Permit me to introduce a new term into the financial planning lexicon: goals-based budgeting. (Well, a Google search turned up a few other instances of its use, but they’re on government websites, so no one has seen them.) I came up with the term after reading through the comments of my last article (“The High Cost of Modern Living”) and reading J.D.’s recent article about his entry into the Third Stage of personal finance, which he explained thusly:
I’ve paid off my debt, built a cash cushion in savings, and am maxing out my retirement accounts. And after doing all of these things, I have money left over to spend on comic books and travel.
In my previous article, I listed several items we spend our money on — for instance, cell phones, cable TV, chocolate-covered pork fat — that didn’t exist in the past, and suggested that the allure of these modern inventions may explain why some people haven’t saved enough for retirement.
A few readers rose to defend their expenditures, arguing that many modern devices and services save time, increase efficiency, and replace older/costlier/less-efficient Stuff. Those are all valid points…if those purchases are aligned with your financial goals, or you’re saving enough to meet your financial goals and have money left over to spend on thingamajigs, doohickeys, and whatchamaspankits. This is J.D.’s “third stage” — the point at which you can relax a little bit with your spending.
Which brings us to this reader comment appended to J.D.’s article:
Whenever I hear that someone is “maxing out retirement accounts”, a red flag goes up. Depending on how late in life you’re starting and how much it will take to sustain your lifestyle, “maxing out” may not be enough. I hope that instead you are looking at how much you’ll need to accumulate and feel you are on track with that.
A very important point, indeed. If the analysis cited in a recent Wall Street Journal article is to be believed, nearly three of five baby boomers will run out of money in retirement. These folks have been walloped by stinky stocks, evaporating home equity, and interest rates that pay no interest. But many of them just didn’t save enough. For all of them, saving more is the solution.
Running Your Retirement Numbers How do you know if you’re saving enough for retirement, or any other money-reliant goal? The best (though still imperfect) way is to use some sort of financial calculator, be it online tool, software program, or spreadsheet. There are loads of these available. Do a Google search on “retirement calculator” and you get 84,700 hits. No, wait — that’s what you get when you search on “Goldman Sucks.”
Well, no matter; you don’t need to search for a retirement calculator because I’m going to point out a few in this post. In fact, I’ll walk you step-by-step through my favorite among The Motley Fool’s calculators. Click on “Retirement,” and then on “Am I saving enough? What can I change?” This calculator can handle all kinds of variables: Social Security, pensions (and whether they adjust for inflation), anticipated spending levels in retirement, and Roth and traditional retirement accounts.
So gather your retirement account statements, pull up the online calculator, and get ready to peer into your possible future.
Getting Cozy With the Calculator This calculator has input boxes, most of which have been completed with default data. You can get rid of those by typing in your own numbers (or zero if that field doesn’t apply). Certain areas are accompanied by a question mark. Click on one, and you’ll get an explanation of the desired data. Now, let’s start entering.
Personal information. The first few fields are pretty self-explanatory. If you plan to work part-time in retirement, enter your expected income and how long you plan to work.
Social Security benefits. Yes, you will receive Social Security (a topic I will cover in my next post). If you’re 55 or older, assume you’ll receive your estimated benefits. If you’re younger, be conservative by assuming you’ll receive 25% to 75% of your projected benefits, depending on the margin of safety you want to build into your analysis. The calculator will estimate your benefit, though you can enter the amount you received from your most recent Social Security statement (which arrived in the mail a few months before your last birthday) or visit the official government Social Securituy calculator to get an estimate.
Pension or defined-benefit plan. Make sure to indicate if your benefit will increase with inflation. This is also where you’d enter the payments you’ll receive from any other source of lifelong income, such as from an immediate annuity, reverse mortgage, or trust.
Your projections. For inflation, enter a number between 3% and 4%. Yes, inflation may go nuts down the road, but it hasn’t happened yet. What’s more likely (nay, inevitable, in my opinion) is that tax rates will rise. Soon-to-be retirees can expect their tax rates to drop once they retire. However, for my analysis, I’m assuming that won’t happen to me (I don’t plan to retire for 30 years). As for your income, assume it will increase at the same rate as inflation, unless you’re on the proverbial fast track. Finally, unless you know the day you’re going to die, choose an age between 90 and 100, depending on your health and family history. (If you’re looking for an estimate of your life expectancy, visit LivingTo100.)
Your projected monthly living expenses. The calculator allows you to break up your retirement spending in three phases. Generally, retirees spend more in their first five years as they enjoy their newfound freedom. Then, spending tends to decline in most categories (health care is the notable exception). Plug in the number in today’s dollars; the calculator will adjust for inflation. One big determinant of your retirement spending: Will your mortgage be paid off?
Your future, one-time investments. Expect an inheritance or to sell a business down the road? Enter those windfalls here. Just be realistic — many expected inheritances don’t materialize, often due to end-of-life medical expenses.
Your monthly savings (taxable accounts). This is where you enter the values and contribution amounts to non-retirement accounts, such as savings accounts and brokerage accounts that aren’t IRAs.
Your monthly savings (tax-advantaged accounts). Here’s where you input the values and contribution amounts to your retirement accounts. If you or your spouse has a 403(b), 457, or other defined-contribution plan, enter those values in the 401(k) fields. This is important: Enter future contributions to employer-sponsored retirement plans as a monthly amount, but enter future contributions to IRAs as an annual amount.
A note on returns: Be conservative when projecting investment returns. Young investors with stock-heavy portfolios shouldn’t assume more than 6%, and retirees with a mix of stocks and bonds should cap their assumed returns at 4%. I certainly hope that returns are higher, but I’m not betting my retirement on it.
And the Verdict Is… It’s time to score your test. At the bottom of the page, click “get your results.” The analysis will be expressed in months, e.g., “Your living expenses after retirement will be fully funded for 173 months.” Divide that number by 12, and you’ll get how many years your savings will last.
If the calculator gives your retirement plan high marks, congratulations! If not, click on the “inputs” tab at the top and adjust the variables to see what combination of increased savings, reduced retirement income, and later retirement age will give your plan an acceptable score.
Don’t Take One Tool’s Word for It While I think crunching your numbers is important, the truth is, the analysis will be wrong. There are just too many variables — such your rate of return, the rate of inflation, and how long you’ll live — that are unknowable. The best this tool will be able to do is give you a rough idea of whether you’re on track. Therefore, it’s important to do two things: 1) Run an analysis every year to see if you’re still on track, and 2) try other tools to get a second and third and fourth opinion. Here are a few others to consider:
If you’re looking for calculators that aren’t exclusive to retirement, head to Dinkytown (which, it should be noted, is not as fun as Funkytown).
Each calculator will give you a different result, due to how they run the numbers. You’ll be looking to see if a consensus emerges from the tools. If three of four calculators indicate that your retirement plan will succeed, then you’re probably on the right track. If three of four say you’ll run out of money, it’s time to plan to save more or work longer — or both. The same goes for your other financial goals.
Which brings us back to goals-based budgeting: If you’re saving enough for your priorities, then go nuts with the rest of your money. But I can tell you that there are millions of people in their 50s and older who wish they could turn back time and trade their purchases of yore for more savings today.
Today we’ll take a look at FBC Mortgage, which is a Florida-based mortgage lender that does a ton of business in its home state.
In fact, they originated nearly $2 billion in home loans in the Sunshine State last year, which accounted for roughly 60% of their overall loan volume.
They also recently struck a deal with the University of Central Florida (UCF) to be the field sponsor at the “Bounce House.”
So it’s safe to say that if you live in Florida, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of FBC Mortgage. Either way, read on to learn more.
FBC Mortgage Fast Facts
Direct-to-consumer retail mortgage lender
Founded in 2005 in Orlando, Florida
Licensed in 48 states nationwide (excluding Hawaii and New York)
Funded over $3 billion in home loans during 2019
Refer to themselves as a top-20 national mortgage lender
Also operate correspondent and wholesale lending divisions
FBC Mortgage is somewhat middle-aged for a mortgage company, having been around for about 15 years.
The name is related to their past affiliation with the Florida Bank of Commerce, hence the initials FBC.
During their relatively short time in existence, the company changed hands twice but came full circle.
First, it was sold to privately-owned investment bank Sterne Agee Group, Inc. in 2012, then three years later it reacquired itself.
That excitement aside, today the independent nonbank lender has roughly 1,000 employees nationwide and funds billions in home loans annually.
Last year, nearly 80% of their total loan volume consisted of home purchase lending. So it’s clear they are partnered with lots of real estate agents and home builders.
But they also offer mortgage refinances, including rate and term refis and cash out refis, which accounted for the remainder of their lending.
As noted, a good chunk of their business is done in Florida, but they’re also very active in nearby Georgia and Texas, and as far away as Arizona and California.
How to Apply with FBC Mortgage
You can call them directly or simply apply online via their digital mortgage process
Their online app known as SimpleLoan.com allows you to get pre-approved in just 8 minutes
Applicants can import and upload key financial documents and generate a pre-approval letter after completion
Your designated mortgage professional (or loan officer) will contact you within 24 hours of loan submission
To get started, you head over to the FBC Mortgage website and click on Apply Now. It will ask if you’re working with a loan officer.
If yes, enter their name to be directed to their personal webpage, at which point you can apply for a mortgage immediately without any human interaction.
If no, you’ll simply be ported over to the same loan application and be connected with a loan officer after you begin.
It’s possible to search for a nearby branch or loan officer using the directory on their website as well.
FBC Mortgage has a digital mortgage process known as SimpleLoan, which lets users apply from a computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Once you create an account, you can import your pay stubs, W-2s, bank statements, and other key financial documents.
You can also scan and upload documents necessary to meet any conditions on your loan. And review any pending mortgage tasks required to close your loan.
Once your loan in submitted, you can review your loan details at any time, lock your loan, get real-time status, or contact your loan officer if you have any questions.
They say you can get pre-approved for a home loan in as little as eight minutes, which I believe is the same amount of time as Rocket Mortgage.
All in all, they appear to be using the latest technology to make applying for a mortgage quick and easy.
Loan Programs Offered by FBC Mortgage
Home purchase loans
Refinance loans: rate and term, cash out, streamline
Renovation loans (FHA 203k) and construction loans
Foreign national loans
Conventional conforming home loans
Jumbo home loans
Government-backed loans: FHA, USDA, and VA
Reverse mortgages
Portfolio loans
Fixed-rate and adjustable-rate options with various loan terms available
FBC Mortgage Rates
FBC Mortgage does not publicize its mortgage rates on its website or elsewhere as far as I know.
While slightly unfortunate, it doesn’t mean their rates are higher than the competition. We really don’t know unless you contact them for a quote.
The same goes for their lender fees, which don’t seem to appear on their website.
As such, it is recommended to get pricing before you apply to see how competitive they are relative to other mortgage lenders you’re considering.
You should have a good idea of pricing before you proceed to ensure you don’t leave money on the table.
Of course, pricing is just one of many factors when deciding on a mortgage company to work with.
One must also consider things like customer satisfaction, and a lender’s ability to close, and close on time.
FBC Mortgage Reviews
On Rate Your Lender, they have a 4.8-star rating out of 5 based on roughly 12,000 customer reviews. And 95% of customers say they would recommend FBC Mortgage.
On Birdeye, they’ve got a 4.1-star rating out of 5 based on 200 reviews.
On LendingTree, they have a perfect 5-star rating, but it’s only based on a small handful reviews. All 100% of customers on that review site recommend FBC.
There are also individual loan officer ratings on Zillow if you want to research specific people to work with, given the fact that they employ hundreds of loan originators.
They are an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau, and have been since 2011. They currently hold an A+ rating with the ratings company.
Their customer reviews on the BBB aren’t great, but that’s typical of the BBB website.
FBC Mortgage Pros and Cons
The Pros
Offer a digital mortgage application
Can apply directly from their website without human interaction
Lots of different loan programs to choose from
Free mortgage calculators on site
Mostly excellent customer reviews
A+ BBB rating
The Cons
Not licensed to lend in Hawaii or New York
Do not publicize their mortgage rates or lender fees
Inside: Are you looking for a remote job? This guide will help you find the best remote jobs for college students, with information on industries, pay, hours, and more.
The internet has made it possible to work from anywhere in the world.
This is great news for college students who want to earn some money while they study.
Back when I was in college, working remotely wasn’t even considered a possibility. But, now, there are a number of online jobs available that are perfect for college students.
In addition, remote jobs are one of the best ways for college students to make money and gain experience.
With a remote job, you can work from anywhere in the world, which is perfect for students who want to travel or live at home with their parents while transitioning to and from a college campus.
There are many different types of remote jobs available, so there is sure to be something that suits your skillset and interests.
In this article, we will explore the best remote jobs for college students.
How can a college student make money remotely?
Remote work has become increasingly popular among college students and for good reason.
Many students today have grown up with technology and possess the skills necessary to excel in remote jobs.
Not only does remote work provide a flexible schedule that can be easily adjusted to accommodate class schedules, but it also offers numerous benefits such as the ability to work from anywhere, reduced transportation costs, and the opportunity to contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing carbon emissions.
Additionally, remote work allows students to earn extra income, potentially reducing their reliance on student loans and minimizing post-graduation debt.
Can I work remotely in college?
Yes! Working remotely in college can be a great way to earn some extra money and gain some work experience.
Remote work has gained immense popularity across the globe, with its adoption nearly doubling since the pandemic.
As college students, you often possess the necessary tools for remote work, such as a laptop, making it a convenient option for them.
This is a great idea if you are looking at how to pay for college without loans.
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.
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The 15 best remote jobs for college students
Working remotely is a great way for college students to earn money and gain experience in their chosen field.
Whether you are looking for a way to make some extra money, or maybe you need a flexible job that will fit around your studies. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of remote jobs out there that could be perfect for you.
Also, you can review these non phone work from home jobs for more ideas.
Here are 15 of the best remote jobs for college students.
1. Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant is one of the best remote jobs for college students due to its versatility and learning opportunities. Plus there are plenty of virtual assistant jobs with no experience out there.
As the demand for remote administrative support services continues to grow, virtual assistants play a crucial role in helping companies and individuals with various tasks. Working from a remote location, virtual assistants provide administrative assistance by handling phone calls, scheduling appointments, managing emails, and more.
By finding a position as a virtual assistant in their desired industry or with a respected professional, students can make their side hustle more beneficial to their future.
Benefits:
Provides an opportunity to gain professional experience and develop essential skills such as communication, time management, and resourcefulness.
Requires quick thinking and the ability to switch between diverse tasks, which enhances cognitive flexibility and adaptability.
Allows students to learn about different industries and gain insights into their chosen career paths.
Pay: Most virtual assistants average about $20 an hour.
2. Online Tutor
Online tutoring is widely regarded as one of the best remote jobs for college students. With its flexibility and convenience, it offers students the opportunity to work from anywhere at their own pace.
Whether they excel in a specific subject or want to gain teaching experience, online tutoring provides a platform for college students to share their knowledge and help others succeed academically.
Benefits:
A high degree of flexibility it offers.
Freedom to choose their own hours, instruction topics, and the number of students they want to work with.
Balance their tutoring responsibilities with their academic commitments, ensuring they can effectively manage their time.
Pay: Although the reported median hourly wage for tutors was $17 an hour. The actual pay can vary depending on factors such as the subject being taught, the level of expertise required, and the platform through which tutoring is conducted.
3. Proofreader
Proofreading is a crucial role in the final stages of the written content production process, making it one of the best remote jobs for college students. A proofreader possesses a keen eye for detail and a strong command of the language, allowing them to identify and rectify errors that may have eluded the writer or editor.
They play a vital role in ensuring the accuracy, clarity, and coherence of written materials across various industries.
Benefits:
Offer the flexibility to work from anywhere, making it ideal for college students who need to balance their studies with work.
Enhances skill development such as language skills, attention to detail, and critical thinking abilities, which are valuable in various fields.
Networking opportunities to build professional connections and expand one’s network.
Pay: The average pay for proofreading jobs is $22 per hour, providing college students with a valuable source of income.
4. Social Media Manager
In today’s digital world, social media has become an essential tool for businesses to connect with their target audience, build brand awareness, and drive engagement. With the increasing importance of social media, businesses are in need of skilled professionals who can effectively manage their social media presence.
This makes the role of a social media manager one of the best remote jobs for college students, providing them with the opportunity to earn money while gaining practical experience in online promotion.
Benefits:
Enjoy being paid to be on your favorite social media apps.
Ideal remote job for college students due to its flexibility.
Gain practical experience in online promotion, which can be valuable for those studying marketing, journalism, or communications. Benefits:
Pay: The pay for social media management can vary significantly, but you can expect $15 an hour to $25 an hour.
5. Freelance Writer
Remote writing jobs are an excellent option for college students looking to earn extra income while honing their writing skills.
As writers, college students have the opportunity to create a wide range of written materials that can be distributed through various channels, such as articles, blogs, website copy, and more.
The demand for remote freelance writers is high, making it a popular choice among college students seeking flexible work options.
Benefits:
Freelancers can work on short and long-term projects.
As long as you have a computer and internet connection, you can work from anywhere.
Showcase writing skills and earn income.
Pay: The pay for freelance writers is by the word (.01-$1.50 per word). With most freelance writers averaging about $29 an hour.
6. Social media influencer
Social media influencers have become a prominent and lucrative career option in today’s digital age.
For college students, becoming a social media influencer can be an excellent remote job opportunity that allows them to leverage their online presence and pursue their passions while earning money.
To stand out as a social media influencer, it’s essential to create content that is visually appealing and captures the attention of your audience. Experiment with different types of content, such as photos, videos, stories, and live streams, to keep your followers engaged.
Benefits:
Be creative, and authentic, and share valuable information or entertainment that aligns with your niche.
Foster a sense of community.
Monetize your social media presence with sponsored posts, brand partnerships, and affiliate marketing.
Offers flexible working hours, allowing you to manage your studies and other commitments effectively.
Provides opportunities for personal branding and networking, which can open doors to other remote job opportunities in the future.
Pay: Potential for high earnings. This is more passive income than an hourly job.
7. Website or App Tester
Website and app testing is a highly sought-after remote job option for college students due to its flexibility and the opportunity to gain valuable experience in the tech industry.
As designers and developers strive to create the best user experience possible, they often hire individuals to find bugs and issues in their websites and apps. The role of a website or app tester is crucial in ensuring the functionality and usability of these digital platforms.
This feedback is invaluable for designers and developers as it allows them to make necessary improvements and optimize the performance of their websites and apps.
Benefits:
Excellent opportunity for college students to develop and showcase their skills in a professional setting.
Gain practical experience in the tech industry while balancing their academic commitments.
The flexible hours offered by these remote positions allow students to work at their own pace and manage their time effectively.
Pay: Platforms like UserTesting offer a payment of $10 per website tested. You can also find remote hourly wages ranging from $12 an hour to $16 an hour, with potential bonuses based on quality and productivity goals.
8. Video Editing
With the increasing demand for video content across various platforms, video editors play a crucial role in creating engaging and impactful visuals. This profession offers the opportunity to work from anywhere, making it ideal for college students who may have limited availability or prefer a flexible work schedule.
By adhering to the overall video brand messaging strategy, you can shape the final product and captivate the audience. This creative aspect of video editing allows college students to explore their artistic talents and develop their skills in storytelling and visual communication.
Benefits:
One of the key advantages of video editing as a remote job is the ability to work from any location.
Provides a platform for creative expression.
Video editing is a profession that is in high demand.
This high demand translates to a wide range of job opportunities and the potential for steady work, even for college students.
Pay: When it comes to money, beginner video editors can typically charge up to $45 an hour. However, it’s worth noting that rates can vary depending on factors such as experience, the complexity of the project, and client’s budget.
As college students gain more experience and build a strong portfolio, they can potentially increase their rates and earn a higher income from video editing projects.
9. Remote Research Assistant:
Many professors and researchers hire remote research assistants to help with data collection, literature reviews, and other research tasks. This type of job requires strong research and analytical skills, as well as the ability to work independently.
As a research assistant, you will have the opportunity to delve deeper into a specific subject or area of interest.
This can be particularly beneficial if you are considering pursuing further education or a career in that field. By immersing yourself in research projects, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic and develop expertise that can set you apart from others.
Benefits:
Opportunity to work closely with experienced researchers and professionals in your field of interest.
Gain valuable insights, knowledge, and skills that can enhance your academic and professional development.
Learn research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and critical thinking skills that are highly transferable to future career opportunities.
Hands-on experience in conducting research projects.
Build a network of professional contacts in your field.
Depending on the nature of the research projects you are involved in, there may be opportunities to contribute to academic publications or presentations. This can be a significant achievement that adds to your academic portfolio and demonstrates your research skills to potential employers or graduate school admissions committees.
Pay: Compensation for remote research assistant positions varies depending on the project and the level of responsibility. This is a great way to be paid to go to school.
10. Audio Transcription
Audio transcription is a popular remote job for college students that involves listening to audio files and accurately transcribing the spoken content into written form. Additionally, it provides an opportunity to develop valuable skills such as speed and accuracy in typing, excellent listening skills, and efficient time management.
Determine the type of transcription work you want to specialize in, such as technical legal transcription or educational podcast transcription. This will help you target specific clients and tailor your skills accordingly.
Benefits:
Offers flexibility in terms of scheduling, allowing students to work around their classes and other commitments.
Opportunity to develop valuable skills such as listening, typing, and time management, which can be beneficial in various professional settings.
Create a portfolio showcasing your transcription skills and experiences.
Pay: Transcription can be a well-paying job, with freelancing gigs offering up to $0.36 per minute of transcribed audio.
11. Data Entry
Data entry is a popular remote job option for college students due to its flexibility and convenience.
This role involves managing electronic data by entering and updating information in computer systems. It is a job that can easily be done remotely, allowing students to work from the comfort of their own homes or dorm rooms.
However, it is important to be cautious when seeking data entry jobs online to avoid scams.
Benefits:
Minimal specialized skills are required.
Data entry skills can also be beneficial for future career opportunities.
Employers often value individuals with data entry skills, as it showcases their ability to handle and organize large amounts of information accurately and efficiently.
Valuable experience in working with digital documents and databases.
Pay: The average pay for data entry is $18 an hour.
12. Virtual Recruiter
A virtual recruiter is a professional who is responsible for posting online job advertisements and searching for potential candidates to fill various positions.
This remote job opportunity can be particularly beneficial for college students as it offers flexibility in terms of working hours and allows them to gain valuable experience in the field of recruitment while still pursuing their education.
Benefits:
Collaborating with hiring managers and clients to understand their specific requirements and preferences for potential candidates.
This role provides hands-on experience in recruitment, which can be beneficial for your future career in HR or related fields.
Building relationships with candidates, hiring managers, and clients can expand your professional network and open doors for future opportunities.
Pay: The average pay for virtual recruiters is around $20 to $30 per hour, providing the potential for a lucrative income.
13. Blogger
College students can create their own blogs and build an audience by regularly posting content in a unique niche.
While this may not be the easiest route to make money fast, it provides an opportunity to showcase writing skills and develop a cohesive writing style. Once a blog gains a solid stream of visitors, it can be monetized through ads and affiliate links.
However, you will be starting a small online business which has its perks.
Benefits:
This is 100% passive income.
Works as much as you want or as little as you want on your site.
A simple way to help your readers while making money.
Your site can grow as you graduate college until you decide to sell it.
Pay: Various based on traffic and monetization. But it is an easy way to invest $100 to make $1000.
14. Course Creator
As a course creator, you have the chance to teach others about a topic or course that you are passionate about while earning a steady passive income. This job allows you to create online tutorials or how-to videos to educate and engage students from all over the world.
You will be responsible for creating and managing the content on your website and other online platforms. This includes developing blog posts, videos, podcasts, and other educational materials to enhance the learning experience for your students.
Make use of hosting platforms like Thinkific, Teachable, or Kajabi to facilitate easy access to course-related information for your students. These platforms offer features such as course management, student progress tracking, and payment processing, making it convenient for both you and your students.
Benefits:
Opportunity to earn a steady income while pursuing your passion and sharing your knowledge with others.
Working remotely offers flexibility in terms of working hours, allowing students to manage their time effectively and balance their studies with their job.
Gain valuable experience in content creation, marketing, and online teaching, which can greatly enhance their resume for future career opportunities.
Pay: This is a passive income job where you will put the work in upfront and have less ongoing maintenance to run your course.
15. Stock Trader
Stock trading is a lucrative and dynamic field that offers college students the opportunity to work remotely and earn a substantial income. With the rise of online trading platforms and the increasing popularity of investing, stock trading has become a highly sought-after skill in today’s market.
Honestly, I know more and more high school students waiting to turn 18, so they can start life as a stock traders.
As a stock trader, you will be responsible for buying and selling stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments for your own portfolio. This role requires a combination of analytical skills, market knowledge, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.
Continuous learning and staying updated on market trends and strategies are crucial to staying competitive in this field. I highly recommend taking the Trade and Travel course to learn the basics of stock market investing.
Successful traders can earn substantial profits, but it is important to note that trading also involves the risk of financial losses.
Benefits:
Stock traders have the potential to earn significant income through their trading activities. Learn how fast you can make money in stocks.
Flexibility to trade before class and work from anywhere with an internet connection.
Opportunity to work independently and be your own boss, setting your own schedule and goals.
However, it is important to acknowledge the challenges that come with being a stock trader. The stock market is highly volatile and unpredictable, requiring constant monitoring and adaptation to changing market conditions.
Pay: Various significantly with your profit /loss ratio. But, a great way to make $1000 a day.
16. Customer Service Agents
Customer service agent remote jobs are a great option for college students looking to gain work experience while studying. These jobs allow students to provide excellent customer service from the comfort of their own homes, offering flexibility and convenience.
Remote customer service agents interact with customers through various communication methods such as phone, chat, and email. They answer customer questions, solve problems, and direct customers to the appropriate resources when needed. These jobs can be done part-time, making them ideal for students with busy schedules.
Benefits:
Require little experience or education.
Develop valuable skills such as communication, problem-solving, and time management.
Showcase their communication skills to future employers, which is a highly desirable quality in any job.
Pay: Earnings can range from $10 to $25 per hour, depending on the role and experience.
17. Photography
Photography is a form of artistic expression that allows college students to showcase their creativity.
You can experiment with different styles, compositions, and subjects to capture unique and visually appealing images. This creative aspect of photography can be fulfilling and enjoyable for college students who have a passion for visual arts.
Benefits:
Choose when and where to take photos, giving them the freedom to balance their academic and personal lives effectively.
Build a portfolio of their best work. A strong portfolio can open doors to more significant opportunities in the future, such as exhibitions, collaborations, or even full-time photography careers.
Earn income while honing their skills in product, stock, or event photography.
When stock images are licensed, earn passive income from the sales.
Pay: When it comes to pay, the average rate for a photographer is $24 per hour. However, it’s important to note that pay can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the type of photography gig.
18. Virtual Internships
Virtual internships provide valuable work experience and allow you to gain industry-specific skills while working remotely. Many companies offer virtual internships in fields like marketing, finance, and technology.
Having an internship in the field you want to pursue is an invaluable opportunity to gain practical experience and enhance your career prospects.
Additionally, virtual internships can provide you with a unique perspective on the field you want to pursue (and if you still want to pursue it).
Benefits:
Gain relevant work experience in your desired career field.
Practical experience will not only enhance your understanding of the industry but also demonstrate your competence and dedication to potential employers.
Greatly strengthen your resume.
Build a network of contacts in your desired field.
Pay: These internships may be paid or unpaid, but the experience and connections you gain can be invaluable for your future career.
Looking for Online Summer Job?
There are a plethora of online summer temporary jobs available for college students. You just have to decide what is interesting for you to do.
Also, think about ways you can build your resume for future employment after graduation.
If I could go back to college, I would focus on learning how to make your money work for you. That is one of the best life skills you can truly understand.
This list above has plenty of options for you to consider.
Are you passionate about words and reading?
If so, proofreading could be a perfect fit for you, just like it’s been for countless of readers! Learn how you can create a freelance business as a proofreader.
Check out this free workshop!
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FAQ
Many colleges and universities have career centers or job boards that specifically cater to remote job opportunities for college students.
Networking is crucial for college students when it comes to finding remote job opportunities. Reach out to your professors, classmates, and alumni who may have connections or knowledge of job opportunities.
This is smart if you want to know how to move out at 18.
Remote work requires a unique set of skills that allow individuals to effectively perform their job duties from a distance. In order to succeed in a remote job, college students should possess the following skills:
Time management: Remote work often provides flexibility in terms of scheduling, but it also requires individuals to manage their time effectively. College students need to be able to prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and stay organized to ensure they meet their work obligations.
Communication skills: Since remote work involves limited face-to-face interaction, strong communication skills are essential. College students should be able to effectively communicate through various channels such as email, instant messaging, and video conferencing.
Self-motivation: Working remotely requires a high level of self-discipline and motivation. College students need to be able to stay focused and productive without direct supervision. They should have the ability to set goals, stay on track, and meet deadlines without constant oversight.
Adaptability: Remote work often involves working with different tools, technologies, and platforms. College students should be adaptable and willing to learn new software or applications that are necessary for their role.
Problem-solving: Remote work may present unique challenges and obstacles that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills. College students should be able to analyze situations, identify potential issues, and come up with innovative solutions. This skill is particularly important when faced with technical difficulties or communication issues.
By honing these skills, college students can position themselves as valuable assets to remote employers and increase their chances of securing remote job opportunities.
When you’re applying for remote jobs, most of the time your potential employer will want to see some kind of portfolio that showcases your skills and experience.
You can create a portfolio by using a free online portfolio builder or by creating your own website.
With a visually appealing and user-friendly portfolio, you can make a lasting impression and increase your chances of landing your dream remote job.
Which Online Jobs for College Students Are Interesting To You?
There are a lot of great remote jobs for college students out there!
With a little bit of research, you can find the perfect job for your skills and interests.
Be sure to consider the pay, hours, and industry when you are looking for a remote job as well as career advancement.
For many students, working in college is a must! Because you know how to pay for college without parents is hard.
So, use these ideas to find the right job for you whether it is part-time or full-time.
And if all else fails, check out this list of low-stress jobs that pay well without a degree.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
One of the first things that comes to mind about the state of California is its Pacific Ocean views and sunny beaches. With magnificent waves and sandy coves, boating and surfing, sightseeing and fishing, the picturesque California beach towns are top-tier. Whether you’re looking to move to California or want to relocate to a quaint coastal city, there are plenty of options to check out in the state.
But if you’re not sure where to start on your hunt for your favorite California beach town, we’re here to help. Redfin has put together a list of the 21 beach towns in California, from Mendocino to Long Beach. Let’s dive into some of California’s top beach cities, listed from north to south, so you can find the right place for you.
Northern California beach towns
#1: Crescent City
Median home price: $315,000 Crescent City, CA homes for sale Crescent City, CA apartments for rent
Starting off our list in Northern California is Crescent City, located just north of Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park. You’ll find there are plenty of beaches to explore while living in Crescent City, such as Battery Point Beach and Pebble Beach. About 6,700 people live in this coastal California town. In Crescent City, you can walk along the B-Street Pier and the Point St. George Beach Trails, check out Beachfront Park, and explore the downtown area.
#2: Shelter Cove
Median home price: $425,000 Shelter Cove, CA homes for sale Shelter Cove, CA apartments for rent
Another one of Northern California’s great coastal towns to consider buying a home in is Shelter Cove. Home to just 860 people, there are plenty of beaches to visit like Black Sands Beach, Cove Beach, and Little Black Sands Beach. Some popular things to explore in Shelter Cove include hiking the Black Sands Beach Trail, stopping by the Cape Mendocino Lighthouse, and exploring the downtown area.
#3: Mendocino
Median home price: $958,000 Mendocino, CA homes for sale Mendocino, CA apartments for rent
Mendocino has just about 700 residents – and amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. There are lots of beaches to explore on a warm California day, like Agate Beach and Big River Beach. Make sure to hike along the Point Mendocino Trail, explore the Mendocino Headlands State Park, and check out cafes and markets downtown if you move to Mendocino.
#4: Half Moon Bay
Median home price: $1,665,000 Half Moon Bay, CA homes for sale Half Moon Bay, CA apartments for rent
Home to beautiful beaches like Dunes Beach, Francis Beach, Half Moon Bay Beach, Miramar Beach, Poplar Beach, Roosevelt Beach, Surfer’s Beach, Vallejo Beach, Venice Beach, and Wavecrest Beach, there are countless places to spend a beach day. With roughly 11,400 residents in Half Moon Bay, make sure to also hike the California Coast Trail, camp at one of the beachside campgrounds, or stroll through downtown and grab some fresh seafood.
#5: Santa Cruz
Median home price: $1,607,500 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $3,951 Santa Cruz, CA homes for sale Santa Cruz, CA apartments for rent
The iconic coastal town of Santa Cruz has about 61,900 residents, making it another great place to add to your list. You’ll find stunning beaches such as Cowell Beach, Lighthouse Field State Beach, Mitchell’s Cove Beach, Natural Bridges State Beach, Santa Cruz Beach, and Seabright Beach. After moving to Santa Cruz, you can spend the day at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, enjoy nature at the Natural Bridges Monarch Trail, and check out downtown Santa Cruz where you’ll find farm-to-table restaurants and local surf shops.
#6: Monterey
Median home price: $958,750 Monterey, CA homes for sale Monterey, CA apartments for rent
Home to roughly 29,900 people, Monterey is a great beach town to consider renting or buying a home in. Some beaches you can visit include Del Monte Beach, Monterey State Beach, and San Carlos Beach. In addition to their beaches, there are plenty of activities to do in this coastal city. You can explore the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium, check out the shops and fish restaurants along Fisherman’s Wharf, and explore the historic spots in Cannery Row, among many other local favorites.
Central California beach towns
#7: Cambria
Median home price: $769,000 Cambria, CA homes for sale Cambria, CA apartments for rent
With a population of about 5,600, Cambria is a charming coastal area to live in, located in the heart of the central California coast. There are plenty of beaches to explore as well, specifically Moonstone Beach. Make sure to take a tour of the expansive Hearst Castle, enjoy one of the amazing restaurants in Downtown, or hike the Bluff Trail or Santa Rosa Creek Trail once moving here.
#8: Morro Bay
Median home price: $1,007,500 Morro Bay, CA homes for sale Morro Bay, CA apartments for rent
Morro Bay has stunning beaches such as Morro Rock Beach and Morro Strand State Beach, perfect for soaking up the sun or venturing out into the surf. Make sure to explore Morro Rock and see the otters playing in the water, grab some fresh seafood for lunch or dinner in downtown Morro Bay, and check out Morro Bay State Park if you decide this beach town is right for you.
#9: Pismo Beach
Median home price: $960,000 Pismo Beach, CA homes for sale Pismo Beach, CA apartments for rent
Roughly 8,000 people live in this town where you’ll find beaches like Pismo Beach and Spyglass Beach Tide Pools. It’s also conveniently located near San Luis Obispo, where you’ll find farm-fresh produce and local shops. Some other fun activities to do in Pismo Beach include exploring downtown Pismo Beach and getting a cup of clam chowder, hiking the Meadow Creek Trail, and checking out one of the waterfront parks like Dinosaur Caves Park.
Southern California beach towns
#10: Santa Barbara
Median home price: $1,785,500 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $3,495 Santa Barbara, CA homes for sale Santa Barbara, CA apartments for rent
This seaside town has a population of 88,300 and there are many beaches to spend the day at. In Santa Barbara, you can visit 1000 Steps Beach, Arroyo Burro Beach County Park, East Beach, Leadbetter Beach, Mesa Lane Park, Santa Barbara Beach, and West Beach. You’ll also have plenty of activities to explore during your free time, like checking out the historic buildings in Lower State, strolling along Stearns Wharf, and visiting the Santa Barbara Zoo.
#11: Carpinteria
Median home price: $1,086,000 Carpinteria, CA homes for sale Carpinteria, CA apartments for rent
In Carpinteria there are numerous beaches to explore if you decide to move to this cozy oceanfront town. Some of these beaches include Carpinteria City Beach, Carpinteria State Beach, and Rincon Beach. This town is home to 13,100 inhabitants and you’ll find a variety of other activities like hiking along the Carpinteria Bluffs, visiting the California Avocado Festival in October, and exploring the Tar Pits Park.
#12: Ventura
Median home price: $799,500 Ventura, CA homes for sale Ventura, CA apartments for rent
Ventura has plenty of beaches to choose from, great for a sunny Southern California day. Some well-known spots are Harbor Cove Beach, Mother’s Beach, Seaside Park, and Ventura Beach. If you’re looking for a day spent in town, you can have some fresh seafood at one of the restaurants in downtown Ventura, explore the Ventura Boardwalk, and hike the Emma Wood River Trail.
#13: Malibu
Median home price: $3,695,000 Malibu, CA homes for sale Malibu, CA apartments for rent
There are plenty of beaches to visit if you decide that Malibu is the right beach town for you – El Matador State Beach, El Pescador State Beach, El Sol Canyon Beach, Malibu Beach, Malibu Lagoon State Beach, La Piedra Beach, Las Tunas Beach, Lechuza State Beach, Paradise Cove Beach, Playa San Juan Leighton, Point Dume State Beach, Nicholas Canyon Beach, and Zuma Beach. In this town of 10,400 residents, you can also hike at Coral Canyon Park or Solstice Canyon, check out the Malibu Bluffs, and grab some fresh beachfront eats.
#14: Santa Monica
Median home price: $799,500 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $3,295 Santa Monica, CA homes for sale Santa Monica, CA apartments for rent
Santa Monica has about 91,100 residents and is one of the many famous Southern California beach towns you’re likely to recognize on this list. You can take in the waterfront views at Palisades Beach, Santa Monica State Beach, and Sorrento Beach. If you’re looking to check out Santa Monica, you can also spend the afternoon exploring the Santa Monica Pier, visit Palisades Park, and stop by one of the many amazing local restaurants.
#15: Long Beach
Median home price: $790,000 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $3,155 Long Beach, CA homes for sale Long Beach, CA apartments for rent
Another coastal Southern California city to check out is none other than Long Beach. There are a few quintessential beaches to spend the day at, like Alamitos Beach, Bayshore Beach, Long Beach City Beach, Junipero Beach, and Mother’s Beach. Other activities in Long Beach include taking a tour of the Queen Mary or the Aquarium of the Pacific, exploring downtown Long Beach, or learning to surf.
#16: Huntington Beach
Median home price: $1,150,000 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,420 Huntington Beach, CA homes for sale Huntington Beach, CA apartments for rent
You’ll find a plethora of beaches in Huntington Beach – Bolsa Chica State Beach, Huntington State Beach, and Sunset County Beach. With a population of 13,100, this mid-sized beach town is a great option if you’re looking for a slightly busier atmosphere. If you want options other than a beach day you can tour the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum, check out the shops and restaurants along the beachfront streets, and stroll along the Huntington Beach Santa Ana River Trail.
#17: Newport Beach
Median home price: $2,750,000 Newport Beach, CA homes for sale Newport Beach, CA apartments for rent
Of course, the oceanfront town of Newport Beach had to be included on our list. With beaches like Balboa Beach, Crystal Cove State Beach, Little Corona Del Mar Beach, Little Treasure Cove, and Newport Beach, there are countless options to choose from. If you’re looking to move to Newport Beach, there are about 84,800 people living in the city. Newport Beach has plenty of other activities including exploring Newport Beach Pier and Balboa Pier, hiking the Crystal Cove Trail, and checking out Balboa Island.
#18: Laguna Beach
Median home price: $2,743,250 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $3,000 Laguna Beach, CA homes for sale Laguna Beach, CA apartments for rent
Another classic Southern California beach town is Laguna Beach, home to about 22,800 residents. With beaches like Aliso Beach, Crescent Bay Beach, Cress Street Beach, Diver’s Cove, Laguna Beach, Table Rock Beach, Thalia Street Beach, Treasure Island Beach, Victoria Beach, West Street Beach, and Woods Cove, there’s always a new place to see the coastline. In addition to these beautiful beaches, make sure to visit the Top of the World, check out Main Beach Park, and explore all the local restaurants, cafes, and shops by the beach.
#19: Dana Point
Median home price: $1,602,500 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $3,768 Dana Point, CA homes for sale Dana Point, CA apartments for rent
With beaches like Capistrano Beach Park, Dana Strands Beach, Doheny State Beach, Laguna Niguel Beach, and Salt Creek Beach, it’s no surprise that Dana Point also made our list. Home to 32,800, there is plenty to do in this awesome coastal city. For example, you can explore the Dana Point Caves, grab a meal at the Dana Point Harbor, or camp at Doheny State Beach if you decide to move to Dana Point.
#20: San Clemente
Median home price: $1,788,500 Average rent for a one-bedroom apartment: $2,750 San Clemente, CA homes for sale San Clemente, CA apartments for rent
San Clemente is home to 63,900 people and has countless beaches to visit. Some of the many beaches include North Beach, San Clemente City Beach, San Clemente State Beach, and T-Street Beach. Or if you’re looking for something a little different, you can stroll along the Sea Summit Trail, stop by the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, and check out the San Clemente Pier.
#21: La Jolla
Median home price: $2,002,500 La Jolla, CA homes for sale La Jolla, CA apartments for rent
La Jolla, a neighborhood of San Diego, is the last beach town in California on our list. Home to beaches like Black’s Beach. Jolla Cove, La Jolla Shores Beach, Marine Street Beach, Shell Beach, Torrey Pines State Beach, Whispering Seas Beach, and Windansea Beach, there are a variety of options whether you’re looking for a quiet beach day or a morning spent out on the waves. You can also spend the day at Cuvier Park, explore museums like the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Birch Aquarium, and visit the Sea Cave Lookout Point.
Note, this list is not comprehensive of all the beach towns in California. Median home sale price data from the Redfin Data Center during June 2023. Average rental data from Rent.com June 2023. Population data sourced from the United States Census Bureau.
Tampa, Florida, known as “The Big Guava” to locals, is a historic city in the greater Tampa Bay Metropolitan area, which consists of Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater. Originally a small town, the cigar industry helped put Tampa on the map. In the past few decades, the area has seen significant growth and has become known for its lovely beaches, rich history, and lively sports scenes. But is Tampa a good place to live? Luckily, we’ve got you covered.
If you’re looking at homes for sale in Tampa or apartments for rent and are considering making the move, this Redfin article is for you. We’ll dive into 10 pros and cons of living in Tampa to help you decide if the city is right for you.
5 pros of living in Tampa, FL
There’s a lot to love about living in Tampa, from pristine beaches to lively sporting events. Here are five of the best reasons to make the move.
1. Affordable cost of living
The cost of living in Tampa is relatively affordable,especially compared to other cities in Florida. Tampa’s housing costs, in particular, are cheaper than nearby cities and on par with the national average. For example, the median sale price of a house in Tampa is $425,900, compared to $560,000 in Miami and $550,000 in Fort Lauderdale. This helps make Tampa an attractive option for those looking for an affordable place to live in Florida near the coast.
If you’re looking to rent an apartment in Tampa, the average rent is $1,543 – which is just slightly above the national average.
2. Weather
Tampa’s climate is subtropical, which means mild, dry winters and hot, humid summers. Daily high temperatures rarely drop below 70 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter or rise above 100 degrees in the summer. If you prefer warm weather and year-round sun, Tampa’s climate will be perfect for you. This is especially true for those seeking refuge from colder northern climates.
3. Outdoor activities
Tampa’s location on the Gulf Coast of Florida means it has numerous beautiful beaches and coastal trails, including Clearwater Beach, Fort de Soto Park, and Archibald Beach Park. It also boasts many state parks and nature reserves, and is only a few hours from Everglades National Park. The bay and nearby rivers also provide ample opportunity for water sports such as boating, kayaking, and fishing.
4. Sports
Tampa is a sports lover’s paradise. It’s home to three major professional sports teams: the Buccaneers in the NFL, the Rays in MLB, and the Lightning in the NHL. Tampa also hosts the Outback Bowl for college football, has numerous golf courses and fishing spots, and is a haven for cyclists and runners looking for flat training days.
5. Community events
Tampa has a rich culture, making for a wide array of celebrations, events, and community get-togethers. There are dozens of popular annual events, many of which take place in the pleasant winter months. Some notable examples include the Gasparilla Pirate Fest, the Florida State Fair, Tampa Pride, and Winter Village.
5 cons of living in Tampa, FL
Like with any city, there are downsides of living in Tampa. Here are five to keep in mind.
1. Hurricanes
As a part of Florida, Tampa is susceptible to hurricanes, which are possible from June through November every year. These natural disasters can cause significant damage to property and disrupt daily life when they hit. If you do move to Tampa, make sure you prepare your home for a hurricane and understand your local building codes, evacuation routes, and emergency procedures.
2. Heat and humidity
While the warm weather is appealing to many, the intense heat and humidity of the summer months can be a drawback. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to reach into the high 90s with high humidity levels from June through August, with plenty of rainfall as well.
3. Traffic
As Tampa continues to grow, traffic congestion has become a more significant problem. In fact, it has some of the worst traffic in the US, and in 2022 was the 201st most congested metropolitan area. This is most notable during the morning and evening rush hours, and can add considerable time to commutes.
4. Bugs and wildlife
Florida’s warm and subtropical climate makes it home to a variety of bugs, including mosquitoes, palmetto bugs, and termites, which can wreak havoc on buildings and be an annoyance from day to day. Additionally, Florida is home to numerous unique animals, including the American alligator, Florida panther, and dozens of dangerous aquatic species.
5. Flat landscape
Tampa, like much of Florida, is very flat. In fact, Florida is the flattest state in the US, with the highest point sitting at just 345 feet above sea level. While this may not be an issue for some, if you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and other mountainous outdoor activities, you will likely be disappointed.
The bottom line: Is Tampa a good place to live?
Living in Tampa has its share of pros and cons. The city offers an affordable cost of living, a vibrant cultural scene, along with pleasant weather and more. However, take into account factors like high humidity, hurricanes, flooding, and traffic congestion. In the end, the decision to call Tampa home depends on what matters to you.
Most mornings after Stephen Garten wakes up at his home in Austin, Texas, he goes into his backyard and starts pacing, preparing himself for what’s next. “It’s brutal,” says Garten, 37, the founder and CEO of social impact company Charity Charge. “It’s a real challenge every day.”
He’s talking about lowering himself into a 66-inch-long and 24-inch-wide stainless steel tub clad in customized zebrawood and submerging himself up to his neck in water that he sets at 39 degrees Fahrenheit, with water circulating at 1,400 gallons a minute. “It’s like being in a river,” he says of the flow rate produced by this particular vessel, a Blue Cube cold plunge.
It’s an experience that Garten typically tolerates for less than two minutes at a time, once or twice a day. And it comes at a price of $19,000. Blue Cube, based in Redmond, Ore., makes cold plunge units that cost between around $18,000 and $29,000.
“Cold plunging has made a profound difference in my life,” Garten says. He says it has brought him health benefits including stress management.
Previously the domain of athletes, bathing in cold water or ice has become a mainstream wellness trend across the U.S. The practice goes by many terms, like cold plunging, ice bathing and cold-immersion therapy. Water temperature below 59 degrees Fahrenheit is generally considered cold immersion. People who swear by it say they have experienced wide-ranging health benefits, like reduced anxiety, alleviated joint and muscle pain and boosted energy and focus.
But while many people are experimenting with do-it-yourself methods—like taking cold showers or filling kiddie pools, horse troughs and unplugged chest freezers with cold water or ice—some enthusiasts have leveled-up their at-home cold plunging setups with sophisticated receptacles priced at tens of thousands of dollars and up.
Developers, meanwhile, are adding cold plunges to amenity-rich luxury complexes like 53 West 53 in New York and Cipriani Residences Miami, betting that cold immersion is here to stay.
“Ice bathing seems like a trend, but people have been doing this for thousands of years,” says Jonathan Coon, co-founder of Austin Capital Partners, which is the developer of Four Seasons Private Residences Lake Austin, 20 minutes from downtown Austin, slated to open in 2026.
In addition to 188 residential units starting at $4.1 million, the Lake Austin property on 145 acres will have 76,000 square feet of indoor wellness and sports facilities, including a 12,000-square-foot orangery, 82-foot swimming pool, sauna, steam room and, of course, cold and hot thermal baths.
Amenities covering 100,000 square feet is a key reason that Onyx W.D. Johnson and Cristian Santangelo bought a $2.2 million two-bedroom, 1,123-square-foot apartment in New York’s One Manhattan Square, an 80-story building located on the Lower East Side. Facilities include a spa with a tranquility garden, 75-foot saltwater swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, steam room and hammam with a cold plunge set between 55 and 58 degrees Fahrenheit. The couple moved into the apartment in May 2021.
Johnson and Santangelo quivered at the idea of cold plunging until they started seeing other people dipping and discussing the health benefits. “We decided to give it a try,” Johnson says.
Now cold plunging is part of their wellness regimen. Johnson, 50, who runs a management consulting firm, uses the hot pool, steam room and sauna, and then cold plunges for 45 seconds to a minute. He says this routine speeds up his training recovery time, helps him think clearer and improves his alertness and mood. Santangelo, 45, who is a management consultant, says the ritual helps him calm down and fight anxiety and stress.
Diamond Spas & Pools, based in Frederick, Colo., is a custom manufacturer of luxury pools, spas and soaking tubs for homeowners globally. The company added cold plunges to its portfolio in 2015 and saw one or two orders annually until 2019, when it experienced a sales surge. “Our cold plunge projects have increased 10 times since then,” says Mitch Martinek, the company’s design manager.
Martinek attributes the uptick to several factors. Today’s homeowners want gym and spa amenities at home and on-demand, cold therapy health benefits are better known now, and there are lingering pandemic concerns over public wellness facilities.
The company’s cold plunges, which chill water to between 40 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit, are made from stainless steel or copper and can be camouflaged in tile, stone or wood. The pools can go indoors or outdoors, come in any size and can work with home automation systems. The average cold plunge costs about $45,000, with elaborate projects running closer to about $65,000.
One of the company’s more unique cold plunges had an acrylic bottom and was in a high-rise building. “It was on a deck with a fire pit below,” Martinek says. “The homeowner wanted to be able to look up through the cold plunge.”
John Thorbahn bought a four-bedroom, 5,500-square-foot single-family home in Hingham, Mass., south of Boston, in March 2020 for $1.6 million. He owns a cold plunge from Phoenix-based company Morozko Forge, founded in 2018. Morozko Forge’s entry-level unit costs $12,850; its upgraded version costs $19,900.
Morozko Forge’s ice baths make ice. While the stainless steel tub is filled with cold water, an ice slab starts building at the tank’s bottom. At about 1-inch thick, the ice detaches and floats to the water’s surface. The ice can be broken up with an implement like a rubber mallet if needed.
Thorbahn, 63, who is the managing director at consulting company NFP, ice bathes most days for two to three minutes at 33 to 34 degrees Fahrenheit. His wife, Jana Thorbahn, 59, ice bathes, too. “The older you get, the more you want to live longer,” says Thorbahn, whose home also has a gym, sauna, red light therapy room and hot tub. “You start investing in protocols to help you be healthy.”
While many cold plungers have developed their own ice bathing rituals, choosing everything from their preferred water temperatures to time limits, Dr. Susanna Søberg, a Danish Ph.D. metabolic scientist and founder of the Soeberg Institute, is one of the world’s experts on the health benefits of cold immersion, which she has been studying for nine years.
In 2021, Søberg published research on cold exposure and hot exposure, which is called “contrast therapy” if the cold and hot exposures are performed in succession. Studying Danish winter swimmers, Søberg identified that a short plunge in cold, moving water combined with sauna use shifts the body’s nervous system and creates physiological changes, like boosting metabolism, lowering inflammation and releasing neurotransmitters that improve cognitive performance and mental health. “You are activating your whole body system,” Søberg says.
In a field that hasn’t been widely studied by the medical community, Søberg has developed what she says is the only scientifically backed cold immersion protocol for reducing stress using contrast therapy and breathing: 11 total minutes of cold immersion combined with 57 total minutes of heat, across two to three days a week. The goal of her method is to expose the body to the smallest amount of healthy stress needed to reap health benefits. “Staying in cold water or heat longer may not be beneficial or necessary,” she says.
Søberg says cold immersion carries the rare risk of cold water shock that can cause confusion or fainting, but the risk increases if a person does hyperventilating breathwork before or during cold water immersion. She also says cold plunging might not be good for people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Søberg advocates for cold plunging with others, and practicing slow, nasal breathing in the water.
Contrast therapy is why Sausalito, Calif.-based company Yardzen says most of its cold plunge projects involve saunas. Yardzen is an online landscape and home-exterior design company that works with homeowners across the U.S. The company’s co-founder and CEO Allison Messner says wellness yards—encompassing everything from cold plunges to saunas to meditation spaces to forest bathing—is one of Yardzen’s top 2023 trends.
“Peak luxury is having both a cold plunge and a sauna in your yard so you can experience cold and hot therapy,” Messner says.
Tobias Lawry, 51, and his wife, Christine Lawry, 50, live in a three-bedroom 1963 Midcentury Modern house in Dana Point, Calif. They purchased it in October 2018. Between July 2021 and October 2022, they worked with architect Chris Light, designer Frank Berry and builder Crawford Custom Homes to renovate their 3,000-square-foot house to honor its original period intention while modernizing it. This included turning a bedroom into a wellness room, which opens into a backyard with a pool, sauna and Blue Cube cold plunge.
The Lawrys, who run an estate-management and concierge services company called LPM, keep their Blue Cube at 47 degrees Fahrenheit. They typically cold plunge in the evening and on weekend mornings.
Stephen Garten in Austin also has a tricked-out wellness yard: In addition to his Blue Cube, he has a barrel sauna from Almost Heaven Saunas, which are manufactured in West Virginia and start around $7,500. He also has a stock tank pool from Cowboy Pools, an Austin-based company that has pool packages starting around $2,000.
He was inspired to create a backyard oasis where he and his fiancée, Katie Snyder, can have friends over. “It’s wellness,” Garten says, “but it’s entertainment too.”
The cost of your point-of-sale (POS) system will largely depend on the kind of POS system you choose, your industry and the hardware you need. The total initial cost of a POS system can range from $0 (if you’re able to use free software and hardware you already own) up to $2,000.
Components of a POS System
To break down the cost of your POS system, think of your needs in terms of three main components: POS software, POS hardware and payment processing.
POS Software
POS software can range in price from $0 to over $200 per month, depending on your needs. Although free POS software can be great for newer businesses, you may need to upgrade to paid software in order to access many features that are industry-specific or that may help your business scale.
For example, Square for Restaurant’s Free plan includes standard features like menu and table management, reporting, and iPad and register compatibility. To get more advanced features like mobile POS capability, live sales data and floor plan customization, you need to upgrade to the Plus plan for $60 per month.
See some popular POS systems and their monthly software costs below.
POS Hardware
POS hardware consists of the physical components you need to accept payments, which can include:
Cash registers: Can start as low as $100 for a basic model and up to over $1,500.
Tablet stands: Can range from $99 to $199 for the stand, not including the tablet.
Credit card readers: Can range from $0 for Square’s magstripe reader that plugs into a tablet or phone up to $300.
Self-service kiosks: Can range from $700 for countertop kiosks up to $4,000 for free-standing kiosks.
POS terminals: Can range from $49 for a small mobile terminal up to $1,799 for a full cash register.
Cash drawers: Can range from $39 to almost $1,000 for high-capacity cash drawers.
Barcode scanners: Can range from $20 for a simple USB scanner up to $600 for scanners with touch-screen terminals attached.
Receipt printers: Can range from $26 up to over $600. Some multi-functional terminals, like the Clover Flex handheld system, have receipt printers built in.
Many top POS providers have their own branded hardware, but some will let you purchase or use your own hardware. Hardware is usually a fixed, one-time cost upfront, but some companies allow payment plans that can be rolled into your monthly payment.
Payment processing
Payment processing is a system that allows you to collect payments from customers in any form except cash or check. The function serves as a middleman between your customer and your business bank account, and can be offered in different pricing models:
Interchange plus. Interchange plus pricing models consist of the interchange rate, which is the rate charged to a processing company by the card company, plus a fee charged by the payment processing company.
Flat rate. Flat-rate models charge by the type of transaction, like in-person or online, and the rate is consistent regardless of the interchange cost from the card company.
Subscription. Subscription models are less common and usually charge monthly or yearly.
Variables that factor into POS system costs
Type of business
Your business’s industry is a huge factor in the overall cost of your POS system because it likely affects each of the three main pricing components. If you own a retail business, for example, you might need additional software integrations like inventory management that will function across locations and platforms. If you have a restaurant, you might want additional hardware like a kitchen display system or a self-service kiosk. If you run an e-commerce company, your biggest cost may come in the form of your website or online store.
Number of locations
The number of business locations is an important factor that can affect both the software and hardware components of your POS system. To function properly, your POS system will likely require a set of hardware (register, card reader, etc.) per location (and per checkout point within your store). Additionally, many POS providers price by the location, so there may be added monthly software costs if you have more than one location.
Add-ons
Customer loyalty features, online ordering, appointment booking, email marketing and more can be priced as add-ons to your monthly subscription costs. Any one of these may be important to how you run your business. For businesses that require the ability to book appointments, like a salon for example, Clover uses a third-party add-on software called Salon Scheduler that can cost anywhere from $19.99 to $119.99 per month, depending on things like the number of employees and the number of reminders per appointment.
Similarly, Toast’s POS system for restaurants offers online ordering and delivery services as an add-on for an additional monthly cost, either through its own software or a third-party integration like Grubhub or DoorDash.
Scalability
When you’re researching which POS system is best for you, it can be helpful to think long term about where you’d like your business to go. It can be costly and painful to switch your whole POS system if you want to add another location, for example, or if you want to start marketing to help growth. Look at what packages work for where your business is now, and what add-ons or packages are available for where it could be in the future.
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need a POS system?
It may vary depending on your type of business, but for most businesses it’s recommended to enroll with a POS provider. POS systems help you safely accept multiple types of payments, manage and track inventory, interface with customers, grow your business and more.
What is needed for a POS system?
A POS system is made of three main components: software (normally a monthly cost), hardware (can be purchased upfront or on a payment plan) and payment processing (can be priced monthly or by transaction). Additional needs will depend on your specific business.
As the capital and most populous city in Utah, Salt Lake City is one of the Mountain West’s premier tourist destinations and most desirable places to call home. Since hosting the Winter Olympics in 2002, Salt Lake City has gained more international acclaim and become a must-see spot for travelers and adventurers from around the globe.
Listed below are some of the locally loved businesses and locations that make Salt Lake City a great place to eat, drink, play and explore.
Source: facebook.com/Oquirrhrestaurant
Best bites in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is full of passionate chefs and eager restauranteurs. Here are eight of the top spots to grab a great bite to eat in Salt Lake City.
Oquirrh
Guided by the goal of supporting local artisans, farmers and ingredients, Oquirrh specializes in locally-sourced American fare. Leveraging their relationships within the community, Andrew and Angie Fuller, the dynamic duo behind this Central City restaurant, constantly evolve their menu to reflect the season outside and the passion in the kitchen. While this is the ideal spot for a romantic date night, they also serve up a legendary brunch on the weekends starting at 10:00 AM.
Arlo
Arlo is an “elevated casual, chef-driven restaurant” in the Capitol Hill Historic District. Drawing inspiration from all around the world, Arlo’s menu is compiled of a diverse selection of cuisine styles that create a cohesive and intriguing selection of delicious dishes from American to Mexican to Italian and more. Regardless of what you’re craving, there’s something of the highest quality waiting for you on Arlo’s menu.
Yoko Ramen
Named after the ramen capital of Japan, Yokohama, Yoko Ramen specializes in its namesake dish but also churns out other delectable delights like chicken wings, gyoza and sandwiches, to name a few. Opened nearly five years ago, Yoko Ramen has solidified itself as a bonafide success in the burgeoning Central City restaurant scene. Stop in and slurp up some of SLC’s best ramen at this hotspot.
Salt and Olive
Fast casual meets fine dining in this historic building turned chic restaurant space. Salt and Olive is backed by head chef, Chef Naza and head mixologist, Cory Dudis. This dynamic duo running the show brings forty-plus years of experience to the table and that’s apparent from the moment you walk through the doors. The menu here is decidedly Italian, but due to the restaurant’s dedication to local, fresh ingredients, there’s always something new and exciting to enjoy at Salt and Olive.
Pago
Boasting two locations within the Salt Lake City limits,—one in East Central and one Downtown—Pago is a “wild to table” restaurant that focuses on utilizing fresh, local and sustainable ingredients. Pago’s menu is season-driven and always changing to reflect what’s fresh and available. Pago partners with local artisans, farmers and more to collect the highest-quality ingredients and employs passionate folks to put them to use.
Pretty Bird Hot Chicken
With two locations in Salt Lake City, one in Park City and a fourth in Midvale, Pretty Bird is beloved all throughout Utah, and with good reason. Pretty Bird Hot Chicken is just darn good, no other way to say it. If you’re going to make a living off of fried chicken sandwiches you better make them good because the competition is stiff. Pretty Bird holds up to and outdoes the competition in a deep field by frying up one of the tastiest birds on a bun you’ll ever have the pleasure of putting in your mouth.
Nomad Eatery
Located within Unita Brewhouse Pub, Nomad Eatery provides all your classic bar bites, but what sets them apart is that they’re executed to perfection. Loaded fries, wings and burgers are just some of the highlights that grace the menu of this inviting gem tucked away near the airport in the Glendale neighborhood.
Table X
Table X is, you guessed it, another restaurant on this list that prioritizes the use of locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. Fine dining without the fuss is the overall vibe at this unique yet classically appealing space. Table X serves a tasting menu in which every dish, from the bread to the final bite, is thoughtful, intentional and downright delicious. A truly one-of-a-kind experience from beginning to end, Table X is as much an adventure as it as an undeniably tasty meal.
Source: facebook.com/alibislc
Four great places to get a drink in Salt Lake City
While not known as a drinking town, Salt Lake City still has its fair share of hip watering holes to help you cut loose.
Alibi Bar and Place
Alibi Bar and Place is your everyday neighborhood bar on an elevated level. With a rotating offering of live music and DJs on a daily basis, cocktails made with fresh ingredients, local craft beers and an expertly curated wine list, Alibi is a great place to let happy hour turn into a great night out.
Seabird
Craft cocktails, craft beer and vinyl are what you can expect at Seabird, a downtown cocktail bar with a killer patio. This hip hangout is warm, welcoming and always serving up great vibes alongside creative cocktails made with love. Ideal for a nightcap after a long day or your first drink on a Friday afternoon, Seabird is a safe bet for a great time.
Post Office Place
Located smack dab in the center of Salt Lake City, Post Office Place is an elegant bar and eatery. Boasting a menu full of creative small plates and sensational cocktails, Post Office Place is the type of spot that asks you to expand your comfort zone and open your eyes to something new. Whether that’s trying chicken liver mousse (you won’t regret it) for the first time or dipping your toe into the complex world of Japanese whiskey, you’re in for a treat when you walk through the Post Office Place doors.
Varley
Immediately recognizable by the half-moon-shaped mirrors and shelving behind the bar, Varley is an elegant cocktail bar located in the heart of Salt Lake City. Moody decor, music that keeps the vibe going and creatively crafted cocktails prepared by a dedicated and talented staff are just a few of the things you can expect to encounter when you decide to stop into Varley.
Source: facebook.com/threepinescoffee
Staying caffeinated in Salt Lake City
There’s a lot to do in Salt Lake City. You’re going to want to stay caffeinated to get the most out of each day.
Three Pines Coffee
Minimalist decor meets maximum talent manning the machinery in this hip and airy coffee shop. Three Pines Coffee was founded with a singular idea in mind, that Salt Lake City needs great coffee shops. Due to the large LDS population, SLC has been a bit late to the craft coffee scene, but with places like Three Pines leading the charge, the future is looking bright for all the Salt Lake-based caffeine freaks. Three Pines Coffee is known for inventive espresso drinks, tasty pastries and overall quality across the board. Stop by and start your day off right.
The Daily
The Daily does three things extremely well. Those three things are coffee, pastries and an inviting atmosphere. The perfect place to perk up on a Monday morning, or kick back on a sturdy afternoon, The Daily is a great go-to coffee shop, regardless of the time of day.
Kahve Cafe
Kahve Cafe specializes in Turkish coffee. If you haven’t had Turkish coffee before, here are a few things you should know. It’s delicious, it’s strong and it has a distinct texture. If you like an intense coffee flavor, you absolutely have to try a cup from Kahve. This welcoming and well-run cafe is as authentic as it gets in SLC.
Cupla
The people behind Cupla accomplished something very unique with their shop. They managed to create an industrial space that is also undeniably cozy. Many concrete-floored, brick-walled coffee shops come off as cold and uninvited, Cupla, on the other hand, is a cozy hideout from the hustle and bustle of Downtown Salt Lake City and an ideal spot to enjoy a hot cup of joe on a cold Salt Lake Sunday.
Source: facebook.com/TavernacleSLC
Where to catch a live show in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is a hotbed of talented artists, entertainers and stellar spots to see their shows. Here are four great places to see a live show in Salt Lake City.
The Tavernacle Social Club
Dueling pianos, karaoke, comedy and drag — these are the things you think of when you think about Salt Lake City, right? If not, they should be because The Tavernacle Social Club has one of the most eclectic selections of talented performers in Salt Lake City. Shows take place stage six days a week (closed on Mondays).
Crowdsourced Comedy
Improv is one of those things that’s either really good or really bad. There isn’t much gray area when it comes to being funny. Did you laugh or not? That’s really the only question that needs answering. Luckily, the talented folks of Crowdsourced Comedy, a Salt Lake-based improv group, always coax out the laughter. Check out their website for show and class information or to book them for your next party!
Kilby Court
Kilby Court is the “longest running all-ages venue in Salt Lake City” and, as such, it has developed quite the reputation as a great place to catch a small live show in Salt Lake City. This indoor/outdoor venue features muraled walls, heavily stickered windows and a great stage. If your vibe leans a little more off the wall, Kilby Court is the spot for you.
Garage on Beck
Just north of Downtown Salt Lake, in the Rose Park neighborhood, Garage on Beck is a 21-and-over bar, grill and live music venue. Known for killer comfort food and stellar stage talent, Garage on Beck is worth the short trip outside town and offers an atmosphere entirely its own. If you’re hoping to catch a show, concerts are held on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
You didn’t come to Salt Lake City to stay inside, did you?
Bonneville Shoreline Trail
Bonneville Shoreline Trail is a great area for easy to moderate hikes and slightly more strenuous mountain biking. Located just under a half hour north of Downtown SLC, this recreational area exhibits the best of the pristine nature that surrounds the Crossroads of the West. Be warned though, if you go shortly after rain, you should expect very muddy and slippery conditions.
Red Butte Canyon Overlook
Red Butte Canyon Overlook is located within the Red Butte Canyon Research Natural Area a little over a half hour northeast of Downtown Salt Lake City. This protected natural recreation and research area is perfect for anyone looking to get their steps in a beautiful setting and be rewarded with a stunning view.
Millcreek Canyon
Located in the Wasatch Mountains in Millcreek, Utah south of Salt Lake City, Millcreek Canyon is a stunning recreational nature area that provides space for camping, mountain biking, hiking and more. Filled with lush greenery in the summer months and serene, snowtopped hillsides in the winter, Millcreek Canyon is a great place to soak up some of the best nature the Salt Lake City area has to offer.
International Peace Gardens
The International Peace Gardens is a botanical garden that has been benefitting the Salt Lake City area for over 80 years. The team at the Peace Gardens nurtures plants from over 28 different countries and is a true representation of some of the most interesting, unique and essential botanicals to be ever be discovered. Also, it’s just a beautiful place to walk around.
See what Salt Lake City has to offer
There’s only one way to get to know Salt Lake City and that’s to immerse yourself in the culture and find your go-to spots. Start your search with the places listed above and you’ll feel fully at home in Salt Lake City in no time.
There must be something in the water because we’ve been gravitating towards all things a little out of the ordinary lately. It could just be that we’re feeling ready for a little color ourselves these days baby. coming. any. day now!, but we have set our adoration for minimal white interiors aside. These over-the-top energy filled rooms are just feeling so right, right now. With statement pieces of art and in equally statement-making design decisions have our hearts beating double time – they’re exciting, adventurous! When going for a statement, there’s only one rule: go bold or go home, right?!
We love how the colorful modern piece above inspires you to have a strong point of view! The piece adds the perfect touch of playfulness to this masculine study.
A statement wall isn’t complete without statement art. One large piece on a striped wall would have been ballsy, but four fashionable portraits is even ballsier, and we like it!
We love how the art does all the talking in this otherwise muted space. We love it’s low horizon line and unusual off-centered placement.
Speaking of, this oversized piece looks like it barely fits between the molding. And we’re sure that somewhere there’s a design rule that says this “doesn’t work.” But we like it’s rebellious, pushing the boundaries or in this case, molding! placement!
The exaggerated doorway and bold colors below are the perfect match for this jumbo “5.” It makes us re-think where art should live – the answer is everywhere! – and for that we give this design choice a score of 10!
So why not applya bit more fearlessness and grandeur in your decor decisions moving forward? If you have a blank wall that could use a little, or in this case, BIG pick-me-up we say go for – make the big move! You can check out more boundry-pushing decor ideas here!
image 1 via Est Magazine // 2 via Greg Natale // 3 via // 4 via Interior Design// 5 via Red Architecture
On Google Earth it looks like a stunning opportunity: six acres of vacant land surrounded by single-family homes in a West Valley neighborhood.
After being abandoned to shoulder-high weeds for nearly a decade, the former elementary school site in Woodland Hills is now a target for development.
But it’s not being scoped out for million-dollar homes like those around it. Instead, a group of prominent civic leaders has identified the parcel as a prime location for shelter or housing for homeless people.
It’s on a list commissioned by the Committee for Greater L.A. to prod City Hall to use surplus government land for homeless housing.
“If you talked to people in the city … they will argue that it is a myth, that all the land that is available is really not appropriate for this use,” said Miguel Santana, chairman of the committee, which is made up of leaders in philanthropy, business and government.
In releasing a database of 126 proposed sites online, the committee sought to keep up pressure on Mayor Karen Bass to follow through on her campaign pledge to build 1,000 beds on public land in her first year in office.
The study‘s authors said they identified more than enough usable parcels to support 1,000 beds of shelter and permanent housing, and proposed a timeline to produce the housing within six months.
Bass has acknowledged the committee’s work but said she has her own list of properties and her own timeline. And the timeline is longer.
In an open letter, Bass, whose third executive order required the city administrative officer to compile an inventory of city-owned land suitable for housing, said her staff is poring over a list of more than 3,300 parcels and has had preliminary discussions with City Council members to gauge their reaction to specific sites.
She said they have identified sites to accommodate 500 interim housing beds and have submitted them to the state to be part of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s emergency small-homes program. If approved, she said, they could be built by July 2024.
But Bass said she wants to rethink the city’s approach to permanent housing on its lands to develop a “bigger and bolder” program. She set a goal of January 2025 to come up with standards for identifying suitable land, community engagement strategies, provisions for infrastructure investments, new financing methods and innovative approaches to construction.
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“My focus over the remainder of my first term in office will be to make the disposition and development of City owned land faster, cheaper, and more streamlined, and to innovate in the financing and delivery of affordable housing without reliance on traditional subsidy methods,” Bass wrote.
While working primarily from the city’s own list, Bass said, she will use the committee’s study to advance her goal of incorporating surplus land owned by regional and state agencies.
The study, conducted by the nonprofit Center for Pacific Urbanism, analyzed variables including slope, zoning and proximity to utilities to winnow down 65,000 parcels owned by city, county, state, federal and other agencies such as Metro and the Los Angeles Unified School District.
Dario Rodman-Alvarez, an architect whose firm Pacific Urbanism founded the nonprofit, said he and his staff then reviewed each of the nearly 2,900 survivors to verify that it would be suitable for a model development consisting of 36 units interspersed with community gardens.
From those, they hand-picked 121 to give officials “enough options to make decisions but not be overwhelmed by the sheer number of options.”
A Times spot check of sites on that list, however, showed how frequently political impediments can confound even the best analysis.
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The former Oso Elementary property in the West Valley, for example, has long been a point of community contention. Residents of the area, called Carlton Terrace, said that they want something done with the eyesore — most suggested a park — but that homeless housing would be unacceptable.
“It’s never going to happen,” said Darryl Lutz, a 20-year resident across from one corner of the vacant land. “The homeowners here are heavily involved in local government.”
Joyce Norman, an emergency room physician, said she would not oppose a shelter except that she doubted it would come with adequate services, especially transportation. The nearest shopping is downhill a half-mile away.
“If I were a homeless person, I would want to live near a street with stores,” she said.
Not to mention, the Los Angeles Unified School District may have its own plans for the property. It was included in a 2020 proposal to evaluate 10 properties for development as housing for district employees.
A district spokesperson would not give an update on that proposal, instead providing a statement that the district “is currently evaluating our underutilized properties to help develop a plan that most effectively addresses the needs of our district and the communities that we serve.”
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To sidestep possible roadblocks caused by differing governmental agendas, the committee study identified 46 sites, all owned by the city, as highest priority.
But those were not free of roadblocks either.
One — 2.1 acres of vacant land in Sylmar surrounded by a neighborhood of single-family homes, condos and apartments — is already slated for affordable housing, but the first developer chosen by the city backed out, and the Los Angeles Housing Department is again preparing a request for proposals.
“We have been working urgently to ensure this property is used for housing and are exploring options for the best site use with the least amount of downtime possible,” Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez said.
That’s the bureaucratic maze that Bass must cut through.
Her program will not only identify sites but also hand them to developers ready to go, said Jenna Hornstock, Bass’ housing deputy.
“So rather than put out these sites and say, ‘Now go out and entitle them and compete for money,’ it’s, ‘Here’s the site. We either have entitlement or a path to entitlement and here is a financing plan that we will commit to,’ ” Hornstock said.
The idea of using surplus government land to speed up and lower the cost of homeless housing goes back to 2016 when committee Chairman Santana, who was then the city administrative officer, included it in an ambitious plan to address homelessness.
Santana’s office examined more than 500 city-owned properties that found 129 sites potentially large enough and in suitable zones for homeless housing. All but 10 were city-owned parking lots.
Few of them worked out.
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When then-City Controller Ron Galperin reviewed the topic in a 2022 report critical of the city’s “fragmented” management of surplus land, he found that 11 of the city’s bridge home shelters and 16 projects in development under the city’s $1.2-billion HHH housing bond were on city-owned land.
Bass, in her letter, said 14 more are in design or negotiation, but concurred that it was not enough.
Galperin highlighted 26 city-owned properties that he considered suitable for shelter projects, either bridge housing, safe parking, safe sleeping villages or tiny home villages. But like the earlier study, it was heavily weighted with parking lots.
Public parking lots, which also make up slightly more than half of the committee’s priority list, are often problematic because they serve local businesses and generate revenue for the city.
One parking lot on the list is in the business core of Leimert Park. Converting it to housing would only exacerbate a lack of adequate parking in the “Mecca of Black culture in Los Angeles,” a spokesman for Councilwoman Heather Hutt said in an email reply to The Times.
“Councilwoman Hutt cannot support homeless housing on these parking lots because the community will never support it,” the statement said. “The residents have demonstrated a strong commitment to preserving the authenticity and character of Leimert Park, and the parking lots serve that authenticity and character.”
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At the other extreme, a city parking lot on 87th Street a block east of Broadway has no current value to the depressed business district where several vacant lots and abandoned buildings are owned by an investor who has held them since the 1990s and rebuffed all suitors.
Councilmember Marqueece Harris-Dawson, who said he rejected all the other sites the mayor suggested, would like to put housing on that lot, and another one west of Broadway, but only if the city would seize the adjacent privately owned properties to provide space for more units.
After years of unsuccessful overtures to the property owners, Harris-Dawson said he is ready to reconsider the city’s long-standing reluctance to use eminent domain.
“You could make a village there,” he said.
With a district dotted with privately owned vacant lots, Harris-Dawson said he thinks there are far more appropriate options than the few government parcels.
The Pacific Urbanism study acknowledged the potential of privately held land and included five examples, including the parking lot at Hebrew Union College and the expanse of parking around Dodger Stadium.
Some organizations, such as churches, may be open to using their land for purposes that align with their mission, it said, but made no mention of eminent domain.
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“For every public lot that’s vacant, I can take you to two privately held lots that are as good or better for housing,” Harris-Dawson said. “We literally have people living in the streets. Maybe after 35 years we intervene and help you find a different investment to make.”
By publishing its study, the Committee for Greater L.A. intends to force public officials to be more transparent, said committee member Sarah Dusseault, a former commissioner of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority.
“If you want to keep this surface parking lot as a surface parking lot because it earns $20,000 a year, God bless,” Dusseault said.
“But you should be transparent about that as a policy choice instead of the policy choices being in the dark.”