couples who take advantage of this larger limit can save more annually for their kids or loved one’s kids and potentially help them grow wealth faster.
Another wealth-building strategy couples can potentially use beginning in 2024 is rolling unused funds in a 529 account into a Roth IRA account for the beneficiary. By rolling unused funds into a Roth IRA, the beneficiary — be it a child or family member — can get a head start on saving for retirement. There are several conditions account owners must meet to do this, so consult a financial advisor beforehand.
Strategy 4: Entrepreneurship
If one spouse is an entrepreneur, or a couple runs a joint venture, there’s an opportunity to write off business losses during tax season, Wilson says.
“If you are married, filing jointly and your spouse is investing in starting a business, there may be a net loss from that business venture on the joint tax return because that spouse was investing in maybe educational courses [to] start their business,” she says.
In 2023, married couples with their own business can take a loss of up to $524,000, compared with $262,000 for single filers. The dollars that may have gone to paying taxes can be funneled into growing an existing business, starting a new one, or paying down debt.
Couples curious about exploring more strategies they can implement may want to speak with a finance professional like a tax advisor or financial planner.
This article was written by NerdWallet and was originally published by The Associated Press.
Batukbhai Jewellers, a name synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship and unparalleled quality, is conducting an extravagant ‘Momentz Silver-Plated Gifting & Home Decor Exhibition’ for Diwali and corporates that left patrons spellbound.
This grand showcase, being held from September 15 to 17 at their Dharmpeth Store, is receiving good response. This year’s exhibition featured an all-new collection of meticulously hand-crafted and hand-picked silver-plated masterpieces that redefined opulence and sophistication.
One of the highlights of this remarkable exhibition was the inclusion of international brands, a first for Nagpur.
These illustrious names brought a global touch to the event, offering patrons access to an array of unique and exquisite designs. Mohit Seth and Viraj Seth from Batukbhai Jewellers, expressed immense satisfaction over the exhibition’s resounding success.
They said, “We are thrilled to have received such an overwhelming response from the People in Nagpur. The presence of esteemed international brands truly elevated the event, allowing us to offer our patrons an unparalleled experience.”
For details visit the exhibition on its last day at Batukbhai Jewellers located on West High Court Road, at Dharampeth, in the city. Interested persons amy also contact the jewlleers on following nos. 9372760868, 9309237601).
Stop the presses — the new H&M furniture collection just dropped, and I’m already imagining each piece in my apartment. Truly, I wasn’t looking for new home decor,but a fall outfit inspo search unexpectedly led me to this wonderful news, and there’s no turning back now.
H&M’s furniture collection has an acute attention to detail and a commitment to contemporary decor that I absolutely love. Due to the minimalist nature of the collection, you’re sure to find furniture that pairs well with any mid-century modern pieces you probably already have. Plus, H&M made sure to include kid-friendly furniture that will help your little ones feel like they have their own fun space within your home. Here’s what on my radar for my apartment and growing toddler!
Wood and Glass Table Lamp ($43)
IMO, table lamps are non-negotiable. Whether you put one of H&M’s wood and glass table lamps in the foyer of your home or on one of the side tables in your living room, you’ll live for the stylish illumination.
Children’s Storage Bench – Green ($111)
Having a small child in your home often means you’re stepped over stuffed animals, crayons and toys. To help your child know exactly where to find their favorite toy — and avoid a meltdown — invest in this storage bench. Your late night runs to the bathroom will love the ease of not stepping on a small toy that sends shooting pain up your leg.
Children’s Desk – Green ($111)
If you’re a part of the remote work life, you’ve probably seen your little one try to mimic you working at your desk. The beautiful thing about gifting them with their very own desk is they’re more likely to draw on that than your walls.
Metal-frame Mirror ($137)
“Mirror, mirror on the wall…” comes to mind when I look at this metal-framed beauty. It’s the perfect piece to add to your living room or bedroom!
Plush Stool ($149)
I’m not sure how safe it is to add more light beige furniture knowing my toddler loves to roam around the apartment, but this plush stool is too good to ignore. It can be an accent piece or can be added to the far end of our sectional for a full chaise effect.
Mango Wood Side Table ($261)
This wood side table seems like it was designed for fall. It has a rustic farmhouse, yet still modern appeal that I think can work for anyone.
Wooden Folding Chair ($171)
I’m fond of rattan chairs because I grew up seeing them around, so I’m drooling over this wooden folding chair. It deserves a special place in my office for sure!
How do you feel about the new H&M furniture collection? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Inside: Looking to celebrate Christmas on a budget? This guide has you covered with creative and affordable ways to do just that.
Are you stressed out about how to afford a fabulous Christmas on your budget? Worry not.
This festive season isn’t about how much cash you fork out, it’s about creating lasting memories and spreading joy.
Why let financial woes dampen the joyous yuletide spirit when you can celebrate a charming Christmas on a budget?
Remember, it’s your money, your decisions, and your rules – no guilt trips or social pressures should force you into spending Christmas in debt.
Today you will learn:
Determine your Christmas budget: Figure out what’s a comfortable amount for you to spend and stick to it religiously.
Be creative with gift giving: Homemade presents or heartfelt letters can be more valuable than pricey items.
Find simple ways to save money: Use these money saving tips to enjoy a festive holiday season.
This holiday season, celebrate responsibly, within your means, for a Christmas that’s merry, bright, and totally guilt-free!
Why Celebrate Christmas on a Budget?
Embracing a budget-friendly Christmas can prove to be not only a smart choice but one filled with warmth, delight, and genuine joy.
Enjoy valuable family bonding time with exciting games and shared activities. Volunteer work, a day of holiday baking, or a simple drive-through Christmas lights sightseeing trip can leave a lasting impression. Look through this Christmas bucket list.
Opt for economical, yet thoughtful gifts or stick to fun gift exchange rules, such as the “four gift rule” for your kids. Remember, it’s the sentiment behind the gift that matters the most.
In essence, an economical holiday season needn’t be a dull affair, rather it’s an opportunity to make it more heartfelt and unforgettable.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
What to buy for Christmas on a tight budget?
Yes, friend, you can buy meaningful Christmas gifts while sticking to a budget.
In fact, the thought behind a gift is often what makes it special, not the price tag.
A few ideas include homemade gifts, gift cards, subscriptions, and second-hand items. With a little creativity, you can find the perfect present for everyone on your list without spending a fortune.
Below you will find plenty of great gift guides for Christmas that won’t break the bank.
Benefits of a Budget Christmas
1. Allows you to plan ahead and stay on track 2. Prevents overspending 3. Buy gifts that are within your budget 4. Focus on quality over quantity 5. Ensures that everyone gets a gift 6. Helps you avoid debt during the holidays 7. Prevents you from feeling stressed out about money during the holidays 8. Be creative and come up with unique gifts 9. Save for next year’s holiday budget 10. Stay connected to the spirit of the holidays
Savings with Christmas on a Budget
From homemade Christmas decorations to unique gift ideas, it’s possible to create magical moments that’ll last a lifetime without a hefty price tag.
Embrace the true spirit of Christmas – love, family, and togetherness, rather than commercialism, and read on to discover how.
Learn the simple ways to celebrate the festive season without breaking the bank with our creative and budget-friendly Christmas ideas.
1. Think about a No Gift Christmas
Having a No Gift Christmas is a creative and budget-saving alternative to traditional holiday festivities, especially suitable if funds are tight. Why not consider it?
Here are some benefits:
You can alleviate the holiday stress often associated with spending on gifts.
It fosters the idea of Christmas as a season of togetherness, not just gift-giving.
It offers the potential for unique and memorable experiences, like volunteering or creating fun traditions with your loved ones.
Remember, having a memorable Christmas doesn’t have to cost much, or anything at all Learn more about a no gift Christmas.
2. Make Your Own Gifts
DIY Christmas gifts are your perfect solution. They not only save pennies but are laced with your love and creativity.
Start by exploring plenty of creative gift ideas available for free online. Need help? Look for “homemade gifts for Christmas” and you’ll be surprised.
Compile a list of possible gifts from homemade candles to personalized coupon books, keeping the recipient’s likes in mind.
Remember, your efforts will reflect in your gift. So, unleash your creativity and let the magic begin.
3. Borrow Instead of Buy
Borrowing instead of buying is a clever way to have a festive holiday while keeping things budget-friendly. This concept is simple: swap decorations, games, or even gifts with friends, neighbors, or family
Discuss your idea with your circle and organize swapping parties to exchange items.
The key is to creatively engage and make it a fun, budget-conscious activity. After all, Christmas is about sharing and caring!
Remember, return borrowed items in their original condition to maintain trust.
4. Attend Free Events
The Christmas season doesn’t have to be a strain on your wallet. Attending free community events can provide fun and festive celebrations:
To find these events, check your local newspaper or community websites. Be sure to:
Take advantage of free refreshments, but also bring your own to share.
Consider hosting a potluck dinner before or after community events.
Attending free events supports your local community.
Remember, Christmas is about togetherness, not extravagant spending.
5. Make Your Own Decorations
To create a festive atmosphere this season, you could repurpose items around your house or make your own decorations.
Choose a color theme and gather items in those shades, then place them together on a mantel or coffee table to create a coordinated layout.
For a natural touch, clip pine needles, branches, or herbs from your garden, and enhance them with glitter.
Additional budget-friendly options include taking advantage of sales and discounts at thrift stores or crafting handmade decorations such as ribbons from fabric strips or Christmas cookie ornaments.
6. Keep Track of Your Christmas Expenses
Just like throughout the year, budgeting is critical to your financial success.
Nothing changes with Christmas, it is crucial to track and budget your holiday expenses. Jot down every potential cost – from the Christmas tree, and food, to holiday décor.
Be thoughtful about what you really need and opt for items you can use for years.
This is one of the cash envelope categories I recommend saving for. To effectively manage your expenses, assign specific dollar amounts to each item on the list, ensuring you stay within your budget.
Enjoy guilt-free spending and effortless saving with a friendly, flexible method for managing your finances.
Start Your Free Trial.
7. Share the Spirit
Embracing frugality during the holiday season can not only help you save money, but can also create memorable experiences and meaningful connections.
Small gestures, such as sending heartwarming physical letters to loved ones instead of emails, can still convey thoughtfulness and spur the holiday spirit.
By centering your holidays around family activities and endeavors, like homemade ornaments or a scavenger hunt with small gifts, the focus shifts from materialism to fellowship and unity.
Find more frugal Christmas ideas.
8. Check Out Bargain Stores
Bargain stores provide the perfect solution for savvy holiday shoppers looking to save money without compromising on quality or variety. Not only can you find unique, quirky gifts, but you can also keep a lid on your spending while doing so.
Stores like consignment shops or websites such as Craigslist often have high-quality used toys that are nearly new if you’re willing to look carefully.
Another option is to look at discount retailers like TJMaxx as they often host sales during the holiday season, making it even easier for you to save money while hunting for the perfect gifts.
9. Save Money Throughout the Year
Automating your savings for the Christmas season can be a practical and efficient strategy. The 100 envelope challenge is perfect for this!
By setting aside just $50 each month, you could accumulate up to $600 by December, providing a decent budget for your holiday expenses. This method can ease the financial stress during the holiday season, letting you enjoy the festivities without worrying about overspending.
Consider setting up automatic transfers to a high-interest savings account. This ensures your Christmas funds grow without your intervention.
Lastly, try a no-spend month where you only cover essential bills, giving your savings a significant boost.
10. Start a Side Hustle for More Money to Spend
Engaging in side hustles throughout the year can help you significantly cover your holiday expenses.
By delivering food, completing microtasks, selling gently used items, or shoveling snow, you create extra earnings that can go directly into your Christmas fund.
For instance, extra income from a seasonal retail job could help finance gift-purchasing without straining your usual budget.
This strategy not only prevents potential post-holiday debt but also allows you to enjoy the season without financial stress.
In fact, more people are interested in how to make money online for beginners.
This is the perfect side hustle if you don’t have much time, experience, or money.
Many earn over $10,000 in a year selling printables on Etsy. Learn how to get started by watching this free workshop.
If you’ve ever wanted to make a full-time income while working from home, you’re in the right place!
This intensive training combines thousands of hours of research, years of experience in growing a virtual assistant business, and the power of a coach who has helped thousands of students launch and grow their own business from scratch.
11. Shop Online Instead of Going to the Mall
Shopping online for your Christmas gifts can seriously ease your holiday stress, and potentially save you money.
Let’s explore why skipping the mall and clicking your way to a merry Christmas might be your best bet this year:
No dealing with holiday crowds or cranky shoppers.
Enjoy sales and deals without leaving your home.
Track prices over time to grab the best deals.
Use Rakuten to save even more money on purchases.
For smart online shopping, prepare a list of gifts before diving in. Take advantage of the “wish list” option on platforms to curate items of choice and make sure you first glance over deal sites before making purchases.
12. Have a Christmas Potluck
Host a festive potluck! Invite friends and family, asking each to bring their favorite dish.
Here are some tips for a successful event:
Get organized and ask guests to bring specific types of food. This prevents duplicate dishes and ensures a balanced meal.
Introduce a fun element. Try a cookie swap or a silly game like “Guess the Cookie.”
Keep decor simple. A large vase filled with greenery and baubles can effectively replace a pricey Christmas tree.
Remember simplicity is key in food and decor. Costly ingredients and complicated recipes aren’t prerequisites for a memorable Christmas.
Remember, the holiday is about togetherness, not extravagance!
13. Make Your Own Cookies
There’s a unique pleasure derived from making your own cookies during the holiday season instead of buying them. More so, the cookies you’ve invested your time and creativity into can double as thoughtful, homemade gifts, adding another level of sentiment.
Apart from being a cost-effective option, it brings an opportunity to bond with friends and family during cookie exchange or decorating gatherings.
Making your personally crafted cookies also gives you control over ingredients catering to specific dietary needs or preference
Indeed, making your own cookies adds value that surpasses the mere cost savings, it infuses the holiday season with warmth, joy, and a sense of shared experience.
14. Cross Off Activities from your Christmas Bucket List
Having a joyful Christmas doesn’t necessarily mean overspending. In fact, integrating cost-effective activities into your holiday routine can make the season more meaningful and fun.
This Christmas Bucket list post offers an extensive and diverse list of creative ideas for budget-friendly Christmas shopping, gifting, and celebrating.
Additionally, downloading the free printables and a Christmas Budget Template will make the process even more manageable and fun.
15. Have a No-Gift Party
A no-gift Christmas party is an affordable and fun holiday celebration where attendees do not exchange gifts. It’s a great option for those looking to save money and still enjoy the festive season.
Here are steps to make it happen:
Step 1: Decide on the party type, either a simple gathering or a potluck dinner.
Step 2: Inform guests about the no-gift policy in advance.
Step 3: Organize exciting, cost-effective activities such as a game night.
Step 4: Engage guests with games for a joyful event.
Expert Tip: Conversation and laughter are your best tools.
16. Make a Christmas Memory Book
Creating a Christmas memory book is an affordable and engaging way to celebrate the holiday season, especially when you’re on a tight budget.
To start, you can utilize items already at your disposal in your house such as old photos, greeting cards, and crafts.
Spend some time penning down heartfelt messages and your favorite holiday memories associated with each picture or craft. Embellish the pages with affordable decorating materials like glitter, stickers, or color pens.
Not only does this create a personalized touch, but it also serves as a nostalgic keepsake that can be cherished for years to come.
Tip: Digitize your memory book by creating an electronic version. This can also help preserve the original items.
17. Spend Time With Loved Ones
Celebrating Christmas on a budget doesn’t mean skipping on the fun.
It’s about cherishing time spent with loved ones, harnessing creativity, and making priceless memories that last a lifetime.
Here are some cost-effective activities you can embrace this festive season:
Share stories of memorable Christmas experiences.
Organize virtual celebrations with extended family and friends.
Create your own family-themed board game.
Bake Christmas cookies or make a popcorn Christmas tree.
Stream a Christmas church service.
If snow is around, engage in snow play.
Dance to classic Christmas music.
Put together an annual family calendar.
Participate in one of these Christmas Challenges!
Remember, it’s not about what’s under the tree that matters, but rather, who’s around it.
18. Stash Christmas presents all year
Do what I do! Begin addressing the issue of holiday budgeting by stashing Christmas presents all year round.
This is a smart and stress-reducing move!
Find deals throughout the year rather than spending lavishly in December. Hang on to items like discounted gifts in your secret gift closet!
As you build an inventory of diverse items, you will be ready for birthdays or sudden party invites – you’re always prepared!
Just be careful to stop shopping when your list is fulfilled to avoid overspending.
19. Write a Christmas Gift List
Creating a Christmas gift list can be an effective way to manage your holiday spending. This helps you understand the overall picture of your holiday expenditure.
Start by writing down the names of every person for whom you consider buying a gift.
Then, determine how much you’re willing and able to spend on each individual. This helps you understand the overall picture of your holiday expenditure.
Take time to brainstorm potential gift ideas within your decided budget for each person. This process can be even easier and more informative if you’re able to reference a gift list from previous years.
Ultimately, the goal is to ensure that your total intended spending is reasonable and manageable for your personal financial situation.
Remember, you may not need to buy gifts for everyone on your list – some individuals might appreciate homemade or free gifts just as much.
20. Choose Great holiday things to do for less
Set aside the societal notion of linking the joy of holidays to copious spending, and welcome small, inexpensive, yet heartfelt gestures.
Adopting a mindset that finds value in low-cost or even free activities, especially during the holiday season, can not only alleviate financial pressure but also create cherished memories.
Instead of focusing on extravagance and materialistic desires, turning attention to experiences and emotional bonding can revolutionize the celebration!
You can always find things to do on Christmas Day.
21. Think Outside the Box With Gifts
Finding affordable gifts doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality or thoughtfulness.
By utilizing a gift guide such as the 4 gift rule – something they want, need, to wear, or read – you can ensure a well-rounded and meaningful set of gifts for each child.
Alternately, consulting lists of inexpensive yet creative suggestions like those curated by Money Bliss can help you find unique presents that won’t break the bank. These affordable finds range from books, gadgets, to personal care items, and home accessories.
Regardless of budget, the key to successful gift-giving lies in understanding the recipient’s needs and interests.
22. Consider Re-Gifting
Re-gifting is a practical, budget-friendly, and environmentally-friendly way to celebrate Christmas. It allows unused or unwanted items another chance to be appreciated and might save you some cash too.
Here are some regifting tips:
Ensure the gift is in good condition, unwanted but quality, and not linked back to its original giver.
Consider the preferences of the new recipient, ensuring the gift suits them.
Completely re-wrap the gift to give it a fresh appearance.
Some may debate the etiquette of re-gifting but remember, it’s more about the thought and less about where the gift originated.
Making smart choices can ensure a successful and fun re-gifting experience this festive season.
23. Use Gift Cards or Cash App to Stay on Budget
Purchase a prepaid gift card from your favorite store to ensure you’re limiting your spending to a specific amount and preventing the temptation of overspending.
If you’re planning to shop from a range of places, opt for a Mastercard of Visa prepaid card. While there may be an activation fee, it’s ultimately going to be less than what you’d potentially overspend.
Another great option is using the Cash App card and learn where you can load your Cash App card.
Also, you can use budget tracker apps like YNAB or Simplifi. These can help you meticulously keep track of your spending and stay within your budget.
Remember, the key is to stick to a budget and avoid falling prey to impulsive purchases. Using gift cards or these budgeting apps makes it easier to limit and monitor your expenses.
24. Use Money Gift Ideas Wisely
Money gift ideas can be an excellent alternative to traditional presents, especially when budgeting is a critical aspect.
Too many times, money gift ideas are overlooked as impersonal, but a money gift box or money cake will definitely surprise the recipient.
This will guarantee you will stay within your target budget by using money gift ideas.
For larger families, a gift exchange with a set price limit can keep costs manageable.
25. Donate to Charity Or Volunteer
Volunteering at a charity is a meaningful way to give back during the holiday season that doesn’t put a strain on your budget.
Instead of buying more items a person may not need, you’re investing time, money, and energy in causes they care about. Although this doesn’t require a financial commitment, it’s a generous gift full of sentiments.
Furthermore, donating money to a charity in someone’s name is a thoughtful and effective way to honor someone who already has everything they need. It allows the recipient to feel the joy of giving, yet remains a budget-friendly option for the giver.
If you’re keen on frugal yet meaningful ways to celebrate Christmas, how about considering charitable donations? It’s a splendid alternative to traditional gift-giving – not hard on your wallet, plus it makes a difference!
Most people know it is hard enough to buy gifts for the woman you who has everything or kids who have everything.
How to Make a Christmas Budget
A lot of joy and goodwill is associated with the holiday season; however, it also brings with it the challenge of managing finances meticulously to avoid slipping deep into credit card debt.
One of the effective ways to keep your finances under control during this festive time is by creating an efficient Christmas budget.
In the following sections, we will delve in detail into the simple process of creating a feasible Christmas budget that you can adhere to.
Step 1: Decide What You Want to Spend on Christmas
Determining how much to spend at Christmas depends on your individual budget and financial situation.
On a general basis, most people will overspend at Christmas in order they don’t look broke or not generous.
However, that thought process is backward if you are trying to reach your financial goals. You need to decide on how much you want to spend at Christmas time.
That is why these consumable gifts tend to be popular.
Expert Tip: Avoid surpassing your Christmas budget to prevent feeling the pinch of holiday debt later on. Stick to your allocations and plan things out in advance.
Step 2: Make a List of Christmas Gifts
Creating a list is essential for budget-friendly and stress-free Christmas shopping.
This prevents you from forgetting someone important by intuitively documenting all the people you intend to get gifts for. Also, allows for the clear allocation of your total Christmas budget, preventing overspending on some individuals and under-spending on others.
If you aim to economize, consider the 4-gift rule: something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. This method provides thoughtful gifts for children while maintaining a manageable budget.
More importantly, a well-planned list significantly reduces the time spent shopping and aids in buying gifts early before the holiday rush begins.
Expert Tip: Don’t forget to consider items like stocking stuffers, last-minute gifts, or teacher’s gifts, and the cost of extra food for holiday gatherings.
Step 3: Prioritize Your Spending
Prioritizing where to spend money relative to your financial goals is crucial to achieving long-term financial stability and health. It ensures that your money is allocated effectively, giving priority to necessities and matters that directly support your objectives.
This practice can also prevent unnecessary expenditures and helps in averting serious overspending, especially during high-spending periods like the Christmas season.
Thus, you will need to prioritize your Christmas budget before the festive season. It helps prevent overspending and keeps you debt-free.
Step 4: Limit Your Christmas Spending
First, it is important to abandon the notion of a “perfect Christmas” and focus on enjoying the holiday within your budget.
You can even educate your family members about the concept of holiday budgeting and involve them in your planning process.
Consider proposing less expensive alternatives to traditional gift-giving within your extended family such as handmade or recycled gifts, or conducting a white elephant exchange with budget-friendly novelty items.
Don’t overlook smaller gifting costs that can accumulate, like Christmas stockings – instead fill them with practical, affordable items that your family needs.
Save money on wrapping supplies by using items readily available at home like newspaper or butcher paper and involve the kids in a fun, cost-saving activity by having them create homemade gift tags.
Remember, sticking to your budget doesn’t mean letting go of the Christmas spirit. It’s about celebrating responsibly and starting the New Year without financial stress.
Step 5: Ignore Sales and Keep it Simple
Sales, sales, sales – the deal is too good to pass up!
Here are key ways to overcome this common dilemma.
Resist impulsive purchases compelled by sales, and stick strictly to your shopping list.
Pause before purchasing an item not on your list, consider the necessity.
Keep emotions in check, they run our shopping decisions.
Conquer emotional spending, stay true to your budget.
Discourage additional spending once your list is fulfilled and the budget exhausted.
Remember that it’s better to focus on affordable presents rather than seeking the perfect, but expensive, gift.
Step 6: Shop for Christmas Gifts Early
Start early. Begin watching for sales on items from your Christmas gift list way before the season’s rush.
Begin monitoring for sales early, especially during holidays that precede Christmas, to stretch your budget further.
Make use of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. They provide excellent opportunities to snag deals on your gifts.
Expert Tip: Remember to stick to your list. If it isn’t on your list, pass it up. It’s challenging but keeps your budget in check.
Step 7: Reuse and Recycle Holiday Decorations
Start by taking stock of items in your house. Don’t limit yourself to traditional decorations—choose a color theme and scan your home for items that fit and can be repurposed.
Use the resources outdoors. Pine branches, pine cones, mistletoe, and holly can be fashioned into decorations from nature’s catalog.
Even consider trading decorations with friends or family. This can bring a new look to your home without the need for new purchases.
Get creative with items from dollar stores that can be combined to appear high-end and save costs.
How to buy gifts for Christmas on a budget?
Maintaining a budget doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy giving gifts this Christmas.
Use these gift guides to help you out:
Remember, the joy is in the giving, not in the cost of the gift.
Time to Create Your Holiday Budget and Make it Memorable
Regardless of your financial situation and the extent of your holiday plans, this guide will help you maintain financial stability while fully embracing the Christmas spirit.
By setting aside a prescribed sum for your holiday expenses, you’re able to enjoy the season without the stress of unexpected expenditures or financial shocks after the holiday haze has cleared.
Celebrating Christmas on a budget doesn’t mean skipping the fun or the warmth.
With just a dash of creativity and thoughtful planning, you can make the yuletide season enjoyable and meaningful without breaking the bank.
Use the festive tips provided and start planning your budget-friendly Christmas now. Remember, the true essence of Christmas isn’t in extravagant spending—it’s about love, joy, and spending quality time with those who really matter to you.
Don’t forget to access a free printable worksheet for your customized holiday budget.
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The tobacco and patchouli version of this candle is the staple scent in my home! I bought it for the jar, and because I don’t like very sweet, flowery scents. Dang! Did this thing deliver! It has a great burn time and the smell is exactly what I wanted. This is 100% worth gifting, but I’d end up just keeping it for myself.
Promising review: “Goldilocks would love this candle because everything is just right. Some candle scents are too strong or fake smelling and some are too weak – this candle is perfect. The subtle, yet alluring scent provides nice background fragrance for any room and burns very clean. I’m sensitive to candles with fake chemical smells or wax that burns dirty and these candles are my go-to because they never cause a problem. The glass jar gives a nice glow and the candle has a long life. A little more money than most on here but worth it for ‘just right.'” —Sterling
Price: $21.18+ (clip the coupon on the product page to get 5% off this price; available in10 scents)
I’m getting sick and tired of hearing about how restrictive and constrained mortgage lending standards are these days.
It’s really not that hard to get a mortgage, despite the massive financial failure that took place just a few years ago.
In fact, you’d think it would be a lot harder to get a mortgage given the billion dollar losses that stemmed from loose lending over the past decade, but no. It continues to be easy to get a mortgage.
Sure, the new Qualified Mortgage and Ability to Repay rules are now in effect, but most of those rules were already being voluntarily adhered to before they were implemented.
The mortgage industry made it appear as if they were making some concessions, but banning 40-year mortgages and neg-ams when they were already pretty much nonexistent doesn’t mean a whole lot.
Yes, the DTI limit of 43% is a very real thing, a legitimate rule that has the potential to limit mortgage lending. But it’s not being enforced for the next seven years if the loans are eligible for purchase by Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or the FHA.
For the record, the overwhelming majority of mortgages made today are backed or sold to that trio.
At the same time, there isn’t a minimum credit score associated with QM, nor is there a max loan-to-value ratio.
It’s true that Fannie Mae got rid of their 3% down mortgage, but TD Bank brought it right back just a few months later.
And Wells Fargo now allows up to two percent of its minimum five percent down payment to come in the form of a gift from relatives.
The FHA hasn’t packed up and left. They still only require 3.5% down (with gifting available), and USDA loans, which require nothing down, are still widely available.
Yes, there are restrictions in place, and the FHA has gotten really expensive, but there are still plenty of very accommodating options.
Heck, you can get a mortgage one day out of foreclosure or short sale. Is that not soon enough?
Will the Seller Reject Your Loan Application?
The real problem today has nothing to do with restrictive underwriting guidelines. The problem is a lack of homes for sale, an absence of inventory, and a fear that if you sell today you won’t be able to find another home to buy.
There’s also a fear that you’ll be giving up your stellar mortgage rate when you sell, despite the fact that rates have defied logic and continue to inch lower.
When it comes down to it, bidding wars and red-hot demand are dictating who can get a home.
The average Joe can more than likely qualify for a mortgage, even if it’s not the most favorable mortgage. But when it comes time to accept an offer, the home seller is going to favor the stronger borrower.
Why? Because home buying demand continues to be so strong that a seller can be extremely choosy in whom they agree to sell to.
So if there’s a prospective buyer with a 580 credit score that’s able to put down 5%, and a buyer willing to bring in 20% down with a 700 credit score, it’s a no-brainer.
Both buyers qualify for a mortgage, even with today’s “strict rules” in place, but the one who gets the house is the one with a stronger financial profile. It has nothing to do with restrictive lending.
The seller ultimately determines who gets the loan, not the lender.