kids

Apache is functioning normally

After spending months working 60 or 70 hours per week, realizing that life is all too short, and preparing for our kids to come home, it’s time for a new financial paradigm of my own: I’m semi-retiring.

I had always been perplexed by those who, say, retired early to travel to exotic locations. I like working and don’t really like traveling, so my dreams involved some sort of fulfilling employment until I couldn’t work anymore. I’m the life of the party, I know.

But then two or three years ago, I read about a guy who took a year off from full-time employment and I thought, what if?

What if I (or my husband) could take a year or two off from full-time employment? Or work part-time for a few years? Or work six months out of the year? Is that possible and would we want to?

Maybe and probably.

So over the last 2.5 years, my husband and I crafted a plan to send at least one of us, if not both of us, into temporary, semi-retirement once our kids arrived. Ideally, we would be financially independent with no need for earning monthly income, but… yeah, we knew that wouldn’t happen. So what we needed was a job (or jobs) with very flexible and part-time hours, jobs that would allow us to help our kids transition to a new culture, and jobs that paid enough to keep the lights on.

The First Laps

Before you dive into semi-retirement, take care of the basics.

1. Decrease debt load. The more debt you have, the more money you will need to have in semi-retirement. By now, any non-mortgage debt is a distant memory. Our monthly mortgage payment is significant, so our semi-retirement income needed to be at least four times our housing costs.

2. Increase savings. Because you’re taking a break from full-time employment (and perhaps from IRA or 401(k) contributions), you need to be creative with retirement savings. On the other hand, if you get used to living on less, maybe you don’t need as much in full retirement. We’ve been contributing to Roth and traditional IRAs for over a decade. Plus, we have an emergency fund. If we didn’t have those things, decreasing our income would require more radical sacrifices.

3. Increase income. Before you semi-retire, earning more can help you decrease your debt and increase your savings. Earning more is not always possible for everyone, but this is the reason we are able to semi-retire.

The Middle of the Race

The next step is to calculate how much money you’ll really need in semi-retirement. Some expenses (like transportation costs and work clothes) will decrease. Others (utilities and health insurance) will increase. Once we knew how much money we needed, we started looking for the money to replace our full-time income.

We don’t have real estate and with very little investment income, we knew that money must come from part-time employment.

I first sought opportunities as a subject matter expert so I could maximize my income-earning potential. But I also wanted jobs that matched our new lifestyle goals: something that could be done mostly at home with very flexible hours. Fortunately, I found a side job that fit all those criteria.

While we still had some lifestyle inflation with our increased income, having a goal kept us mostly on track. As I mentioned, our goal was to stop full-time employment when our kids come home. (We are still waiting on paperwork approval. Hopefully soon!)

The Finish Line

As of today, we are making enough “semi-retirement” income to pay our bills, not counting our full-time incomes. It does mean that our 2014 income will be closer to our 2005 levels, but we are okay with that for a couple of years or more. We are confident that we can do this because we’re already living close to the semi-retirement income level.

Even though this means we’ll have to be very careful with our spending, we’re still excited. The best thing is this opportunity allows us more flexibility to spend time with our kids. We’ve missed out on too many years of their lives already. We should also have more time to do DIY projects on our little farm and start that business I have always wanted.

I’ll be honest with you, though. The last couple of years have been stressful in many ways. I’ve spent a lot of time with my laptop and not as much time with my husband — and I know it’s time that I can’t get back. Our lives felt out of balance, and there were times when I wondered if our goal was worth it.

And I had other questions, too. Did I want to quit my job? I have never had a job I loved more. Were we creating more stress by cutting our salaries… even though we would have more time to spend with our kids? What would an indefinite break do to my career? We would be leaving behind company-provided benefits like a retirement plan and health insurance. The real question? Are we crazy?

The Next Race

Maybe we are crazy, but if we don’t enjoy semi-retirement, we have options. I’m leaving my job on good terms, and it’s possible there may be a similar job opening there in a couple of years. Or, because I’m a specialist, I should be able to find a similar job at another institution if necessary.

Semi-retirement isn’t for everyone. But having your financial ducks in a row gives you options. Maybe you can cut your schedule to four days a week. Maybe you can take six months off to travel. Or take a job that pays less but you love more.

In the meantime, I’ll test the semi-retirement water for you.

Source: getrichslowly.org

Apache is functioning normally

Sophia Bell is a Mortgage Banker at our Leominster, MA branch. She was born and raised in Leominster, MA, where she graduated from Leominster High School and started her career in the banking industry, where she has spent 14 years focusing on the needs of her clients.

What motivates you to wake up and go to work?
Knowing that I can be present for my children for any event of their life will always be my biggest motivation, while also being able to provide a life for my children that I didn’t have. I spent years of my professional life before becoming licensed subjected to the corporate world in an executive position where I didn’t have the flexibility to be around for my children and was told how to hustle. This career allows me to be in control of my success and that keeps me grinding every day!

What would you do for a career if you weren’t doing this?
Hard to say, I didn’t have the opportunity to go to college after high school since I moved out on my own at the age of 17. I got right into banking from high school and spent my years working my way up the corporate ladder until I decided to bet on myself and become licensed as a Loan Officer. When I was a child I always wanted to be a gym teacher though, so if I had the opportunity to go to college, I’d probably have pursued that career.

What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
Sports and playing with my children! I’m a sports junkie and have played nearly every sport; basketball, soccer, co-ed football, women softball, co-ed softball, hockey, golf, snowboarding, fishing, etc…Once I was pregnant with my first, I quit all sports except for women softball and continue to play on the same team for almost 20 years, even though my second pregnancy.

If you could have any superpower what would it be and why?
That’s a great question! Teleport! With having family all over the united states, a very demanding job, and kids of my own – teleporting would allow me to be more present at family gatherings, while also not missing work events or my children! (because we all know traveling on a plane with two kids under the age of 5 isn’t a fun time hahah.

What’s your favorite food?
Tacos!!

What are 3 fun facts about you?
I’m a forced extrovert, I LOVE to bake but usually don’t eat 90% of what I bake hahah, and I HATE being cold.

If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do?
The very first thing I would do is pay off my mortgage. Then make sure my family was taken care of.

If someone was going to visit your hometown, what is one local spot you’d suggest they visit and why?
Oh goodness, it’s Leominster so I’d say there is a lot of cool places to go BUT I would recommend coming here in the fall and doing apple picking at Sholan farms.

What’s your favorite thing about working at Total Mortgage?
How the majority of folks all have the same mindset that it’s about the client and getting them to closing, which means rolling up our sleeves and working nights/weekends, etc…

Source: totalmortgage.com

Apache is functioning normally

You’ve found the ideal house in a great location. Before you start packing your moving boxes, make sure it’s a sound investment too. Most of us wouldn’t dream of buying a used car without a mechanical checkup. Yet with only a couple of 20-minute walk-throughs, we consider buying a home that’s much more expensive.

That makes little sense to Joseph Zagone with CENTURY 21 Aspen Real Estate in Ruidoso, New Mexico. “An inspection is one of the best investments a buyer can make,” he says.
Inspection Protection image 1

Here’s what you should know—and what not to ask.

What to Expect: The inspector will check all components in your house, leaving termite, septic system, and well inspections to specialists. (Here is a list of checkpoints.) A typical inspection costs $300–$400 and takes about three hours. Even if you’re an out of state buyer, arrange to tag along, Zagone says. You can see problems firsthand and you may learn valuable things such as where to find the water shutoffs.

Why it Pays: Experienced do-it-yourselfer Rebecca Anderson didn’t think an inspection would find anything she hadn’t noticed—until the inspector opened up the furnace and discovered a cracked heat exchanger. The upshot? The sellers threw in half the cost of a new furnace.

The Forbidden Question: Only one question is off-limits: “Should I buy this house or not?” That decision is yours alone. “I tell them to read the report completely and call me with questions,” says Gary Havens, owner of Good Havens Home Inspections in greater Minneapolis/St. Paul. “If I feel real comfortable about it, I’ll say I’d feel good about my kids buying it.”

The Seller’s Role: There is nothing to keep a seller from being present for the inspection too, though Zagone doesn’t encourage it. He prefers to help his potential seller line up a handyman beforehand to repair any existing problems. It’s also wise to initiate a separate inspection of your own. Learn more on Ccentury21.com under the “Selling Advice” tab.

Joe Zagone CENTURY 21 Aspen Real Estate, Ruidoso, New Mexico; www.joezagonerealestate.com

HIS CODE: “I want to know about any problems and have them remedied before I place a house on the market. My goal is win-win negotiating, to sell a sound house with no surprises at the correct price.”

OFF-HOURS: In the winter Joe serves as a certified ski instructor on nearby slopes. In warmer weather—even in winter—he makes good use of the seven golf courses in his area.

WHAT GOT HIM INTO REAL ESTATE: “My dad wasan engineer and later a real estate agent in this area. I took economics and marketing in college and worked as a carpenter’s helper in the summers. It all added up to a great background for becoming an agent. I love it.” He’s been in real estate 30 years and has been the top-producing CENTURY 21® Professional Champion in New Mexico for seven of the last eight years. He and his wife, Joan—also a Sales Professional—have five children.

Source: century21.com

Apache is functioning normally

Last Updated: May 25, 2023 BY Michelle Schroeder-Gardner – 64 Comments

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

Tips For When Buying a House

Tips For When Buying a HouseWhen we bought our first (and current) house, our whole process went by very quickly and smoothly. Our mortgage company and real estate agent both told us that our mortgage was the quickest process they’ve ever done. We got pre-approved and bought a house less than one month from start to finish.

It took around 2 weeks for us to find the perfect house, and we probably looked at over 20 houses in person. We also looked at hundreds online so the 20 that we looked at we thought were for sure buys. Our agent probably HATED us. Luckily she was a family friend so I hope she got over her hatred quickly 🙂

We are sort of in the home buying process again as you all know. We keep going back and forth with what type of house we want, where we want it located, and how much we want to spend.

Our current house is fine for now. There is definitely nothing wrong with it, I guess we just want something a little nicer that also has a little more room. So we could: a) stay in our current house and save a lot of money; or b) buy a house within the next year and finance the majority of it (probably with a 25% down payment).

If we did stay in our house for longer, we would spend some money on making it perfect. I definitely would want to change some things in our bathroom (such as adding a nice glass shower door), make our front and backyards perfect (possibly add a garden) and finish decorating everything to the way we want it. This is a whole ‘nother post in itself!

Anyways, when we bought our current house, we followed all of the steps below, except for the fact that we didn’t realize that the total monthly cost would be that much higher than what the mortgage company quoted us. That is something that we were naive about. Learn from our mistake!

1. Get pre-approved for a mortgage!

This is definitely one of the first steps you should take. Looking at houses without getting pre-approved can be disastrous because you might just be wasting your time. You might not get approved, get approved for less than you think, etc.

Wouldn’t it really stink if you spent a ton of time looking at houses that turned out to be way more than what you can be pre-approved for? That can be a major letdown.

2. Buy less than what you are approved for.

I think we were approved for around $200,000. We were 20 years old and this seemed like a ton since we made hardly any money then. We were shocked and we looked at one house that was around this price range, but then we realized that this was a bad idea as we wanted to be more comfortable with our bills.

Also, something that our real estate agent told us, is to not show the seller how much you are pre-approved for. We showed our real estate agent our real pre-approval amount of course, and our agent said that when this happens, it can not be good. She said that if some sellers can see what we can actually “afford,” that they know how flexible that you can be with your pricing and negotiating. You can get your mortgage lender to lower the amount on the piece of paper and this is what we did. We asked our lender to say that our pre-approved amount was $150,000 (everyone, please keep in mind that I live in the Midwest and housing is cheaper here).

3. Buy a house that’s a good size for you.

Also think about the future you are planning when you think about the size of the house you might buy. Remember my post on how we Bought Too Much House? Keep that in mind! While before our house seemed way too big for us, we now want something bigger. Eventually of course we would want kids, but it’s mainly that we want a bigger yard.

Do you plan on living in this house for awhile, or just a short amount of time such as 5 years? Do you want a house and neighborhood/city that is good for kids to grow up in? There are many questions to ask yourself.

4. Get a realtor!

This is something that I definitely recommend. Our realtor saved us a lot of money and was a great negotiator. We got the seller to pay all closing costs (which were around $5,000). And she also got them to fix a lot of little things around the house. Realtors do a lot of work and are skilled in buying/selling houses. They know where to begin, what to look for and have tons of tips.

5. Make sure you look around and don’t settle.

The market is great right now for people who are looking. There are a lot of houses out there and most have a great price (all of course depending on your city! Some cities are in a housing bubble). You will be living in this house most likely for a long amount of time, so you don’t want to regret your decision.

6. Hire an inspector.

This is something that is definitely needed as well. An inspector will be able to find things that might sway you from NOT buying the house. If you’re buying a house, then you can most likely shell out another $300 for an inspection. It is a good investment.

7. Figure out the WHOLE cost.

Not just want the mortgage would be. Figure out if there will be any PMI, what the homeowners insurance will be, and property taxes. This all can add up quickly, and it added around $300 to our mortgage.

8. Save!

Now that you know you want a house, try and save as much as you can before you move into your new home. Your new costs will most likely be higher than what you think, and any extra savings will be extremely helpful.

Related articles:

What tips do you have for a potential homebuyer?

Related Posts

<!–

–>

Source: makingsenseofcents.com

Apache is functioning normally

Are you looking to add some style to your home decor? Look no further than area rugs. We have researched and tested many beautiful area rugs, and we are excited to share our top 10 picks with you.

Area rugs have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. Not only do they add a pop of color and texture to your floors, but they also help to define a space and make it feel more cozy and inviting. With so many options out there, however, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect rug for your home.

That’s where we come in. Our team of experts has evaluated a variety of rugs based on essential criteria such as quality, durability, and style. We’ve also taken into consideration customer reviews to ensure that our top picks are both beautiful and practical. Whether you’re looking for something modern and geometric or more traditional and floral, we’ve got you covered.

With these tips in mind, get ready to be inspired by our top 10 beautiful area rugs. Scroll down to see our ranking and find the perfect rug for your home.

Our Top Picks

Luxe Weavers Grey Area Rug.

Luxe Weavers Grey Area Rug is a perfect addition to any home decor. Made with high-quality materials, this rug is both durable and comfortable. The grey color scheme of this rug makes it a versatile choice for any room, and it is available in a 5×7 size that is perfect for smaller spaces.

This rug is perfect for use in a living room, bedroom, or entryway. It is soft to the touch, making it comfortable to walk on, sit on, or lay on. The high-quality materials used in its construction ensure that it will last for years to come, making it a great investment for any home.

The Luxe Weavers Grey Area Rug is also easy to clean, making it a great choice for families with children or pets. It is resistant to stains and spills, so it is a great choice for high-traffic areas. Overall, this rug is a great choice for anyone who wants to add comfort, style, and durability to their home decor.

Soft and plush

Stylish design

Durable construction

Non-slip backing

May shed initially

May have a chemical smell

May show footprints and stains

The LUXE WEAVERS Grey Area Rug is a budget-friendly option that adds a stylish touch to any room. Its soft pile and durable construction make it a great choice for high-traffic areas.

Modway Border Outdoor Rug

The Modway Border Outdoor Patio Dining Table is a great addition to any outdoor space. This table is made from a durable powder-coated aluminum frame and features a slatted wood tabletop. The modern design is both stylish and functional, with a spacious surface area that can accommodate up to four people.

One of the best features of this dining table is its versatility. It can be used for a variety of outdoor activities, from dining to playing games or working on projects. The table is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a great choice for busy families.

Another benefit of the Modway Border Outdoor Patio Dining Table is its durability. The aluminum frame is rust-resistant and weather-resistant, so it can withstand the elements and last for years to come. Additionally, the slatted wood tabletop is treated to resist water damage, ensuring that it stays looking great even after extended use.

Overall, the Modway Border Outdoor Patio Dining Table is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality outdoor dining table. Its modern design, versatility, and durability make it a great investment for any outdoor space. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a casual meal with family and friends, this dining table is sure to impress.

Stylish design

Weather-resistant material

Easy to clean

Comfortable seating

Limited color options

May require assembly

Not ideal for large groups

The Modway border rug is a great outdoor option with a durable construction and easy-to-clean surface. It’s perfect for adding a pop of color to any patio or deck.

Modway Perplex Black Beige Area Rug.

The Modway Perplex Geometric Area Rug is a stunning piece that adds style and sophistication to any room. Made from 100% polypropylene, this rug is durable and easy to clean, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas. The black and beige geometric pattern is eye-catching and modern, making it perfect for contemporary homes.

This rug is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of rooms, including living rooms, bedrooms, and even dining rooms. It comes in two sizes, 5’x8′ and 8’x10′, so you can choose the size that best fits your space. The rug is also lightweight, making it easy to move and place wherever you need it.

One of the best things about the Modway Perplex Geometric Area Rug is its ability to tie a room together. The black and beige pattern is subtle enough to not overpower the room, but bold enough to make a statement. It’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any space.

Overall, the Modway Perplex Geometric Area Rug is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add a stylish and modern touch to their home. Its durability, versatility, and stunning design make it a must-have for any design-savvy homeowner.

Comfortable

Affordable

Easy to assemble

Not very durable

May require additional cushioning

Limited color options

Modway Perplex Accent Chair is a stylish addition to your home decor with its unique design and comfortable seating. It’s perfect for any modern living room, bedroom, or office space.

PAGISOFE Carpets Bedroom Nursery Playroom

PAGISOFE Carpets for Bedroom Nursery Playroom is a must-have product for anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish rug. The plush texture and softness of the rug make it perfect for bedrooms, nurseries, and playrooms.

The PAGISOFE Carpets come in a variety of colors and sizes to fit any room in your home. The rug is made of high-quality, non-toxic materials that are safe for children and pets. It is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for busy households.

One of the most common uses of the PAGISOFE Carpets is for children’s bedrooms and playrooms. The soft and cozy texture of the rug makes it perfect for children to play on, and the variety of colors available means it can match any decor. The rug also provides a safe and comfortable space for babies to crawl and play.

Overall, the PAGISOFE Carpets for Bedroom Nursery Playroom is an excellent product for anyone looking for a comfortable and stylish rug. Its non-toxic materials, easy maintenance, and variety of colors and sizes make it a practical and versatile choice for any home. Whether you’re looking for a cozy space for your children to play or a soft and stylish rug for your bedroom, the PAGISOFE Carpets are definitely worth considering.

Soft and fluffy

Stain-resistant

Non-slip bottom

Affordable price

Not very thick

May shed initially

Limited color options

The PAGISOFE Carpets are soft and comfortable with a non-slip bottom. Great for bedrooms, nurseries, and playrooms. Available in different sizes and colors.

Nourison Essentials Solid Contemporary Ivory

The Nourison Essentials Solid Contemporary Ivory Area Rug is a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their home décor. This rug is perfect for any room in the house, from the living room to the bedroom. Made from high-quality materials, this rug is soft to the touch and durable enough to withstand heavy foot traffic.

The ivory color of this rug gives it a timeless and sophisticated look that will complement any design style. The contemporary design features a simple yet stylish pattern that adds a touch of texture to the rug. Whether you have a modern or traditional home, this rug will fit right in.

Measuring at 5’3″ x 7’3″, this rug is the perfect size for any room. It is easy to clean and maintain, making it a great choice for busy households. The rug is also lightweight and easy to move around, making it perfect for those who like to rearrange their furniture frequently.

Overall, the Nourison Essentials Solid Contemporary Ivory Area Rug is a great investment for anyone looking to add a touch of style and sophistication to their home. It is a versatile and durable piece that will last for years to come. So, whether you’re looking to update your living room or bedroom, this rug is sure to impress.

Soft and comfortable

Minimal shedding

Easy to clean

Affordable

Limited color options

May require rug pad

This is a high-quality, contemporary ivory rug that is perfect for any room in your home. It is soft, durable, and easy to clean.

Nourison Indoor Outdoor Multicolor.

The Nourison Indoor/Outdoor Multicolor Area Rug is a stunning addition to any living space. With its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, this rug is sure to catch the eye of anyone who enters the room. Made from durable polypropylene, it is perfect for high-traffic areas and can be used both indoors and outdoors.

The rug comes in a variety of sizes to fit any room in your home, from a small entryway to a large living room. Its low pile height makes it easy to clean and maintain, and its fade-resistant materials ensure it will look great for years to come.

Not only is this rug beautiful, it is also functional. Its non-slip backing keeps it securely in place, providing a safe surface for children and pets to play on. It is also easy to roll up and store, making it a great option for seasonal use.

Overall, the Nourison Indoor/Outdoor Multicolor Area Rug is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add some color and style to their living space. With its durability, functionality, and eye-catching design, it is sure to be a favorite for years to come.

Vibrant colors

Durable material

Easy to clean

Suitable for indoor/outdoor use

Tends to curl at edges

Colors may fade over time

Durable and vibrant indoor/outdoor rug with a variety of colors and patterns. Easy to clean and maintain.

TABAYON Tie-Dyed Anti-Skid Rug

The TABAYON Tie-Dyed Upgrade Anti-Skid Rectangular Area Rug is a stylish and functional addition to any home. Made from high-quality materials, this rug is durable and will withstand daily wear and tear. Its unique tie-dyed pattern adds a pop of color and personality to any room.

One of the most common uses of this product is as an area rug in living rooms and bedrooms. The rectangular shape is versatile and can fit into a variety of spaces. The anti-skid backing ensures that the rug stays in place, even on hardwood or tile floors. Additionally, the rug is easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for high-traffic areas.

Measuring 4 feet by 5.3 feet, the TABAYON Tie-Dyed Upgrade Anti-Skid Rectangular Area Rug is the perfect size for most rooms. It is lightweight and easy to move, making rearranging furniture a breeze. The rug is made from soft and comfortable materials, adding an extra layer of comfort to your home.

Overall, the TABAYON Tie-Dyed Upgrade Anti-Skid Rectangular Area Rug is a great investment for anyone looking to add style and functionality to their home. Its durability, practicality, and unique design make it a top choice for homeowners and renters alike.

Attractive tie-dyed design

Upgrade anti-skid bottom

Soft and comfortable material

Easy to clean

Not suitable for outdoor use

May have a chemical smell

Limited color options

The TABAYON Tie-Dyed Upgrade Anti-Skid Rectangular Rug is a stylish and practical addition to any room. Its non-slip bottom and easy-to-clean design make it perfect for high-traffic areas.

Ophanie Fluffy Non-Slip Rug

The Ophanie Fluffy Non-Slip Area Rug is a fantastic addition to any home looking for a cozy and stylish touch. Made with high-quality faux fur, this rug provides a soft and comfortable feel underfoot while also being durable and easy to clean. The non-slip bottom ensures that the rug stays in place, providing added safety for you and your family.

This rug is perfect for a variety of uses, whether you want to add a touch of luxury to your bedroom or create a comfortable play area for your children in the nursery. The size options available make it easy to find the perfect fit for any room in your home. The neutral color options also make it easy to coordinate with any existing decor.

One of the standout features of this rug is its ability to hold up to daily wear and tear. Its high-quality materials and construction ensure that it will look great for years to come. Plus, its easy-to-clean surface makes it a great choice for families with pets or children.

Overall, the Ophanie Fluffy Non-Slip Area Rug is a great investment for anyone looking for a cozy and stylish addition to their home. Its durability and ease of maintenance make it a practical choice, while its soft and luxurious feel make it a comfortable and inviting addition to any room.

Soft and fluffy

Non-slip bottom

Machine washable

Versatile usage

Thin pile height

May shed initially

Color not as pictured

The Ophanie Fluffy Non-Slip Area Rug is soft, stylish, and durable. Perfect for adding comfort and texture to any room in your home.

Shaggy Rug for Bedroom and Livingroom

The Shaggy Rug is a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of cozy luxury to their home decor. This beautifully crafted rug is made of high-quality materials that are both soft and durable. The shaggy texture adds a layer of warmth and comfort to any room, making it a perfect addition to your bedroom, living room, or nursery.

This rug is available in a variety of sizes and colors, giving you the flexibility to choose the perfect fit for your space. The neutral colors make it easy to match with any decor style, while the soft texture adds an extra layer of comfort to your living space.

The Shaggy Rug is also easy to clean, making it a practical choice for any busy household. The high-quality materials are designed to withstand wear and tear, ensuring that this rug will last for years to come.

Whether you’re looking to add a cozy touch to your bedroom, create a comfortable space for your little one, or simply add a touch of luxury to your living room, the Shaggy Rug is the perfect choice. With its soft texture, durable construction, and stylish design, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Soft and shaggy texture

Versatile use in any room

Easy to clean and maintain

Comes in different colors

May shed fibers

Not very thick

May need a rug pad

This shaggy rug is soft, cozy and perfect for adding texture to any room. The non-slip bottom ensures it stays in place. Available in multiple sizes and colors.

SAFAVIEH Medallion Distressed Rug.

The Safavieh Vintage Hamadan Collection is a beautiful and durable rug that adds a touch of elegance to any room. Made from high-quality materials, this rug is perfect for those who want to add a touch of sophistication to their home decor. Whether you’re looking for a rug to place in your living room, bedroom, or dining room, the Vintage Hamadan Collection is a great choice.

One of the best things about this rug is its durability. Made from a blend of polypropylene, jute, and polyester, it is designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and last for years to come. Additionally, the rug is easy to clean, making it a great choice for those with pets or children.

Another great feature of the Safavieh Vintage Hamadan Collection is its beautiful design. The rug features a stunning medallion pattern in a distressed finish, which gives it a timeless and elegant look. The colors are rich and vibrant, and the rug is sure to make a statement in any room.

Finally, the rug is available in a variety of sizes, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your space. Whether you need a small rug for a cozy corner or a large one to cover an entire room, the Vintage Hamadan Collection has you covered.

Overall, the Safavieh Vintage Hamadan Collection is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable and stylish rug. With its high-quality materials, beautiful design, and wide range of sizes, it is sure to be a great addition to any home.

Attractive design

Soft and plush

Durable construction

Non-shedding

May require frequent cleaning

Not suitable for high traffic areas

Beautiful, well-made rug with a vintage look. Non-shedding and easy to clean.

Buyers Guide

1. Size: Before purchasing an area rug, it’s essential to measure the space where you plan to put it. Make sure to measure the length and width of the area to determine what size rug you’ll need. A rug that’s too small will look out of place, while a rug that’s too big will overwhelm the room and make it look cluttered.

2. Style: Area rugs come in different styles and patterns, so choose one that matches the decor of the room. If you have a minimalist space, stick to a rug with solid colors or simple patterns. For a more eclectic room, you can choose a rug with bold patterns and bright colors.

3. Material: The material of the rug is also important. Some materials are more durable than others, while others are more comfortable to walk on. For high-traffic areas, choose a rug made of durable materials like wool or polypropylene. If you want something soft and cozy, go for a rug made of cotton or silk.

4. Maintenance: Consider how easy or difficult it will be to clean and maintain the rug. If you have pets or kids, choose a rug that’s easy to clean and won’t show stains easily. Some materials like wool may require professional cleaning, while others like synthetic fibers can be cleaned with a vacuum or spot cleaning.

5. Budget: Area rugs come in different price ranges, so determine your budget before making a purchase. Keep in mind that a high-quality rug will last longer and be a better investment in the long run. However, if you’re on a tight budget, you can still find affordable options that will suit your needs.

FAQ

Q: What are the three criteria for choosing the right area-rugs?

A: When selecting an area-rug, there are three essential factors to consider: size, style, and material.

Q: Why is size important when choosing an area-rug?

A: The size of the rug plays a crucial role in determining how it will look in a room. A rug that is too small can make the space feel disjointed, while one that is too large can overpower the room. The rug should be big enough to anchor the furniture, but not so big that it covers up too much of the flooring.

Q: What style of area-rug should I choose?

A: The style of the rug should complement the overall aesthetic of the room. If the room has a lot of patterns and textures, a solid-colored rug can help balance it out. Conversely, if the room is relatively neutral, a patterned or textured rug can add interest.

Q: What materials are best for area-rugs?

A: The material of the rug will determine how it feels underfoot, how it wears over time, and how it needs to be cared for. Wool is a popular choice for its durability and softness, while synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester are easy to clean and maintain. Natural fibers like jute and sisal add texture and a natural look to a room.

Q: What are some common uses for area-rugs?

A: Area-rugs can serve multiple purposes, from adding warmth and comfort to a room to defining a space or adding a pop of color. They can also be used to protect flooring from wear and tear or to cover up unsightly stains or damage. Ultimately, the best area-rug for your space will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Conclusions

In conclusion, finding the perfect area rug for your home can seem like a daunting task, but with the right research and approach, it can be a fun and exciting experience. After reviewing the top area rugs on the market, we recommend the LUXE WEAVERS Grey as our top pick for its high-quality materials, beautiful design, and affordable price point. Our second recommendation goes to the Modway Perplex Black/Beige for its unique geometric pattern and durable construction.

When selecting an area rug, it’s important to consider the size, material, and style that will best fit your space and personal taste. Whether you’re looking for a cozy shag rug for your bedroom or a durable outdoor rug for your patio, there’s a perfect option out there for you. Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles and patterns to create a unique and personalized look.

We hope this review has been helpful in your search for the perfect area rug. Remember to take into account your specific needs and preferences, and don’t be afraid to do additional research and read customer reviews before making a final decision. Thank you for reading, and we’re confident you’ll find the perfect area rug to elevate your home decor.

Source: jpost.com

Apache is functioning normally

The word timeshare is often associated with the same sneaky, slimy vibes that emanate from the backrooms of the car dealership during sales negotiations. They both are thought to involve high-pressure sales tactics, a big loss in value the second the purchase is made and rash decision-making you may regret later.

I don’t dispute those things are often quite true, but my timeshare purchase involved no salespeople, no pressure and (so far) no regrets.

And before you discount me as someone who has no clue what I’m talking about or that’s in denial, I travel on points and miles a lot of the time, am pretty adept at hunting travel deals and used math to decide that this purchase was a good one for us.

Here’s why buying a timeshare made sense for me, even though it absolutely won’t — and shouldn’t — make sense for everyone.

Related: 5 things to know about renting a timeshare

Buying a timeshare that doesn’t call itself a timeshare

We bought two contracts in the Disney Vacation Club, which is Mickey’s version of a timeshare … even though that nine-letter word isn’t one Disney uses on its public branding. But make no mistake, what we bought is indeed a timeshare — or two, to be more accurate.

With the Disney Vacation Club, you purchase a set number of points tied to a specific resort to use each year through the end of the contract. An agreement at a new property, such as the new villas at the Disneyland Hotel, is valid for 50 years, while getting a contract at existing properties usually means a shorter time frame, with some being as short as 19 years, ending in 2042.

The two smaller contracts we bought are for Disney’s Aulani resort in Hawaii (expiring in 2062) and the Polynesian Village Resort at Walt Disney World (expiring in 2066), for a total of 155 annual points in the Disney Vacation Club program. While you have priority booking 11 months from the date of travel at your home resort where you “own,” you can use the points within seven months of travel at any Disney Vacation Club resort with availability — with some caveats that we’ll mostly leave for this guide we have on how the Disney Vacation Club works.

Disney’s Aulani. SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY

Both of our contacts were purchased on the resale market, which means we are paying significantly less than what Disney would want for a direct DVC membership. A downside of buying resale is you can only pick through existing contracts instead of crafting exactly what you might want to design from scratch. You also don’t get some of the discounts and perks that come from owning at least 150 DVC points directly from Disney (such as access to the DVC lounges in the parks and being eligible for some less expensive annual pass types).

Sign up for our daily newsletter

I’ll get more into the numbers below, but we have a long track record of taking a variety of Disney vacations year after year, so I feel pretty confident that will continue for the foreseeable future. And I know what we often spend to stay at Disney resorts, which makes the math against the price to own easier. And there is a bustling market for renting DVC points that very much has my attention.

Related: How to rent Disney Vacation Club points to save money on Disney stays

Why now was the time to buy

While I’ve had a mild curiosity about becoming a Disney Vacation Club member for a few years — and have rented DVC points numerous times — there are a few reasons now was the time to purchase.

Disney has the first right of refusal to buy back all of its Disney Vacation Club contract resales. Once the buyer and the seller agree on a price, Disney then has 30 days to buy the contract back at that price itself, thus taking it away from its intended buyer. And historically, Disney really would exercise that right some of the time, especially on contracts where prices were low.

For example, according to the DVC Resale Market, a site that lists some DVC contracts for sale, by March 2022, Disney had already exercised its buy-back clause on 244 contracts that company had helped to sell by March that year. In contrast, by March this year, that buy-back number for the year was just four — and all of those were from January, with none shown since then.

With almost no Disney buybacks happening in the last few months, some contracts are selling at cheaper prices than historically was possible. With prices trending down, inventory trending up and Mickey not swooping in to buy back the best deals at a normal clip, now was the time for us to buy.

The math behind my timeshare purchase

Before I share our numbers, let me emphasize one more time that this isn’t for everyone — it’s not even right for most Disney aficionados. Smaller contracts also cost more per point than larger contracts, so you can get better deals on a per-point basis if you are willing to buy more points. We wanted to minimize risk by staying small, so we paid a bit more per point as a result. Here’s how it broke down for us.

For our Polynesian Village contract, we bought 55 points for $156 per point at a total cost (with dues, closing costs, etc.) of just over $9,300. For our Aulani contract, we bought 100 points for $108.50 per point for an all-in cost of just over $12,600. And yes, it is totally normal for some resorts to cost much more than others, as you see with our Aulani and Polynesian purchases. This is due to the cost of annual dues at each property, the desirability of booking further in advance at that property and the number of years left on the contract.

1 of 3

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY

So for about $22,000, we now have 155 Disney Vacation Club points to use each year until the contracts expire. That cost may sound nuts by itself. But remember that at current rates, we also will owe $914 per year for dues on our Aulani points and $437.25 for our Polynesian points, and those numbers will likely only increase over time. So that means $1,351.25 per year just to own the points based on this year’s prices.

But here’s why it’s not as crazy as it likely initially sounds.

Right now, it is very realistic to rent your DVC points out for stays as an individual at $20 per point, with some getting higher or lower amounts. If we rented all 155 points out at that $20 rate in a year, that would mean getting $3,100, which way more than covers the dues. In fact, using current rates to rent out points and for dues (knowing both will likely increase as the years go by), we’d recoup the cost we spent to buy the contracts if we did that for 13 of the 39 years we will own both contracts — including covering the cost of the dues in the years we fully rent the points out.

Now, I’m not saying that’s my plan, but that’s the math. For those curious, per the terms, you can expressly rent out points, but not in a pattern that constitutes a commercial enterprise.

So now let’s talk about math when using the points, which we absolutely will do.

You can use the points to stay at Disney resorts starting at just 7 points per night at Deluxe resorts such as Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. By owning 155 per year, we have the opportunity to cover numerous nights at Disney with the points we now own if we are strategic about how and when we cash them in. But for now, let’s be extra conservative and say our stays in studio villas will average 20 points a night. With that math, we get between seven and eight nights a year out of our points.

1 of 3

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY

If, for the 39 years that we own both contracts, we used all the points ourselves and got an average of 7.75 nights at high-end Disney resorts from our points using a 20-point per-night average, that’s a total of 302 hotel nights (not even counting the additional four years of stays on our Polynesian points).

Not counting annual dues, that comes to a “cost” of $72.85 per resort night from the all-in original purchase price. Using today’s cost of dues, then counting annual dues, that cost jumps to paying $247.35 per night. This amount will go up, but likely so will the average cost of hotel stays booked directly, so using today’s dollars for both should give an apples-to-apples idea of the cost.

That’s not a cheap nightly rate for a hotel, but if you take a look at the going nightly rate for a night at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Aulani Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and other spots we like to stay, rates are often $500-$700. And compared to that, $247.35 per night starts to look more like a deal. And remember, this was using a conservative average nightly points rate compared to where nightly points rates start, so the more nights we redeem for lower points, the lower the average rate we are “paying” per night.

When you then factor in that there are other options for the points in the years that you may not want to go to Disney, such as gifting family and friends or even renting them out a stay, the math — for us — starts to look less and less outrageous.

Related: These are the best hotels at Disney World

A renovated Grand Floridian DVC studio. SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY

What happens if we don’t want it anymore — or die?

If it turns out that eventually, we don’t want to own one or both of these Disney Vacation Club memberships anymore before the deeds expire, we can put them up for resale.

The good news is we bought at resale prices, so while no one knows what the future market is for these contracts, hopefully, we’d be able to get out of the memberships without getting too upside down since we didn’t pay retail. So far, someone has always been willing to buy a DVC membership as long as the price is right, so it’s not a question currently of if you could sell, but for how much.

But if no one bought them, we’d continue to be on the hook for the dues until we could offload them somehow. This is one reason we kept our purchase on the smaller side.

Since my husband and I are both on the deeds, if one of us dies while the deed is active, the other of us keeps on trucking with it. If we both die before the time is up on the deeds, then they become a piece of deeded real estate subjected to your will(s), those getting your inheritance, the probate process, etc.

Once our kids are adults, we could also add them to the deed(s) if it seems Disney is going to continue to be a part of their lives. Some people approach these purchases with a trust in mind as the owner. Naturally, there are implications to all of the proceeding options that would need to be worked out with lawyers and the like, so don’t take my word too seriously on any of that, but know that there are some implications of owning a deeded timeshare beyond just the cost to own.

Bottom line

Should any rational person spend $22,000 buying timeshares on the resale market — and still be on the hook for over $1,000 in annual dues for the next several decades for Disney resort stays? Maybe not. Probably not.

But on the other hand, after running the numbers many times and looking at our track record of vacations spanning more than the last decade, it started to feel absurd not to give this a try. And if it all goes south, then future me will hope that there’s someone out there like current me that thinks this is worth giving a try.

Related reading:

Source: thepointsguy.com

Apache is functioning normally

Christina Hall and her husband Josh have a busy summer ahead.

An all-new season of “Christina on the Coast,” the Southern California-based HGTV docuseries that chronicles Christina’s home renovation and design business and family life, is set to debut June 29. In addition to transforming a new slate of clients’ coastal-inspired homes, Christina will also tackle a remodeling project inside the ultra-modern Newport Beach, CA, mansion she purchased in 2022 for $12 million.

“Now that Christina is settled in a new home closer to family and friends, the busy mom of three, author and entrepreneur also will tackle her own kitchen overhaul alongside husband Josh Hall,” according to a press release.

The property, built in 2021, is chock full of luxury touches like floor-to-ceiling windows, an “interstellar” home theater, and a lap pool. And although we have yet to get a good view of the kitchen, it’s hard to believe a home this new—and this deluxe—is worthy of a renovation. But that’s all the more reason to tune in.

Prior to buying in Newport Beach, Christina and Josh, who tied the knot in September 2022, put down roots in a modern farmhouse on 23 acres in Franklin, TN. The southern suburb of Nashville was their home base while filming the first season of “Christina in the Country,” the countrified spin-off that chronicled the HGTV stars expanding their business on the other side of the country.

Just in case you’re keeping track, Christina separated from her second husband, Ant Anstead, in September 2020, and their divorce became final in June. They had been married since December 2018, and stayed together for just under two years.

Christina explained on Instagram that she and Josh had been dating in strict privacy for “several months” prior to her going public with their relationship in July 2021.

“I met Josh when I wasn’t in a state of fear or fight-or-flight … I had taken time off social, hired a spiritual coach and smoked a Bufo toad (which basically reset my brain and kicked out years of anxiety in 15 mins),” Christina said on Instagram. “When we met this past spring, the synchronicities hit us so hard and fast they were impossible to ignore.”

In any case, Christina seems to dig romantic relationships with men in the real estate industry. Her first marriage, to her “Flip or Flop” co-host, Tarek El Moussa, lasted over ten years, and their TV series ended in 2022 after 10 seasons.

Ahead of the sixth season of “Christina on the Coast,” here are a few surprising facts every HGTV fan should know about Josh Hall.

1. He’s a real estate agent in Austin

Hall is a real estate agent at Spyglass Realty, having relocated to Austin, TX, in 2017 “after visiting and falling in love with its beauty,” he explained in his bio. “I just could not leave without buying a home of my own in this little slice of heaven. I was actually born not too far from Austin, at Ft. Hood Army base where my father was stationed.”

Yet while his bio and contact information used to be proudly displayed on Spyglass, all that’s there now is his square-jawed headshot. Could this mean that he may soon be moving into Christina’s gorgeous new Newport Beach home, and getting his real estate license in California? Perhaps. In fact, we wouldn’t be at all surprised if we soon see him in cameos (or more) in “Christina on the Coast.”

2. He’s not a real estate snob

A review of his Realtor.com® profile reveals that he was responsible for 15 home sales in the past two years, representing either the buyer or seller. The market in Austin has been feverish over the past two years, and Hall appears to have specialized in homes in the $200,000 to $900,000 range. Most are traditional, two- to four-bedroom houses, some on sizable lots measuring an acre or more.

Austin TX area home sold by Joshua HallAustin TX area home sold by Joshua Hall
Joshua Hall represented the buyer in the sale of this four-bedroom, three-bath home in Spicewood, TX.

(Google Maps)

Austin area home sold by Joshua HallAustin area home sold by Joshua Hall
This Austin-area home was sold by Hall.

(Google Maps)

No Instagram, no Facebook, no Twitter feed, not even LinkedIn for business purposes! Believe us, we looked. He may be the last remaining real estate agent of his generation who doesn’t at least promote his listings somewhere online.

Christina seems to like it that way, and we can’t blame her.

“The internet and social are great for businesses or staying up to date on fam / friends but also can be toxic and (let’s be real) pretty fake,” she wrote on Instagram. “Josh doesn’t have social media.”

4. He was formerly a cop—for all the right reasons

Hall’s bio also reveals this: “While living in southern California, I realized my passion was to help others and I became a police officer at the age of 21. Before my 16 year career was cut short due to injuries sustained in the line of duty and ultimately leading to an early retirement, I took great pride in helping people with everyday difficulties and putting them at ease.”

It seems he’ll once again be protecting Southern California properties and citizens, at least in a more personal way, as his future wife and three stepchildren all call Orange County home.

5. He loves dogs

In Hall’s spare time, he says, “You can find me exploring with my two dogs, floating on one of Austin’s many bodies of water or flying to rescue puppers from kill shelters.” Talk about a noble cause!

Since Christina already has two pups of her own, a Rottweiler named Biggie and a French bulldog named Cash, her Newport Beach home is already pet-friendly. But the question is, will Hall and his pack all fit inside their home—and on the family bed?

6. His sisters are reality TV–famous

Something else Hall and Christina have in common is reality TV. In fact, Hall’s younger sisters are deeply steeped in it. His sister Stacie Hall Adams appeared regularly on “The Hills” as Stacie the bartender. His sister Jessica was a former Playboy model, hosted the MTV reality series “Burned, and made regular appearances on “Kendra” and “Kendra on Top,” as the close friend of fellow Playboy star Kendra Wilkinson.

Hall’s sister Jessica now hosts the podcast “Flashbacks” solo, but she formerly hosted it with bestie Heather Rae Young of “Selling Sunset” fame. Yes, that Heather Rae Young, the one who’s engaged to El Moussa, Christina’s first husband. Hollywood is such a small town!

8. He’s inked to the brink

Oh, the tales Hall’s tattoos could tell, like what’s up with that hatted man adjacent to his left pec, and why the spiderweb on his left knee? He must have his reasons for them all, and he could spend countless hours in the telling.

9. He’s already close to Christina’s kids

He appears to already be fully accepted by Christina’s kids, at least her two oldest, Taylor and Brayden. A recent Instagram post revealed that the four of them spent a quick, kid-friendly weekend in Las Vegas: “24 hours in Las Vegas with the big kids—wave pool, aquarium, steak dinner repeat ❤️🎰.” Cheers to that!

10. Christina has his back

Don’t you dare be all judgy about Christina’ third engagement on social media, or Christina will come out swinging.

She’s posted several Instagram tirades, including this one: “People are way too concerned about other people’s lives. They spend so much time judging others to avoid working on their own sh*t … Life is short. Do what you love with the ones you love. For me, that’s Josh, my kids and a few close friends and co-workers. ✌🏼”

Source: realtor.com

Apache is functioning normally

With rates around 6.9% and home prices still near record highs, homebuyers are demanding that their loan officers provide options to lower monthly mortgage payments as much as possible.

Michael J. Barnes, a branch manager at Mann Mortgage, recently had a client who planned to live in a new home for five years before selling it. The client requested a cost analysis to compare monthly payments on a mortgage at 7.5% versus a 6.5% mortgage rate with a permanent rate buydown.

His client would pay $4,000 to buy down the rate by one full percentage point (100 bps) and save $7,880 over the five-year period he planned to keep the home. 

“In that client’s case, it made sense to pay to do a permanent buy down,” Barnes said. “There were too many things going against the client to do a temporary buydown, knowing that he’s going to keep it for a maximum of five years.”

To get the best product for the borrower, Barnes, like many LOs these days, has had to run different scenarios based on the client’s preferences, including the mortgage term, down payment and whether the purchase would be a primary residence versus investment, as that would affect the pricing of LLPA fees. 

LOs across America are challenging clients to think about their financial situation several years down the line, asking about plans for kids, how much is being saved in IRAs/401Ks, and more. These days, there’s much more to the job than, “Here’s much you qualify for,” LOs said.

“What I’ve seen is that the really good mortgage advisors today are taking time to understand each borrower’s circumstance, short term goals, long term goals and put together a plan with them of how long are they going to be in the house, how much do we need to put down on that house, and understand not every loan is created equal for every person, depending on what their goals are,” said Brian Covey, executive vice president of Revolution Mortgage. 

Understanding the borrower

Randy Kaufman, a senior loan originator at Notre Dame Federal Credit Union, offered his client the option to float his rate for a transaction that is set to close at the end of June. 

When Kaufman’s client’s offer was accepted at the end of May, the client anticipated that the debt ceiling legislation would pass and that the Federal Reserve would pause hiking rates in the upcoming June FOMC meeting, which in turn would bring mortgage rates down. 

“They didn’t want to lock it yet, they wanted to let it flow. So they’re saving themselves some money by letting it flow,” Kaufman said.

Being conservative never hurts and being strategic about the market is important, Jared Sawyer, a sales manager at loanDepot, said.

loanDepot offers borrowers the option to float rates but Sawyer sees the majority of his clients want predictability when it comes to rates – opting to go with a permanent rate buydown.

“I would say about 95% of first-time homebuyers want to know what their payment is going to be out of the gate. They don’t have to worry about that changing on them,” Sawyer said.

Especially when the seller is willing to give concessions, the buyer is able to get a credit for closing and contribute to buying down points. 

Seller concessions are abundant in some of the markets that have cooled – including Oregon and Arizona – and his clients are able to take advantage of that, Sawyer noted. 

“I let them know their options. These are the options you can do and here are the pros and cons of this (…) About 90% of the conversation we’re having, [I’m hearing] we don’t want to look at something temporary. We want to make sure we know what our payments are going to be,” Sawyer said.

Every scenario is different and he finds some of his experienced buyers – those who bought their first homes already are open to the option of a temporary buydown, according to Sawyer, 

Temporary buydowns often make more sense for buyers planning to live in the home long term as they are more likely to have a refi opportunity during that time period, Barnes noted. Also, seller-funded temporary buydowns may not be available depending on how hot market conditions are.

A game of conversion for loan officers

“The knowledge of what the market is doing and knowing why it is happening is critical right now more than ever,” Jose Valenzuela, a loan officer at Motto Mortgage, said. “If you can paint a picture for the borrowers explaining potential scenarios both good and bad, it’s also critical.”

Valenzuela has been able to create a high pull-through closing after retaining pre-approved clients thanks in part due to weekly check-ins with his clients. Being a “trusted advisor” is important in an environment where buyers are trying to find their homes. It’s important to focus on what the buyer might be looking for, Valenzuela said.

For instance, having a nice yard for a borrower’s son could mean they can pass on to their child like their parents did for them, he noted. Some borrowers are focused on legacy to leave for their child’s future.

“Have a meaningful conversation about ways to focus on legacy like a living trust, a financial planner (…) This will keep you in the driver’s seat against almost any other loan officer,” he said. 

Many loan officers are hoping for the market to turn, which in turn would bring back some refi business among homebuyers who locked in rates at close to 7% levels at the latter half of 2022. 

“I would not hold my breath on that I would plan on this environment being consistent. You have to work three times as hard to make the same paycheck you did last year in this environment,” Sawyer said. 

Ultimately, it’s a game of conversion. Loan officers need to take more time with borrowers and ask better questions to secure loans, Covey said. 

“Even if you’re talking to fewer people, if you can convert at a higher percentage, you’re still getting the volume and velocity of applications and closings that you desire.” 

Source: housingwire.com

Apache is functioning normally

Growing up, my parents taught me very little about financial responsibility. It wasn’t until college, when my parents expected me to pay my own car insurance, that I was forced to learn the basics of budgeting. It was just one bill, but it was traumatic to me since I’d never paid for anything myself until that point. Looking back, the lesson was introduced too late. It didn’t “take”.

Had I understood budgeting earlier in life, some of my financial choices might have been different. Obviously, this isn’t the only reason I accumulated a mountain of debt, but it’s an example of the lack of financial education I received as a kid. (Fortunately, now thousands of dollars in debt are gone after a lot of planning and sacrifice — and of course, using coupons.) My husband and I want to teach our boys smart financial habits at a much younger age than we learned them.

An 11-Year-Old’s View of Money

For Christmas, our 11-year old son, T, wanted wanted a cell phone. Actually, when the new iPhone 4G hit the market, he suggested that he could take my 3G to use so I could get the new 4G. (His generosity knows no bounds!) While his suggestion gave his parents quite a laugh, we seized the opportunity to teach him a financial lesson. Here’s a bit of that conversation:

Me: “T, even if you did get an iPhone, the monthly plan is expensive. Who would pay for that?”
T: “You can just add me onto your plan, Mom.”
Me: “You didn’t answer my question, who would pay for that?”
T: “Well, you would. It’s only a few extra dollars a month. You and Dad work, so that’s nothing.”

The last statement set me off a bit! My husband and I do not want our kids to think that just because money is earned means it has to be spent. We also don’t want them to think that just because their friends have the newest fill in the blank that they need it too. After this conversation with my son, we decided to teach him a financial lesson.

An 11-Year-Old’s First Budget

s Christmas rolled around, T kept mentioning the cell phone. He really wanted it. So, we sat down and had a more detailed discussion about budgeting.

Since the cell phone would be T’s first and and only bill, we talked about his cash flow. He makes $44 a month for doing his chores (with potential to make more money each month for doing other things). We broke down his current expenses. I know he’s only 11 years old, but we really wanted this lesson to impress the importance of budgeting and giving.

I suggested that if he could find a phone plan that cost 50% or less of his monthly income, we’d consider the phone. The only limit to his search was that we needed a monthly payment plan without a contract. If he didn’t pay, we didn’t want to be bound to a contract we were paying for and not using. No payment means he simply wouldn’t have a phone to use (after all, a cell phone is a want and not a necessity).

An 11-year-old's budgetBeing eleven years old and not knowing how to find the information, I came up with a list of websites for him to review (with my guidance for some online safety measures). He browsed the sites, wrote down options, and noted which carriers offered a monthly service plan option.

After his review, he gave me his analysis and recommendation. I wasn’t surprised at the suggestion since I’d done some preliminary research myself. The lowest monthly payment plan was $25, and it did offer the monthly payment option that we required. Even though this was $3 over his $22 budget, we decided it was the best financial option meeting the requirements.

As we were going over the numbers again with the $25 cost, we discussed all of T’s expenses that his $44 monthly income was expected to cover. During this talk, we reminded him about tithing, and ensuring that 10% of his income is set aside for our church.

T’s response to this didn’t surprise me: “That’s easy. I make $44 and will spend $25 on my phone bill. That leaves me with $19. So 10% of $19 is $2.” While I appreciated his stellar math skills, we also took the time to remind him that the 10% giving was before he paid any bills. For us, that lesson was equally important in his understanding of financial generosity.

Family Financial Responsibility

Going through this budgeting process was eye-opening for all of us. While some parents are worried about having “the talk,” I was equally concerned with having this budgeting talk. This was a great lesson to teach T, but we hope that dad’s jacked up car and his first-hand look at poverty also show him reasons why we make the choice to manage our money wise in the first place.

Maybe 2011 is the year you take control of your finances and say good-bye to debt. For our family, 2011 is the year that we, as a family unit, focus on financial responsibility. And it started by teaching an 11-year-old how to budget for a cell phone.

Source: getrichslowly.org