Did anyone ever give you a user’s manual for your checking account?
Probably not. There are best practices in managing a checking account, but even if you learned the rules from your parents or through your own hard-won experience (or if you never did), it may be time for a little checking account check-up.
Why? Because some of the rules for checking accounts no longer apply. Financial regulation, market conditions and technological developments have all changed some of the ways you should think about managing your checking account.
Here are today’s rules — some new, some old, and some a matter of personal choice — for managing your checking account.
New rules for checking accounts Don’t be pressured into opting in to overdraft protection. The Federal Reserve now requires U.S. banks to have customers actively opt in to overdraft protection before applying that protection to their checking accounts.
Banks very badly want you to opt in, because the fees are so juicy — a MoneyRates.com survey of bank fees released in July 2010 found that the average overdraft fee was $29.26. Although this fee could very well lead to the proverbial $30 cup of coffee, a poll by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling found that more than a quarter of Americans plan to opt in to overdraft protection.
Don’t opt in to overdraft protection without thinking long and hard about whether it makes sense for the way you use your account — more on this below.
Keep a large cushion in your checking account. Conventional wisdom was that you should keep your checking account balance at a minimum, so more of your money could be earning high interest somewhere else.
These days, though, with the FDIC reporting that the national average for savings account interest rates is 0.19 percent annually, you won’t be missing out on much interest if you keep more money in your checking account.
Having this cushion — large enough for you to avoid overdrafts entirely or not worry about monthly maintenance fees — can more than make up for the lost interest. Rather than thinking about bank fees as a few dollars here or a few dollars there, think about them as negative interest — so a single month’s $10 maintenance fee really sets you back.
Make use of banking technology. Debit cards have accelerated the pace of banking. Aggressively use technology like online banking, electronic expense tracking and mobile alerts to accelerate the pace of your account monitoring. There’s no reason not to check your checking account balance every morning, especially if you are going to be using your debit card that day.
Oldie-but-goodie rules for checking accounts Some rules for handling checking accounts are timeless.
Balance your account. If you simply rely on the bank’s records, you will be less alert to possible fraud or new fees on your account. Keep your own set of records, and check it against the bank’s record at least once a month. Is that extra work? Yes. Do banks sometimes make mistakes? Absolutely.
Shop around. Not all checking accounts are created equal. The July 2010 MoneyRates.com bank fee survey found that 44.2 percent of checking accounts have no monthly fees, but on other accounts those fees can range as high as $50 — that would come to $600 a year. Overdraft fees can be as low as $18 or as high as $35 dollars.
Comparing checking accounts for the lowest fees and terms that fit your banking habits can make a huge difference.
Protect your data. Make sure you are using a secure Internet connection before accessing your account online, and avoid using public computers for online banking. If you use old-fashioned paper checks, mail them in a secure mailbox — bill payments usually look obvious and are a favorite target of fraudsters.
Your rules for checking accounts Some ways to best manage a checking account depend on your own habits and preferences.
Figure out how your usage patterns affect your fees. Bank fees come in a variety of flavors — monthly maintenance fees, overdraft fees and ATM fees, to name some common examples.
Identifying the “lowest-fee” checking account depends a lot on how you use the account. If you never overdraft your account, you might not mind an account with high overdraft fees, and you could even opt in for overdraft protection just to be on the safe side. If, however, you are a serial overdrafter, you’d better look for low overdraft fees — or seriously consider not opting for overdraft protection so you will be forced to break this bad habit.
Find a record-keeping method you will stick with. The “on-the-fly” nature of debt card transactions causes many people to neglect their recordkeeping, but you can’t manage your finances responsibly without good information.
You can bring a paper register with you to record transactions as you make them, get fancy with a smartphone app or simply keep your receipts in your wallet and sit down at the end of the day to log them in. (There are a number of tips and tricks offered by others to track your spending. Monitor your balance and transactions in whatever way works for you, but stick with it.)
Leave home without it. One old ad campaign for a major credit card advised, “Don’t leave home without it.” A newer one asks, “What’s in your wallet?” The common theme is that credit and debit cards should accompany you wherever you go.
If you’re prone to compulsive spending, however, you may want to rethink that. Try going cold turkey on carrying your debit card around now and then, and see if you spend less money as a result. If you find it helpful to use cash, try the envelope system.
Checking accounts are both a tremendous convenience and a potential source of financial trouble. Following a few simple rules for handling your checking account will help give you the convenience without the trouble.
Our family has been going through a transformation from a paycheck-to-paycheck family to a family that has money in the bank. While I wouldn’t say we are extreme frugalists, we do try to save as much money as we can, yet still provide excellent entertainment and learning opportunities for our family. Like J.D. (and many others!), we have struggled with finding that balance where we allow some fun while working to increase our financial health.
When it comes to entertainment, I think we are close to finding that balance. We do allow some money in our budget for that type of spending, but not much. We supplement our spending by enjoying as many free activities/events in our area as we can. But where do we find them?
The internet turned out to be a great resource for us and I thought I would share what I’ve learned with you. Of course, internet sources vary greatly depending on where you live so this is a generic list that I hope can be helpful to everyone. By all means, if you have suggestions, feel free to share with everyone in the comments!
TV & Radio Stations — Most of our local stations have an online community calendar. While not everything listed has been free, I have found some great gems.
Newspapers — Our newspaper’s online version has a community calendar. They also sometimes post articles about free events (they tend to be right before the event so they are last minute finds).
Hospitals — I never knew our local hospital sponsored so many free activities to promote good health! The free activities around us are often geared towards kids but the whole family is invited.
Cities/Towns — Municipalities around us have event pages to promote what is happening. Free concerts around us are pretty popular.
Local Tourism Sites — Our local tourism sites have given us ideas regarding free places to visit and explore in our area. They also have a calendar that we check for free events.
Bookstores & Libraries — When it comes to finding free presentations by authors or literacy programs for children, bookstores and libraries are the place to look.
Sporting Goods Stores — I was surprised when I came across a local sporting goods store with a calendar of events. One near us sponsors things like free get-together bike rides.
National & State Parks — some state parks in our area have free nature programs and hikes for families during the summer.
Schools & Colleges — One school in our area has an online newsletter on their website that includes upcoming local activities for families. I’ve found quite a few free things to do from that. The local college advertises free seminars and concerts. Both of these are usually more active during the school year.
Historical Societies & Museums — In my experience, there is usually a fee for events sponsored by historical societies and museums. However, at least once a year the ones near us have a free open house and some link to free historical seminars at other locations.
Target Stores — They are sponsoring free and reduced fee activities this summer. The activities are in major metropolitan areas, but if you are near one there are some great offerings. For example, admission to the Portland Children’s Museum is free on the first Friday of the month.
Search Engines — I’ve found a few obscure free things to do just by searching for “free events [my town]” or “free activities [my town]” on Google.
The sites I find are bookmarked and checked weekly. The small amount of time I spend to check them is worth it since the free activities and events we attend feel like little splurges to us. They are fun and they are free!
The photo of the girl is by D Sharon Pruitt.The second photo is by the Goddard Space Flight Center of “The Sunday Experiment”, a free program they hosted earlier this year.
Inside: Are you looking for ways to make money quickly and easily? This guide has a variety of tips and tricks to help you make 1000 a day.
Making money is something that everyone is interested in. And why wouldn’t we be? Money gives us the ability to buy the things we want, travel, and live a lifestyle that most people can only dream of.
But what if I told you that it was possible to make $1000 a day? Would you believe me?
Well, in this blog post, I’m going to show you some of the best ways to make money really fast.
So if you’re looking to make some quick cash or consistent income, then this is the post for you!
In this post, I will share with your some of the best ways that I know of to make money $1k a day on a regular basis.
So if you’re ready to learn how to make 1000 a day, then let’s get started!
Is it possible to make $1000 a day?
Yes, it is possible to make $1000 a day.
In fact, this is something I regularly do (see picture to prove it).
However, achieving this goal requires commitment, hard work, and a solid plan. Factors that contribute to achieving this goal include finding a method that works for you, sticking with it, and putting in the necessary effort.
Additionally, having a unique skill set and interest in a particular method can increase the chances of success.
How to make $1000 a day?
Making $1000 a day is an appealing goal for many people, whether it’s a one-time need or a consistent source of income. Fortunately, there are several ways to achieve this goal.
Here are the top ways to make $1000 a day:
Start a high-paying job: Some jobs pay over $300k a year, and while they may require advanced degrees and education, there are also a few that don’t require a college degree.
Offer high-value services: You can offer services such as pet-sitting, tutoring, design work, or writing to make money.
Start a business: You can start a business that generates $1000 a day, such as a digital marketing agency, freelancing, or a service-based business.
Sell items you no longer need: You can sell items on eBay, Craigslist, or other online marketplaces to make quick cash.
Let your money work for you: You can invest in stocks and shares, real estate, or property to earn upwards of $1000 a day.
While each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, with the right strategy and dedication, making $1000 a day is achievable.
So, get started today and see how much money you can make.
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Best ways to make 1000 a day
We’ve compiled a list of our favorite ways to make money really fast – specifically $1k a day!
Many times, you will have to invest 100 to make 1000 a day.
If you’re looking for ways to make some extra cash, or even earn a full-time income, this post is for you.
1. Freelance Writing
Freelance writing is a great way to make extra money or even replace your full-time job. There are various types of content that freelance writers can specialize in, such as long-form content or shorter direct-response copywriting.
With freelance writing, you can earn over $.50 or even $1 per word, which means that a 1,000-word article could net you $1,000 quickly.
To start, you need to establish a portfolio of your work to pitch to new clients. This portfolio should include links to any relevant articles or copy you’ve written that’s related to the client you’re pitching. If you don’t have a portfolio yet, you might need to do some work at lower rates to get your foot in the door.
Even if you don’t consider yourself a writer, don’t strike it off the list just yet. With the right approach and mindset, anyone can become a successful freelance writer.
2. Crafting
Crafting offers many benefits beyond just making extra cash. It allows for flexibility in your schedule, creativity in your work, and the ability to turn a hobby into a lucrative business.
If you are creative and have a talent for creating handmade items, then starting a crafting business is the perfect way to monetize that skill by doing something you enjoy. There are plenty of crafts to choose from and you may even become an instructor!
The most difficult side is you are trading your time for money and it may be difficult to scale.
3. Day Trading Stocks
Day trading stocks is a high-risk, high-reward investment strategy that involves buying and selling stocks within a single trading day. It requires a great deal of knowledge, discipline, and risk management to be successful.
However, there is a large group of us who have made the $1000 in a day club.
Successful day traders use a combination of technical analysis, risk management, and discipline to make profitable trades.
This choice requires discipline, a proper trading education, knowledge, and risk management.
Trade and Travel with Teri Ijeoma is a popular course that investors can take to learn about trading stocks and options and begin their journey to making $1,000 a day.
4. Trading Options
Trading options can be a lucrative way for seasoned investors to make money.
With options, investors can speculate on different stocks with only a fraction of the investment capital needed to buy the stocks outright.
Investors who are familiar with investing in individual stocks can take the next step in the process by trading options. While options may seem exotic on the surface, they are a common tool used by seasoned investors and are especially valuable during volatile activity in the stock market.
To trade options successfully, investors need research skills, investing knowledge, discipline, and patience.
Trading options can be a high-risk option, especially for those who lack expertise in the area. However, it can be extremely lucrative for those who have experience and knowledge in the stock market.
Investors should consider taking courses to learn more about trading options.
5. Youtube
YouTube can be a great source of income for those who are willing to put in the effort to create quality content. It offers multiple ways to generate revenue, including sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and Google Adsense.
With the right approach, it’s possible to make $1000 or more per day on YouTube.
Remember, success on YouTube takes time and hard work, but the potential rewards are significant.
6. Selling on Amazon
Selling products on Amazon can be a highly profitable business opportunity.
Amazon FBA, or Fulfilled by Amazon, is a business model where you send your inventory to Amazon warehouses and they handle the rest, including storage, shipping, customer service, and returns.
This makes it a great option for digital nomads and those looking to scale their business quickly.
With an average profit margin of $20 per sale, it’s possible to make $1,000 per day by selling just 5 units per day of 10 different products.
7. Sell Printables Online
Selling printables online has become a popular way to make passive income.
With the rise of digital products, creators can sell anything from coloring pages to budget spreadsheets on platforms like Etsy. Thousands of creators make a living selling digital products, and it’s easy to see why.
Learn how these sellers got started.
The key is to pick a topic you’re knowledgeable in and passionate about, so you can create high-quality products that people will want to buy.
8. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is one of the best ways to make $1000 a day, especially for those looking to start a business with minimal initial investment.
This business model allows entrepreneurs to sell products to customers without ever holding a single piece of stock.
Dropshipping is a viable and profitable business model that can generate high profits without the hassle of managing inventory. With the right niche, platform, supplier, and marketing strategy, entrepreneurs can make $1000 a day or more with dropshipping.
9. Consulting
Consulting is one of the best ways to make $1000 a day!
It’s a lucrative career option that allows you to provide expert advice to clients and help them solve problems.
The first step to becoming a consultant is to determine your area of expertise. This could be anything from personal finance to marketing to human resources. Your expertise should be something that you have significant knowledge and experience in.
One of the most important aspects of becoming a consultant is building your network. This includes reaching out to potential clients, attending networking events, and connecting with other professionals in your field.
10. Become a Virtual Assistant
Being a virtual assistant can be a great way to make money while setting your own hours.
As a virtual assistant with no experience, you can work from home and typically on your own schedule. You can choose to work part-time or full-time based on your availability and the workload of your clients.
The tasks that you are asked to perform as a virtual assistant can vary widely, but commonly needed skills include administration, accounting and bookkeeping, marketing, communications, customer service, and many other capacities.
You don’t need special skills or training for this job, as most clients will bring you up to speed on what they need to do. However, having organizational, communication, and time-management skills can be helpful.
Check out the checklist to get started as a virtual assistant.
11. Side Hustles
Side hustles are a great way to earn extra income and supplement your regular income. With a little effort and some creativity, you can make up to $1000 a day with certain side hustles.
Here are some of the best side hustles that can help you achieve this goal:
Deliver food: You can make good money by delivering food with these apps. You can choose your own hours and work as much or as little as you want. DoorDash is a great option.
Drive with ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft: If you have a car and some free time, you can earn money by driving people around. You can make up to $1000 a day, depending on how much you work.
Pet sit or walk dogs: If you love animals, you can make money by pet sitting or dog walking through Rover.com. You can earn up to $50 per day, depending on the services you offer.
Babysit or tutor: If you have experience with children or are good at a particular subject, you can offer your services as a babysitter or tutor through Care.com. You can make up to $50 per hour, depending on your qualifications.
Side hustles are a great way to make extra money and reach your financial goals.
12. Start a Business
Starting a business is one of the most effective ways to make 1000 dollars a day on a regular basis. However, it requires careful planning and execution to succeed.
The first step is to research the market and identify a profitable business idea and build it to profitability.
Challenges may arise, such as competition, financial setbacks, and marketing difficulties, but with persistence and determination, you can overcome them and achieve financial success.
The potential for significant financial gain from starting a successful business is immense, making it a worthwhile endeavor for anyone willing to put in the effort.
13. Yard Work
Yard work is an excellent way to make $1000 a day, especially if you have some extra time and don’t mind getting dirty.
If you want to get up and running quickly, there is nothing better than a local side hustle to earn extra money such as mowing lawns in your neighborhood.
Mowing lawns is not only a great side hustle for adults but also for teens. For an average size lot, you could expect to make at least $35. If you could line up a few lawns each weekend, you could easily make an extra $1000 each month.
Landscaping, leave pickup, and bush trimming are all simple tasks that you can complete quickly if you have the right equipment. You can choose to set an hourly rate or get paid for the entire job, depending on the task.
You may have to start hiring crews in order to hit $1k a day.
14. AirBnb or VRBO Rentals
Airbnb or VRBO are popular platforms for renting out your property to travelers.
Many successful hosts have earned $1000 or more per day because they have accumulated more than one property.
One tip for success is to garner excellent reviews that people want to come back time and time again.
15. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is a lucrative way to make money online and has the potential to earn you $1000 a day.
This works well for influencers who have a reach of thousands of people. Another way is creating a niche website that focuses on a specific product or market segment.
It’s essential to promote products effectively to generate revenue. Successful affiliate marketers have earned six figures or more per year.
16. Flip Products or Retail Arbitrage
Retail arbitrage is a popular business model that can help you make $1,000 per day or more. The premise is simple – buy or find things cheap and resell them for a higher price.
This is a great example of how to flip money.
To be successful, you’ll need to have an eye for the right product and do product research to choose products that will sell.
Here is a list of the most popular items to flip.
17. Pickup Services
Pickup services refer to businesses that provide transportation and delivery services for goods, furniture, or other items. These services are in high demand, especially in urban areas where people are always on the move and need help with moving heavy or bulky items.
Starting a pickup service business requires some equipment, such as a truck or van, and marketing strategies to attract customers.
So, if you are looking for a new side hustle or business opportunity, consider pickup services as a viable option.
18. Casino Gambling
While casino gambling is not a recommended way to make $1000 a day, it is still worth mentioning as a potential option.
However, it is important to note that gambling should always be done responsibly and within one’s means.
If you are considering casino gambling as a way to make quick money, it is essential to understand the most profitable games and their strategies. Here is an ordered list of the best casino games to play to make money:
Blackjack: This game has one of the lowest house edges, making it a popular choice for professional gamblers. The objective of the game is to beat the dealer’s hand without going over 21. The key to winning at blackjack is to use basic strategy, which involves making the mathematically correct decisions based on the dealer’s upcard and your own hand.
Craps: This game has a low house edge and offers a variety of betting options. The objective of the game is to predict the outcome of a roll or series of rolls of the dice. To win at craps, it is essential to understand the different bets and their odds and to follow a betting strategy that suits your playing style.
Baccarat: This game is easy to learn and has a low house edge. The objective of the game is to bet on the hand that will have a total of 9 or closer to 9. The key to winning at baccarat is to understand the different bets and their odds and to follow a betting strategy that suits your playing style.
When playing these games, it is important to practice good bankroll management by setting a budget for yourself and sticking to it. It is also crucial to know when to quit to avoid losing money.
A winning streak can lead to making $1000 a day, but it is important to be cautious and not get carried away.
19. Freelance Graphic Design
Graphic designers create visual concepts using computer software or by hand to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They work on various projects such as branding, marketing materials, website design, and more.
Freelance graphic design is a lucrative option because there is always a demand for graphic design services, and businesses are willing to pay top dollar for high-quality designs.
By building a strong portfolio, staying up-to-date with the latest design trends, and providing excellent service to your clients, you can earn a substantial income as a freelance graphic designer.
20. Make Money Flipping Items
Flea market flipping is a great way to make some extra cash on the side or even turn it into a full-time business. It involves buying items for a low price and reselling them for a profit.
One couple, Rob and Melissa Stephenson, have become full-time flea market flippers and even host their own website, Flea Market Flipper, to help others find success in the venture. They offer several courses to help individuals turn this into a serious side hustle or even a full-time business earning six figures.
Learning from successful flea market flippers like Stephenson’s can be a great way to get started. They have the skills and knowledge to help individuals find valuable items, network, and use social media and photography to their advantage.
21. Photography
Photography is a lucrative career option that has the potential to generate high income or as a side hustle.
There are different types of photography that one can explore to make money, including wedding photography, family photography, real estate photography, and stock photography.
By building a strong portfolio, networking, finding clients, investing in high-quality equipment, and constantly improving your skills, you can become a successful photographer and make a great income. Don’t underestimate your potential in this field.
22. Rental Income
Passive income through rental properties is a great way to generate consistent long-term income. Here are the steps to follow in order to make $1000 a day through rent income:
Find a suitable property: Look for properties that are priced reasonably, require minimal renovations, and are located in areas with high rental demand. You are likely to start making $1000 a month.
However, the earning potential is dependent on the ability to scale multiple properties, keep them occupied, and increase monthly income streams.
Investing in rental properties can be a lucrative and rewarding experience for those willing to put in the effort.
23. Amazon Merch
Amazon Merch is a platform that allows you to create and sell your own merchandise on Amazon. It’s an excellent way to make money because Amazon handles all of the heavy lifting, such as printing, shipping, and customer service.
Using Amazon Merch, you can sell a variety of products from t-shirts to phone cases, and best of all, you don’t need to invest in inventory or equipment.
All you need to do is create the designs.
Successful Amazon Merch sellers include graphic designers, artists, and entrepreneurs who have created unique and appealing designs that resonate with their target audience.
24. Creative Skills like Video Editing
Creative skills can be a valuable asset when it comes to generating income. Video editing is another skill that can be monetized.
With the rise of video content, businesses, and individuals are always in need of skilled video editors. One can offer video editing services for YouTube creators, and businesses, or even edit personal videos for clients.
Freelance platforms like Upwork and Fiverr are great places to find video editing jobs.
25. Fashion Design
Fashion design is one of the most lucrative ways to make money, and it’s an industry that’s always in demand.
Whether you’re interested in starting your own fashion label, working for a fashion house, or becoming a freelance designer, there are plenty of opportunities to make a living in this field.
Marketing yourself is also key to success in fashion design. Use social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to showcase your work and build a following.
Networking is also an important part of building a successful career in fashion design. You must stay up-to-date on industry trends, make valuable connections, and potentially land new clients or job opportunities.
Create a website or blog where you can share your designs, offer fashion tips, and connect with potential clients.
Pay attention to industry trends, stay creative and original, and focus on developing your skills and building your brand. Then, there are plenty of opportunities to make a living in this exciting and dynamic industry.
26. Start a Blog
Many people say blogging is dead. But, it’s not.
Starting a blog can be a great way to share your interests, skills, and experiences with others while also creating a new income stream for yourself. The flexibility of blogging allows you to turn your current job or passion into a successful blog.
However, starting a blog can be challenging, and it requires technical knowledge, writing ability, social media skills, and topical expertise.
Once you have started your blog, it’s essential to treat it like a business and monetize your content.
27. Self-Storage Business
Self-storage business is a lucrative venture that involves renting out storage units to customers who need extra space for their belongings. These businesses are in high demand, especially in urban areas where living spaces are often small and cramped.
In fact, the self-storage business is expected to bloom to $64.17 billion by 2026.
Starting a self-storage business can be a profitable venture if done correctly.
28. Invest in Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies have gained popularity as a potential source of significant income. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin are some of the best cryptocurrencies to invest in.
To invest in cryptocurrencies, one must first set up a digital wallet and choose a reputable exchange such as Coinbase or Bitstamp.
It is important to research the market and understand the volatility of cryptocurrency before investing. While the potential for high returns exists, it is important to approach cryptocurrency investing with caution.
29. Invest in Real Estate
Investing in real estate can be a lucrative way of making money.
To make $1000 a day through real estate investing, there are several steps you can take.
First, set aside a few hundred dollars each month to invest in real estate over time.
Second, consider the different types of real estate investments available, such as rental properties, commercial properties, and fix-and-flip properties. Each investment type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to research and choose the one that fits your financial goals.
Third, consider investing in real estate investment trusts (REITs) or crowdfunding platforms like Fundrise, which allow you to invest in real estate without purchasing a property.
Remember that investing in real estate carries a degree of risk, so it’s important to do your research and seek advice from successful real estate investors.
30. Make Money on the Internet
Making money online has become a popular option for those looking to earn a substantial income. The internet provides a wealth of opportunities for anyone with an internet connection and a bit of creativity.
You need to learn how to make money online for beginners.
There are so many options today and you never have to leave your house!
When it comes to making $1000 a day online, it’s important to acknowledge that it’s not a quick or easy process. It takes time and effort to build a successful online business or generate significant income through freelance work or other online opportunities.
However, with dedication and hard work, it is possible to achieve your financial goals.
How to make $1,000 really fast?
If you’re in a financial bind and need to make $1,000 quickly, there are several options available to you.
Here are the top ways to make $1,000 a day quickly:
Sell items on eBay or Craigslist: If you have items that you no longer need, consider selling them online. This could include clothes, furniture, or electronics. This is a quick and easy way to make money fast.
Offer freelance services: You can offer services such as tutoring, design work, or writing. If you have a specific skill or talent, you can find customers online who are willing to pay for your services.
Do odd jobs for people in your community: You can offer to mow lawns, rake leaves, or shovel snow for a fee. This is a great way to make money quickly, especially if you live in an area with a lot of homeowners.
Participate in paid focus groups or surveys: This is a great way to make money quickly without leaving your home. Companies are always looking for feedback on their products and services, and they are willing to pay for it.
Rent out a room in your home on Airbnb: If you have a spare room in your home, you can rent it out on Airbnb and make money quickly. This is a great option if you live in a popular tourist destination.
Manage social media accounts: Many businesses need help managing their social media accounts, and they are willing to pay for them. If you have experience with social media, this could be a great way to make money quickly.
Start a blog: If you have a passion for writing or a specific topic, you can start a blog and sell advertising space or products/services to your readers. This takes some time to build up, but it can be a lucrative way to make money in the long run.
Sell handmade crafts or goods online: If you’re crafty, you can make items and sell them online, such as on Etsy. This is a great way to turn your hobby into a money-making opportunity.
Borrow money from friends or family: This is not an ideal option, but if you’re in a bind and need money quickly, consider asking for a loan from someone you trust.
Pawn items for cash: This is a last resort option, but if you have items of value, you can pawn them for cash quickly.
Don’t be afraid to try different methods and see what works best for you.
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.
FAQ
Passive income is a form of earnings that is generated without active involvement.
It is a way to make money while you sleep and can provide financial stability and independence.
This is one of three types of income and the one you want to strive towards building.
Ultimately, the best side hustle for making $1000 a day is one that meets your needs and interests while providing a good return on investment.
Here are several factors to consider before choosing the best option.
Think about your skills, interests, and availability. If you have a full-time job, you may want to consider a side hustle that allows you to work flexible hours.
Next, consider the earning potential of the side hustle you are considering. Some side hustles pay more than others, and you want to choose one that will give you the highest return on investment.
Additionally, consider the start-up costs associated with the side hustle. Some require significant investment, such as buying a car for ride-sharing apps or purchasing an online course.
Most importantly, choose a side hustle that aligns with your passion and expertise. This will make the work more enjoyable and increase your chances of success.
There are many ways to make money from your expertise.
You can start a consulting business, offer services such as coaching or speaking, create and sell information products, or build a following and sell advertising or sponsorships. The possibilities are endless.
What’s important is that you start somewhere and then take action to turn your expertise into cash.
Ready to Make 1000 in a Day?
There are many ways to make money quickly and easily.
The best way to make money fast is to find a way that best suits your skills and interests.
Whether it’s graphic design, content creation, photography, or trading stocks, there are plenty of opportunities to turn your passions into profit. So, start honing your skills and explore the endless possibilities of the gig economy.
Learning how to make quick money in one day is possible. You just need to be determined and disciplined.
So, which method do you choose on how to make $1k a day?
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Were you alive before social media? Someone recently asked, “Do you believe the world was better before social media?” The responses were mixed, but here are the top-voted answers.
Yes, Pre-Smartphones
Someone said, “Pre-smartphone, yes. But social media has less to do with it; we had AOL Instant Messenger and small social media sites before smartphones. If you think about it differently, it’s as if you could only smoke cigarettes at one table in your own house. It would be a lot harder to get addicted to them. Before smartphones, you didn’t take social media with you everywhere. It’s mainly smartphones.”
No, It’s Helped More Than Hurt
“Social media have helped many people communicate, make friends, and know what they want. Social media platforms are not terrible; some people misuse them, but they have more good than bad,” another suggested.
Yes, It’s Damaging Our Kids
“As a mom of two daughters, some of the main things that I have noticed are a shorter attention span. Videos are quick, TikTok and Snapchat, so they do not have any patience. I also think it’s made younger kids hyper-critical of themselves. When I was in school, I would compare myself to my classmates, and that’s about it.”
“Now they have the internet to compare themselves with everyone. I noticed my daughters taking many pictures of themselves and picking apart everything. When I took a photo of myself, I had to wait until the role was finished then, send it out for processing, and then when I got it back, there might’ve been one or two that weren’t blurry and that I thought I looked decent in so I was happy,” one said.
No, We Know More Because of Social Media
“No,” claimed one. “We’re all far more aware of how messed up the world is thanks to social media, which is super stressful knowledge to carry but hasn’t made things worse, to my mind. We know about child slavery, unchecked brutal capitalism, and human rights abuses.”
“We see selfishness on display daily. But read some books from the 1800s or early 1900s. Take a little dig through history. The world was never better. It was just cloaked a bit better and easier to ignore.”
Yes, Short-Form Videos Need to Go
“Short-form videos need to disappear because of their dopamine addiction problems (TikTok and YT shorts). Twitter is a dumpster fire of echo chambers interrupted by short turf wars. Facebook is a breeding ground for conspiracy theories and political propaganda,” one shared.
“Instagram fosters lonely performative interaction and disconnection from people. This is an extension of the monetized attention cable news propaganda of the 90s. Unfortunately, it all started there and has gotten worse. The monetization of attention is destroying societal bonds and friendships.”
No, It’s Sparked Reform
“No,” another said. “So many profound things have been created, done, and shared via social media. Real-time updates on world events, sharing of corruption in offices, armies, police, etc. The gathering of people to protest and get reforms passed.”
“Of course, with these tools comes the capability to create much evil. It is up to the world to regulate and eliminate. And contain these horrible things, ideas, and people. After we can do that, we will indeed be able to get the most out of social media.”
Mixed Reviews
“We are in a constant tug-of-war between utopia and dystopia with technology. Social media makes people hate each other and argue more than ever. But, at the same time, it unites the world and lets people freely discuss and share issues that are going on that we wouldn’t otherwise know,” shared one.
“For example, without social media, we would have no idea about the protests in the Middle East right now (at least not to the extent of it). At the same time, we’re divided more than ever and full of misinformation. It’s a daily battle between whether social media is great or horrible.”
Popular Reading: 10 Actors People Never Believed Would Become as Big as They Did
Maybe?
“Maybe? I couldn’t imagine myself without the joy and friendships I’ve built from talking to people on social media. Obviously, social media has detrimental effects on the youth, but to say the world was overall better? I’m honestly divided,” another confessed.
Source: Reddit.
Who is one actress you can never stand watching, no matter their role? After polling the internet, these were the top-voted actresses that people couldn’t stand watching.
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These 7 Celebrities are Genuinely Good People
We’ve all heard the famous adage that “no publicity is bad publicity,” and while it tends to be accurate, there are certainly exceptions. But what about those few stars who stay out of the limelight and get along without a hint of trouble?
These 7 Celebrities are Genuinely Good People
Have you ever known someone and thought you liked them—until you learned about their hobbies? Then you get to know them and then you’re like, “Wow, red flag.” Well, you’re not alone.
These 10 Activities Are an Immediate Red Flag
Some celebrities definitely seem to enjoy the limelight and keep working to stay in the public eye. While others quickly move out of the spotlight. Many of these actors and actresses stepped out of the spotlight to live a more private life without constant media pressures.
10 Celebrities That Made the Big Times Then Disappeared Off The Face of the Earth
We’ve all been there – sitting through a movie that we can’t help but cringe at, but somehow it still manages to hold a special place in our hearts.
These 10 Terrible Movies Are Still People’s Favorites
The COVID-19 pandemic could result in waves of people moving from the city and into the suburbs in search of more space, forecasts show.
While 30% of American say they’ve browsed real estate listings recently, those who live in urban areas are twice as likely as those living in the suburbs or rural areas to actually be interested in buying or renting a home or apartment, according to a new Harris Poll conducted last month. Almost a third of American say they’re considering a move to a less densely populated area due to the coronavirus, the same poll shows. Moreover, nearly four in 10 of those respondents were urbanites who say COVID-19 is what has prompted them to consider such a move.
John Downs, a real estate pro with Berkshire Hathaway in Connecticut, told The Wall Street Journal he’s expecting to see much greater demand for McMansions in more remote locations, once the coronavirus has passed. He said that he’s already noticed an increase in inquiries about properties in remote areas from city dwellers.
A separate report by CNBC shows an uptick among New York’s wealthiest residents who’re looking to move into the suburbs or exurbs in order to enjoy a less crowded lifestyle. Most are seeking more space and distance from their neighbors and crowds, real estate professionals say. For some, it may be they’re interested in buying a second home that’s still close to the city. For others, it may be more permanent.
“It seems like everyone wants to leave the city,” said Steve Magnuson, a broker with Douglas Elliman in Greenwich, Connecticut, in an interview with CNBC. “Our problem is not enough inventory for sale. We’ve been on the phone 24/7 and on email.”
Magnuson recently rented a five-bedroom home with an infinity pool in Greenwich for $55,000 a month—a record high for the town. The rental is now available again but is listed at a more expensive price—$65,000 per month—and has a waitlist of 18 people desiring to rent it.
People in the city who are eyeing suburbia are looking for a more spacious place to run, walk, and ride bikes. Wealthy buyers are also focusing on homes with a pool, large home office, and strong internet and cell services, Magnuson notes.
Could the rush from city to the suburbs be temporary, as it was following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks? Brokers report a momentary shift in the market during that time as more people fled the city. But they quickly returned, driven by overseas buyers and young professionals. Even without an exodus, brokers are still banking on a desire for second homes to grow among the wealthy after the pandemic.
“Being able to go someplace not far from your home, where you have a home office and can keep your friends and family safe—that’s number one,” Magnuson told CNBC.
Mike Wheatley is the senior editor at Realty Biz News. Got a real estate related news article you wish to share, contact Mike at [email protected]
It’s almost time for Dodger baseball. You’re rolling west along Sunset Boulevard, visions of Mookie Betts and Clayton Kershaw and Julio Urías happily dancing through your mind.
You’re one block from turning onto Vin Scully Avenue and into Dodger Stadium when you notice a black billboard, looming ominously above an auto repair shop called Fernando’s Tires. The billboard features this name, in bright white letters: Frank McCourt.
That guy?
Yes, that guy, the one who traded two Boston parking lots and what one of his attorneys said was “not a penny” of his own cash for ownership of the Dodgers. Yes, the one who dragged the storied team into bankruptcy amid Major League Baseball allegations he had “looted” $189 million from team revenues for personal use. And, yes, the one who laughed all the way to the bank, selling the Dodgers for a billion-dollar profit in 2012.
He did not, however, sell the parking lots that surround the stadium. In 2018, he pitched a gondola that would transport fans from Union Station to Dodger Stadium.
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Five years later, the proposal is still alive, now shepherded by an environmental organization delighted at the prospect of the gondola taking cars off the streets and keeping pollutants out of the air. That Sunset Boulevard billboard and others like it are brought to you by opponents of the gondola, taking aim at the project in part by relentlessly associating it with McCourt.
The Dodgers are guaranteed to play 81 games at Dodger Stadium every year, with playoff games traditionally added in October and concert dates sprinkled throughout the year. That leaves skeptics within the community to wonder why McCourt would promote a gondola ride to a stadium parking lot that would be empty three out of every four days during the year.
Unless, of course, the lot would not be empty.
McCourt’s company, now known as McCourt Global, highlights this slogan: “Building for tomorrow.” McCourt did not sell the Dodger Stadium parking lots because he anticipated building something there, some day.
What might that be? And is the gondola intended to carry us to that day?
The pursuit of those answers took me to Dodger Stadium, to City Hall and to a meeting of MLB owners. First, however, I stopped at a weathered red brick building in the Arts District, an old furniture and fabric warehouse reimagined as a laboratory for energy innovation.
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Three colorful banners greeted visitors, one with the hue of a bright blue sky. “Welcome,” that banner read, “to the Cleantech Future of Power and Water.”
The interior comes alive with vibrancy and urgency, and with work on dozens of concepts. Any one of them, building managers say, could emerge as “the next big idea to fight climate change.”
The Dodger Stadium gondola represents such an idea, according to its proponents. Climate Resolve, a nonprofit based in that building, agreed to take the reins from McCourt in leading the project.
“From my perspective,” said Climate Resolve founder and executive director Jonathan Parfrey, “to have a gondola transporting people from Union Station to Dodger Stadium, and to have that exciting, beautiful conveyance identified as a climate action?
“It changes the way people approach public transit. So it was very attractive to us.”
With baseball’s new hurry-up rules, you could miss half the game if you get stuck in Dodger Stadium’s oft-snarled traffic and get to your seat an hour after the first pitch.
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The gondola alternative: get to Union Station, hop aboard a spacious cabin that could arrive every 23 seconds, soar high above the city, and arrive at Dodger Stadium in seven minutes.
The climate benefit is easy to envision: fewer fans in cars powered by gasoline; more fans in gondolas powered by electricity.
A promotional video for the proposed Dodger Stadium gondola project released by Los Angeles Aerial Rapid Transit.
The climate downside is easy to envision too: massive development at Dodger Stadium, with neighborhood disruption for years of construction, and with cars converging upon the stadium every day, not just on game days.
“I’m involved in this project,” Parfrey said, “and I brought my organization into this project, predicated on there not being development on that land.”
Not now, or not ever?
“Not for the foreseeable future,” he said.
Parfrey said he had been given “assurances” that the gondola was not a first step toward Dodger Stadium development. I asked who had given him those assurances, or who I could ask to get those same assurances.
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“Ask Frank,” he said.
Near Lot G at Dodger Stadium, along the long slog from the outer reaches of the parking lots to a stadium entrance behind left field, a colorful model of a gondola cabin awaits you. You can step inside the 24-seat cabin, then imagine a ride that would allow you to skip traffic to the ballpark and instead, as the signage reads: “GET THERE BY AIR.”
You can even find a helpful decal, showing you where to stand to take a picture with the gondola cabin in the foreground and the stadium in the background.
The display of a model cabin takes a page from the playbook for pitching a new stadium or arena. Models and renderings can excite fans, but they also can obscure a critical question about any big project: Looks cool, but who is going to pay for this?
The cost of building the gondola was estimated at $300 million in 2020 and is expected to rise by the time a financing plan is finalized, said David Grannis of Point C Partners, a transportation and land use consultancy working with Climate Resolve.
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The McCourt entity that originated the gondola concept, LA Aerial Rapid Transit, has agreed to fund the approval process, including environmental studies and permit applications, project spokesman Nathan Click said. It is up to Climate Resolve to figure out how to pay for construction, as well as for annual operating costs Grannis estimated at between $5 million and $10 million.
The gondola won’t make money, at least not under the current plan of free rides for fans with a Dodgers ticket and neighborhood residents with a Metro pass.
Parfrey said taxpayers would not be asked to subsidize the gondola.
The hundreds of millions would come from private financing, Grannis said, and largely from sponsorships and the purchase of naming rights.
In 2012, the airline Emirates agreed to pay about $60 million for a 10-year sponsorship of a London gondola — then called the Emirates Air Line — that carried riders above the River Thames and cost $96 million. The current one-way adult fare on the London gondola is $7.50.
“In this case,” Grannis said, “you have a venue that happens to be the best attended in Major League Baseball, and therefore the iconic nature of this cabin flying to Dodger Stadium and taking you there is going to attract a lot of sponsors, a lot of people who want naming rights or sponsorship.
“That’s the big revenue.”
Jeff Marks, the founder and chief executive of Innovative Partnerships Group, brokers naming rights and sponsorship deals between companies and teams, leagues and venues. He said it “could be doable” to cover the cost of building and operating the gondola through corporate sponsorships, but he said even the most generous sponsor might not be willing to strike a nine-figure deal without exposure beyond simply slapping the company’s name on the side of the gondola.
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Marks, speaking generally because he is not involved in the project, said a title sponsor might also want a benefit such as the company name on the field. A hypothetical example: Verizon Field at Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers have hired firms to solicit corporate offers for naming rights to the field and patches on the team jerseys.
Or, Marks said, a primary sponsor might prefer naming rights to whatever development might rise atop the parking lots: Take the Verizon Gondola to the Verizon Village at Dodger Stadium!
Rick Caruso, the developer behind the Grove and Americana shopping and entertainment centers, pursued the Dodgers when McCourt put them up for sale. Caruso commissioned studies on how to improve the notorious congestion for cars getting into and out of the Dodger Stadium parking lots.
Without control of the lots, however, Caruso believed he might not have been able to implement any changes. McCourt insisted he would not sell the lots, and Caruso withdrew from the bidding.
Guggenheim Baseball Management, the winning bidder, took a different approach. Guggenheim, led by Mark Walter and Stan Kasten, bought the Dodgers and their stadium from McCourt. In a separate transaction, a Guggenheim entity formed a joint venture with a McCourt entity to control the parking lots.
In land use documents filed by the joint venture in 2012 and intended to “facilitate the orderly development” of the Dodger Stadium parking lots, the potential property uses cited include homes, offices, restaurants, shops, entertainment venues, medical and academic buildings, a separate sports facility and a hotel and exhibit hall.
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“It is an ill-conceived concept that the highest and best use of Chavez Ravine is 260 acres for parking,” an attorney for McCourt, Tony Natsis, said at the time. “I consider that to be an ill-conceived notion for the owner of the parking lots and the owner of the stadium.”
Walter, the Dodgers’ chairman and controlling owner, said McCourt cannot develop anything on the property without Guggenheim’s consent. What might Walter be thinking in terms of development now?
“I haven’t been thinking about it at all,” Walter said.
Kasten, the Dodgers’ president and chief executive, said the Dodgers support the gondola project but are “really not involved” in it. Walter had a simple explanation for why the Dodgers would back a project that would chew up a chunk of the parking lots in the stadium.
“Hopefully, it will make it easier for people to get there,” he said.
Of the 18,889 parking spaces at the stadium, the gondola station at Dodger Stadium would result in the loss of 194 spaces, according to the environmental impact report for the project.
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To the Dodgers, that would not be a big deal. But this might be: The report projects 10,000 people would ride the gondola to each game by 2042, which could translate to a loss of about 20% of parking revenue.
Kasten called those figures “hypotheticals that I don’t have an answer for,” and project opponents dismissed the ridership projections as unrealistically high, citing a UCLA study.
But a person familiar with the Dodgers’ business model, speaking on condition of anonymity so as not to jeopardize his professional relationships, said the team likely would not agree to give up millions in annual parking fees without some way to recoup that money.
“It does not make sense for the Dodgers to do it if they’re going to lose parking revenue,” the person said. “It does make sense if the gondola is serving a larger development.”
The California Endowment, a nonprofit with offices that would sit beneath the shadow of a 195-foot gondola tower, is leading and largely funding a coalition opposing the project. In court papers, the Endowment cited the Dodger Stadium development proposal McCourt unveiled when he owned the team and alleged the gondola would be “a loss leader for the future development of parking lots at Dodger Stadium.”
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What would Kasten say to Angelenos who would like to know whether the gondola comes first and development comes next?
“That’s a question you’ll have to address to someone else,” Kasten said.
To the people proposing the gondola?
“Yes,” Kasten said. “That’s where I would direct my questions.”
I had. And what had I been told? Ask Frank.
On April 9, 2021, for the first time in 32 years, the Dodgers raised a World Series championship banner. The Dodgers bestowed the honor of hoisting the treasured flag upon five people, including three of their own: Dodgers co-owners Magic Johnson and Billie Jean King, each decorated champions in their own right, and Hall of Fame broadcaster Jaime Jarrín.
The other two: Eric Garcetti, then the mayor of Los Angeles, and Gil Cedillo, then the city councilman representing the district that includes Dodger Stadium.
The Dodgers forged a strong working relationship with Cedillo. The team and nine of its senior executives combined to make $13,800 in campaign contributions to him from 2013 to ‘22, according to city records.
Cedillo lost his bid for re-election last year, defeated by community activist Eunisses Hernandez. Kasten and Hernandez each expressed a desire to work together for the benefit of the fans and the community.
Garcetti, who has backed the gondola from the time McCourt first pitched it five years ago, said the Dodgers never have hinted to him that mass development would be in the works at Dodger Stadium.
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“I think there is a vision of trying to make it less of a once- or twice-a-year kind of a place for a family, when you go to a game,” Garcetti said before he left office last December, “and more of an asset: the best view in L.A., a place for more special events, a place where baseball history can be celebrated.
“I think their core business is baseball, and they want to protect that.”
The environmental impact report does not contemplate development at Dodger Stadium. The report states “no housing units are proposed” as part of the project and “additional approvals requiring further environmental review would be necessary” for any development at the stadium or elsewhere along the gondola route.
For Hernandez, that language is not enough. The councilwoman said she has “a lot of concerns” about the gondola.
“I am not convinced that this is an effective solution to reducing vehicle congestion,” she said, “and I share the neighborhood’s concerns about displacement and disruption.”
Hernandez said she is not necessarily opposed to development at Dodger Stadium, provided affordable housing is a priority. She is opposed to considering the gondola on its own, without any consideration of whether development might follow and what it might involve.
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“I don’t think it’s appropriate to undertake such large-scale projects without a full and clear understanding of long-term plans,” Hernandez said. “This shouldn’t be piecemealed out, and I want to see additional development plans made clear.
“That is the honest approach, and that’s what will allow the community, the city, and all involved entities to make a clear-eyed decision.”
Steve Soboroff, who was the mayoral point man on the construction of Staples Center and later president of the Playa Vista development near LAX, worked briefly with McCourt in the final year of his Dodgers ownership.
Soboroff is not involved in the gondola project. He said the most effective way to build community support for the project would be to offer transparency about the long-term plan, even if the gondola would come first and any development would come later.
“That would be the path that I would choose,” Soboroff said.
It was time for me to do what Parfrey had suggested: Ask Frank.
The Dodgers have prospered without McCourt, and McCourt has prospered without the Dodgers.
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He bought the storied French soccer club Olympique de Marseille. He donated $200 million to what is now called the McCourt School of Public Policy at Georgetown University. He launched Project Liberty, an initiative to reform the Internet in the interest of serving “people, not platforms.”
As McCourt told Leaders Magazine: “Our technology today is great if you want to support autocracy, but it is not so great if you want to support individual rights and the freedoms and liberties assorted with democracy.”
McCourt still owns the Los Angeles Marathon, which starts at Dodger Stadium. During the past two months, as Urbanize LA reported, McCourt entities revealed plans to construct 502 apartments in three buildings on two sites along Stadium Way and another one block south, overlooking the 110 Freeway. The apartment buildings are planned regardless of whether the gondola is approved, said Brin Frazier, a spokeswoman for McCourt.
The applicant for the apartment projects is listed in city records as Jordan Lang, president of two McCourt entities: McCourt Partners Real Estate and Aerial Rapid Transit Technologies.
Lang’s company biography makes no mention of any experience in other transportation projects but touts his leadership in completing “millions of square feet of office, hotel, residential and mixed-use projects.”
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The prospect of developing such a large site on the outskirts of downtown is so rare that the city’s movers and shakers have floated concepts for decades. Caruso and I talked about some of them 18 years ago, long before McCourt put the team up for sale or Caruso ran unsuccessfully for mayor.
Peter O’Malley, the revered former Dodgers owner, proposed building an NFL stadium in the Dodger Stadium parking lot in 1995. McCourt revived the idea in 2005.
The other four MLB teams in California all have pursued mixed-use developments surrounding their ballparks. The Angels’ most recent proposal — since killed by the city of Anaheim amid a corruption scandal — would have included more than 5,000 homes on a site roughly half the size of the Dodger Stadium property.
“We need more housing,” Garcetti said. “We need it to be centrally located. We need it to be affordable. I think, if you meet those criteria, you can start a conversation with the city.”
Or, perhaps, development at Dodger Stadium could mean a selection of food halls, restaurants and bars, enticing enough to lure fans to arrive long before the game and stick around after it ends. That in itself could ease the neighborhood traffic bottlenecks on game days, gondola or no gondola.
Parfrey, who said his nonprofit agreed to take the lead on the gondola project based on what he said was a promise of no development on the land, said his organization would not support a ballpark neighborhood arising on the property but would support a plan to put a restaurant here and there within the parking lot.
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“We would go early and go to the restaurants,” Parfrey said.
Parfrey, remember, was the guy who told me to “ask Frank” about the “assurances” that the arrival of the gondola would not trigger development. I mentioned that to Frazier, McCourt’s spokeswoman, and asked if I could speak to him about that.
“Frank,” she said, “is not available.”
Watch L.A. Times Today at 7 p.m. on Spectrum News 1 on Channel 1 or live stream on the Spectrum News App. Palos Verdes Peninsula and Orange County viewers can watch on Cox Systems on channel 99.
Today we’ll check out another one of the newcomers in the mortgage industry that is all about technology and low rates, aptly named “Lower Mortgage.”
Similar to Better, which is also a one-word-named mortgage company, they like to keep things simple and make it easy to apply for a home loan.
That means you can get started right on their website, or even begin your home loan process with a text message.
They’re also all about things being lower, whether it’s mortgage rates, lender fees, monthly payments, or the amount of hassle it takes to get a mortgage.
They even take a subtle jab at Quicken Loans on their website, saying “No rocketry. Just the important stuff—like lower rates.”
Let’s find out more about this low-loving, techy mortgage lender.
Lower Mortgage Quick Facts
Direct-to-consumer mortgage lender that offers home purchase loans and refinances
Launched in 2018, headquartered in New Albany, Ohio (just outside Columbus)
Originated roughly $5 billion in home loans last year
Licensed in 43 states and the District of Columbia
A top-rated lender on LendingTree that has won several customer satisfaction awards
They have a sister company called Homeside Financial (founded in 2013)
Exclusive mortgage provider for Opendoor
Lower, which actually refers to itself as a technology company, was launched in December 2018.
The main goal of the company is to improve the online mortgage and refinance experience, knowing that the majority of applicants start the process on the Internet.
In a sense, they’re kind of like Rocket Mortgage, which is the tech platform backed by parent company Quicken Loans.
Anyway, Lower is located in New Albany, Ohio, which is just outside Columbus and has been around since the end of 2018.
They’re currently licensed to do business in 43 states and the District of Columbia.
They don’t seem to do business in Hawaii, Nevada, New York, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Vermont, or Wyoming.
Last year, their parent company funded nearly $2 billion in home loans, with about half for home purchases and the remainder refis.
While they’re available in most states, the most volume came from states in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, notably Illinois and North Carolina, and their home state of Ohio.
It should be noted that Lower Mortgage also has a sister company called Homeside Financial, which was founded back in 2013 by current Lower CEO Dan Snyder.
Applying for a Mortgage at Lower
You can apply for a home loan directly from their website without assistance
They utilize a loan recommendation engine that relies upon artificial intelligence (AI)
It’s also possible to text or call them to get started on your application if you need help
Lower offers a digital mortgage process with document uploading, eSign technology, and more
Lower is definitely a new-age mortgage lender that relies heavily on tech. And a certain cool factor that differentiates them from the older, stale banks and lenders.
Aside from having a snazzy looking website, they also have a virtual loan assistant known as LOAi. It uses artificial intelligence to help you pick the best home loan for your unique situation.
Data is analyzed from thousands of closed loans and other peer data points to deliver a personal home loan recommendation in real-time.
In terms of applying for a home loan, you can do so right on their website by clicking “Apply Now.”
You actually get three options, including a “Jump Start,” “Quick Apply,” and a simple text to get the ball rolling. Clearly, they are a mortgage lender geared toward Millennials and Gen Z.
Use a Human or Navigate Lower.com on your Own
It’s also possible to just call them up if you’d like to speak to a human (they’re open Monday through Saturday).
If you choose the Jump Start option, it’s probably just a short contact form. This means a loan officer will get in touch after completion.
The Quick Apply Option appears to be sort of like a quick mortgage pre-qualification sans hard credit pull to start the actual loan process.
My assumption is you can complete mostly everything online or via smartphone since they’re a so-called “techy” mortgage lender.
This may include linking financial accounts, scanning and uploading paperwork, and eSigning documents along the way.
But humans are also available if and when you need them to discuss loan options, loan rates, or to answer any other mortgage questions you may have.
All in all, they pride themselves on making it quick and easy to get a mortgage, and all operations are conducted under one roof at Lower HQ.
Loan Types Offered by Lower
Home purchase loans
Refinance loans (rate and term and cash out)
Conventional loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
Government-backed loans including FHA loans, USDA loans, VA loans
Jumbo home loans
Home equity lines of credit (HELOCs)
Fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgage options available
Lower appears to keep things pretty simple, though they should have loan programs to suit most borrowers.
It is my understanding that you can get financing on all property types, including primary residences, vacation homes, and investment properties, including condos/townhomes.
You can get both a home purchase loan or a refinance, including a cash out refinance. They say you can access up to 95% of your home’s equity, which may separate them from other lenders.
This might be accomplished via a combo loan, utilizing a home equity line of credit (HELOC) and a first mortgage.
In any case, if you want to tap into your home equity, Lower might be a good option. But they also make it easy for those purchasing a home as well.
If they’re anything like their parent company Homeside Financial, you should be able to get a conforming loan, jumbo loan, or a government-backed loan such as a FHA loan or VA loan.
Both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate options are available, including 30/15 fixed mortgages and hybrid ARMs like the popular 5/1 ARM.
Lower’s Free Refi for Life Deal
For a limited time (unclear how long exactly), if you use Lower.com to buy a home or refinance, you won’t have to pay lending fees on future refinances, for life.
If you do refinance with Lower again, they’ll waive any Lower retained fees. This includes an applicable loan origination fee, underwriting fee, processing fee, or administrative fees.
However, it does not apply to any discount points or any third-party settlement service fees such as title insurance, home appraisal fee, or credit report fee.
You must have closed the previous refinance transaction with Lower at least six months prior to any subsequent application
Lower.com Mortgage Rates
With a name like Lower, you better publicize your mortgage rates, right?
Well, they do, right on their homepage, albeit just one rate, a 30-year fixed, which they refer to as “Today’s Lower Rate.”
While the rate appeared to be really low, they did disclose that it required 2.25 discount points, which can be pretty expensive.
For example, on a $300,000 loan amount, that’s $6,750 in closing costs, not to mention any other fees that must be paid.
They also list three competitors, which at the time of this writing, included Quicken Loans, Wells Fargo, and the Bankrate average.
As you might suspect, they beat all three handily, both on interest rate and mortgage APR, the latter of which factors in lender fees.
Speaking of, they actually have a page dedicated to lender fees on their website, but it only lists possible fees you might be charged, sans any actual dollar amounts.
This makes it a bit unclear as to what they charge and how much it might set you back.
Remember to look beyond mortgage rate alone, and really dig into the closing costs when comparing Lower to other mortgage lenders to ensure you get the best deal.
Lower Is the Exclusive Mortgage Provider for Opendoor
In early 2023, Lower became the exclusive mortgage fulfillment provider for Opendoor.
Opendoor is an iBuyer that helps home buyers an sellers. In order to focus on that business, they are outsourcing their mortgage services to Lower.
So if you work with Opendoor, there’s a good chance they’ll refer you to Lower for mortgage financing.
However, Opendoor customers are allowed to use any licensed mortgage lender.
Lower refers to it as a “Mortgage as a Service” (MaaS) platform. Simply put, companies can offer mortgage products to their customers via Lower.
Lower Mortgage Reviews
On LendingTree, they’ve got a 4.9-star rating out of 5 based on more than 2,100 customer reviews, along with a 99% recommendation rate.
They also have seven accolades from LT, including a top-10 for home lending customer satisfaction for Q1, Q2, and Q3 of 2020, along with Q4 of 2019, and similar awards for home equity lending.
On Zillow, they have a 4.92-star rating out of 5 on nearly 3,000 reviews, many of which say the interest rate was lower than expected. I sure hope so with a name like that…
Their parent company Homeside Financial is not Better Business Bureau accredited, but does enjoy an ‘A+’ rating at the moment based on customer complaint history.
In summary, Lower Mortgage is probably a good pick for someone who wants a low mortgage rate with limited fees that is comfortable applying for a home loan without much help (though it is available).
Lower Mortgage Pros and Cons
The Good
Offer a tech-enabled digital mortgage process
Can apply for a home loan directly from their website or via smartphone
They apparently have low mortgage rates and low lender fees
May be able to access more money because they offer HELOCs
Don’t charge lender fees on subsequent refinance transactions for life
Every spring marks the start of homebuying season – a period where home sales spike. For title professionals, homebuying season is our “busy season,” with professionals working tirelessly to ensure that property titles are clear of any liens or other defects ahead of closing day.
For many buyers, closing day represents the beginning of the next chapter in their lives – having a new place to celebrate important milestones and create new memories. For others, it represents the culmination of years of sacrifice that allowed them to save enough money for down payment.
Unfortunately, as buyers are preparing for this momentous day, wire fraud – a scam in which cybercriminals attempt to steal buyers’ hard-earned money – poses a serious threat. This homebuying season – and year-round – industry professionals must do their part to ensure home buyers understand the threat of real estate wire fraud and how they can protect themselves.
According to the National Association of Realtors’ 2023 Home Buyers and Sellers Generational Trends Report, approximately one in four homebuyers today are first-time buyers. These consumers often face a steep learning curve when beginning the homebuying process, which makes them especially vulnerable to scams.
But for even the most digitally savvy and seasoned homebuyer, wire fraud continues to pose a serious threat. Cybercriminals have become more sophisticated over the last decade and more skilled at tricking unsuspecting homebuyers into wiring their funds into a fraudulent account.
Wire fraud typically starts with a technique called phishing, where future buyers are tricked into inputting their private information or clicking a link that allows cybercriminals to steal their login information. Once hackers gain access to an email account, they will monitor messages to see if the person is a homebuyer and then use the stolen information to email fraudulent wire transfer instructions disguised to appear as if they came from a trusted real estate professional.
According to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)’s 2022 Internet Crime Report, business email compromise (BEC) – which includes real estate wire transfer fraud – has grown from $676 million in reported losses in 2017 to $2.7 billion in reported losses in 2022. As home values rise, so do the loss amounts from these scams. Additionally, the number of reported victims has slowly risen from 19,954 in 2021 to 21,832 in 2022. These numbers are probably even higher as not all fraud is reported. Consumers should report any fraud to the FBI at www.ic3.gov.
As real estate professionals, we have a responsibility to make sure our customers are aware of these scams and have the tools they need to protect themselves. Through increased consumer awareness and educational efforts, we know that there will be fewer victims.
That is why it has been a longstanding strategic priority of the American Land Title Association (ALTA) and our members to increase awareness of real estate wire fraud and educate consumers on how to best protect themselves against these sophisticated criminals. Across the country, title companies are putting consumer warnings on websites and communications and sending notices to consumers and real estate agents informing them of the scams.
At ALTA, we regularly host webinars and education sessions for real estate professionals and consumers, and we have a consumer education website, homeclosing101.org, with a multitude of resources – from instructional videos to infographics to help homebuyers protect themselves. ALTA has worked in close collaboration with industry partners, federal agencies such as the Department of Housing and Urban Development and its housing counseling network, and law enforcement to elevate the issue and share data about the scope and sophistication of the threat.
In November, the FBI released a report that summarizes its efforts to combat business email compromise (BEC) scams and real estate wire fraud by working with partners to identify perpetrators and dismantle their organizations. The report was spurred by ALTA’s efforts the past two years to get language included in various House and Senate appropriations reports directing respective agencies to report on efforts to combat and raise awareness of BEC and wire fraud, and collaborate with industry partners to address threats.
Through continued industry collaboration, we believe we can significantly reduce the number of victims each year. Our industry is proud of our leadership to raise awareness about wire transfer fraud, educate real estate industry professionals and consumers, and implement procedures to safeguard real estate funds, but we know that our work is not finished.
In the meantime, we encourage homebuyers, sellers, and real estate professionals to remain vigilant.
Diane Tomb is CEO of the American Land Title Association, the national trade association representing the land title insurance and settlement services industry, which employs more than 120,000 people working in every county in the United States.
Today we’ll take a hard look at First Internet Bank, which is a frequent advertiser on the Zillow Mortgage Marketplace.
Their full name is actually First Internet Bank of Indiana, but seeing that they’re licensed to do business nationwide, why focus only on the Hoosier State?
Interestingly, their name is in fact factual because they are apparently the first FDIC-insured institution to operate entirely online.
Aside from offering checking, savings, and money market accounts, they also originate lots of home loans. That segment of their business will be the focus for this review.
First Internet Bank Fast Facts
Publicly traded bank founded in 1999 by David Becker
Corporate headquarters located in Fishers, Indiana
First FDIC-insured institution to operate entirely online
Offer home loans, personal loans, student loans, credit cards, depository accounts, and more
Originated about $700 million in mortgages last year
Licensed nationally but most active in Indiana, California, and Texas
First Internet Bank of Indiana was founded in 1999 by current CEO David Becker, who had a vision to conduct banking exclusively online.
He’s seemed to be on to something, because here we are 20 years later applying for home loans on our smartphones.
Anyway, you can be pretty confident they’re up to speed on technology seeing that their humble beginnings were driven by innovation and technology.
But they’re also a pretty large publicly-traded bank, so despite not having physical branches, they’ve got the soundness and security of a large financial institution.
Last year, the online mortgage lender mustered about $700 million in home loans, and may be on track for a $1 billion+ origination year in 2020.
They’re licensed to conduct business nationwide, but did the most volume in their home state of Indiana. A good chunk of business also came from California and Texas.
How to Apply for a Home Loan with First Internet Bank
Since they’re an e-bank you can apply for a mortgage directly from their website
Their digital mortgage platform is powered by fintech company Blend
It’s also possible to call them directly or chat with any of their loan officers online
Borrowers can complete most of the loan process remotely and paperlessly
You’ve got a few options to get the ball rolling with First Internet Bank. If you head over to their website, it’s possible to apply for a mortgage without any human assistance.
Simply navigate to their mortgage page, then select either “apply now” or “get pre-approved.”
Both options lead to the same place, a digital mortgage application powered by Blend.
It allows you to complete most of the application electronically, including the ability to link financial accounts, pay stubs, and employment information.
You can also eSign documents for fast delivery and once approved, you’ll be able to use their loan portal to satisfy any required conditions and to check loan status.
Those who wish to generate a pre-approval letter can do so via the same online mortgage application.
Alternatively, you can navigate to the loan officers tab and check out all the folks who work at First Internet Bank.
You can view their profile, contact information, and even chat with them immediately online if it shows they’re available.
If you’re old school, you can also simply call them up on the phone to get started.
All in all, you’ve got plenty of options when it comes to applying for a home loan, which is a nice touch.
And the fact that they use fintech company Blend for their digital mortgage process is also a big plus.
Home Loan Programs Offered by First Internet Bank
Home purchase loans
Refinance loans
Conforming loans
Jumbo home loans
FHA loans and VA loans
Construction-to-perm loans
Home equity loans
Home equity lines of credit
Fixed-rate and adjustable-rate options are available
First Internet Bank has home loan programs to suit most borrowers, including home purchase loans, refinance loans (rate and term and cash out), and construction loans.
The only big loan category they’re missing is USDA home loans.
However, they still offer conventional loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, jumbo home loans with just 10% down, FHA loans, and VA loans.
Additionally, you can get a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or a home equity loan, something many of the nonbank lenders can’t offer.
So if you’re in need of a second mortgage, even a piggyback mortgage, they might have the edge there.
They lend on all types of properties, including primary residences, second homes, and investment properties.
You can get a fixed-rate mortgage, such as a 30-year or 15-year mortgage, or an adjustable-rate mortgage, such as a 5/1 ARM or 7/1 ARM.
First Internet Bank Mortgage Rates
While they don’t list mortgage rates on their own website, Zillow shoppers may come across them when shopping rates via the Zillow Mortgage Marketplace.
From what I saw on Zillow, they offered competitive rates relative to other lenders listed, and often advertised lender fees under $100, or even just $1 on certain loan products (basically a no cost refinance).
They may have been an eighth of a percent higher than the cheapest lender listed, but with lower fees. So potentially still the best combination of rate and fees.
The fact that they operate entirely online means they can cut down on typical overhead costs incurred by brick-and-mortar banks. Hopefully those savings are passed onto you.
Why they don’t list mortgage rates on their own website is another question, but that’s their choice and not necessarily a bad thing.
However, you can request a free rate quote on their website, though only after providing your contact info. So calling or chatting may be best if you wish to remain anonymous at first.
All in all, they appear to be very reasonable pricing-wise on both rates and fees, so that shouldn’t be a concern for most prospective customers, but always put in the time to shop and compare with other lenders.
First Internet Bank Mortgage Reviews
First Internet Bank has a stellar 4.87-star rating on SocialSurvey based on over 1,200 customer reviews specifically regarding their mortgage division.
They’ve also got a 4.9 out of 5 rating on LendingTree with a 97% recommend rating.
On Zillow, they have a 4.7-star rating out of 5 based on over 600 customer reviews, with many reviewers indicated that both closing costs and rates were lower than expected.
Additionally, they take the time to respond to all the reviews on Zillow, so if you want feedback from your feedback, you’ll probably be in luck.
The company is also Better Business Bureau accredited and has been since 2013. They currently sport an ‘A+’ BBB rating.
So it seems clear they are a well-liked bank and mortgage lender across all the major ratings companies.
In summary, First Internet Bank is certainly worth considering if shopping for a home loan, assuming you are comfortable working remotely.
But this may make them better suited for refinances as opposed to home purchase loans.
First Internet Bank Mortgage Pros and Cons
The Pros
Offer a digital home loan process powered by Blend
Can apply for a mortgage without human assistance
Ability to chat with loan officers via their website
Excellent customer reviews from past mortgage customers
A+ BBB rating and accredited company
Appear to offer low mortgage rates with limited lender fees
Lots of different loan programs to choose from including home equity loans and lines
Nothing says vacation like a trip to the beach, where the ocean washes away our day-to-day lives, a cold drink helps beat the heat, and the only care in the world is remembering to apply (and reapply) sunscreen.
A great beach vacation usually starts with a great place to stay — and for points and miles enthusiasts (and those new to the game), one of the best ways to get a top-notch beach resort is booking through World of Hyatt, considered the most award-friendly hotel program out there.
The U.S. is full of both great beaches and great Hyatt properties where the sun and sand are as friendly as World of Hyatt’s award chart. Here, you’ll find Hyatt resorts — from the iconic beaches of Maui to the East Coast sands near Charleston, South Carolina — and plenty of family-friendly beaches perfect for all ages.
Just don’t forget the power of the World of Hyatt program and how easy it is to book some of the portfolio’s best beach resorts by transferring points from credit card reward programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards, so all of your summer dreams can come true.
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Wailea, Maui, Hawaii, USA
ANDAZ MAUI AT WAILEA RESORT/HYATT
Best for: Easy beach access with plenty of dining and outdoor fun to be had right at the hotel.
Why stay here: Enjoy boutique hotel-style design amid all the amenities and outdoor fun of a sprawling beachside resort.
As one of the best hotels on Maui and among the best hotels in Hawaii as a whole, it makes perfect sense that the chic and family-friendly Andaz Maui at Wailea is also one of the absolute best U.S. beach resorts in Hyatt’s extensive portfolio.
The resort checks all the boxes, starting with location: 15 stunning beachfront acres on Mokapu Beach. Add in 320 guest rooms with private lanais, a series of suites, plus two- and four-bedroom villas, and you’ve got all the necessary ingredients for the perfect Hawaii vacation.
At the resort, guests can spend their days lazing by any of the resort’s five pools — including infinity pools, a lagoon pool and even an adults-only option — or head to Mokapu Beach and relax in a lounge chair under an umbrella.
For something more active, the resort can arrange snorkeling and whale-watching excursions, golf days or a trip to a pineapple farm. After a day of exploring, head to the 14,000-square-foot Awili Spa and Salon for a heated hibiscus body wrap ($205 for 60 minutes) to truly become one with paradise.
As for food, don’t worry about going hungry as there are four restaurants to enjoy, including the family-style Hawaiian restaurant Kaana Kitchen; a lounge with tropical cocktails and small bites; a beach/pool bar serving light lunches perfect for a day out in the sun; and Morimoto Maui, a world-class sushi restaurant from celebrity chef Masaharu Morimoto. Also, since it’s Hawaii, after all, be sure to make a reservation for The Feast at Mokapu Luau, where guests are served a delicious dinner with a side of culture in the form of music, dance and more.
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Rates at Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort currently start at $890 per night plus a $50 daily resort fee (on paid rates). World of Hyatt members can book award nights from 35,000 points per night.
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
Koloa, Kauai, Hawaii, USA
GRAND HYATT KAUAI RESORT AND SPA/PATRICK KELLEY/PARK HYATT
Best for: Families traveling to Hawaii who want to enjoy a full roster of activities without leaving the resort.
Why stay here: The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is a destination unto itself with pools, waterfalls, a water park-style waterslide and tons of scheduled activities for the kids, including Hawaiian cultural lessons.
Called “a crown jewel in Hyatt’s resort lineup” by one of TPG’s most well-traveled staffers, it’s safe to say that this massive resort full of fun for all types of travelers should be on every Hyatt loyalist’s bucket list.
On a pristine stretch of beach in Poipu, this place is exactly what you think of when you conjure up images of a Hawaii resort: multiple pools and a saltwater lagoon, a lazy river, waterfalls and dozens and dozens of slender palm trees swaying in the breeze.
With over 600 rooms and suites, there’s an accommodation option for every need, and they all come with a private lanai to help breathe in some of that salty Pacific Ocean air. For a full family affair, consider one of the resort’s many suite options, such as the Alii Suite, which can be combined with a connecting guest room to create a three-bedroom suite.
There’s no shortage of activities, which include hitting up the Poipu Bay Golf Course (adjacent to the resort), learning classic Hawaiian songs on a ukulele, attending an over-the-top luau, volunteering with a nearby organization to help keep the island as beautiful as you found it, relaxing at the spa, or just simply parking it on a beach lounger and listening to the sound of the ocean.
Dining options are equally as expansive. For breakfast, hit up the open-air Ilima Terrace for a seared ahi Benedict, have fish tacos for lunch at casual poolside restaurant Hale Nalu, and enjoy a fancy dinner at Tidepools, where Hawaiian dishes are served at a lagoon by a waterfall that’s as beautiful and romantic as Kauai itself.
Rates at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa currently start at $761 per night plus a $45 daily resort fee (on paid rates). World of Hyatt members can book award nights from 25,000 points per night.
Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa
Key West, Florida, USA
HYATT
Best for: Sunseekers looking to explore the Keys.
Why stay here: Right on the water and right in Old Town, this hotel is close to all the action.
There’s nowhere quite like Key West, a funky and lively island community in Florida that happens to be the most southern city in the continental United States — and there are few places better to stay there than the Hyatt Centric, a charming oceanfront resort tucked away between the Gulf waters and town.
Here, you won’t find sweeping beaches with views for miles, but rather a small stretch of sand where you can claim a beach chair and live that American island life.
At the pool, which is heated during the cooler months, guests can snack on popsicles while enjoying the southern Florida sun. For full relaxation, spend a few hours at the pool before heading to the Jala Spa for a deep tissue massage (starting at $160 for 50 minutes) or a full-body treatment.
Guests need not worry about dining, as there are a handful of options to choose from on the property — not to mention that Key West itself has tons of incredible restaurants. At the hotel’s dockside location, Four Flamingos, A Richard Blais Key West Kitchen serves sea-to-table dishes like oysters, a fresh catch of the day and more. There’s also a casual bar and grill concept, Blue Mojito Bar and Grill, as well as in-room dining and a coffee shop.
Rates at Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa start around $300 per night plus a $56.25 daily resort fee (on paid rates). World of Hyatt members can book award nights starting at 45,000 points.
The Confidante Miami Beach
Mid-Beach, Miami, Florida, USA
DANIEL ZULIANI/PARK HYATT
Best for: Hyatt status chasers who yearn for something chicer than your typical Hyatt Regency or Hyatt Place.
Why stay here: With an art deco design in a 1940s-era building, a stay here feels vintage – in a good way.
Both Hyatt enthusiasts and beach lovers know that The Confidante Miami Beach, part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection, is a top-tier resort on a sandy stretch of Miami Beach. Known for its colorful beach and pool chairs, you’ve probably seen this Category 5 Hyatt property on social media at one time or another.
With 339 rooms (including over 30 suites), accommodations at The Confidante range from hip 300-to-400-square-foot king and double rooms with bold textures and a big writing desk to a 980-square-foot penthouse.
The hotel boasts a range of restaurants and eateries, including a casual beach bar-style restaurant; an indoor, midcentury-themed restaurant and bar that harks back to Miami’s past; a grab-and-go coffee shop; and Ambersweet, a restaurant serving local and regional food for breakfast, lunch and dinner in a beautiful setting with tables indoors and out.
The stars of this resort, though, are the pools (including an adults-only option) and direct access to Miami Beach, where dozens of chairs with pastel umbrellas are available for hotel guests to enjoy, along with an attendant to take care of all your needs.
Just know if you’re considering a stay at this iconic hotel, you’d better book fast. The Confidante will be transformed into an Andaz; it was announced in 2022, but we’re still waiting to hear when.
Related: The best hotels in Miami, from luxury beach stays to points properties
Rates at The Confidante start at $279 per night plus a $49 daily resort fee (on paid stays). Reserve this hotel for 17,000 World of Hyatt points on off-peak dates, 20,000 on standard dates and 23,000 points on peak dates.
Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa
Clearwater Beach, Florida, USA
RAMON C PURCELL/HYATT
Best for: Beachgoers who want a hotel with home-like amenities right on the water.
Why stay here: For longer stays, this resort offers rooms with full kitchens and laundry facilities, plus a year-round rooftop pool overlooking the ocean.
Roughly 21 miles west of Tampa International Airport (TPA), the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa is a family-friendly affair that’s also a great value.
On the Gulf near Pier 60, the resort has plenty to do and experience, starting with an 8th-floor, year-round pool overlooking the ocean and cabanas to rent with 55-inch TVs and high-speed internet access. There’s also a fitness center to get your workout in and the Sandava Spa to indulge in a little self-care.
The resort has 286 rooms, all with lots of space and balconies. Many rooms have kitchenettes or fully equipped kitchens and even multiple-bedroom options, so you can really treat the place like a home away from home while on vacation.
However, if you want to skip home cooking, don’t fret, as there are plenty of food options to enjoy. At SHOR American Seafood Grill, enjoy American fare for breakfast and seafood dishes for dinner. Savor the lunch or dinner menu of Latin favorites at Tropico Rooftop Cantina. There’s also a casual bar-style restaurant, OffSHOR, with light bites and cocktails, plus a full in-room dining menu.
Rates at Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort & Spa start at $269 per night, plus a $35 daily resort fee (on paid stays). World of Hyatt members can book award nights starting at 29,000 points per night.
Wild Dunes Resort
Isle of Palms, South Carolina, USA
HYATT
Best for: With an assortment of accommodation types, ranging from standard rooms to large suites and standalone vacation rentals, this resort really is perfect for everyone.
Why stay here: Wild Dunes may feel like an island escape, but it’s an easy commute to Charleston’s cultural attractions, restaurants and nightlife.
At over 1,600 acres, Wild Dunes Resort on the Isle of Palms — a hop, skip and a jump away from downtown Charleston — really has it all and then some.
The resort is made up of four different accommodation styles to fit every type of traveler’s needs: the costal-style Sweetgrass Inn, the more intimate and upscale Boardwalk Inn, one- to three-bedroom suites at the Residences at Sweetgrass and Wild Dunes Vacation Rentals, which offers full property rentals ranging from one-bedroom condos to seven-bedroom houses — and everything in between.
Activities at Wild Dunes are plentiful and can be as fast-paced or relaxing as you need. For a little adventure, go kayaking or paddleboarding before an afternoon of fishing. Practice your golf swing at an oceanfront golf course, or give your backhand a go at the tennis courts. You can also just let it all go at the Spa at Sweetgrass.
Across the resort, there are a handful of pools, including a fun pool complex at Sweetgrass Inn, two smaller pools and the Swim Center, which features a pool with swimming lanes. Of course, there’s also a beautiful stretch of beach to relax in the sunshine with the sound of the waves crashing along the coast.
Being a large resort, there are lots of places to dine, from upscale seafood restaurants and family-friendly Italian restaurants to quick bites and ice cream parlors. There’s even a rooftop bar with beautiful views across the island.
Rates at Wild Dunes start around $315 per night plus a resort fee on paid reservations of 16% daily rate plus tax. Award nights are available starting at 24,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa
Huntington Beach, California, USA
HYATT
Best for: Families who want space to spread out after long days by the pool or beach.
Why stay here: Pool cabanas and waterslides make for a perfect day in the sun, while a private beach bonfire complete with chairs and s’mores are a fine way to end the evening.
In California, the beaches of the Pacific are calling — and the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa is a great place to enjoy it all. Great for families, the resort offers spacious rooms to spread out in, a pool with cabana rentals, fire pit rentals and beautiful Spanish-style architecture fitting of Southern California.
During the days, relax by the pool, book a whale-watching excursion, or sign your kids up for mermaid lessons so they can live out their “Little Mermaid” fantasies. Adults can enjoy time at the Pacific Waters Spa and a cocktail at one of the many bars and restaurants, like the poolside Mankota’s Grill.
Other dining options include the casual and family-friendly Slyders Bar and Café, located by the pool, a grab-and-go pizzeria, coastal cuisine at Pete’s Sunset Grille and the upscale, date-night-appropriate Watertable, which has a menu of Southern California favorites.
As for the accommodations, choose a room that features an outdoor fire pit to really feel like you’re somewhere special or splurge on a larger-than-life suite to make sure the entire crew can spread out comfortably. If you really need more space, there’s even a 2,500-square-foot Presidential Beach House with a fireplace, walk-in closet and giant soaking tub.
Rates at Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa start around $305 a night plus a $42 per night resort fee (on paid bookings). World of Hyatt members can book award nights starting at 29,000 points per night.
Alila Marea Beach Resort Encinitas
Encinitas, San Diego, California, USA
ALILA MAREA BEACH RESORT/FACEBOOK
Best for: Beach lovers looking for a touch of laid-back luxury.
Why stay here: With a world-class spa and direct beach access, this resort has everything you could want for a sunny SoCal getaway.
North of San Diego in Encinitas, the Alila Marea Beach Resort is a coastal gem that offers luxurious fun in the sun with a side of local-influenced activities designed to make every guest happy.
For starters, the location is just plain gorgeous, as the resort is tucked away on a coastal bluff, and each of the 130 rooms and suites offers picture-perfect views. Speaking of those rooms, each is airy and modern, with a design that reflects the rugged nature of the coastline. For an extra-special experience, book a first-floor Fire Pit Room to unwind in a private seating area in the glow of a fire pit.
At Spa Alila, let your troubles melt away after picking the perfect treatment, like a walnut husk and sugar scrub ($225, 50 minutes) or a Himalayan salt stone massage ($230, 50 minutes).
Guests can also join one of Alila’s signature “Journeys” that incorporate local experiences into your stay, like the Surfboard Quiver. It allows guests to rent (for an extra fee) a surfboard curated by local surfer Rob Machado. If you want to relax oceanside, hit up the beach concierge, who can help you plan the perfect day.
Or, simply post up for the day at the pool overlooking the ocean, where servers are on hand to deliver drinks. For meals, check out the hotel’s signature restaurant, Vaga, helmed by executive chef Claudette Zepeda, or stop for drinks and snacks at The Pocket, a surf-inspired bar with beautiful views of the coast.
Rates at Alila Marea Beach Resort start at $629 per night plus a $55 resort fee (on paid stays). Award nights start at 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Mission Pacific Hotel
Oceanside, California, USA
KATE AUDA/HYATT
Best for: A modern stay near the beach that’s welcoming to your four-legged friends.
Why stay here: The heated rooftop pool overlooking the picturesque pool is second only to the pristine beach across the street.
Not all of Hyatt’s best beach hotels are massive resorts with hundreds of rooms.
One stellar resort that’s on the boutique side of things is the Mission Pacific Hotel, part of JDV by Hyatt. In North San Diego County (technically in Oceanside), the hotel has just 161 rooms and 38 suites, with many featuring breathtaking ocean views, balconies and laid-back but modern interiors. For more space, opt for a suite with a kitchenette.
There’s plenty to do outside of the hotel, like enjoying a stroll on the wooden pier across the street. If you don’t feel like leaving, you won’t get bored. Spend days relaxing in a cabana at the rooftop pool, chilled rosé in hand; hit up the associated Sunny’s Spa & Beauty Lounge across the street for a treatment; or cozy up by an outdoor fire pit and relax in the breezy air.
Guests can’t go wrong with the hotel’s dining options, especially Valle Restaurant, a Michelin Guide-recognized Mexican restaurant from Chef Roberto Alcocer that serves a popular prix-fixe meal. There’s also High/Low, a seasonal California restaurant open for breakfast and lunch, as well as The Rooftop Bar, where pool-goers can drink cocktails and party Thursday-Sunday night with a DJ.
Rates at Mission Pacific Hotel start around $281 per night plus a daily resort fee of $46 (on paid reservations). World of Hyatt members can book award nights starting at 29,000 points per night.
Mar Monte Hotel
Santa Barbara, California, USA
TYSON ELLIS/HYATT
Best for: World of Hyatt members looking for an upscale but understated SoCal spot to redeem their points.
Why stay here: Bright, breezy rooms, a sun-splashed pool area and an elegant restaurant that showcases coastal Italian cuisine are all reasons to spend a night or two here.
In Santa Barbara, California, the Mar Monte Hotel, part of the Unbound Collection by Hyatt, is a timeless property across the street from a great beach that guests can enjoy.
With 200 rooms, guests can select from options that include large ocean-view suites, as well as rooms and suites in the off-property Palmoro, a block-and-a-half away from the main property.
At the hotel, there’s much to enjoy, like live music during the summer, yoga on the beach, a bocce ball court and house bikes guests can rent to explore the area. The hotel can also direct guests to local activities, like sailing or coastal wine tours.
Although Santa Barbara has a great food scene, the hotel’s two restaurants are good reasons to stay put. At Café Lido, grab-and-go breakfast is served in the morning, while the rest of the day features a shareable menu of small Mediterranean plates and cocktails. Costa Kitchen & Bar features a local wine menu accompanied by Italian and Mediterranean dishes served in an ocean-view setting.
Rates at Mar Monte Hotel start at $275 per night plus a $30 daily resort fee (on paid stays). World of Hyatt members can book award nights starting at 21,000 points per night.