A restored 1725 farmhouse in Falmouth, ME, is the oldest home on the market this week on Realtor.com®.
The property also comes with an accessory dwelling that’s “waiting for you to complete,” according to the listing. The spacious estate offers lots of period charm and character, as well as expansion possibilities.
Other homes to hit the market this week include a restored Cape in Massachusetts and a saltbox in Connecticut featuring many original details.
Scroll down for a full look at this week’s 10 oldest homes.
Price: $1,990,000 Year built: 1725 Family farmhouse: This farmhouse with an accessory dwelling on 23 acres is an ideal setting for a large family.
The four-bedroom home features restored hardwood floors and built-in cabinets. A two-story, sunken living room is surrounded by windows, and the kitchen offers a fireplace and exposed, wood-beam ceiling. There is also a fitness room with a sauna, a new deck with a hot tub, and an outdoor pool.
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Price: $985,000 Year built: 1730 Cute Cape: This post-and-beam construction boasts many historic details, including a stone fireplace with a beehive oven and wide-plank wood floors.
A renovation in 2006 opened up the great room with its dramatic wall of windows that overlook a natural duck pond. The formal living room has wood-paneled walls, built-in shelves, a walk-in fireplace, and an exposed-beam ceiling. The main-level primary suite features a custom dressing closet.
The 1.5-acre property includes a two-story barn with a heated office/yoga studio, potting shed, and detached garage.
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Price: $550,000 Year built: 1731 Recently renovated: This cute Cape was recently renovated with custom millwork and leaded glass windows throughout its 1,903 square feet of living space.
The delightful domicile features three bedrooms and three full baths. Details include coffered ceilings, restored hardwood floors, fireplaces, and built-in shelves. The main-floor primary suite has a walk-in shower, and the two bedrooms upstairs come with a beautiful bathroom with marble flooring.
The home, which is just minutes from Nemasket River, is pending sale.
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Price: $545,000 Year built: 1734 The Cummings House: Highlights of this historic home include original paneling, milk-glass light fixtures, and three fireplaces.
Restored hardwood floors, including wide plank, can be found throughout the 3,754 square feet of living space. The five-bedroom home features a living room with wood-paneled walls, an exposed-beam ceiling, and a wood-burning stove. A cozy kitchen with a wood-burning stove was recently updated with granite countertops and a center island.
A sun-filled family room overlooks the private backyard of the 4-acre lot.
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Price: $495,000 Year built: 1735 The Millers House: This adorable, two-bedroom abode has been thoughtfully modernized and expanded.
The 1,096 square feet of living space boasts period details such as original doors, restored wood floors, and built-in cabinetry. The living room comes with a gas fireplace, and the updated kitchen has an exposed-beam ceiling, quartz countertops, and stainless-steel appliances.
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Price: $1,175,000 Year built: 1739 One of the oldest homes in Amherst: This well-maintained home has been carefully modernized.
The four-bedroom house features two fireplaces, hardwood floors, and crown molding. The living room comes with a fireplace and bookshelves, and the dining room opens to a brick patio. The updated kitchen still features wide-plank floors and an eye-catching wood ceiling.
A back staircase leads to a reading nook that is said to be part “of the original Asa Adams Farm,” an inn from the 1700s, according to the listing.
The 1-acre lot comes with a two-bedroom guesthouse and pool.
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Price: $549,900 Year built: 1740 Charm galore: This three-bedroom home still has many period details, including three fireplaces, wide-plank floors, and two staircases.
The 1,637-square-foot home also has two front parlors with fireplaces, and an additional room found on the main floor could be transformed into a bedroom.
The 3.6-acre property includes a barn that was the former home of Sundial Gardens tea garden.
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Price: $599,900 Year built: 1740 The Tavern House: This beautiful antique overlooks the Nanticoke River and still features the original blue-gray paint on the front staircase.
The waterfront property boasts original wood floors, moldings, and trim. Fireplaces can be found throughout the 3,426 square feet of living space. The updated farmhouse kitchen now offers a wood-burning stove, granite countertops, and custom cabinets. An original icehouse has been transformed into a pantry.
Enjoy views of the pool and outdoor kitchen from the enclosed side porch or back deck. The property also comes with a deeded boat slip across the street.
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Price: $1,285,000 Year built: 1741 New England saltbox: This renovated residence features three fireplaces, wood paneling, and lots of built-ins.
The updated kitchen has a vaulted ceiling with exposed beams, wide-plank flooring, custom cabinets, and stainless-steel appliances. The dining room features a walk-in fireplace with two Dutch ovens. One bedroom can be found on the first floor, with two more upstairs.
Featuring beautiful landscaping, the property also comes with a heated pool, detached garage, and one-bedroom guesthouse.
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Price: $589,000 Year built: 1743 Comfortable Cape: This 1,953-square-foot home features a comfortable family room with wide-plank wood flooring, an exposed-beam ceiling, a wood-burning stove, and built-in cabinetry. The formal living room and the wood-paneled dining room each feature a fireplace. Three bedrooms can be found upstairs.
A three-season room overlooks the backyard, which includes a bluestone patio and built-in fireplace. The property is pending sale.
Mike and Georgia had looked for six months before they found their perfect townhome. Like many buyers, they were more worried about the sellers accepting their offer than they were about investigating the Homeowners Association (HOA). Turns out, the HOA almost ruined the deal. Because the HOA had let their FHA approval lapse, Mike and Georgia were not able to go with an FHA loan. When they switched to a conventional loan, they had to drain their savings in order to qualify for the higher debt-to-income ratios. At this point, they took a more careful look at the HOA’s meeting notes and were alarmed to read that roads would soon need major investments and that HOA fees had been rising higher and faster than local rents for the past five years. The entire scenario was a nightmare, costing Mike extra time and money—and he now gets to pay the association a pretty penny every month for the hassle.
HOAs aren’t usually top of mind when you’re looking to buy a home. In fact, HOAs can be completely overlooked until you learn that your dream house comes with one.
If you’ve carefully figured out just what you can afford to spend every month on a mortgage and then get hit with the added expense of an HOA, you may find your perfect home suddenly out of reach. But all the HOA news isn’t bad. Sometimes the benefits of an association can make homeownership more manageable—especially if you’re used to apartment or condo living.
Whether an HOA is part of your home shopping wish list or not, here’s everything you need to know to make a smart decision when it comes to joining an HOA.
What is an HOA and why do they exist?
One Salt Lake buyer, Kip. A., shared this insight, “HOAs are meant to ensure that a community maintains a good standard of upkeep and generally do a good job at that. Some HOAs might include lawn care, snow removal, and community amenities such as a clubhouse or pool.”
Homeowner associations are legal entities that exist to govern a planned community like a subdivision or apartment complex. HOAs ensure that certain rules and regulations (like what color you can paint your front door) are followed, and usually take responsibility for maintaining common areas like parking and sidewalks. An HOA will typically take care of at least some of the landscaping and exterior home maintenance.
As Kip noted, they can also provide community amenities like a pool, fitness center, and park areas. In some instances, HOAs provide road and waste management to areas that are outside city service areas. HOAs are funded by membership fees that are required to live on the property. Fees can range from $75 to more than $400 per month, depending on the neighborhood and the services provided.
Things to watch out for when it comes to an HOA
If you fall in love with a home that has an HOA, this is your must-do list before putting in an offer.
Dig into the fees: Find out what the current fees are, what they cover, and how often you can expect increases. Most HOAs in Utah have some limits on how much fees can be increased without homeowner approval. However, the board can usually approve a minimal increase without asking for input or taking a homeowner vote.
Verify what your fee covers: Be very specific when you look into what your HOA fee covers and what it doesn’t. If landscaping is included, find out the specifics—how often is the lawn mowed and edged? Is tree and hedge trimming included? What if you have a broken sprinkler? Verify policies for snow removal, waste and recycling, and which portions of your home are covered for repair under the HOA’s homeowners insurance policy.
Ask about big projects: HOAs need to maintain things like roofs, fences, and community amenities like swimming pools. Find out if any big projects are on the horizon and what the costs look like. Sometimes HOAs will impose a special assessment on top of your monthly fees in order to pay for something big like re-tiling the pool.
Read the minutes: HOA meeting minutes are public and available to all homeowners. Ask to review recent minutes, which should include the latest financials. Look for any complaints that seem consistent and note outstanding HOA fees from owners who are in arrears. The minutes should also include how much money is currently in the reserve account for emergencies and big projects. This can give you a clue into the health of the community and the potential for extra fees and increases.
Study the CC&Rs: The HOA governs the CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, & Restrictions) of the community. These are the rules that let homeowners know what modifications are allowed (painting, shutters, etc.) and what is not allowed. Some communities have liberal policies and others are highly restrictive, not even allowing wreaths on front doors or more than one small pet. Owners are fined if they violate the CC&Rs, so it’s highly important to understand what they are and whether or not you can live with them.
Life with an HOA… advice from Homie buyers and sellers
Many Homie buyers and sellers have lived with HOAs—and some have passed on a house because of the HOA—and wanted to share their experiences to help other home buyers.
Rob T. warns homeowners of the costs of an HOA over time, “Make sure that you understand the long-term costs of an HOA and consider if they are providing value equal to that cost. Since you are paying them monthly, make sure they doing their job. HOA‘s can be hit or miss. Some provide great value while others create huge hassles. Where possible, check with current residents in the area to see what they say about their HOA before you buy.”
Justin P. shared why he likes his HOA, “I like having an HOA to protect my property value from gross negligence or outrageous and inconsiderate decisions by neighbors.” However, he added this advice, “Read the CC&Rs to know what restrictions you may have as a homeowner, but judge the HOA’s ability to protect your property value by browsing the existing neighborhood to see how well kept it is.”
Clinton M. cautions potential buyers about possible fines and liens, “When purchasing a home in an HOA neighborhood, be well aware of the fact that your neighbors will be on the lookout for any infractions and are willing to turn you in (subjecting you to fines) for any violations. Be advised that your failure to pay your dues will result in a lien against your property and you can be foreclosed upon by your community. Not surprisingly, the community interest is at stake – if the HOA bankrupts, it goes on your credit too! The best advice I could give to any family or friend would be to think twice about purchasing in an HOA community.”
Homeownership is exciting, and it’s important to feel confident and comfortable about the community in which you buy. If an HOA is part of the package, be sure to do your research first. It’s nearly impossible to get out of HOA requirements and restrictions, and if you’re not happy with how yours is run, you could be in for a world of headaches, extra fees, and disappointment.
Designed to blend seamlessly into its desert landscape, a striking Paradise Valley, AZ, home is one of renowned architect Will Bruder‘s most eye-catching masterpieces.
Listed for $3.8 million, the three-bedroom looker achieves the goal of immersing into its Mummy Mountain lot, via a combination of materials—copper, glass, steel, concrete, and native stone. According to the listing, the dwelling is anchored to its surroundings, using native rock cantilevers.
“It’s a Will Bruder home, and he is a well-known architect who did the Phoenix Library and various properties across the country,” says listing agent Tracey Zemer, of azarchitecture/Jarson & Jarson. “This house has views all around the valley, so it’s really stunning. It is not so high up but is really nestled into the landscape. The home was built to blend into the landscaping.”
Despite being built in 1987, the home’s 3,724-sqare-foot interior offers a midcentury modern vibe. There are wood walls and ceilings, stone and wood floors, and walls upon walls of glass. And natural rock also makes an appearance.
“In the bathroom, there is a steam shower, and the physical mountain is incorporated into that,” Zemer says.
The contemporary kitchen boasts a soaring ceiling and an enormous window for soaking in the picturesque views. There is also a fire pit area surrounded by stone, a back patio, and spectacular pool that serve up panoramic views of the valley.
When it comes to the home itself, Zemer notes that the photos simply don’t do it justice.
“When you are in the house, you see so much of the view from every single room,” Zemer says. “It’s really a piece of art, for sure.”
While there haven’t been any major renovations over the last few years, Zemer says the current owner has done some “subtle updates” that Bruder returned to oversee.
“There have only been two owners of the home,” she says. “They only did some small modifications. For example, there was a media room that they converted into an office. They also changed out some tile.”
Zemer says she has given up on making predictions about the next owner, but she still has a few thoughts.
“Architectural properties speak to the buyers, so it’s not necessarily about the location,” she notes. “We have also had such an influx of people recently from out of state. Some people have looked at the house as a secondary home.”
However, she adds that the allure of the area has enticed some secondary-home buyers to stay full time.
“The house is in such a prime location in Paradise Valley and sits overlooking the valley and Paradise Valley Country Club,” Zemer says. “It’s in an area that people love to walk and bike and is also close to shopping and restaurants.”
You can enjoy the beauty of Seattle from the comfort of your apartment.
There’s no denying the natural beauty that surrounds Seattle. With so much to soak up outside, it’s important to prioritize the outdoor space in your apartment search. Set aside the need to live close to one of the delicious seafood restaurants in the city, and think about your in-unit amenities.
This list of luxury apartments will give you access to some of the best gardens in Seattle. From professional landscaping to community gardening and more, this list has what you’re looking for if you want to maximize your time outside at home in Seattle.
Source: Rent. / Promenade At The Park
Japanese Maples and a variety of other delicate trees and plants fill the rounded beds in the courtyard at Promenade At The Park. Set on the concrete, stone-encased spots of greenery keep this space feeling open and accessible; you can enjoy a meal or simply take a stroll walk for a peaceful moment of reflection just steps away from your front door.
Located about eight miles from the city center, this Lake City community fits nicely into the park-filled neighborhood. You can keep the chill vibes going from home with stops at a variety of parks and waterfront destinations throughout the area. Matthews Beach is just a stone’s throw away, which is the largest freshwater swimming beach in Seattle.
Source: Rent. / Harbor Steps
While urban views abound around Harbor Steps, you can enjoy a moment of zen surrounded by the greenery that is the interior courtyard. Marked by a few oversized rocks, this space allows you to take a calming moment within an otherwise busy spot of the city, it also doubles as a dog run so you and your four-legged roommate can enjoy this amenity together.
With the Seattle Art Museum across the street, living in the West Edge neighborhood has a variety of advantages. You’re only two blocks from Pike Place Market and are also close to Seattle University. Between these significant spots, you’ll find plenty of places to grab a bite or do some shopping.
Source: Rent. / Maris
Giving off a strong sense of tranquility, the courtyard at Maris combines two essential pieces necessary to make this space work — seating and greenery. While a variety of plants sit in the mulch, two large planters frame the space with their pines and other plant life. On the wood-paneled floor at the center, you’ll find a circle of comfy patio chairs waiting.
Not too far from the heart of Seattle, calling Fairmount Park home means access to some iconic city views. Known for its green spaces, playgrounds and recreation center, this is an ideal spot for those who like to keep active and enjoy spending time outside. One of the highlight locations is Lincoln Park, which also gets you right to the waterfront.
Source: Rent. / Rianna
Check out this great spot at Rianna. It’s elevated off the ground yet still has an undeniable European courtyard vibe. This space is full of small groups of seating, making it easy to gather with friends. Plenty of grass gives you that simple, outdoorsy feeling you may want after a day in the urban jungle. The views aren’t bad either.
With Downtown Seattle just minutes away, this Central District community really puts you in the middle of everything. You can walk to a variety of restaurants, boutiques and exciting nightlife options. The Metro is close by as well, so it’s easy to get around from this comfortable and convenient home base.
Source: Rent. / Urbana Apartments
Transforming the courtyard space into an ideal outdoor grilling/eating spot, Urbana Apartments makes it easy to dine alfresco. Two long tables sit parallel to dueling gas grills alongside ample prep space. This space is intelligently laid out and large enough to comfortably accommodate two groups at a time making it a truly unique amenity in the city.
Along the historic waterfront, you’ll find Adams, a hip neighborhood full of eclectic shops and excellent eateries. Highly walkable, this is an ideal place to live if you like to keep moving once you leave home for the day. From markets to cafes, shops to Salmon Bay, you may even find it hard to narrow down what to do with your free time.
Source: Rent. / Parla Apartments
Aluminum tubs set in perfect rows make up the rooftop garden at Parla Apartments. This community garden is open to all residents, ensuring everyone has easy access to fresh herbs and veggies. With planters full of tall trees on either side, this truly is the ideal place to try your hand at gardening.
With a combination of tree-lined streets and busy thoroughfares, Ballard offers a little bit of everything. There are plenty of shops and restaurants, but you’ve also got Puget Sound, Salmon Bay and North Beach around the perimeter. They give you plenty of excuses to get out on the water for some recreation. You can even see the tip of Mount Rainer from the roof of this stunning apartment community.
Source: Rent. / Alcyone
The greenery that greets you at Alcyone is so robust that it almost forms a complete arch over the entrance. Other potted plants occupy any open space making it truly feel like you’re leaving the city completely behind as you head into your cool Cascade community.
Source: Rent. / Metro on First
With limited space in an apartment, to make your outdoor space sparkle, you need to get up on the roof. At Metro on First, the rooftop space feels like a courtyard with plenty of potted plants and flowers, but it’s the view of Puget Sound that will really get you.
Perfectly situated among shops, restaurants, theaters, museums, parks and art galleries, Queen Anne is one of those neighborhoods that just has everything. This is also where you’ll find Seattle’s most recognizable feature, the Space Needle.
Source: Rent. / Uwajimaya Village
Perfecting the art of Zen, the courtyard at Uwajimaya Village will transport you to a garden in Japan. From the well-lit open-air lounge in the corner to the carefully manicured shrubbery and stone water feature, all the accents come together to create a unified space that’s ideal for relaxation.
Living in the International District of Seattle really does put you close to so much. You can check out the art galleries, cafes and bars in Pioneer Square to start. Then, walk over to Pike Place Market for the freshest of seafood. If you’re a sports fan, you’re also close to Lumen Field for football and T-Mobile Park for baseball.
Source: Rent. / Springline
Accent your cooking perfectly with easy access to a rooftop herb garden at Springline. Large containers hold all different types of herbs, growing in full sun up on the roof. When your next recipe calls for fresh basil or oregano, you won’t have to go to the store to get them.
This West Seattle community is all about the outdoors. You can hang out on Alki Beach, check out Puget Sound or walk and bike at Lincoln Park. This is an ideal area for everyone from hikers to sunbathers, kayakers to cyclists and all those in between. It’s also chock full of casual places to eat, cool coffeehouses and funky shops.
Grab an apartment with one of the best gardens in Seattle
If your next Seattle apartment won’t feel like home without a solid green space, you need this list. Whether you’re relaxing on the roof or cooling off in the courtyard, this is where you’ll find the best gardens in Seattle. Zero in on your perfect place and fill out an application today.
Get out of the desert sun and check out these tranquil spots that could be right outside your door.
Las Vegas is a city full of secrets, but off The Strip, it feels much less glamorous and sparkly. That’s a good thing for many, who simply want a home where they can chill out at the end of the day.
If you’re on the hunt for a Las Vegas apartment, make sure you find the right one, with all the right amenities. As you narrow down where to live, look at what each offers in the area of relaxation. It may be a spot of greenery or an actual spa. Either way, you’ll appreciate the designated area for downtime for sure.
Not sure where exactly to start your search for a Las Vegas apartment that’s better than a spa? Check out this list.
Source: Rent. / The Layne at Peccole Ranch
Swing your troubles away and find ultimate relaxation lying in the hammocks at The Layne at Peccole Ranch. Stretched out among palm trees and greenery, this hammock park perfectly exudes the chill vibes Peccole Ranch is known for. To the west of Las Vegas proper, this area is full of parks and winding walking paths.
To extend the relaxation momentum at The Layne at Peccole Ranch, make sure to take advantage of the two pools with spas and the clubhouse. When it’s time to take it up a notch, the community has an on-site walking trail, lap pool and 24-hour fitness center.
Source: Rent. / Alta Southern Highlands
Find a nice spot to wind down beside the all-white grand piano in the lounge at Alta Southern Highlands. The soothing tones of those ivory keys will melt into the arched doorways, comfy furniture, soft lighting and soothing color palette. After your rest, grab some social time on the game lawn or the rooftop sky deck.
Located in Southern Highlands, right in the scenic foothills of Las Vegas, this neighborhood is full of outdoor space. It’s known for its golf courses, boutique shopping and restaurants.
Source: Rent. / Estancia
Take a time out in your own space with the perfect patio. At Estancia, that means a large area, perfect for multiple pieces of furniture. Look out onto the property’s lush landscaping and mountain views before enjoying the community’s playground, pool, media center and picnic area.
Named after the single mountain detached from the Red Rock National Conservation Area, Estancia is in Lone Mountain. Here you’ll find plenty of space to jog, hike or even ride around on horseback.
Source: Rent. / Falling Water
Pencil in some downtime and watch the sunset at Falling Water while you play bocce or corn hole with friends. With nice patio seating alongside green stretches of grass, you’ll have plenty of room to decompress and hang out with friends. String lights add a little bit extra to the space.
Found within the village of The Canyons, the complete amenity package at Falling Water includes a billiard room, cyber cafe and indoor racquetball court. The community also hosts various fitness and wellness activities.
Source: Rent. / Summerhill Pointe Apartments
Create your own zen-like retreat looking out onto the treetops at Summerhill Pointe Apartments. The patio space here is perfect for some cozy furniture. Its partially-enclosed, stucco design helps mute the noises of the outside world in the southwest neighborhood, The Section Seven.
A popular area for college students, living here gives you access to three resort-style pools, two spas, a gated dog run and pet spa and picnic and grill areas.
Source: Rent. / Helix Apartments
Take some time to detox from a long work week in the resident lounge and game room at Helix Apartments. Bright and spacious with soft colors and pops of teal, this is a great space to sit and collect your thoughts or gather with friends for some downtime. Grab a game or two of foosball to really take your mind off what’s been stressing you out.
With monthly resident events, this non-smoking, Southeast Las Vegas community is the perfect location for commuters.
Source: Rent. / Sahara West Town Homes & Apartments
Looking for an outside spot of tranquility to wind down in at the end of the day? How about one with a cool brick fireplace and cushy patio chairs? Sitting underneath string lights and surrounded by greenery, this little spot at Sahara West Town Homes and Apartments is an ideal spot.
The entire property has a park-like atmosphere, which nicely ties into the lush and green Canyon Gate neighborhood. The community also features two pools, an entertainment plaza, a play area, clubhouse and fitness center.
Source: Rent. / The Avondale
Settle in among the flowers for a peaceful outdoor moment at The Avondale. Benches form a nice little spot among the greenery, tall palms and colorful blooms as you pause on your way toward one of three resort-style pools
Also situated in Peccole Ranch, this community is full of amazing amenities for both people and pets. There are two bark parks and a dog wash station to pamper furry friends, and video games, a yoga room, racquetball courts and more for the human residents.
Source: Rent. / Crystal Cove Lakes
Ever thought about living somewhere with a soothing gazebo? How about one surrounded by climbing vines and lush plant life? That’s what you’ll get at Crystal Cove at the Lakes. Comfy loveseats and chairs sit around the gazebo for a little oasis of calm.
This pet-friendly West Sahara community has three pools, an entertainment plaza and an outdoor pavilion with a fireplace, to name just a few amenities.
Source: Rent. / Tiffany Place
If serenity for you is lying still without the ability to get up, without the risk of distraction, check out the spa-like amenities at Tiffany Place. The high-end tanning beds (there are two) give you the perfect opportunity to detach. There’s also a small indoor pool and hot tub to further your spa experience in this Southeast Las Vegas community.
Soothing downtime isn’t all you can find here though, there’s a 24-hour fitness center, sports court and outdoor swimming pool. You can also grab some social downtime in the barbecue/cabana area or clubhouse.
Grab a Las Vegas apartment that’s better than going to the spa
What amenities speak to you when you’re apartment hunting? It is the perfect pool or a well-stocked fitness center? Is it green space or big, comfy lounge chairs? No matter what, where you live should give you opportunities to pamper yourself.
That’s why a Las Vegas apartment that offers up spots to take it all down a notch is so great. Good luck finding what you’re looking for!
Featured Image Source: RENT. / SAHARA WEST TOWN HOMES & APARTMENTS
A restored and rarely available home known as a “super Eichler” in Walnut Creek, CA, flaunts an amazing architectural pedigree.
Listed for $1,995,000, the 2,435-square-foot dwelling is in the North Gate subdivision, the last Eichler development in the East Bay.
So, what is a super Eichler anyway?
“They were on larger parcels and the houses were larger,” says Thomas Westfall, of Compass. “All of them had four bedrooms—if not five, even six.”
Completed in 1969, the four-bedroom, 2.5-bath home was designed by Claude Oakland, “one of the most prolific [Eichler] architects,” says Westfall. “Joe Eichler was the developer.”
Roughly 11,000 of these modest, midcentury modern, tract homes were designed and built between 1956 and the late 1960s, mostly in Northern and Southern California. As ranch-level dwellings, they feature atriums and range between 1,300 and 1,500 square feet.
This home is one of just five super Eichler designs in the East Bay. The extra-large floor plan and cheery, yellow decor made the listing a magnet for vintage-home enthusiasts.
And within a week, multiple bids were made. An offer was accepted, and the property is listed as pending sale.
“There is definitely a following of people who want to live in an Eichler,” Westfall says.
In 2004, the sellers—who previously lived in another Eichler home—snapped this one up for $720,000. After almost 20 years and major restorations, they are now letting it go.
The sellers added an insulated, foam roof to improve heating and cooling efficiency. There’s also a new boiler, updated electrical system, flooring, and custom closet doors.
The sellers “did all of the landscaping, including irrigation, accent lighting, and paving,” says Westfall. “They [also] remodeled the bathrooms and the kitchen and replaced the interior doors with solid-core doors, as well as heightened and lightened them.”
The listing includes an attached, two-car garage.
Standout space
The super-sized Eichler design has what’s known as the “H Plan” layout, a truly notable style.
“It’s the only Eichler with the double-door entrance and the only atrium, I’m aware of, that is more than 500 square feet,” says Westfall. “That’s the whole Eichler philosophy—bringing the outdoors in.”
Nearly all rooms open to the outdoors via sliding-glass doors.
The prospect of living in Walnut Creek is a major draw for buyers.
“It has some of the highest-rated schools in the Bay Area,” Westfall notes. “It’s like the Palo Alto of the East Bay. There’s a downtown with shopping, nice restaurants, and the Apple Store. North Gate is very walkable.”
I fix up a lot of houses whether they are my personal house, my rental properties or my fix and flips. When I repair a house I don’t mean I do the work myself; I have a contractor do it for me. The most difficult part about fixing up a home is finding a great contractor and estimating how much the repairs will be. Estimating the costs to repair a house is not easy to do, but this article will give an idea of what repairs will cost. Repair costs will vary based on the quality of products used, how much labor costs are in your area and the contractor you use.
Update on 2021 repair prices!
I wrote this article before Covid hit the world. You might assume that Covid would decrease the prices of repairs but the opposite has happened. Repair costs have skyrocketed. Many manufacturing companies that produced materials shut down or reduced production while at the same time people were staying home and completing remodeling projects! The price of lumber, insulation, windows, doors, etc has gone much higher.
I am hoping that the market corrects itself soon but you can take most of the prices I list here and add 20 to 40 percent thanks to the increase in costs.
Why buy something that needs work?
Almost all the houses I buy need work and some need a lot of work. I would love to buy houses that are in great condition, but I want to buy houses that are a great deal. To get a great deal you usually have to buy houses that need some type of repairs, because there are fewer buyers who will buy those homes. When a house needs a lot of repairs, most buyers may not be able to get a loan on that house. The fewer buyers for a house the better deal you can get. It also takes cash to make repairs on a house, which further reduces the number of people who can buy houses that need work. Many people don’t want to hassle with making repairs or finding a contractor to make the repairs, which further reduces the buyers for homes that need work.
Even if you buy a house that is in great shape it will need work at some point. The fixtures may become outdated, the interior or exterior may need paint and things eventually break.
Below is a video on a house we flipped and how much it cost to fix up:
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How much does it cost to paint?
When I fix up a house I always paint the house and replace the floor coverings, unless those items were just done. The cost to paint a house has increased a lot in the last few years because the cost of paint has increased and labor has increased as well. My costs to paint the interior of a house are about $1.50 to $2.00 a square foot. For a 1,500 square foot house, it costs about $2,200 to paint the interior. That includes painting the trim white and the walls a different color like beige or gray.
The exterior of a house costs more to paint because the paint is more expensive, more prep work is needed and the weather has to be nice. Painting the exterior of a house can run $3.00 a square foot or more depending on the complexity and condition of the house. If a home has peeling paint it will cost much more to scrape and prepare the surface for new paint. If a house has lead-based paint, the costs can be much more due to the preparation and clean up work needed to dispose of the old paint. Your contractor or painter must be certified to remove lead-based paint or they can face huge fines from the government.
How much does flooring cost?
When I replace the flooring I almost always use carpet for the living areas and vinyl or tile for the kitchens and bathrooms. If a house has hardwood I will re-finish the hardwood, but I don’t add or replace hardwood because of the cost. It will cost three times as much as carpet to install hardwood floors. For me to replace the carpet in a 1,500 square foot house it will cost about $3,000 to $3,500 installed. Vinyl or tile will cost another $500 to $1,000 for the kitchen and baths. These costs are for middle of the road materials that look nice and will last, but do not cost a fortune.
If a house already has hardwood I will do my best to re-finish it, because refinishing is cheaper than installing new carpet. I also like the look of hardwood floors and buyers love them. I can re-finish a 1,500 square foot house that is mostly hardwood for about $2,000.
We will also use laminate or vinyl plank flooring now that the quality has improved and it lasts if installed correctly.
How much are light fixtures?
Another great update to a house is replacing the light and plumbing fixtures. A house with brand new lights, door handles, and faucets that all match, can transform a home. I like to use antique bronze, but we have also used brushed nickel. Light fixtures are as cheap as 2 for $20 for a basic bedroom and bathroom lights. A nice chandelier can be bought for under $150 as well as a nice ceiling fan. Door handles are $20 or less depending on the style and faucets run from $35 to $150. For an entire house, you can replace the lights, door handles and faucets for about $1,200 installed.
How much are appliances?
Another way to make a house look great is by adding new appliances. We put stainless steel appliances in our houses; I can get a stove for $500 to $600, a dishwasher for $300 and microwave for $250. I usually do not buy a fridge for my flips and for my rentals I may buy used appliances off Craigslist. Appliances make a huge difference in the look of a kitchen even if the cabinets are dated.
How much are cosmetic repairs?
If you do all the work mentioned above and the rest of your home is in decent shape, it will make a huge difference in the look and feel. I almost always do all the repairs I discussed on every fix and flip. With my rentals, I usually do most of those repairs, but if a house is in decent condition I can get away with less. Here are the total costs for a cosmetic upgrade on a 1,500 square foot house:
New interior paint: $2,200
New floor coverings: $4,500
New fixtures: $1,200
New appliances: $1,300
Total cost: $9,200
When you fix up a home it almost always costs more than you think so be prepared to spend more than what you calculate. It is very rare that I ever spend less than $10,000 on any house that I fix up because there are usually many little things that need to be repaired as well. Drywall holes, outlet covers, landscaping, and many more things will increase the costs. It is also rare that I do not have more major repairs to complete.
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How much are major repairs?
The repairs on my flips and rentals vary from basic cosmetics to a massive remodel. Here are other common repairs we make on houses and the cost.
Kitchens: It is not as expensive as you might think to replace a kitchen. I can replace a basic kitchen including cabinets, countertops and sink for $2,500 in materials or less. After adding the labor you can replace a kitchen for well under $5,000.
Baths: Baths can be gut jobs or a simple vanity replacement. For a full gut job, I can usually get the job done for less than $3,000. To replace a vanity, toilet and bath surround it can be done for less than $1,000.
Roof: I have a great roofer who will replace the roof on a 1,500 square foot house for around $6,000.
Electrical: Electric repairs can vary a great deal based on what needs to be done. Minor repairs can be a couple of hundred dollars or major rewiring jobs can be $5,000. It is important to get any electrical concerns checked out to see how serious they are.
Plumbing: Plumbing is similar to electrical. A minor job can be very cheap, but to re-plumb, a house can cost $5,000 or more.
Sewer: Sewer lines can be very expensive to replace. Luckily I have never had to replace one, but to replace a line can be $3,000 to $10,000.
Foundation: Most foundation repairs are not fun to deal with. There are many issues from settling, water leakage, grading issues or structural problems. If you have water problems in the basement or crawl space it could be a major foundation issue that is $10,000 or more or a simple grading issue that some dirt work will fix.
Windows: We end up replacing a lot of windows because we buy older houses all the time. For basic vinyl windows, I am usually charged about $300 a window by my contractors for material and install.
Doors: We also replace a lot of interior doors. Six-panel white doors make a home look very nice. Doors are usually $100 to $150 per door installed.
Stucco and siding: I rarely replace the siding on a home, but I have on occasion. I am putting brand new stucco on a fix and flip that is costing about $8,500 for a 1,250 square foot house. Replacing wood siding is cheaper, but you then have to paint the wood siding. You can still re-side and paint a house for less than stucco in most cases.
Drywall/Sheetrock: With old houses, I see a lot of plaster and bad drywall. Brand new drywall makes an old house look so much better than uneven crumbling plaster. On a recent flip, a drywall specialist charged about $3,000 to do the walls and ceilings in three rooms that totaled about 500 square feet.
Furnace/hot water heater: I had a brand new forced air furnace system installed for about $5,000 this year. To replace just the furnace is about $2,500 and a hot water heater about $800.
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How much do I spend when I repair a house?
On my most recent fix and flip that is about to be put up for sale, I spent about $18,000 on the remodel. That included interior and exterior paint, new carpet, new doors, new trim, some electrical work, some new drywall, trash out, landscaping work and many little fixes. On a flip that is about to have the work started, I will spend over $50,000 on the repairs. That house needs new plumbing, new electric, new paint everywhere, siding work, new windows, new doors, new drywall, new baths, new kitchen, new floors, new fixtures, new trim and more.
Where do I buy materials to fix up my houses?
I shop at Home Depot for most materials including fixtures, doors, windows, door handles, kitchens, baths, and all the little stuff. I have a pro account with Home Depot, which gets me huge discounts on the materials we buy for flips and rentals.
Conclusion
Repairing a house does not cost $50,000 or $100,000 for basic cosmetic repairs. I see kitchen remodels on television that cost $50,000 and I can’t believe my eyes and ears! Even if you use high-end materials like granite counters and custom cabinets you should not spend $50,000 on a kitchen unless it is in a million-dollar home. Repairs can add up quickly on remodels and I always expect about $5,000 more in costs that I plan to spend due to unknowns. Find a great contractor, make sure that contractor does their work and shop around for the best prices to keep your costs down. Remember these costs are what I pay to fix up homes in my area. If you live in an expensive town, your costs may be significantly higher.
My book Fix and Flip Your Way to Financial Freedom, goes over exactly how I flip houses! It covers how to find deals, finance properties, what repairs to make, and how to market finished flips! It is available as a paperback and ebook on Amazon.
Waking up in a place of your own with the birds chirping right outside your window is a great feeling.
You go outside and enjoy your coffee on the back porch, simply enjoying the quiet that comes with not living in an apartment.
Your neighbors are friendly, the sun is shining, and you know it is going to be another great day of owning a home.
Everything is going great… until the peaceful morning is ruined by the sound of your air conditioner going out.
As romanticized as owning a home has become in America, there are some significant costs associated with buying, owning, and maintaining a place of your own.
The True Cost of Home Ownership
Let’s break down some of the areas on how to value home ownership. There are some obvious costs like your monthly mortgage payment, but hidden costs sneak in there and can break the bank.
Obvious Home Cost: Principal and Interest
For most, the cost and financial benefits of renting versus homeownership are the deciding elements. The traditional logic is that renters are throwing away their money by paying someone else’s mortgage. Though true, this is a simplistic view.
On a $150,000 home purchase with 20% down (so a mortgage loan of $120,000) at 3.5 percent APR, the monthly principle and interest payment is $538.35 per month.
This sounds like a smart deal since most houses increase in value over time, while the monthly payment lowers the principle balance and increases the equity. If you are paying $600 per month in rent, owning your own home for about the same amount sounds like a great deal.
While principal and interest is a big chunk of your monthly costs of owning a home, there are a lot of other costs to consider.
Hidden Home Cost: Property Tax and Insurance
When you speak to a real estate agent about looking at homes, they generally speak of how much a home is going to cost you in a monthly payment. Many agents will focus on quoting you prices based just on the principal and interest because it means they can get you into a more expensive home — pulling you toward that dream home — thus earning a larger commission check on the sale.
Unfortunately, your monthly payment will have other costs associated with it, namely property tax and homeowners insurance. Depending on the area, these costs can increase the payment significantly. Unlike principal and interest, taxes and insurance payments is money that you are not getting back.
You might pay an extra $150 to $450 per month in tax and insurance cost depending on the area you live in, what the tax structure is, and how much insurers charge to protect your home’s area.
Tax and insurance costs are not fixed unlike your principal and interest payments (assuming you get a fixed rate mortgage). Your local municipality can raise taxes over the years, and homeowners insurance companies are constantly changing annual premiums.
Some states have homestead exemptions that lower a homeowner’s tax burden, so check to see if your state allows this.
Obvious Home Cost: Down Payment
When you rent an apartment your costs are an application fee, security deposit, your first month’s rent, and getting renters insurance. With just a few thousand dollars you can be completely moved in and setup in an apartment or rental home.
When you purchase a home of your own you need to save up money for a down payment. Back in the heyday of the housing boom you could buy a property with little or no money down.
Those days are gone. (This is a good thing!)
Home ownership is a serious commitment and requires serious cash to get started. Many lenders want to see you have a 20% down payment in order to be approved for a loan. On a $150,000 home that means you need $30,000 in straight cash sitting in an account waiting to be used once you find a home.
That’s a lot of dough to be sitting on. I highly recommend using one of the top online savings accounts such as Capital One 360 Savings to hold your down payment so you earn interest until you find the home you want.
Still not sure if you should keep renting or buy your first home? Use this nifty calculator to help you decide:
Hidden Home Cost: Home Maintenance and Upkeep
Owning your own home means you get to decide how your home looks inside and out, including the property’s landscaping. Unless the home is in a designated historic neighborhood, or one with zoning restrictions or homeowners association rules, homeowners are generally free to apply for permits and make changes to a home’s look, structure and more.
It also means you get the “honor” of mowing, trimming, dealing with weeds, and footing the cost of repairs.
Rental properties usually outsource a maintenance crew for maintenance and lawn care so you don’t have to spend time on those items. While a homeowner may have to spring for a new Husqvarna, he or she can landscape as desired. Just remember, it takes time and money to keep up the home and yard.
Most rental management companies will have an itemized checklist of all appliances, flooring quality and states of repair. Often these will be accompanied by photos. Any changes to the rental property outside of normal wear and tear need to be put back to the original state. Renters usually can’t make material changes to the property. You’ll also have to find affordable renters insurance.
This is not the case for a purchased home property. You can change what you like, but all of the cost comes from your pocket.
How much money should you have on hand for home maintenance? A general rule of thumb is to have at least 1% or 2% set aside for home repairs. If you own a $150,000 home that means having $1,500 or $3,000 set aside for when the roof leaks or the HVAC unit goes out in the middle of summer.
Even that amount of money won’t cover major repairs, but it is better to have a starting point in paying the repair bill than to be starting from scratch.
An easy way to make sure you don’t spend your home repair fund is to use a low risk investment like a certificate of deposit. CDs allow you to earn higher interest and only charge a few month’s worth of interest if you need to pull the funds out before the CD matures. One of the best places to get a CD is online with Discover Bank.
You might create a separate category in your budget to hold maintenance money and a separate category to hold money for landscaping or yard maintenance.
Hidden Home Cost: Higher Utility Bills
Living in a 800 square foot apartment can keep your utility bills down simply because you don’t have much space to heat or cool. There can be some financial shock when you get your first set of utility bills after moving into a much larger home.
If you are used to spending $600 on rent, and $100 on monthly utilities, buying a home with a $600 mortgage payment leaves you with the same amount of money to heat and cool a much larger space. Depending on how old the home is your HVAC unit might be older than the one in your apartment building and thus be less efficient. A less efficient unit combined with a larger square foot area can result in some shocking utility bills.
How much should you anticipate to spend on utilities? Ask the sellers.
Pro Tip: When looking at homes ask the sellers to provide utility bills for the last 12 months and a description of where they kept the temperature set. This can give you a rough idea of what you’ll be spending each month. Even if your exact use of the area isn’t the same — they set it at 73 degrees and you prefer 71 — you’ll at least have a ballpark figure.
Hidden Home Cost: Termite Protection
It’d be nice if we could buy a home and never have to worry about termites ruining the structure. Unfortunately this is one of those hidden costs that many people don’t think of.
You can get a termite bond to protect your home. When you purchase a termite bond (usually a couple hundred of dollars) the termite extermination company comes out to inspect your entire house inside and out for signs of termites. Assuming none is found, they spray a preventative down and right a bond that essentially guarantees against termites.
Each year the company comes back to renew the bond for a smaller fee, does another inspection, and sprays again if necessary.
After the initial cost of the bond it is usually $50 to $100 to renew the termite bond. That doesn’t sound like much, but it is just another hidden cost that you need to prepare for.
Hidden Home Cost: Realtor Fees
Where a home can be the cornerstone for growth for some, it can be an anchor that prevents movement for others. Housing markets fluctuate. The housing values and mortgage rates that make it ideal to purchase a home now may not be there five years from now. When purchasing a house, be prepared to stay with it for at least five year or else plan on losing money.
Selling a home is a giant unknown that you need to consider when first purchasing the home.
Can you live here long term?
What happens if the housing market tanks around you?
Can you afford to pay 6% realtor commissions if you use a real estate agency to sell the home?
The commissions paid to realtors are a hidden cost that reach into the thousands of dollars. A 6% realtor commission (3% for the buying realtor and 3% for the listing agent) is $9,000 on a $150,000 home. That means your home has to go up by at least that much in value if you want to sell it, and that’s assuming home prices are going up in your area.
Anticipating Home Ownership Costs: Use a Budget
Putting together a budget is one of the best things you can do before you even begin to consider purchasing a home of your own. You need to have a solid understanding of where you are currently spending money each month. Having a baseline for your current costs will make it a lot easier to compare to potential home ownership costs than if you are just shooting in the dark.
There is a lot of great personal finance software available. For budgeting we recommend You Need a Budget for your core budgeting needs. You can use other programs like Manilla and Mint to add additional monitoring as needed, but YNAB is a great piece of software.
Is Owning a Home Worth It?
Don’t underestimate the security and stability of a family home. According to a study from the Pew Research Center, housing stability shows the world you are stable, dependable and devoted to the community.
Other studies have shown that children of homeowners tend to be better at math and reading, have fewer behavioral problems, and stay in school longer. This is linked to the safety that a child feels when they have a stable home. Since a house is a long term investment that can have a mortgage of 40 year or beyond, a house becomes very closely linked to a family’s architecture, community standing, stability and more.
A Look at the Future
What will life look like in five years? Ten years? Fifty years? Whether playing the role of savvy investor or new couple thinking about a family, these are the questions that need to be addressed. Of course, without a time machine or a crystal ball, there are no certainties as to what will happen with the housing market in your area.
But those weighing the pros and cons of home ownership must have an idea of how they want to spend their future. The online real estate database, Zillow, recommends having a plan before jumping into the home buying jungle.
If you plan to live in one area for a long time then buying a home is a great decision that provides stability to your family. If you don’t know if you will be in the same area five years from now it usually makes sense to keep renting.
Either way, having an understanding of the true cost of owning a home can help you crunch the numbers to make a housing decision.
A New England Colonial built in 1640 in Ipswich, MA, is the oldest home on the market this week on Realtor.com®.
Five fireplaces, wide-plank flooring, and exposed-beam ceilings can be found throughout the 3,672 square feet of living space. It also includes a two-story, rear addition.
Other historic residences to hit the market this week include a stone farmhouse on 33 acres in Pennsylvania, an affordable Cape Cod–style home in Connecticut, and an iconic property in South Carolina.
Scroll down for a full look at this week’s 10 oldest homes.
Price: $1,250,000 Year built: 1640 Preston-Foster House: This charming First Period Colonial sits along the banks of the Ipswich River.
The five-bedroom abode has been home to children’s book illustrator Ed Emberley and his wife, Barbara Emberley, for more than 60 years. While it has been updated over time, the owners took great care to thoughtfully preserve much of its historic architecture. A first-floor primary suite was recently constructed.
Located just minutes from Town Wharf, the property also boasts professionally designed and maintained gardens.
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Price: $1,100,000 Year built: 1696 Titus House: This five-bedroom, 3,670-square-foot dwelling features restored hardwood flooring, exposed-beam ceilings, three fireplaces, and many built-in bookcases.
The country kitchen includes a casual dining area that overlooks the private backyard. The formal dining room features a fireplace with a decorative mantel.
There is a spacious brick patio out back to take in views of the 1.5-acre lot, which also features a pool and pool house.
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Price: $7,950,000 Year built: 1704 Finale Farm: This seven-bedroom home has been expanded over the years and now offers 6,323 square feet of living space.
The stone farmhouse boasts historic charm and modern amenities. Historic highlights include stone walls, a walk-in fireplace, and exposed-beam ceilings. Updates over the years have made way for a designer kitchen and bathrooms, high-end appliances, and French oak flooring. A glass-enclosed sunroom and slate patio are ideal spots to take in the serene views.
The 33-acre property comes with an updated guesthouse, stone bank barn, pool, and pond.
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Price: $399,000 Year built: 1704 Affordable Cape: This four-bedroom abode has been updated with many modern amenities.
The 2,126-square-foot floor plan has a cozy kitchen with a wood-burning stove, a spacious family room with a stone fireplace, and two bedrooms on each level. There is a covered porch along with a stone patio and outdoor fireplace designed for relaxing.
The 3-acre property is zoned for residential and commercial use. An outdoor furniture business operating out of an adjacent building is available for purchase for an additional $250,000.
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Price: $649,000 Year built: 1723 Updated antique: This three-bedroom domicile recently underwent a major renovation.
A bright and airy living room features a bay window and a wood-burning stove. The updated kitchen includes a stone wall, butcherblock countertops, and stainless-steel appliances. A spacious family room has French doors, which open to a bluestone patio and fenced yard. The first floor features one bedroom with a private entry. The bedrooms upstairs have exposed-beam ceilings and pine floors.
The half-acre lot includes a garden shed and raised beds. An offer is pending on the property.
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Price: $839,000 Year built: 1725 Charming Cape: This classic, three-bedroom dwelling features exposed-beam ceilings, wide-plank wood floors, and four fireplaces.
The kitchen and two full bathrooms have all been updated. A comfortable living room boasts built-in bookcases.
The first-floor bedroom has a fireplace and a small office, which could be converted into a nursery. Two more bedrooms can be found upstairs.
Located just a few blocks from downtown Rockport, the 1,962-square-foot house is a short walk to beaches, shops, restaurants, and galleries.
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Price: $649,900 Year built: 1726 New England Colonial: This four-bedroom farmhouse features original hardwood floors, six fireplaces, and even “secret passages.”
The 3,324 square feet of living space include a modernized chef’s kitchen with custom cabinets and high-end appliances. The cozy living room offers a wood-burning fireplace, and a wood-paneled dining room features a walk-in fireplace. There’s a bedroom on the first floor and three more upstairs, including the primary suite.
The 18-acre property includes two large patios, a pond, shed with a storage area, and small barn.
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Price: $1,325,000 Year built: 1735 Hoyclo House: This six-bedroom, 4,303-square-foot home offers period details, including wood-paneled walls, wide-plank wood floors, and built-in bookcases. The six bathrooms have all been modernized. A spacious kitchen offers custom cabinets and updated appliances. Fireplaces can be found in the den, living room, and dining room.
The 1-acre lot features professional landscaping and comes with a pool, a one-bedroom barn apartment, and a one-bedroom cottage.
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Price: $1,750,000 Year built: 1740 East Parish Farm: This seven-bedroom Colonial was expanded in 2015, nearly doubling its size to 6,260 square feet.
Historic highlights include a library with custom shelves and a living room with a built-in bookcase. Fireplaces can be found in the family room, kitchen, and living room.
The 2-acre property includes a pool, perennial gardens, and a three-car garage.
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Price: $3,195,000 Year built: 1741 Located in historic district: This two-bedroom beauty is located on one of Charleston’s most well-known corners with many restaurants, galleries, and shops nearby.
This 6,856-square-foot property includes a retail unit on the first floor, two offices on the second floor, and a two-bedroom, two-bath apartment on the third floor. The building is equipped with an elevator.
Inside: Do you want to make quick money? If so, you’ll love this collection of ways to make cash in one day. Start these tasks and start making extra cash fast.
In today’s world, there are many ways to make quick money in one day.
The internet and technology have created opportunities that were non-existent just a few years ago. You can now make money in your PJs from the comfort of your own home! I do!
We all have those times when we need cash fast. Maybe it’s for an emergency car repair, an unexpected medical bill, or a last-minute plane ticket home.
Whatever the reason, there are plenty of ways to make quick money in one day.
We will include some of my personal favorites as well as methods I researched.
In today’s blog post, we will outline the best ways to make quick money in one day.
How can I make immediate money?
If you need immediate money, you need to look for ways to get cash in your hand quickly.
This would be by selling your possessions, participating in focus groups, find a gig job that pays cash tips.
These ideas will get cash in your hand within 24 hours.
How much money can I make in one day?
Many people wonder, “How much money can I make in one day?”
The amount of money you can make in a day depends on a variety of factors, such as your job, side hustles, and financial opportunities.
With a bit of hustle, creativity, and smart financial decisions, it is possible to make up to $1,000 a day.
However, you need to develop a smart strategy for achieving this goal. Investing in education will help you put that money to work growing for you.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
50 best ways to make quick money in one day
Making money quickly is possible with some time and effort.
There are a lot of ways to make quick money in one day. In fact, many ideas center around how to make money online for beginners.
Here are 50 of the best methods that you can use to make some extra cash.
1. Work on freelance projects
Working on freelance projects can help you make quick money in one day by providing you with one-off jobs that can benefit from your skill set.
With the percentage of freelance workers in the workforce climbing steadily, there are many online marketplaces that make it easy to connect with businesses and individuals who need your services.
Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Toptal allow you to create a profile and showcase your work, making it easy for you to set your own rates and decide on the length of the project.
Additionally, the more experience you get, the more you can charge and the higher your demand will be, potentially leading to full-time work.
2. Sell items on consignment
Selling items on consignment can help you make quick money by providing an easy, fast way to earn a profit from gently used items.
With consignment shops, you can take your clothes, electronics, jewelry, musical instruments, or even your car to be sold without having to take an active role.
For a cut of the profits, your items will be placed in front of buyers, allowing you to make quick cash.
3. Take on odd jobs
If you’re looking for ways to make money quickly, odd jobs are a great way to do so.
Think of day laborer types of jobs. You can use an app like TaskRabbit to find work in your area.
Some of the common odd jobs you can consider include:
Gardening – you can offer to do gardening work such as weeding, planting, mowing, and trimming.
Furniture Assembly – if you have experience in assembling furniture, you can offer your services to people who need help.
Cleaning – you can offer cleaning services to keep homes and offices tidy.
Painting – you can offer your painting services to those who need help with their walls.
General Handyman Work – if you are good with your hands and have experience in repairing and fixing things, you can offer your services to people who need help.
Moving Gig – people are always looking for help with moving.
4. Trade Options
If done correctly, trading in options can help you make quick money and generate substantial returns in a relatively short period of time.
However, trading options come from experience and should not be taken as a get-rich scheme. Personally, I trade options for a living.
You can make quick money trading options if you know what you’re doing. The key is to identify when the market is going to move in a certain direction and then make the right trades to capitalize on the profits.
Here is the one and only investing course I recommend.
5. Become a rideshare driver
Becoming a rideshare driver can be an easy and convenient way to make money quickly.
All you need to get started is a valid license, active insurance coverage, and an approved vehicle. With Uber and Lyft, you can set your own hours and receive a base rate plus tips and distance or time-based bonuses.
From one of our rideshare drivers, we learned some tricks of the trade such as working in peak hours or in areas with popular nightlife scenes or active airports.
6. Offer house cleaning services
Nowadays, people don’t want to learn their own house, so starting a house cleaning service is a great way to make quick money.
With countless opportunities available online or on local job boards, you can easily find a job that works for you. There are even ways to market yourself so potential customers can find you!
If you have a background in cleaning and don’t mind physical labor, you can make up to $25 an hour or more.
Becoming a housecleaner is a great way to make extra money on the side and you can even make up to $200+ per weekend.
With a bit of effort, you could have a great side-hustle in no time!
7. Rent out your parking spot
If you live in a busy area and have a spot that’s in high demand, you can easily rent out the space for a premium price.
This can be especially profitable if you live near an event center and can offer parking to visitors who don’t want to pay a premium to park in a lot or parking structure. You can put your parking spot to work with services like Just Park or Neighbor.com and earn up to $300 per month.
Renting out your parking spot offers a great way to make extra money while utilizing unused resources or space.
8. Proofread documents
Whether you are a stay-at-home parent, a teacher looking for extra income during summer vacation, or someone with a passion for grammar and punctuation, you can make up to $65,000 a year by proofreading documents.
Make sure to take a Free Training Course: Caitlin Pyle offers a free workshop on how to use the most popular proofreading tool and how to become a work-from-home proofreader.
With some hard work and dedication, you can start earning quick money as a proofreader. Good luck!
9. Walk dogs
Walking dogs can be a great way to make some quick money.
Apps like Rover provide pet owners with a platform to find dog walkers in their area and pay for their services.
A dog walker can make $15-18 per 30 minute walk, with occasional bonuses for boarding or pet-sitting. This is a simple way to get your exercise and make cash.
10. Take an online survey
Companies and websites are always looking for consumer feedback in order to improve their products and services, and offer incentives such as cash, rewards, and gift cards for filling out surveys that can take as little as a few minutes.
Popular survey sites like Survey Junkie and Swagbucks offer these incentives, enabling individuals to make a few quid in just a few minutes of form filling.
Most surveys will only take a few minutes, so you will have to do a bunch to add up to serious cash for your feedback.
Here are the top legit survey platforms:
11. Sell your old junk
Are you looking for an easy way to make some extra money? Why not start by looking around your house and attic/basement for things you no longer use?
You can turn those things into cash by selling them online or having a yard sale.
With a little effort, you can easily make hundreds of dollars by selling your old stuff. It’s a great way to declutter your home and make some extra cash in the process.
Make sure to list your items with attractive descriptions and photos to draw in potential buyers.
12. House sitting
House sitting is a great way to make quick money. It allows you to watch someone’s home while they are away and take care of tasks such as feeding pets, watering plants, and taking out the trash.
You can usually make between $25 to $50 per day depending on the market demand in your area. It’s easy to start, with most sites having a minimum age requirement and a sign-up process that takes only minutes. Payment is typically made when the job is completed.
More importantly, beyond making good money, you are able to housesit in beautiful locations that you may not be able to do otherwise. Personally, this is something I want to start doing.
Build your profile on Trusted Housesitters now.
13. Babysit
Babysitting is a great way to make extra money, especially for those who are looking for flexible jobs that match their availability.
Whether you’re an experienced babysitter or a novice looking to give it a try, there’s no doubt that you’ll find plenty of opportunities available. With a little bit of effort and a lot of dedication, you can make a great living out of babysitting.
Most babysitters earn way more than minimum wage making this a great gig.
14. Deliver food orders
Delivering food orders can make you money quickly by taking advantage of the increasing trend in the popularity of food delivery apps.
With driver-friendly apps like Instacart, DoorDash, and Uber Eats, all you need is an insured vehicle and a smartphone to start delivering food to customers in need.
The pay per delivery can go even further if you work on busier nights like Friday or Saturday. With many apps, you can also choose your own hours and the flexibility to work as much or as little as you’d like. This can be a great way to make some fast cash on the side.
15. Earn money with eBay
eBay is an amazing platform for anyone looking to make some extra money by selling items they don’t use. Whether you’re looking to get rid of an old phone, clothes, or books, eBay is an easy and accessible way to do so.
You can start by selling items you don’t need or don’t use anymore.
You can also consider buying items at a low price with the intention of selling them at a higher price.
If you’re looking to make a full-time income from home, selling items on eBay could be a perfect way. You can start small by buying a thrifty item for a low price and selling it at a much higher price.
With the right knowledge and resources, you can make money on eBay easily. So get started today and watch your earnings grow!
16. Write articles for websites
Writing articles for websites can be a great way to make quick money in one day.
With the increasing amount of new content created daily, business owners often don’t have the time to create content for their websites themselves.
Freelance writers can fill this gap by providing quality content for clients in exchange for payment. Depending on the complexity and length of the article, writers can make anywhere from $25 to $500+ in a single day.
By specializing in a niche, writers can showcase their work as samples to potential clients. Furthermore, writers can establish relationships with other bloggers in their niche, guest blogging, and approach websites in their niche with their writing services to further increase their chances of finding work.
17. Become a pet sitter
Personally, I have a friend who makes money by being a pet sitter and has help from her kids.
With Rover, pet owners in your area can easily find and hire pet sitters for their pets. Dog sitting is the most popular pet sitting activity, and it can earn you around $20-35 for overnight stays.
Plus, you get to decide when and how you want to work, and you can fit it around your own schedule. With the right amount of communication and excellent service, pet owners may even offer you recurring gigs.
18. Participate in focus groups
Participating in a focus group can be a great way to make quick money in one day.
Focus groups are usually based on interesting products or services, and they can pay participants anywhere from $50 to $400 for their time. Not only is it a great way to make money quickly, I have found many focus groups can also be a lot of fun.
The hardest part with focus groups is it is not a steady stream of income as you may not qualify for each opportunity.
19. Do yard work
Just like housecleaning, this is a popular job to be hired out.
Yard work such as basic gardening and landscaping, shoveling snow or salting walkways, and even cleaning gutters can all be done for a fee. Advertising your services through flyers, door knocking, or posting on local job boards can help you find potential customers.
By doing quality work, you can turn this into a weekly gig for quick money.
20. Shop at thrift stores and buy low and sell high
You buy items for a fraction of the cost and resell them for a higher price. For example, you can find brand-name clothing, electronics, antiques, and children’s toys at thrift stores that you can resell on online platforms such as eBay, and Facebook Marketplace.
You can also look for items marked as “free” on the side of the road and spruce them up to sell for a profit.
Shopping at thrift stores can help you make quick money in one day, and with time and experience, you’ll discover which items sell the fastest and for the most money.
To make money flipping items, you must do your research upfront and know how much you can pay for something while still turning a profit. With time and experience, you will learn which items sell the fastest and for the most money.
21. Photography gigs
You can make money with photography in two ways:
Turn your photographs into cash by selling them through stock image websites such as Shutterstock or iStock.
Offer your photography services for family sessions, birthday cake smashes, and even weddings.
Either way, you are able to turn your passionate hobby into a way to easily make a decent income in one day.
22. Participate in sweepstakes
Participating in sweepstakes can help you make quick money in one day by giving you a chance to win big.
Yet, this option comes with a lot of RISK!
There are a variety of competitions and prizes available, ranging from online product giveaways and gift vouchers to big-money TV game shows. You want to look for sweepstakes that are free to participate in and not pay money.
This one ranks up there with the left hand itching principle.
23. Use your Writing Skills
Are you looking to make money with your writing skills? There are lots of opportunities available that pay you to write. From blogging to freelance writing, to reviewing music, you can find the perfect job that allows you to utilize your writing skills and get paid.
You can also make money by helping people refine their writing. If you have a good grasp of grammar and can help people write in a more engaging and structured way, then you can charge for your services.
Publications often hire freelance writers, so that’s another avenue to explore.
No matter what you decide to do, there are plenty of ways to make money with your writing skills – all you have to do is find the right opportunity for you.
24. Become a home staging stylist
Becoming a stylist can help make quick money in one day by offering services to those who are in need of help staging their homes for sale.
Realtors often hire outside help to ensure that the home is presented in an attractive and appealing way, and these services can be provided for an hourly or flat fee.
This is a great part-time gig.
25. Donate plasma
You can make money quickly by donating plasma.
Plasma is the liquid part of the blood that contains antibodies. It can be used to create medications and other medical products. Plasma donation is a safe procedure that can help people in need.
Typically, you walk out with cash immediately.
Check with your local blood bank or hospital to learn more.
26. Host workshops
Hosting workshops can be a great way to make money in a short period of time. There are endless webinar ideas you can try, such as live-at-home fitness classes, cooking, a writing workshop, an Excel class, nutrition coaching, or even a first-time homebuyer class.
With the rise of video conferencing, it’s easy to set up webinars to teach people your skills and knowledge.
Typically, you will need to build an online presence with a social media following to hold successful workshops.
27. Trade Stocks
Trading stocks can be a lucrative way to make quick money, but it is essential to understand the risks involved.
With the help of online market trading platforms, anyone can start to trade stocks with a minimum amount of money.
Learning how fast you make money with stocks, but realizing you need to learn to trade stocks is like going back to school for a stock trading education.
Although trading stocks has the potential to generate quick money, it is important to note that all trading involves risk and that you should only invest what you can afford.
28. Become a courier
Being a courier is a great option for flexible income, as they allow you to set your own hours and work as much or as little as you’d like.
Think outside the box of UberEats or Instacart. This would likely be for a local business that needs to move documents from location to location.
You will need to be reliable and trustworthy.
29. Deliver Pizza
Even today, this is a classic gig to make quick money by delivering pizza!
Businesses are desperate for workers, so finding a job should be fairly easy. However, be prepared to work more than one day.
30. Repurpose your skills
Those skilled in writing, graphic design, coding, bookkeeping, or any other number of computer-based skills, can use these sites to find freelance jobs that require their skills.
Additionally, those with knowledge or experience in a particular field can create and sell an online course via a platform like Teachable or Podia.
Too often, we overlook the things that we are the best at, yet repurposing your skills us a great wat to make money.
31. Dog groomer
The income potential as a dog groomer is considerable.
According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), pet owners spent $136.8 billion on their pets in 2022.
Dog grooming is a easy way to make money.
Over to pick up dog poop and you can double how much money you make.
32. Sell your unwanted items
Selling unwanted items on eBay and Amazon can be a great way to make quick money.
By scouring online retailers, local thrift stores, and yard sales for hidden treasures, individuals can find consumer goods for cheap and then resell them for extra profit.
Selling on Amazon also provides an opportunity to source products for fulfillment.
Additionally, apps like LetGo, OfferUp, and Facebook Marketplace make it even easier to make extra money, as people jump on items quickly.
For those with a strong entrepreneurial spirit, buying items at a low price and then reselling them at a higher price can generate a decent side income.
33. Sell Printables
If you’re creative, you can create and sell digital products like ebooks, courses, templates, and graphics.
Digital downloads are also becoming increasingly popular, as they require no shipping or fulfillment costs and you can easily make them once and sell them hundreds of times over. Depending on the craft and the demand, your potential earning potential can be quite high.
In fact, selling printables is a popular summer jobs for teachers!
So why not give it a shot? With the right strategies, you could start making a few hundred dollars a month with very little effort.
34. Crafts and handmade goods
One of the best ways to make money quickly is by selling crafts and handmade goods on websites like Etsy.
From jewelry and candles to sourdough bread to quilts and custom T-shirts, there is a huge variety of items that you can make and sell. You can also design and sell custom stationery, pillows, tote bags, coasters, cosmetics, and more.
35. Dropshipping
Dropshipping is an online business model that allows entrepreneurs to start an online shop without having to keep a product in stock. Instead, a business makes a sale and then passes the order along to a third party, known as the dropshipper, who ships the product directly to the buyer.
Dropshipping is a great way to make money quickly, as it requires minimal upfront investment and overhead.
With dropshipping, you can add products to your store without having to buy them in bulk, and you don’t need to worry about shipping or fulfilling orders.
36. Affiliate Marketing
Renting out your property can help you make quick money in one day by taking advantage of the services offered by websites like Airbnb.
Affiliate marketing is a way to earn money by promoting other companies’ products or services. You can do this without a website, by sharing affiliate links on social media, a blog, online forums, post comments, and with friends or family.
When someone buys a product or service via unique affiliate link you provide, you get paid a commission.
It is possible to make money quickly if you have a social media following or a website, as you can start promoting all sorts of companies, products, services and offers online.
37. Work for tips
Making money quickly by working for tips may sound intimidating, but it is actually very achievable with a bit of hard work and determination.
Tips are normally paid in cash, which is exactly what you need.
Jobs that pay tips:
Waitstaff
Bartender
Bellman
Drivers
Casino dealer
Golf caddy
Babysitters
Also, many jobs that pay weekly work for tips.
38. Rent out your property
These services allow you to rent out a room, a condo, or your own home if you’re away on vacation.
Airbnb has revolutionized the hotel industry by allowing everyday property owners to lease their place to travelers. By creating an account and listing your property, you can immediately start earning passive income.
With the right location, you can create a steady stream of income that can help you make quick money in one day.
39. Join a MLM
Joining a Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) company is one of the most popular ways to make money these days. With an MLM, you can potentially make a lot of money by building a team and earning commissions from their sales.
But you need to be careful and do your research to make sure it’s an opportunity worth pursuing.
MLMs can be profitable, but it can take a lot of time and effort to get them off the ground and make them successful. You need to be prepared to take the time to build your team, train and support them, and provide them with the resources they need to succeed.
Personally, I have tried making money with an MLM and found out that it was not worth the time or effort.
40. Collect and sell scrap metal
Collecting metal items such as old swing set parts, metal toys, and other bits of metal can be sold at scrap yards or redemption centers for a small sum of money.
Iron, steel, aluminum, brass, and copper are the most commonly traded types of scrap metal, and the prices vary depending on the type and amount of metal.
This is a simple way to make money if you put in the resources. Just don’t steal metal because that can get you in severe trouble.
41. Deliver for Food Delivery Apps
This industry is booming with no signs of slowing down. You can easily make $100 a shift by delivering food!
Sign up for driver-friendly apps such as Instacart, DoorDash, and Uber Eats. These apps allow you to set your own hours and work as much or as little as you’d like.
Make sure you have an insured car, truck, bike, scooter, or motorcycle. Depending on what you choose to use, certain apps may have different requirements.
Go to the restaurant and pick up the order. You’ll be paid a flat delivery fee, an additional fee per item ordered, and 100% of the tips customers choose to give you.
Deliver the food to the customer.
Get paid instantly, usually within the same day.
Maximize your earnings by delivering for multiple apps at once. This will give you access to more orders, and a larger area to deliver in.
42. Become A Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants are in demand right now.
Consider becoming a virtual assistant with no experience to help small businesses with tasks like scheduling appointments and managing emails.
Typically, small businesses are looking for someone to take a short-term 3-month stint or a long-term relationship.
If you have marketable skills, you will make an outstanding virtual assistant.
43. Cook and deliver food
Cooking and delivering food can make you money in one day, especially since the demand for convenient delivery is increasing.
If you are cooking food on your own, you need to check with your local state and city regulations to see if you are allowed to sell food from a home kitchen. These food regulations are tough, so make sure you comply with these regulations.
However, many busy families are looking for a personal chef and are willing to pay for the service.
44. Trade-In Programs
Trade-in programs are a way for people to get quick money by selling their old phones, tablets, and other electronics. These programs give customers the opportunity to receive cash or gift cards in exchange for their unwanted devices.
You can trade in your own unused or unwanted electronics or for neighbors who don’t want to deal with the hassle themselves.
When selling through a trade-in program, customers are usually asked to provide a description of the device and its condition. The amount of money received depends on the device and its condition.
Plus you are helping the environment by keeping old devices out of landfills.
45. Become a social media influencer
If you have a large following on social media, you can make money by becoming a social media influencer and promoting products or services.
There are a number of ways to make quick money as an influencer. You can promote products or services by posting about them on your social media account.
Obviously, you must thrive using social media.
46. Flipping items on Poshmark
Making money on Poshmark by flipping items can be a great way to make cash.
You can find items to resell from big box retailers, online retailers, local thrift stores, yard sales, flea markets, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist. Potential items you can flip for profit include brand-name sneakers, clothing, and purses.
You should also figure out which items sell the quickest and for the most money.
Poshmark also has a “bundling” function which allows you to group similar items together for a discounted amount. This is a great way to make more money as you can sell multiple items in one go.
This platform allows followers, so it is easy to build return buyers.
47. Start a small business or side hustle
Small businesses and side hustles can be a great way to make money quickly. Consider your skills and interests and start something that can help you turn a profit.
No matter how you do it, starting a business can be a great way to make money and meet new people.
Building your side hustle to a full-time income will not happen overnight, but you will make progress with hard work and dedication.
48. Take advantage of Swagbucks
Swagbucks is an online rewards and survey platform that provides numerous opportunities to make money.
With Swagbucks, you can earn money by completing surveys, watching videos, playing games, and even shopping online. With each task, you can earn anywhere from $0.40 to $2.00 in SB points which can be redeemed for cash back or gift cards.
Plus, when you sign up, you get a $10 bonus and can even get 500 SBs for referring a friend.
49. Tutoring
Tutoring is a great way to make quick money while using your knowledge and expertise to help others. It involves providing instruction to an individual or a small group on a particular subject, usually to help them improve their understanding.
Tutors can work with students in person or online, depending on the subject and their availability.
No matter your educational background, you can make money tutoring as long as you have a deep knowledge of a subject. With the right resources and platform, you can find tutoring gigs in your area and start making quick money today.
50. Make money with your phone
Making money with your phone is possible with a little bit of effort. You can sign up for apps to complete small tasks and earn money quickly.
Alternatively, there are plenty of mobile apps such as Ibotta, Rakuten, Shopkick, Swagucks, or Receipt Hog which can help you make some extra money with simple tasks.
You can also take on odd jobs through apps like TaskRabbit to make cash.
Finally, you can trade stocks on your phone.
There are so many ways to make money with your phone today.
FAQ
Yes, it is possible to make passive income. This type of income is earned with little effort or direct work.
It can come from investments such as returns and dividends, as well as from sources like stocks, rental properties, and online businesses.
With some creativity and diligence, anyone can create multiple sources of passive income. It may take months or even years to build up these streams of income, but the potential rewards are worth the effort.
Many of the statistics are leaning on the fact that you need a side hustle to make ends meet or get ahead financially.
I started a side hustle to make money to afford what we wanted to do. Personally, my side hustles are blogging and day trading stocks.
The best side hustles are the ones that you are passionate about. More than likely, you will be spending time on them in your free time, so you want to enjoy them.
Regardless of what type of side hustle you choose, you can make extra money on the side. To maximize your earnings, you can even combine several different side hustles together to create multiple income streams.
I always say, if I can make $100 a day, then I am making $3000 a month. That will make a difference in my personal finance situation.
Before you can make $100 a day, you need to find out how you will make money. Look for opportunities that match your skills and interests. Some examples of this include driving for Uber, selling your skills on freelancing sites, creating an online store, or even starting your own blog.
Learn how to invest 100 to make 1000 a day.
When looking to make $1000 fast, you need to up your game – specifically, the time and energy to make your goal happen.
You could start by looking for high-paying side hustles such as trading stocks or options, becoming a freelance writer, setting off as a virtual assistant, or by selling products online.
The key is to make $1k a day consistently. Then, you will be working on how to turn 10k into 100k.
Which Quickest Way to Make Money in a Day Will You Choose?
There are many ways that you can make quick money in one day.
Whether you want to start a side hustle, do some odd jobs, or make money online, which option is best for you?
Whichever option you choose, make sure that you choose something you will enjoy doing as well as the quickest way to make money.
We covered fifty options to make cash and start making extra money today!
Which one is your favorite?
Mine are trading and writing. Comment below on which method you will choose.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!