The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Austin, Texas, is growing almost as fast as the city itself. And as the closest airport to major events like South by Southwest, Austin City Limits music festival and more, the compact airport sees its fair share of traffic.
And while many visitors who pass through spend their time at the airport’s local restaurants or shops, Austin airport lounges also offer a place to kick back and unwind before your flight.
Let’s take a look at the airport’s four lounges, how to access them and what each has to offer travelers.
An overview of Austin airport lounges
While there are a number of airlines that fly in and out of Austin, only three have lounges: United Airlines, American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. There’s also a Chase lounge for Chase Sapphire Reserve®cardholders.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Besides the Chase lounge, there aren’t any other options that are accessible via non airline-specific membership, such as Priority Pass, or for Capital One or American Express cardholders.
These lounges are located in the main terminal, the Barbara Jordan Terminal, so no matter what gate you’re flying out of, any lounge is only a short walk away. There are no lounges in the airport’s smaller South Terminal, which is a few minutes’ drive down the road.
To enter the airline lounges, you typically need at least one of the following:
A first or business class ticket with American, Delta or United.
A lounge membership with American, Delta or United.
Elite status with one of the above airlines or their airline alliance.
A purchased day pass (if the lounge offers them).
It’s also important to note that all Austin airport lounges will ask to see a same-day departing boarding pass to enter. Save for one exception —travelers flying American or a Oneworld Alliance airline with a first or business class ticket — these lounges are only accessible on your way out of town, not upon arrival.
Delta Sky Club
On the mezzanine level near gate 4.
Open from 4:15 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily. Passengers can access the lounge any time within three hours before their scheduled flight.
Entry requirements:
Hold a Delta One or SkyTeam Premium flight boarding pass.
Hold an Executive or Individual Delta Sky Club membership, which is available to Medallion members.
Hold a Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card or Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card, which offers free access to the lounge.
Hold the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Cardor Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card, which offers cardholders the option to purchase access for $50 per person.
Terms apply.
Lounge amenities: Inside the lounge located above the gates, there’s a full-service bar, comfortable seating, tables for dining or working, Wi-Fi and a covered outdoor deck. There’s coffee, tea, complimentary and premium alcoholic beverages and a hot food buffet.
United Club
On the mezzanine level, across from gate 22.
Open 4:30 a.m. – 7:15 p.m. daily.
Entry requirements: .
Hold a boarding pass for:
A premium cabin on an international itinerary.
First class with a Star Alliance member airline.
Hold United Club membership.
Have purchased a one-day pass.
Hold the United Club℠ Infinite Card, which includes United Club membership.
United Club℠ Infinite Card
NerdWallet Rating
Intro offer
90,000
Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Miles
Lounge amenities: The Austin airport United Club offers a full-service bar, light snacks and complementary Wi-Fi, plus lounge chairs, high-top tables and space to get a bit of work done.
American Airlines Admirals Club
Across from gate 22.
Open Sunday to Friday 4:15 a.m. – 9:15 p.m and Saturday 4:15 a.m. – 8:15 p.m.
Entry requirements:
Hold a first or business class ticket on a departing or arriving flight operated by American or a Oneworld Alliance airline.
Hold an Admirals Club membership.
Hold a Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®.
Have purchased a one-day pass (provided there’s space in the lounge that day).
Lounge amenities: Inside this airport lounge in Austin, you’ll find complimentary food and drinks, including coffee and tea, a full-service bar, Wi-Fi and space to work.
Chase Sapphire Terrace
On the mezzanine level by gate 1.
Open daily from 10 a.m.– 8 p.m. Passengers can access the lounge anytime within three hours before their scheduled flight.
Entry requirements:
Hold a Chase Sapphire Reserve® card or a J.P. Morgan Reserve credit card. You may also bring in two guests.
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
NerdWallet Rating
Intro offer
60,000
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
Points
Lounge amenities: There’s indoor and outdoor seating on the terrace of this Austin airport lounge, plus grab-and-go food, local beverages, games like shuffleboard and cornhole and comfortable seating in a modern and sunny space.
Austin airport lounges recapped
While there are a handful of lounges at the Austin airport, don’t expect the variety and multiple locations you might see at larger hubs like New York-John F. Kennedy.
The four lounges are all located within the main terminal, so it’s easy to locate a place to kick back, relax, grab a bite and maybe get some work done before your flight.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
RICHLAND TWP., Pa. – Eagles, Flyers, 76ers and Phillies fans will soon have a new spot to score jerseys, hats and other fan gear in upper Bucks County.
Rally House, a specialty sports store chain offering an expansive selection of apparel, gifts, home decor and other types of merchandise representing local NCAA, NFL, NBA, MLB, NFL and MLS teams, is planning to open a new location in a few months at 244 N. West End Blvd. in Richland Township.
The new store will fill the space previously occupied by Tuesday Morning, a home goods retailer, in the Trainer’s Corner shopping center, just outside Quakertown.
“We are opening a new Rally House location in Quakertown and excited to get it open to residents and fans,” stated Colin Novick, Rally House’s media and production manager. “We are aiming to have this store open in early spring in April.”
Rally House traces its origins to 1989, when Tim and Mabel “Peg” Liebert started “Mabel’s Kitchen,” a catalog featuring Kansas-related apparel, gifts and other merchandise.
Mabel’s Kitchen evolved into another business, “Kansas Sampler,” which featured five Kansas City area stores selling Kansas Jayhawks, Kansas State Wildcats, Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals gear.
The company experienced great success, and the Lieberts eventually decided to expand the business to other markets under the “Rally House” name in 2008, according to a company description.
Today, Rally House has more than 180 locations across 18 states. The new Quakertown area store will supplement more than a dozen other regional locations, including a Lehigh Valley shop in Lower Macungie Township, two other Bucks County stores and several locations in Montgomery County.
Rally House stays true to its roots by providing “an impeccable selection of local and team-related apparel and gifts, including exclusive designs available only at Rally House,” according to the company’s website.
Regional stores offer a wide array of merchandise, including clothing, blankets, glassware and signs, featuring logos and designs of Philadelphia and surrounding area teams.
Customers at the Lehigh Valley store, for example, can shop plenty of Philadelphia Eagles, Flyers, 76ers and Phillies items, along with merchandise showcasing designs of various regional universities, including Lehigh, Kutztown, Penn State, Temple, Villanova, Drexel, St. Joseph’s and West Chester.
Other area sports teams, including Lehigh Valley IronPigs and Philadelphia Union, are also represented.
Philadelphia area teams are primarily featured, but there is also a selection of merchandise featuring other popular teams such as the New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants.
Customers can browse apparel such as T-shirts, sweatshirts, coats and shorts, along with footwear and fashion accessories such as slippers, hats, scarves and jewelry.
A wide variety of other gifts and home décor include items such as glassware, coasters, garden gnomes and flags, foam fingers, stuffed animals, keychains, pens, pennants, ornaments, cornhole boards, trash cans, calendars and umbrellas.
“Much like each person, no two Rally House stores are identical,” a message on the company’s website reads.
“They each carry merchandise customized and tailored to the specific collegiate and professional teams in that area. In additional to team apparel, Rally House offers a wide selection of local styles. This includes our very own exclusive line of RALLY Brand™ merchandise. The same items we have in our stores can also be found online at any time. We want to make things as easy and seamless as possible for fans who want to show their unique team spirit, regardless of wherever they live or shop.”
In addition to selling items relating to local sports teams, Rally House also works in conjunction with local sports stars and celebrities. These partnerships manifest themselves in the form of ticket giveaways, autograph sessions, radio remote contests and meet-and-greet events.
For the latest Rally House updates, follow the business’ pages on Facebook and Instagram. Info: rallyhouse.com.
Allentown updates
New Wawa could take Brass Rail’s spot next to Sheetz
ALLENTOWN, Pa. – The Allentown Planning Commission discussed a preliminary/final land development plan for a proposed Wawa convenience store Tuesday afternoon at city hall.
The proposal is offered for 3015 Lehigh St., the site of the former Brass Rail property. The plan involves consolidating two of the three existing lots, demolishing existing features on the consolidated lot and constructing the convenience store.
Should the proposed Wawa come to fruition, it would operate about 100 yards away from a Sheetz convenience store and gas station. Sheetz opened in August 2023 at the southeast corner of Lehigh Street and 29th Street, near Auto Zone. Additional nearby convenience stores and gas stations include a Turkey Hill on the other side of Sheetz and another Wawa about a mile north on Lehigh Street. Full story here.
Downtown Allentown Market welcomes new food vendor, says goodbye to another
ALLENTOWN, Pa. – The new year is bringing more changes to the Downtown Allentown Market, with one food vendor recently setting up shop and another bidding farewell.
Joining the 27 N. Seventh St. market is Randevoo, offering a twist on traditional Asian fusion cuisine.
Randevoo held a soft opening on Jan. 5 in space that was previously occupied by two other Asian concepts, Shinsen and Honmono Sushi, the latter of which closed in June following the owner’s move to Florida. Read more here.
Lower Macungie news
Lower Macungie planners recommend approval for Topgolf
L. MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. – The Lower Macungie Township Planning Commission recommend approval of a preliminary/final plan of an open-air entertainment facility Tuesday night at the administration building.
The plan, offered by Jaindl Land Co., involves the proposed Topgolf facility at the Lehigh Valley Town Center, slated for 361 Schantz Road and 4511 Cedarbrook Road. The proposed Topgolf and Town Center have already received conditional use approval.
Tuesday night’s recommendation involved the Topgolf facility, which includes a 72-bay golf driving range with a two-story, 20,460-square-foot building and associated parking on 11.5 acres within the Lehigh Valley Town Center. Topgolf will have site access from a private drive in association with the Town Center development. Read more.
New Lehigh County car wash to open later this month, joining 2 sister locations
LOWER MACUNGIE TWP., Pa. – Drivers looking to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape will soon have a new car wash to frequent in the Lehigh Valley.
The Car Wash on Hamilton, committed to providing customers with a “seamless and efficient car wash experience,” is expected to open by the end of January at 6794 Hamilton Blvd. in Lower Macungie Township.
The newly constructed car wash, totaling around 4,000 square feet, will supplement two sister locations: The Car Wash on Broadway, which opened in 2015 at 4540 Broadway in South Whitehall Township, and The Car Wash on West Main, which opened in October at 200 W. Main St. in Macungie. Full story here.
Bethlehem area buzz
Bethlehem restaurant closes, but owners continuing to serve customers via food trailers
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – The owners of a Bethlehem restaurant, serving up burgers, ice cream and more, have closed their eatery to focus on mobile operations.
Husband and wife Norman and Jill Matthews of Bangor have decided to shutter their 3.5-year-old south Bethlehem eatery, Dinky’s Ice Cream Parlor & Grill, and transition to a “completely mobile” business model, according to a post on Dinky’s Facebook page.
“That means we have two trailers, one that is just purely ice cream and the other is a food/ice cream truck,” they announced on the business’ Facebook page. “We will be going to different events, fairs, parties, food truck gatherings and hopefully breweries in the in the surrounding areas. Then we can get caught up with our loyal customers. Read more here.
Family-run restaurant rebrands with new name, look in Bethlehem
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – A popular fast-casual eatery, serving “gourmet quality comfort food,” is kicking off the new year with some changes in Northampton County.
Hummus House, a family-run restaurant known for its fresh sandwiches, salads, wraps and more, has rebranded to HandHeldz at 518 E. Third St. on Bethlehem’s South Side.
New signage was installed on Monday, and the business’ first day as HandHeldz was on Tuesday. Read more.
New expansive facility offers prime training space for athletes, teams in Northampton County
BETHLEHEM TWP., Pa. – A new indoor training facility is helping sports teams, clubs and athletes stay at the top of their game in the Lehigh Valley.
Powerballers Athletic Center, offering year-round training opportunities and a top-tier environment where youth and individuals of all ages can passionately pursue and enjoy their sport, opened in late November at 2550 Brodhead Road in Bethlehem Township.
The 14,000-square-foot facility features 10,000 square feet of flexible turf space, over 1,200 square feet of strength training space, batting cages, certified coaches and a climate-controlled environment. Full story here.
Expanding businesses
HiJinx Brewing Company to bring ‘fun and friendly’ vibe to 2nd Lehigh Valley location
A popular Allentown brewery is expanding its footprint in Lehigh County.
HiJinx Brewing Company, producing a wide array of craft beers that include IPAs, pilsners, porters and stouts, on Thursday announced plans to open an additional location at Sports Factory of the Lehigh Valley, 6616 Ruppsville Road, Upper Macungie Township.
The new location will supplement HiJinx’s original taproom and production facility, a 4,000-square-foot venue that opened in 2014 at the Allentown Economic Development Corporation’s Bridgeworks Enterprise Center, 905 Harrison St., Allentown. The brewery is in Suite 111. Read more here.
A-Treat Birch Beer expands as a fountain soda option at more Lehigh Valley restaurants
A month after announcing a partnership with Lehigh Valley hot dog shop chain Yocco’s, Jaindl Beverage Company – owner of A-Treat soda brand – has announced more local venues carrying A-Treat soda on tap.
In addition to being served at all five Yocco’s locations, A-Treat Birch Beer is now available as a fountain drink at Westside Grill in Upper Macungie Township, Wild Turkey Grill (at The Club at Twin Lakes) in North Whitehall Township and Moselem Springs Golf Club in Richmond Township, Berks County.
Westside Grill, Wild Turkey Grill and Moselem Springs Golf Club are owned by Jaindl Land Development. Read more.
Odds and ends
‘The store of the future’: Dave & Buster’s gears up for grand reopening after remodel
WHITEHALL, Pa. – A popular entertainment facility is ready to level up its services in Lehigh County.
Dave & Buster’s, the entertainment and dining chain that invites guests to “eat, drink, play and watch,” on Friday debuted its reimagined Lehigh Valley location on Friday.
The Whitehall Township location, at 1491 MacArthur Road, opened in October 2020 at a Lehigh Valley Mall outparcel, which was previously home to Friendly’s and Wendy’s restaurants as well as an office building. Full story here.
The Promenade Shops welcomes new tenant, hosting ‘Wonderland on Main’ event
UPPER SAUCON TWP., Pa. – The new year has brought a new tenant to The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley.
Fulton Bank, offering a broad array of financial products and services in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware and Virginia, on Monday opened its newest Lehigh Valley branch at 3060 Center Valley Parkway, Suite 839, Upper Saucon Township.
The branch offers a variety of services, including deposits, loans, check cashing and safe deposit boxes. Read more here.
Schuylkill County winery earns ‘best white wine’ in Pa. distinction from prominent wine critic
WEST PENN TWP., Pa. – A Schuylkill County winery is making a splash in 2024, with high praise on a well-known wine media platform.
Galen Glen Winery, at 255 Winter Mountain Drive in the Andreas section of West Penn Township, earlier this week received acclaim on JamesSuckling.com, a prominent wine media platform and events company with offices in Hong Kong.
Senior Editor Stuart Pigott labeled the Galen Glen Riesling Lehigh Valley Stone Cellar 2022 as “the best white wine he has ever tasted from Pennsylvania,” according to a Weekly Tasting Report. Read more.
Berks buzz
‘Stay and sip a while’: Folino Estate owners open 2nd Vintner’s Table wine bar and restaurant
WYOMISSING, Pa. – The owners of Folino Estate Winery near Kutztown have opened another tasty venue in Berks County.
Husband and wife Marco and Andrea Folino, who opened Folino Estate in Greenwich Township in 2015, on Tuesday opened a second location of Vintner’s Table – a wine bar and restaurant serving up Folino’s hand-crafted, award-winning wines along with charcuterie and light bites – at 945 Hill Have. Suite 100 in Wyomissing.
“We welcome you to reserve a seat at our table,” an announcement on Vintner’s Table’s Facebook page reads. “Our menu was a labor of love carefully curated to bring you an elevated dining experience full of rustic Italian flavors paired with our award winning wines in a chic and cozy atmosphere that invites you to stay and sip a while.” Full story here.
New golf simulator at Sly Fox has golfers hitting the virtual links
WYOMISSING, Pa. – There’s a new gathering place inside an already familiar spot in Wyomissing that can transport you to dozens of golf courses around the world.
While it’s winter outside, the basement of Sly Fox Brewing, dubbed the Foxskeller, features a whole different vibe.
Golfers are teeing up and taking their swings on brand new golf simulators. Read more here.
Vinyl enthusiasts to descend on Leesport Farmers Market this weekend for ‘Record Riot’
ONTELAUNEE TWP., Pa. – It’s about the search for something special.
“Number one, I’m a collector. All these guys that sell records they all are interested in records, so I’m looking at his records saying ‘What does he have?’ And I saw something I want to buy,” said Record Riot event organizer Stephen Gritzan.
Thumbing through crates of creative work put to vinyl is a physical interaction that seems increasingly rare. Read more.
‘Heavy heart’: Moe’s Southwest Grill location to close after 10 years in Berks County
EXETER TWP., Pa. – An eatery serving up made-to-order burritos, quesadillas, nachos and tacos is ending operations this weekend in Berks County.
A location of Moe’s Southwest Grill, a fast-casual restaurant franchise serving “high quality and fresh southwestern food,” will close on Sunday at 4725 Perkiomen Ave. in Exeter Township.
The restaurant is located in the Exeter Commons, between a Fine Wine & Good Spirits store and L.A. Nails Day Spa. Full story here.
Closing notes
Rite Aid closes Bethlehem store, with another Lehigh Valley location set to shutter on Jan. 15
Two Rite Aid stores in the Lehigh Valley are ceasing operations this month, joining several other regional locations of the pharmacy chain that closed in 2023.
First, a Rite Aid store at 104 E. Third St. on Bethlehem’s South Side shuttered on Wednesday, Jan. 10, according to storefront signage, addressed “Attention: store closure.” Read more here.
American Eagle Outfitters closing Lehigh Valley store
PALMER TWP., Pa. – A well-known clothing retailer is reducing its brick-and-mortar footprint in the Lehigh Valley.
American Eagle Outfitters, a leading global specialty retailer offering high-quality, on-trend clothing, accessories and personal care products, will close its American Eagle store at the Palmer Park Mall in Palmer Township on Jan. 20, a store manager said.
The manager could not comment on the reasons surrounding the upcoming closure. Read more.
Discount variety store closes in Easton area
PALMER TWP., Pa. – A destination for affordable snacks, household items, party supplies and more has closed in Northampton County.
One Dollar Zone!, a discount variety store “where you can find trusted brands and thousands of great quality items for as low as $1.00,” closed a couple of weeks ago at 785 S. 25th St. in Palmer Township.
It’s unclear what led to the store’s closure. A company representative did not return a message seeking more information, and a sign on the door simply reads, “WE ARE CLOSED.” Full story here.
Though I love the holiday season, there’s something so satisfying about taking down the garland and stockings, giving my space a deep clean, and returning the year-round decor to its usual spot. Now that my home is “back to normal,” I want to make some changes to give it a fresh look.
Luckily, retailers like Target don’t waste any time shifting from holiday to spring decor, and after perusing its new arrivals, I stumbled on Hearth & Hand with Magnolia’s latest drop. The new collection features stylish and functional home and kitchen finds in neutral and pastel colors that easily blend with most interior design styles.
A few of my favorites include this round mirror with a pleated frame and this bundle of faux wildflowers to add to a vase on my coffee table. Keep scrolling to see everything I’m eyeing from Joanna Gaines’ spring line at Target starting at just $4. As usual with the popular brand, items in this collection are already selling out, so you’ll want to act fast.
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Spring Collection at Target
I have a fairly small home, so I’m always looking for ways to make it feel bigger. Adding a large mirror, like this 30-inch style, not only helps the space appear larger but also brightens it up by reflecting light around the room. The round accent mirror has a pleated frame with a brass finish and is sturdy yet light enough to hang easily with the included hardware. I want to place it above my dresser in my bedroom, but you can also add it to offices, entryways, and living rooms. The 20-inch size is already sold out, so if you’re interested in the 30-inch mirror, you’ll want to add it to your cart ASAP.
Border Plaid Handmade Jute Woven Rug
While I love my home’s original wood floors, rugs are one of my favorite ways to make a space feel cozier. This handmade option from Hearth & Hand with Magnolia’s spring line warms up any area with its texture, pattern, and tan and cream design. It comes in five different sizes that can fit in any room you want to add a rug to. I’m grabbing the runner style for my hallway but might come back for the area rug for my guest bedroom.
River Landscape Sketch Framed Wall Art
I’m in the process of updating my main bedroom. I’ve been putting it off, as it’s not a room where I entertain guests, but I decided that this year I’m prioritizing making it a space I’m proud of. I purchased a new comforter, and now I’m focusing on wall decor like wedding photos, shelves, and artwork. This framed sketch of a river landscape is exactly what I was looking for, displaying the love my husband and I have for the outdoors in a subtle way that blends in with our existing decor.
Keep scrolling to see more of my favorite finds from Hearth & Hand with Magnolia’s spring collection at Target.
When you’re thinking about becoming a first-time renter, there are lots of things to ponder . Many of these factors will revolve around knowing how to budget for your apartment upfront and setting up a monthly budget between yourself and potential roommates.
Finances aren’t going to be the most fun aspect of your first apartment , but they are a necessary one. In today’s competitive rental market (especially in big cities) it’s crucial to have all of your budgeting skills up to par , as it could help you gain an edge over other applicants.
If you need some budgeting pointers, follow the guidelines below to get started:
Location is everything
There’s a good chance you already have an idea of which neighborhoods you want to live in. Depending on the locale, your monthly budget can differ drastically. Many renting experts recommend that you not spend more than 30% of your annual income on rent, and many property managers will refuse an offer if you’d be spending too much on rent.
However, you might have to be flexible about this rule in cities where high housing costs are way above the norm, such as New York City or San Francisco. In places like these, you might have to plan even further in advance, as the screening and budgeting process could take much longer.
No matter where you choose to live, though, you will need to– above all else– ensure that you are setting a realistic budget based on your take-home pay and the desired city/neighborhood.
Account for all your utilities
We’ve written about accounting for your utilities in the past, but the important part here is to make sure you don’t miss anything. There are a lot you could be responsible for, so go through and make sure that you’ve accounted for them all. You don’t want to be caught out by almost moving in, just to find that you haven’t yet set aside money for pet fees, renter’s insurance, or something else not so obvious.
Expect to pay a lot upfront
Renting might be cheaper than buying, but you’ll still have to spend some serious cash in the first few months to secure your dream apartment.
In most situations, landlords will expect a security deposit, first and last month’s rent, application fees, a possible finder’s or broker’s fee, and a pet deposit if you have one (or more). Expect to be paying two to three times your monthly rent upfront, so make sure you and your potential roommates are saving accordingly.
Budget for more than housing
Unfortunately, the above are just to secure the apartment itself. Moving into the apartment is another large expense, since renting moving trucks doesn’t come for free. You still need to eat to live and may need more things like furniture and household goods you haven’t really needed before. You’re going to have to fully stock a kitchen and furnish several rooms, and those are going to take a significant amount of money. Price out a bed, mattress, tables, chairs, a couch, kitchen utensils, pots, pans, and everything else you might have reason to use. Here’s the time when you want to find things that serve multiple purposes, cutting down both on how many things you need to buy, and the money you need to spend.
Of course, you’re going to have to leave your apartment sometimes, and you need to account for that. How will you get around? Car, public transportation? All of those have a cost attached. When and how often are you going to eat out, or just go out for a night on the town? These don’t come free, and failing to budget for them will leave you wondering where you keep coming up short.
Select roommates carefully
An apartment can be a big financial burden, so why not divide it with your friends? You’re striking out on your own, so why not take your college friends with you?
Hanging out with a friend and living with them aren’t the same thing. Things might work out well, but there’s always the chance things go wrong. Do you know how well they handle their finances? If your roommate doesn’t pay, you’re still liable for their half of the rent. Having to pay for someone else’s financial irresponsibility can make things awkward, if not outright hostile.
As such, it’s crucial that you screen each individual who might be a potential roommate. If he or she seems like a great candidate, meet with him or her to discuss how you might divide bills and rent, as well as where you stand on additional guests and splitting up chores.
Save for those little extras
You might plan out every detail with you and your roommates and think all the bases are covered upfront. However, you’ll need to consider your rainy day fund, as well as other monthly expenses that might have slipped under your radar.
For instance, do you like going to the gym? You won’t have one on campus anymore, and gym memberships can get pricey, so you might have to reallocate your spending. You also need what I call a “fun fund”– it’s not all work and no play, after all. This budget is for nonessentials like money for dining out with friends, going to the movies, expenditures for various hobbies (gardening, painting, etc.), gifts, shopping, and traveling. You can’t predict everything with certainty, so you need some extra money for all the little things that come up. You’re looking forward to the freedom that your first apartment will give you, so make sure to budget a bit of that freedom in there as well.
Want to learn how to get paid to do nothing? Picture this: making money without putting in much effort, even when you’re just relaxing, sleeping, or waiting in line. The idea of getting paid for doing nothing has always been popular and it’s probably your dream life. It may seem too good to be true,…
Want to learn how to get paid to do nothing?
Picture this: making money without putting in much effort, even when you’re just relaxing, sleeping, or waiting in line. The idea of getting paid for doing nothing has always been popular and it’s probably your dream life.
It may seem too good to be true, but there are real ways to use your free time or things you already have to make money with minimal ongoing work.
There are actually quite a few things on this list that I regularly do so that I can make money doing nothing.
Now, some of the ways below may take initial effort or even some maintenance over the years. But, you may be able to earn money while sleeping or while at the beach with minimal effort needed from you.
Best Ways To Get Paid To Do Nothing
Do you want to earn money while you relax? You can get paid without a 9-to-5 job. Let’s look at some ways to make money while doing nothing.
Here are some ways out of the list below that you may be interested in:
Sell printables online – These can be made once and sold an unlimited amount of times. Learn more at How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy.
Pose as an art model – It’s simple; just sit still! Art schools pay models around $25 per hour.
Real estate – You can invest in real estate funds. Your money might work for you, and you don’t have to manage properties.
Take online surveys – You can answer these whenever you have free time and the questions are extremely easy. Best online survey sites include Branded Surveys, Swagbucks, and Survey Junkie.
Rent your stuff – You’ve got stuff other people might want for a day or two. Think about renting out things like your storage room, baby gear, RV, and more.
Learn more about the different ways to get paid to do nothing below.
1. Sign up for a rewards credit card
Earning money without working hard can sound really nice. One way to do this is to get a rewards credit card. When you use this kind of card, you can get points or cash back for buying things you would buy anyway.
When you sign up for a new card, you might receive a big signup bonus. Some cards give you bonus points, like 50,000 or even more, as a welcome gift! However, you usually need to spend a certain amount of money first (such as $4,000 in the first 3 months).
Here is a table with the different types of rewards you might get:
Reward Type
What You Get
Points
Use for travel and gift cards.
Cash Back
Money back on your purchases.
Mile Rewards
Miles to fly on planes for free airfare.
I have a few rewards credit cards and I earn points every time I use my credit card, such as by paying a bill or going grocery shopping. I actually just signed up for a new rewards credit card this week that has a great signup bonus value of over $800.
Two rewards credit cards that I personally like are:
Important note: Using credit card rewards is a good idea as long as you use your credit card responsibly. It’s not smart to go into debt just for rewards because having debt with interest is not free or helpful. To truly make money from credit card rewards, be sure to pay your full credit card balance every month.
2. Get paid to stand in line
If you don’t mind waiting, you can earn money by standing in line for other people. Some companies and individuals pay for this service, especially when they’re busy or want to attend popular events without waiting.
Here’s how it works: You take someone else’s spot in line, like waiting for tickets or securing a spot at a busy restaurant. You do the waiting for them so they don’t have to.
You can earn approximately $25 to $35 per hour by just standing in line. The exact amount depends on your location and how much people need line sitters.
To get started, search for websites that link line sitters with clients, such as Taskrabbit, Same Ole Line Dudes, and InLine4You. Join the sites, create a listing for your services, and wait for someone to hire you.
3. Dividend-paying stocks
One of the best ways to make money without a job is to invest in dividend-paying stocks.
When you invest in dividend-paying stocks, you’re buying a piece of a company that gives you money regularly. Think of it like getting a small thank you for holding on to the company’s stock. These payments usually come from the company’s profits and they’re called dividends.
Here’s how it works. You buy stocks that pay dividends, and then, every so often (usually every three months), the company sends you money. It’s a way to earn without doing much after your initial investment.
Now, a table to show you what to look for:
Term
Meaning
Dividend Yield
How much you earn compared to the stock price
Payout Ratio
The part of profits used for dividends
Ex-Dividend Date
The day when you must own the stock to get paid
Keep in mind, not all dividend stocks are the same. Some may lose value and payments could stop if the company isn’t doing well. So, it’s important to choose wisely, and you might want to seek guidance from someone who knows a lot about stocks.
For me, I love earning dividends. It’s like being rewarded for saving for retirement, and it is so easy.
Recommended reading: What Are Dividends & How Do They Work? A Beginner’s Guide
4. High-yield savings accounts
When you put your money in a savings account, you want it to grow. High-yield savings accounts are like your regular savings account but with an extra boost for making your money grow faster.
The interest rate or annual percentage yield (APY) is what the bank pays you. The higher the APY, the more money you make. Good news! Some of these accounts offer APYs much higher than the usual, like more than 5%! That’s a lot better than the average savings account.
I personally use Marcus by Goldman Sachs and they have a very high interest rate. You can get up to 5.50%, at the time of this writing, through my referral link bonus. So, at this rate, if you have $10,000 saved, you could earn $550 with a high-yield savings account in a year. Whereas with normal banks, your earnings would only be $46.
You must be thinking, “What’s the catch?” Well, most of these accounts are from online banks. No biggie, just that you won’t have a bank branch to visit. They also tend to not offer other features, such as bill pay and checks – it’s simply a place to park your money and earn a lot more in interest.
5. Sell printables
If you want to earn money while doing nearly nothing on the internet, you can try selling printables online. Printables are files that you make once, like planners, invitations, flash cards, and worksheets, and then sell over and over again.
Yes, you will have to make the printables and open a store, but after a while, you can start making money from the same printables over and over again.
This is because printables are digital products that sell with just simple downloadable files.
I recommend reading How I Make Money Selling Printables On Etsy to learn more.
6. Share your opinions
You can earn money in your free time by joining paid market research studies. Keep in mind, it won’t replace a full-time job (they usually pay only $1 to $3 for each survey you complete), but you might make some extra cash.
When I was paying off my student loans, I did online surveys almost every day. I did them before work, during my lunch break, or after work. What I like about answering online surveys is that I can answer them whenever I want, such as while watching TV or eating lunch.
Some of the survey companies I recommend include:
Please head to Best Paid Online Surveys to read more.
7. Rent out your extra storage space
If you’ve got extra room at your place, you can make money by renting it out.
Think about renting out parts of your home, like an empty closet, your driveway or parking space, or your garage. Websites like Neighbor allow you to list these spaces for someone to store their belongings (such as a car, sofa, boxes, and more).
Neighbor is like the Airbnb of storage space. Instead of having guests over, you’re renting out your storage space to store other people’s belongings.
8. Sell stock photos
Selling stock photos is a good way to earn money through passive income without actively working for it.
You upload photos you’ve taken with your camera or phone to a platform like Depositphotos. When someone buys one of your photos, you get a commission.
Websites, companies, and blogs use stock photos for all different kinds of reasons. Businesses use them to improve their content, websites, or overall appearance, as they may not have the time to take photos of everything they need.
I personally use stock photos in my blog posts all the time, and I know many, many others who do as well. The photos throughout this article are all stock photos, so you can see how useful they are to website owners.
Stock photography includes pictures of things like:
Travel, landscapes, and outdoor scenes
Business settings like laptops, offices, and people working
Family moments, including parents and children
Household items, such as living areas and kitchens
Animals, including pets and wildlife
Vehicles like cars and boats
Sports, from professional events to casual games
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
9. House sitting
For some people, house sitting is the ultimate dream job. You may be able to watch houses around the world in dream destinations after all!
House sitting involves taking care of someone’s house while they’re away. It’s a way to earn money without much effort. Your responsibilities include staying in the house, making sure everything is safe, collecting mail, and sometimes looking after pets or watering their plants. Many times, people just want it to look like someone is living in their home so that no one will try to break in.
You can find house sitting jobs on websites like TrustedHousesitters and Care. You may also find these types of jobs through dog walking gigs, such as on Rover.
10. Invest in REITs
Investing in a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) is like buying a small piece of many buildings without the hassle of managing them.
REITs are companies that own many real estate properties, and they earn money by renting out space in those properties. Imagine shopping malls, apartments, and offices as examples.
Here’s how it works:
Choose a REIT – Look for REITs with good histories, like those experts trust.
Invest Your Money – You can start with a small amount of money.
Earn Money – REITs make cash from their buildings. They share this cash with you through dividends.
11. Pose for art classes
If you can stay still for a while, you might like posing for art classes. When you pose, art students look at you and draw or paint your picture. It’s a way you can make money by just sitting or standing.
Most times, art models get about $20 to $30 each hour. You’ll usually be there for around three hours or more.
What will you do? You will hold a pose. A pose can be something like sitting in a chair, standing, or making an interesting shape with your body. These poses can last from five to twenty minutes. Don’t worry, you get breaks so you can stretch and rest.
Who can do this? You don’t have to look a certain way. Artists need all kinds of people to learn how to draw humans well. You just need to be okay with being looked at while you are posing.
Where to find these jobs? Check with local art schools, colleges, or community centers. They usually need new models. You can also look online for art model jobs in your area.
12. Listen to music
If you enjoy music, you can actually make some money by listening to songs. You can use apps and websites that pay you just for listening. Companies want your opinion on new music, and they’ll pay you for your time!
Slicethepie is a popular site that pays you to listen to music. Other popular sites include Playlist Push, Current Rewards, and Hit Predictor.
Here’s how it typically works:
Step
Action
Find an app
Look for apps that offer payment for music listening.
Sign up
Create an account on these platforms.
Listen and rate
Start listening to music and provide your honest feedback.
Earn
Collect your earnings, usually through points that can be converted into cash or gift cards.
13. Get paid to work out
Yes, you can get paid for being active, even while doing your regular workout!
Apps like HealthyWage make staying fit exciting by allowing you to bet on your fitness goals. You set a weight loss target, bet on yourself, and join others with similar goals. If you achieve your goal first, you win money from the prize pool. It’s a friendly competition with a chance to earn a financial reward.
14. Become a notary
If you want to earn money with little effort, you might think about becoming a notary. As a notary, your job is to be a witness when people sign important papers and to check that the people signing are really who they say they are.
So, yes, you are still working a job, but you are simply watching people sign papers.
What notaries do:
Meet people who need papers signed.
Check their IDs to make sure they are who they say they are.
Watch them sign the document.
Use your notary stamp and write in your record book.
You can make anywhere from $9 to $21 per hour, but it depends on things like where you live and if you have to go to people or they come to you.
15. Mattress tester
Testing mattresses is a unique side hustle where you can make money by just testing out mattresses.
As a mattress tester, you’ll test beds and write reviews about your sleep quality, comfort, and any other observations. Your feedback is valuable as it helps companies improve their products to better meet customer needs.
Some mattress companies pay individuals like you to test their products. This helps them figure out how comfortable their mattresses are and how they can make them even better.
You can find these gigs by researching local sleep clinics or mattress companies that offer paid studies or testing.
I have actually been paid to test mattresses in the past, and it is easy! I was only paid with free mattresses, but at one point in a single year, I think I received 5 or 6 mattresses. I ended up giving away a couple to friends and family because the work was so easy.
16. Join a sleep study
Similar to testing out mattresses, you may be able to get paid to join a sleep study.
Sleep studies are research projects that help doctors understand sleep patterns and disorders. If you’re interested in earning money while contributing to science, participating in one of these studies is an option. Typically, sleep studies seek specific types of participants, such as a particular age group or weight range. Your initial step is to determine if you meet their requirements.
After being accepted into a study, you’ll visit the center for tests. During the study, you might wear special equipment while you sleep. This equipment helps researchers monitor and track your sleep patterns.
The payment you receive depends on how long the study is, which might be for one night or even several weeks.
Many universities, like the Harvard Division of Sleep Medicine, pay for sleep studies.
17. Put an advertisement on your car
If you want to earn extra money without doing much, think about turning your car into a moving billboard. Companies will pay you to put their ads on your car.
To start, join a car wrap advertising company like Carvertise or Wrapify. They’ll place a special sticker, called a car wrap, on your entire car or specific parts of it. These companies seek drivers to display ads on their cars, and the more you drive and the places you go can increase your earnings.
Your car’s make and model, condition, and paint quality are important. They decide how well the ads will stick and look.
The type of ad wrap you choose changes how much you get paid too. The options are:
Full wrap
Partial wrap
Just the windows
Here’s what you might be able to earn:
Car Wrap Type
Possible Earnings
Full Wrap
$200 to $1000 per month
Partial Wrap
$150 to $250 per month
Window Ads
$100 to $250 per month
Keep in mind that the earnings can vary. It depends on factors like how frequently you drive and where your car is visible.
Recommended reading: 6 Best Ways To Get Paid to Advertise On Your Car
18. Rent out a spare room in your home
If you have an extra room in your house and want to earn passive income streams, you can make money by renting it out. This is a smart way to earn cash without much work.
I have had several roommates over the years. We would rent out our spare room to long-term renters and people that we personally knew (such as friends and my sister).
To find a roommate and earn rental income, you can advertise your space in various places. You can announce on your personal Facebook page, place an ad on websites like Craigslist, create a rental listing on Airbnb, and more.
Whether you have a house or an apartment, this may be an option available to you.
19. Use cash back sites
When you shop online, you can earn money back on what you spend by using cash back sites.
Think of it like getting a discount, but instead of saving money right away, you get some cash back later.
I use cash back sites and apps pretty much every single time I shop – it’s easy, free money for me.
Popular cashback sites include:
Rakuten – Gives you a percentage of your money back.
Swagbucks – Earns points that you can exchange for cash or gift cards.
Fetch Rewards – I use this site for every single grocery receipt I have.
Ibotta – Another easy grocery scanning app to use.
For example: To get cash back, all you need to do is create a Rakuten account, visit their website, and click on the store where you want to shop (such as Target, Best Buy, Old Navy, etc.). They will then redirect you to that store, and you can shop online as you normally would to get cash back.
These types of sites typically pay via free gift cards or PayPal cash.
20. Rent out your RV
Renting out your RV can be a way to earn extra money on something that might be sitting around collecting dust (and rust!).
By renting it out, you could potentially make $100 to $300 a day or even more.
RVing has become very popular these days, and people frequently rent RVs to explore on vacations or even to try out a specific RV model before making a purchase.
One RV rental platform that I recommend is RVshare. RVshare is basically an Airbnb just for RVs. It’s a site where you can list your RV for rent and RVshare will handle all payments and bookings for you.
Similar to this, you can also rent out your car on Turo!
Recommended reading: How To Make Extra Money By Renting Out Your RV
21. Receive a pension
Getting paid to do nothing may sound like a dream, but if you have a pension, it’s a real thing that can happen when you retire.
A pension is money that you get regularly after working for a certain number of years.
When you work at a job that offers a pension plan, your employer puts money into this plan for you. When it’s time to retire, this money comes back to you, usually every month.
The amount you get usually depends on three things:
Age – Generally, the older you are when you retire, the more you get.
Salary – How much you earned at your job can affect your pension.
How long you worked there – The longer you worked, the higher your pension.
Sometimes, you might have the option to receive all your pension money at once, known as a “lump sum.” It’s a substantial, one-time payment instead of monthly checks. Make a wise decision by considering what works best for you. If you’re unsure, seeking advice from someone knowledgeable about finances could help you decide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Getting Paid to Do Nothing
Below are answers to common questions about how to get paid to do nothing.
How can I get money for doing nothing?
You might be surprised, but there are ways to earn money with little to no effort. For instance, using a cash back credit card for your everyday spending allows you to get a percentage back. You can also do any of the things above, such as selling digital downloads online, finding a job that will pay you a pension once you retire, investing in dividend-paying stocks, and more.
What are jobs where you do nothing and get paid a lot?
So, it can be hard to work an actual job that pays you a lot of money to do nothing. After all, if that existed, then everyone would be doing it, haha! Some jobs do pay you, though, for simple tasks, such as being a notary.
Can I really make income by just being idle?
Yes, you can make passive income through methods like earning interest from a high-yield savings account or renting out your spare space.
Where can I find jobs that don’t expect much work from me?
Look for gig economy jobs where you can earn money based on the tasks you choose to accept, such as delivering food or charging electric scooters. There are so many other side jobs that aren’t even mentioned on the list above, such as creating an online course, becoming a taste tester, micro-investing (such as with the Acorns app), becoming a background actor, watching ads, affiliate marketing, delivering groceries, writing a book review online (such as for Kirkus Media), playing games, talking with an online companion or strangers, and more.
How to get paid to do nothing online?
Some ways to get paid to do nothing online include selling digital files and stock photos. These will both require initial work from you, but eventually, these will sell with little work needed by you.
How To Get Paid to Do Nothing – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on how to get paid to do nothing and found one or more gigs that fit what you’re looking for!
As you can see, there are many ways to get paid to do nothing (or almost nothing).
You can grow your savings effortlessly with high-yield savings accounts or make money by renting out extra storage space. Investments in stocks that pay dividends or REITs can give you money regularly without needing your daily attention.
The Miami International Airport (MIA) served more than 50.5 million passengers in 2022. With all the lively foot traffic upon entering the airport, you’ll likely want to seek comfort and quiet in an airport lounge as soon as you get airside.
Knowing where your nearest eligible airport lounges are in advance gives you more time to unwind before your flight. Here’s a list of all of the Miami airport lounges.
About Miami airport lounges
Miami International Airport lounges are located in every terminal, though you’ll need to meet the entry requirements of the lounge you’re interested in using. Many Miami airport lounges restrict access to travelers who have qualifying loyalty status or access through a credit card.
Travelers with Priority Pass, or who are willing to purchase a one-day pass might be able to gain lounge access. Admittance, however, is generally based on capacity during the time of your visit.
North Terminal: Flagship Lounge, Admirals Club and Centurion Lounge
If you’re departing from the north terminal, here are your closest lounges in the Miami airport.
Flagship Lounge
Location: Past security checkpoint, across from Gate D-30.
Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; open daily.
How to get in: Accessible to qualifying first and business-class customers, AAdvantage Executive Platinum, AAdvantage Platinum Pro, AAdvantage Platinum and Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan MVP Gold 75K and MVP Gold, ConciergeKey, and Oneworld Emerald and Sapphire members. To get in just show your boarding ticket for an American or another Oneworld carrier flight.
Guests can enjoy complimentary food and drinks, and can access a specialty cocktail bar and wine table. There are also showers available to freshen up before your flight.
Admirals Club D-15 and D-30
Location: Two separate lounges, both past the security checkpoint. One is across from Gate D-15, and the other is across Gate D-30.
D-15 lounge: 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.; open daily.
D-30 lounge: 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; open daily.
How to get in: You must be an Admirals Club member, a non-AAdvantage Oneworld Emerald or Sapphire member, or be a qualifying first and business-class customer. Upon arrival, you must show your same-day ticket for a flight on American or another Oneworld flight, and provide a qualifying credit card (if applicable) for entry. Depending on capacity, you might be able to buy an Admirals Club One-Day Pass for $79.
Guests receive complimentary food, drinks and access to a full-service bar. The lounges offer free Wi-Fi and showers, and the Admirals Club adjacent to Gate D-30 has a conference room that can be booked in advance.
The Centurion Lounge
Location: In concourse D, near Gate D-12. Take the elevator to the fourth floor.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.; open daily.
Visitors of the Centurion Lounge in the Miami airport can access spa services and showers, along with seasonal cuisine and a premium bar. It also offers a family room, and semi-private workspaces.
Central Terminal: Military Hospitality Lounge and Turkish Airlines
Travelers who are departing from MIA’s central terminal have a couple of lounge options. However, two lounges in this terminal are temporarily closed.
Military Hospitality Lounge
Location: Pre-security in Concourse E, second level.
Hours: 9 a.m .to 5 p.m. Thursday – Monday.
How to get in: You must be a U.S. or Allied active duty or retired military member with proof of same-day travel and your government-issued military ID. Your authorized dependents can also join you in the lounge.
The lounge offers hot beverages, water and soft drinks, as well as complimentary snacks.
Turkish Airlines Lounge
Location: Past the security checkpoint, go to Concourse E, on the second floor.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.; open daily.
How to get in: Available for all Priority Pass members, and first and business class passengers of Turkish Airlines, United Airlines, Aer Lingus, Air Italy, LOT Airlines, TAP Portugal and all Star Alliance members. Be ready to show your same-day boarding pass and Priority Pass card, if applicable.
Guests have access to showers and Wi-Fi. You will also enjoy complimentary food and refreshments, including alcohol.
Temporarily closed central terminal lounges in the Miami airport
Admirals Club, Concourse E.
Club America, Concourse F.
South Terminal: Delta Sky Club and The VIP Lounge
If you’re looking for an airport lounge in the Miami airport’s south terminal, here are your options.
Delta Sky Club
Location: Past the security checkpoint in Concourse H, second floor.
Hours: 4:45 a.m. to 8:45 p.m.; open daily.
How to get in: If you have a same-day ticket on Delta or a Delta-partner airline, access is available to:
Terms apply.
The lounge offers complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, food, beverages and cocktails. Showers are also available.
The VIP Lounge
Location: Past security checkpoint in Concourse J, near Gate J-3.
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday: 1 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Tuesday: 8 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
How to get in: The lounge is available by invitation only for first and business class passengers of member airlines.
The VIP Lounge offers complimentary buffet-style food, beverages, showers and Wi-Fi.
Turkish Airlines Lounge
Location: Past security checkpoint in Concourse H, on the third floor.
Hours: 4 a.m. to 10 p.m.; open daily. Hours may vary.
How to get in: Available to first and business-class passengers traveling on Star Alliance partner airlines, and Turkish Airlines Elite and Elite Plus passengers. Access is also available to Priority Pass, Lounge Club, Lounge Key and Diners Club members. Depending on capacity, day passes might be available for additional purchase.
Complimentary food, beverages (including alcohol), and Wi-Fi. Day beds and showers are also available.
Temporarily closed south terminal Miami airport lounges
The Avianca Lounge, Concourse J.
Final thoughts on lounges at MIA
Although MIA is one of the busiest airports in the U.S., its lounges offer pockets of respite for weary travelers.
Before your next flight, check whether you have complimentary access to any of the Miami airport lounges mentioned above, either through your airline loyalty membership, credit card benefit or other qualifying program.
How to maximize your rewards
You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024, including those best for:
Step into the time machine and jazz up your kitchen with a touch of retro magic. Decorating your kitchen isn’t just a task for the pros – it’s a cool adventure for anyone who’s up for a bit of fun and self-expression. There’s a whole world of possibilities and decorating styles waiting for you, from different ways to deck out your space to tons of styles to play with.
Sure, following trending designs is easy, but why not kick it up a notch? Throw in some timeless pieces and a few vintage finds, to create the perfect retro kitchen. Retro pieces add character and charm, turning your kitchen into a cozy spot filled with stories and nostalgia. Think of it as turning every meal into a little celebration of togetherness.
What encapsulates retro style?
It’s a blast from the past – think vintage vibes that draw inspiration from history, trends or even artistic expressions. It covers everything from music and fashion to attitudes. And guess what? You don’t have to limit yourself to the last two decades with your retro kitchen ideas – go ahead, mix and match, and make it your own.
Unleashing your inner designer with these retro kitchen ideas
Decorating your kitchen isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating an experience. As you explore these retro-inspired ideas, imagine the stories each element tells. Picture the laughter around the diner-style booth, the ticking of the vintage wall clock and the timeless elegance of mid-century modern appliances. Get ready to unleash your inner retro designer and let your kitchen become a canvas for your unique style with these retro kitchen ideas.
Peel-and-stick checkboard floors
Remember those classic 1950s American diner floors? Well, now you can have them too! Go for a black-and-white checkered floor pattern to capture the epitome of nostalgia. And the best part? Peel-and-stick flooring makes it renter-friendly, so no worries about leaving a mess behind or causing any damage.
Retro gallery wall
If you’re not sure where to start, go for a gallery wall. Retro art is easy to find, whether you’re printing out funky black-and-white patterns or framing vintage family photos. It’s your chance to be the curator of your own time capsule.
Coca-Cola decor
Embrace the cool retro vibes with some Coca-Cola decor. From wall clocks to signage, make your kitchen scream “Ice-cold Coke waiting for you!” – a touch of vintage coolness that your guests will love.
Vintage wall clock
If you’re short on wall space, grab a vintage-inspired wall clock. Sure, they might be less popular these days, but they’re the perfect accessory to give your kitchen that timeless touch. Pick one with a charming design to add a dash of elegance to your space.
Vintage bar stools
Hunt for some retro treasures at your local antique store – vintage bar stools! Look for bright colors, chrome accents or vinyl upholstery that screams retro. It’s a quick way to transport your kitchen back in time.
Midcentury modern appliances
When you’re upgrading your kitchen with modern appliances that rock a retro look, it’s always a good idea to start with midcentury modern furnishings. Brands like SMEG and Forte have got you covered. They combine vintage aesthetics with cutting-edge technology, giving your kitchen that perfect blend of old-school charm and modern convenience. These retro appliances, including a retro fridge, toaster, tea kettle and other retro kitchen accessories, are an investment, meaning you can count on them to stand the test of time.
Diner-style booth furniture
Bring back the iconic diner seating from the good ol’ days. While it might be a bit tricky, corner breakfast nooks or bench seating give you that retro-inspired feel, blending nostalgia with a touch of contemporary sophistication for the perfect vintage look.
Antique lighting fixtures
Let there be light – but make it retro! Find fixtures with bright colors or funky shapes to set the mood in your kitchen. Pendant lights, in particular, come in a variety of fun retro options that’ll match your style.
The coolest spot in town is your retro-style kitchen
It’s possible to curate a kitchen that’s not just a place to cook but a living, breathing homage to the past. Your vintage-inspired haven isn’t confined by the constraints of time; it’s a space that evolves with you, adapting to new memories while preserving the magic of yesteryear. Get ready to host unforgettable gatherings and create lasting impressions in the coolest spot in town – your very own retro kitchen.
Still looking for that perfect kitchen where you’ll create culinary masterpieces and good memories? Find the perfect place in one of our available apartments.
Landlords across the country have been empowered to act as a kind of police force in the name of crime prevention for decades. How? Through local “nuisance property” laws and “crime-free housing” programs that require them to evict tenants for vaguely defined “criminal activities.”
As of Monday, California became the first state in the nation to ban so-called crime-free housing programs. More states should follow suit.
Such laws target low-income and minority renters for eviction and violate their civil rights. That’s bad enough. But they also fail to reduce crime.
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Cities across the country have been implementing these policies for about 30 years, building on the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988, which stepped up evictions in federally subsidized housing. By 2019, about 2,000 American cities had a crime-free housing program, and 37 of the 40 largest U.S. cities had a nuisance property ordinance.
Even as these policies spread, their efficacy was in doubt. I led a recent analysis of California’s crime-free housing policies that found they had no effect on crime. Other researchers have found that by driving people into desperation and homelessness, nuisance property ordinances may actually increase property crime.
Crime-free housing policies backfire partly because they treat 911 calls as an indicator of criminal activity. This creates a perverse incentive: For fear of being evicted, tenants don’t call authorities when they need them.
This particularly harms victims of domestic violence, who may hesitate to seek help from police lest they lose their housing. These policies can also dissuade tenants from seeking medical aid during drug overdoses or mental health crises. Evictions also hamper crime prevention by disrupting community social networks, making it harder for residents to monitor what’s going on in their neighborhoods — a critical element of crime prevention.
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My study of California found that city blocks with apartments certified as crime-free saw 21% more evictions than blocks without such housing. Other researchers have found that nuisance property ordinances increase eviction filing rates by 16%. In the six months after the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development instituted a “One Strike and You’re Out” policy on criminal activity in 1996, reported evictions from public housing surged 40%.
Evictions are deeply harmful in many ways. People who are evicted struggle to find housing again, and tenants removed from public housing are prohibited from receiving housing assistance. That can lead to more homelessness and desperation. Evictions also cause disproportionate housing insecurity for children, more unemployment, additional use of emergency room resources, and accidental drug and alcohol deaths.
Legal experts have argued persuasively that punishing people with eviction instead of through criminal justice procedures also denies them due process. These policies don’t require an arrest or conviction or even an indication of crime anywhere near the property. They don’t even require a crime.
People have been evicted under crime-free housing policies over kids playing basketball or jumping on a trampoline and because of complaints about barbecues. Tenants can even face severe consequences for the behavior of their guests. One federal court case concerns an Illinois city trying to evict a family because of a burglary committed by a friend of their teenage son who had slept on their couch.
The policies tend to be selectively enforced, with low-income, multifamily properties bearing the brunt. This has led the Department of Justice to take action against cities for violations of the Fair Housing Act and other federal laws. In 2022, the San Bernardino County city of Hesperia signed a consent decree with the federal government related to selective application of its crime-free housing program. Lawsuits have been filed on similar grounds against cities in Washington, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Minnesota.
What is the point of these harmful policies if they aren’t reducing crime? Public officials have suggested their real goal is segregation.
A Hesperia official acknowledged that the purpose of the city’s crime-free housing program was to remove what he described as “those kind of people” and “improve our demographic.” The mayor of Bedford, Ohio, said the city’s nuisance property ordinance was about taking “pride in middle-class values” and curtailing “urban immigration.” The analysis I led found that cities with crime-free housing programs had larger Black populations and that the affected apartments were on lower-income blocks with larger Black and Latino populations.
HUD has issued guidance to cities on how these policies may violate the Fair Housing Act by disproportionately evicting women, victims of crime and people with disabilities. But more needs to be done.
Following California’s lead, other states should limit evictions under these policies without an arrest or conviction or based on the behavior of nonresidents. Cities should also be required to report the number of evictions resulting from crime-free housing policies and nuisance ordinances. Similar federal policies also need reconsideration, including the one-strike policy for public housing and the rules that prevent evicted tenants from obtaining future housing assistance.
These policies and the evictions they cause are at best an ineffective means of preventing crime. At worst, they’re a harmful form of discrimination that leads to more crime and homelessness. Ending them could make all our communities safer.
Max Griswold is a policy researcher at the Rand Corp.
Are you longing for more beyond your current circumstances? To be more? To do more? To have more? Today’s guest, Dianna Kokoszka, helped countless Realtors become more while serving as the CEO of Keller Williams’ MAPS coaching program. And now, she’s striving to help more people, including listeners like you, reach their true potential. Listen and learn how Dianna took MAPS coaching from a program that was losing money to one that generated over $500 million per year by transforming real estate agents’ lives for the better. Dianna also shares several can’t-miss tips from her upcoming book, Becoming More: You Can’t Get to Better Until You Get to Different. Don’t miss it!
Listen to today’s show and learn:
Dianna Kokoszka’s first year in real estate: 104 homes sold [2:22]
The beginning of buyer’s agents [4:56]
How wrong things can go when you don’t watch your money [6:33]
Transforming KW MAPS Coaching into a $500 million business [8:42]
The power of the right mindset [9:52]
Advice on turning a failing business into a huge success [11:33]
Breaking out of your mental cage [15:00]
The difference between attitude and mindset [16:10]
The seven mindsets of limitation and the seven of liberation [17:22]
What dictates the decisions you make [19:38]
Bringing out the best in your people [23:51]
KW MAPS success stories [27:06]
The steps for scaling a real estate business [32:21]
Training your brain for success [37:21]
Learning from the leaders of thought [39:01]
What Blockbuster, RadioShack, and Sears taught us [40:43]
Get to better by getting to different [42:18]
Mentorship and adding value [42:35]
Where to find and follow Dianna Kokoszka [44:19]
Dianna Kokoszka
As CEO of Mega Achievement Productivity Systems (KW MAPS Coaching), Dianna Kokoszka was responsible for building the most powerful coaching and mastermind program in the industry. She led a team of more than 35 coaches, who provided coaching programs tailor-made to help their clients.
In 2009, Dianna created the BOLD (Business Objective: Life by Design) program, which instantly took hold and transformed the careers and beliefs about what was possible for thousands of real estate professionals.
Passionately committed to providing a high level of motivation and accountability to her clients, Dianna has over 30 years of real estate experience. Formerly as team leader of the Keller Williams Realty Denver-West Market Center, she pioneered documentation and accountability systems for real estate agents, helping others to draw upon her prior success as a mega agent.
Her entrepreneurial spirit and industry renown have resulted in many industry honors and awards, including the Stevie Award for the Best Sales Coaching Program; an appointment to the President of the United States’ Business Advisory Council; Denver Entrepreneur of the Year in 1984 and 1991; and Denver Businesswoman of the Year in 1986, 2003 and 2004.
Kokoszka’s tenacity and ingenious methods have not only brought her press coverage, they’ve brought her big business. She believes we are all creative, resourceful and whole. May we empower others to actively engage and participate in their own evolving transformations.
She is a founding member of the John Maxwell Team of Certified Coaches, an author of 19 system books for real estate offices, and loves to add value to others.
Dianna is the author to her new book Becoming More – published with the John Maxwell Publishing Company.
Despite her impressive achievements, Dianna believes that her greatest titles are wife, mother, and grandmother. She lives with her husband, Tony DiCello, on Lake Travis in Lakeway TX, where she loves to waterski or sit on the dock and read her Bible. She enjoys a good clean joke, traveling, reading, and spending her time with her 3 boys and 4 grandchildren.
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It might go without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway: We really value listeners like you. We’re constantly working to improve the show, so why not leave us a review? If you love the content and can’t stand the thought of missing the nuggets our Rockstar guests share every week, please subscribe; it’ll get you instant access to our latest episodes and is the best way to support your favorite real estate podcast. Have questions? Suggestions? Want to say hi? Shoot me a message via Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or Email.
Listen and learn how to crush it in a chaotic industry like real estate. Today’s guest, Kristen Beahm, structured her real estate business around systems, and she’s here to share how. Kristen covers team building, task tracking, and more. She even talks about her biggest takeaway from a recent Tom Ferry conference—tracking your input to control the output. Don’t miss it!
Listen to today’s show and learn:
About Kristen Beahm [1:41]
How Kristen got into real estate [2:18]
Experience vs. time in real estate [4:23]
Tips on building a real estate team [7:16]
Why you shouldn’t bring on an agent too early [8:01]
Templates and tools for automating real estate processes [9:36]
Download Kristen’s templates for FREE here [11:00]
How to get started with systems [12:02]
The biggest mistake new Realtors make [15:13]
What Asana and Notion are and how they can help you stay organized [16:40]
Other tech tools Kristen recommends [19:35]
Keeping communication simple with a small team [22:42]
Team members who help get real estate deals done [23:44]
Where to find your first few hires [26:07]
Where Kristen’s team gets real estate leads [27:27]
Times to touch contacts to stay top of mind [28:53]
What Kristen is working on in her business right now [32:16]
A different type of advice for new real estate agents [35:24]
A tip from last year’s Tom Ferry conference [39:16]
Where to find and follow Kristen Beahm [42:33]
Kristen Beahm
Kristen Beahm co-founded the KB Collective Real Estate team in 2018. Since then, she’s led her team to become the Top Producing Team at Worth Clark Realty every year (2018-2022). With over $145,000,000 sold and over 500 clients served, their team is one of the Top 50 Realtors® in the St. Louis area, and is proud of the small difference they’ve been able to make in the community with a donation with every hold sold to Angels’ Arms, an organization dedicated to supporting local foster kids and families.
Kristen serves residential clients expanding from first time home buyers, buy & hold investors, new construction clients, sellers, and luxury property owners primarily across St. Louis and St. Charles Counties. She is committed to providing every one of her clients an exceptional experience, regularly striving to simplify the process for the, ‘WOW’ them along the way, and raise the bar in the industry. Her latest accomplishment was being named as part of this year’s 30 Under 30 Class with the National Association of REALTORS.
Kristen grew up just outside of St. Louis, and studied Finance & Real Estate at the University of Missouri. Shortly after graduation, she purchased her first home, which is now leveraged as a cash-flowing rental property. She currently resides in Wildwood with her husband Christopher, daughter Dorothy, and dog Sake. You can often find them at the local CrossFit gym, outside at a local park or trail, or exploring St. Louis’s food and drink scene.
Related Links and Resources:
It might go without saying, but I’m going to say it anyway: We really value listeners like you. We’re constantly working to improve the show, so why not leave us a review? If you love the content and can’t stand the thought of missing the nuggets our Rockstar guests share every week, please subscribe; it’ll get you instant access to our latest episodes and is the best way to support your favorite real estate podcast. Have questions? Suggestions? Want to say hi? Shoot me a message via Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or Email.