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Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information.

Last year, an average of over one in five flights were delayed, and about 2% were canceled. While that means most flights went out on time, millions and millions of travelers still found themselves not flying when they hoped.

Another busy travel season is upon us. When flight delays and cancellations do happen, there may not be a ton of additional seats available to simply hop on the next flight in some situations.

Here are tips on how to decrease your chances of getting stuck and increase your chances of arriving at your destination as quickly as possible, even if you get the unwelcome news that you are facing a flight delay — or worse.

How to find out if your flight might be delayed

In the current era of full flights and easily available information, don’t wait for the airline to tell you there is a problem.

You can keep an eye on general flight trends across the country on FlightAware, which gives you a good overview of how a day in the sky looks.

This page focuses on delays. Manually check the status of your flight on your airline’s website in the 24 hours leading up to travel. Also, check where the plane is coming from, if possible.

UNITED.COM

Also, opt in to flight notifications with your airline and download the carrier’s app on your phone. Here are details on that process with American Airlines and United Airlines. You’ll likely have more up-to-date flight departure information from your airline’s mobile app than what’s reflected on the airport departure and arrival boards.

You can also get flight status updates sent directly from FlightAware.

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When to arrive at the airport if your flight is delayed

PEOPLE IMAGE STUDIO/SHUTTERSTOCK

This can be a tricky one. If your flight is still listed as “on time” when you check the app, leave for the airport according to the original schedule.

Even if your flight shows as delayed in the app, it can be subject to change. It’s best to be at the airport ready to go at the originally scheduled time in most cases. We’ve certainly heard stories where the flight is suddenly ready to go sooner than expected, leaving some passengers behind. Sometimes you’ll receive confirmation well in advance that the flight will be significantly delayed. However, it’s safer to be at the airport, just in case.

Bad weather will sometimes cause a temporary ground stop at the airport. As soon as the weather gets better, the stop is lifted, and airlines try to get their flights off the ground ASAP.

Related: 3 things to do if your flight is delayed

What to do if there is bad weather

Monitor weather patterns starting a few days before your flight to see if any major systems are anticipated. It’s then vital to check the forecast on the night before and the day of travel to see how any issues could affect your departure and arrival airports.

Again, be sure to opt in for updates on your flight’s status. If you know bad weather is coming later in the day, ask for an earlier flight if you can. Alternatively, if you leave the night before, that’s a good idea, too.

BYCHYKHIN OLEXANDR/GETTY IMAGES

More and more airlines are allowing travelers to change plans with no fare difference prior to severe weather problems, like impending blizzards, ice storms or even heavy thunderstorms. Some will even proactively change your flight for you.

If you know bad weather is on the horizon, either go to your airline’s website and look for an advisory notice or call the airline to talk about options. If an airline gets ahead of weather issues, you may be able to reschedule your flight by a few days in either direction with no fees. Additionally, you can try asking for a nonstop flight if the weather is putting your connecting flight in jeopardy.

However, if the airline hasn’t issued its own advisory, you could have to pay out of pocket for any fare differences if you really need to get where you are going.

Related: How the weather affects your flight — the atmosphere and winds

What to do if your flight is delayed or canceled

If a flight delay happens and you want an alternative to waiting it out, check the airline’s app or in-airport kiosk for rebooking options. You don’t have to stand in line to talk to a real person in many cases, as you can self-service the rebooking with most major airlines. In fact, it may be faster to do it online or at a kiosk in the airport — and speed matters. You may be able to rebook at a new flight time or even to a new “nearby” origin or destination city.

There are times when automated rebooking systems are not your best option, though. Sometimes, the only automated option is for a red-eye flight or a future flight heading to your destination more than two days later. That’s especially true with flights as full as they are right now.

If you can’t find what you need online, find an airline employee who knows how to work the ticketing desk. Look at their uniforms and name tags to ensure you get a ticket agent and not a baggage handler or similarly outsourced contractor.

If the U.S. call center has a long hold time (which happens during widespread issues), you can try dialing an international number for faster service. You might also find success reaching out to an airline on Twitter, via chat or other social media channels when customer service lines are busy.

For example, when the first leg of an American Airlines flight from New York City to Arkansas just before Christmas was delayed, TPG editor Madison Blancaflor missed her connection.

She reached out to American Airlines on Twitter to help ensure she was rebooked on the earliest possible flight. She still had to endure a long layover in Charlotte, but it was better (and less stressful) than rushing to the customer service desk to try and rebook upon arrival in Charlotte.

If there are no reasonable booking options left with your carrier, ask if there are options on another airline. If the delay is weather-related, and you are on a basic-economy ticket or are flying on a low-cost carrier, there might not be other airline options at your fingertips. Still, it’s worth asking and — if possible — presenting available options you have researched yourself.

Related: Top tips to get through to airline customer service faster

Retreat to a lounge

If you have airline club access at a United Club, Delta Sky Club or similar, you can head there for help from experienced agents with potentially shorter lines. Use it as a spot to gather your thoughts, charge your phone and make level-headed decisions. The agents there might be able to help you change or track your flight.

In third-party lounges, such as an American Express Centurion Lounge, you won’t be able to get that type of airline-specific assistance, but you’re still probably in a better spot to wait out the storm than in a crowded terminal.

Related: Best credit cards for airport lounge access

Rebook your flight

Sometimes, if you really need to get home, you may need to do the work and layout for the expenditure for a new flight yourself.

During a delay while traveling from Orlando to Houston when my original carrier couldn’t get me home for more than 24 hours after my initial flight was canceled, I found a nonstop Southwest Airlines flight with one last seat available for $463.

Even though rebooking yourself will not typically be covered by any insurance or carrier, I went for the Southwest option and got my original United ticket refunded, which at least offset some of the pain of a new ticket. In my case, it was worth controlling my own destiny and not being stuck.

Your credit card’s built-in trip delay or trip cancellation coverage can help with many unexpected expenses in the face of delays and cancellations, but a brand-new flight home isn’t likely to be one of them. Still, in some cases, it may be the only way home for a while, so you’ll have to weigh the pros and cons.

Related: When to buy travel insurance vs. when to rely on credit card protections

Check airport hotels

While thinking through what to do in case of a flight delay or cancellation, consider your options at airport hotels, which can fill up if there are major delays and cancellations. Sometimes, it is best to pull the plug on getting home that day, get some good rest and try again in the morning.

Airport hotels are generally pretty affordable on points, although cash rates can skyrocket when demand surges. Accommodations are typically covered by trip delay protection, offered by cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card® from American Express.*

* Eligibility and benefit level vary by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

The Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport. SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY

Show up early for standby flights

If you know in advance that your flight is canceled or delayed, heading to the airport early could score you a same-day standby flight that gets you to your destination early.

For example, a TPG staffer was able to use this strategy to avoid getting stuck overnight when a hiccup with his flight from Austin to New York City would have caused him to miss a connection in Dallas. Since he had A-List status with Southwest, he showed up at the airport a bit earlier and did a free same-day standby onto an earlier flight that connected to a different city. His A-List status bumped him to the top of the standby list and onto the flight.

Getting on the standby list isn’t a foolproof method, especially if the earlier flight is almost full. This is a case where having elite status can help since you’ll have priority over non-elite travelers. Additionally, some airlines charge a fee for non-elite travelers to get on the standby list for an earlier flight.

Related: Best credit cards for airline elite status

How to get a refund or flight compensation

If you decide not to fly your originally scheduled flight in light of major delays and cancellations, get your money or points back. Do not settle for an airline voucher that may be hard to use and eventually expire.

You may have a cancel-and-refund option available to you online or in the airline’s app. If not, you can ask an airline employee for assistance in person or over the phone. Just be sure to cancel your original flight before its eventual departure so you can get the money or miles (hopefully) returned.

Know your rights and take stock of your credit card protections. You’ll have to read some fine print, but you may be entitled to accommodations, credits or expense reimbursement by the airline or from your credit card (usually depending on the length of your delay and the reason for delay or cancellation).

Many travel credit cards offer trip delay insurance that can save you money when you’re stuck somewhere. While it won’t help you avoid cancellations or delays, it could help you cover expenses while you wait for your flight.

Related: You are entitled to a refund for your canceled flight — even if the airline says you aren’t

Cards that provide travel protection

WYATT SMITH/THE POINTS GUY

There are many rewards credit cards that help confer valuable travel protections when you do have a delayed or canceled flight (if you used them to book your flight). Below are just a few examples of cards that provide some built-in coverage:

Chase Sapphire Reserve: Provides a $300 annual travel credit, up to $20,000 in trip cancellation coverage, up to $75,000 in car rental coverage, trip delay benefits of up to $500 per person that kick in starting at a six-hour delay and more.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: The Chase Sapphire Preferred includes trip cancellation and interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, emergency assistance services and more.

American Express Platinum: In addition to the extensive lounge benefits and up to $200 in annual airline fee credits, the Platinum card also provides trip cancellation and interruption insurance for up to $20,000 of a covered trip and incident.

Make a decision

Last but not least, we don’t recommend being too indecisive in the face of delays and cancellations. If you are, expect your options to dwindle. Once you finally decide to wait it out or try and switch flights, you will be at the mercy of whatever options the airline has to offer … which may not be great.

As you wait, flight options are likely to disappear as hundreds (or thousands) of other passengers beat you to rebooking. Weigh your realistic options and make a quick decision if you want to keep some control of your schedule.

If you’re OK getting stuck somewhere for a bit or taking a creative route home, waiting for the airline to direct you is a feasible option. Just don’t stress about your decision once you make it.

Your credit card’s built-in travel protections may cover unexpected expenses not covered by the airline (such as a hotel for an overnight weather delay, though not a new flight) if you get stuck during your journey.

In my Orlando example, my original flight was stuck in Denver with a five-hour weather delay, so the odds of that flight getting me where I needed to be that day didn’t seem great. When I didn’t clear standby on the other United flight to Houston from Orlando that night, I made a decision and stuck with it.

I left the terminal and headed to my new Southwest flight in another terminal (Clear and PreCheck helped with that quick transition). Yes, that choice cost me a new flight home, but I had to make that call right then or roll the dice on my United flight making it out that day.

I wasn’t in a gambling mood when it came to getting home, and I understood the out-of-pocket implications.

SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY

Bottom line

Most of the time, your flight will get you where you need to be close to when you want to be there. Still, flight delays and cancellations happen.

If your flight is delayed by an hour or two, there’s not usually much to do other than be patient. However, when facing a long delay or cancellation, it’s good to have a plan to reduce the odds of getting stuck.

Given the common theme of full passenger loads on flights these days, acting quickly, researching options and making a speedy decision will put you ahead of the pack.

Related: Best credit cards that offer trip delay reimbursement

Additional reporting by Melissa Klurman, Kristy Tolley, Victoria Walker, Madison Blancaflor, Benji Stawski and Benét J. Wilson.

Source: thepointsguy.com

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Secret phone plans? No contracts? Unadvertised payment plans with no interest? These are all available. But you’ll never know until you ask.

I recently decided to switch carriers to T-Mobile, so I jumped on their website to start doing the math of the different plans that they offered.

Just when I felt I couldn’t possibly calculate the details of one more plan, I came across a section on the website that featured plans without contracts. This section was buried; in fact, I had to be logged on a friend’s account who was already a customer to be able to see the plans at all.

I was confused by what I found. The plans without the contracts had a lower monthly cost than the plans with contracts. I figured there would be a premium fee to not be locked in to a two-year contract, but I was seeing just the opposite.

I went into a T-Mobile store and asked about the plans. They didn’t show me any plans without a long contract. So I asked about a no-contract plan but the sales person was dismissive, saying “but you’re going to have to pay full pay price for the phone.”

I insisted that I wanted to see the plan anyway, and he went to the back of the store to dig up the brochure for me.

The exact same plan without a contract was $110 a month instead of $140 a month, for a savings of $360 a year. I looked for the catch, but the only catch was the no-contract plan didn’t offer the usual discount on a new phone.

The phone I wanted to buy retailed at $500, but cost just $200 with a contract. (That’s a savings of $300, in case your math muscles aren’t working.) I quickly did the math: I could save $360 per year without a contract, but would have to pay $300 more for the phone. That still left me with $60 in my pocket for not having a contract, meaning no insane fees if I wanted to leave the contract or switch carriers. Plus, everything after the first year was pure “profit”.

I soon learned from the sales associate that apparently no one had ever bought a phone outright and taken them up on the no-contract plan. It’s not advertised and therefore usually not asked about. They just assume that no one will want to pay more now in order to save later.

The sales associate couldn’t believe that I was “baller” enough (his exact words) to pay $500 for a phone — even though I was actually saving money within a year. He even asked me what I did for a living to be able to afford such an extravagance!

It gets better. When he went to ring up the phone, he asked me if I wanted a payment plan. I asked for the details and he told me that they offer no-interest payment plans so that people don’t have to shell out the full cost outright. Meaning that if you didn’t have the $500 for the phone, you could still save money by going with a no-contract plan!

Again, this isn’t advertised. You just have to ask.

It made me wonder what other companies aren’t telling me about ways that I can save because they assume that no one wants to pay more up front.

Call your cell phone company, cable company, or insurance company today and ask if they have any other options. They might have something without a contract, a AAA discount, or other ways to save. Many companies have plans they don’t publish publicly. Check out these past Get Rich Slowly articles for more ways to save:

Remember: Don’t be afraid to ask!

Source: getrichslowly.org

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We love unique, quirky homes.

But few can compare to the Falcon Nest home in Prescott, Arizona.

And while the property may also be known as The Palsolaral House, we’re going to keep referring to it as the Falcon Nest — a title fit for a villain’s lair, a rather appropriate potential role for this quirky house.

The 10-story home, designed by Phoenix architect Sukumar Pal, is a unique residence that once held the title of “world’s tallest home”, which it lost in favor of the South Mumbai home of business magnate Mukesh Ambani — a true high-rise, counting 27 stories.

And if you want a home that’s truly unique (and don’t mind relocating to the Copper State), know that the Falcon Nest home is headed for auction on May 25. That means you can snag the architectural wonder for considerably less that the $1.5 million price tag, with the bid starting at $750,000.

falcon-nest-home-living-room-fireplace
Image credit: Sotheby’s International Realty
falcon-nest-home-living-room
Image credit: Sotheby’s International Realty

10 Stories of Unique Living Space

The 6,200-square-feet of living space are neither common, nor forgettable.

Featuring expansive glass ceilings and striking views that stretch for miles, the Falcon Nest’s interiors are equally unique as its exteriors, making it a true architectural rarity.

With three bedrooms and four baths, the Palsolaral House also comes with an impressive 2,000-square-foot solarium, also equipped with two bedrooms, two baths, and a kitchen.

A hydraulic elevator provides access from the garage level to the sixth floor. With minimal energy consumption, a small footprint, and utilizing natural elements to heat and cool the home free from cost, the home exemplifies passive solar technologies and alternative power sources.

If you’re considering joining the auction that takes place on May 25, 2017 on Concierge Auctions’ mobile bidding app, here’s a photo tour of the unique property:

falcon-nest-home-ceilings
Image credit: Sotheby’s International Realty
falcon-nest-home-kitchen
Image credit: Sotheby’s International Realty
falcon-nest-home-dining-room
Image credit: Sotheby’s International Realty
falcon-nest-home-bedroom
Image credit: Sotheby’s International Realty
falcon-nest-home-by-night
Image credit: Sotheby’s International Realty

Source: fancypantshomes.com

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Table of Contents

FAQ

What is the VA Loan Limit?

2021 VA Home Loan Limit: $0 down payment up to $5,000,000* (subject to lender limits) /2 open VA loans at one time $548,250 (Call 877-432-5626 for details).

How to Apply for a VA Home Loan?

This is a quick look at how to apply for a VA home loan in Lawrence County. For a more detailed overview of the VA home loan process, check out our complete guide on how to apply for a VA mortgage loan. Here, we’ll go over the general steps to getting a VA home loan and point out some things to pay attention to in Lawrence County. If you have any questions, you can call us at VA HLC and we’ll help you get started.

  1. Get your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
    • Give us a call at (877) 432-5626 and we’ll get your COE for you.
  2. Are you applying for a refinance loan? Check out our complete guide to VA Refinancing.
  3. Get pre-approved, to get pre-approved for a loan, you’ll need:
    • Previous two years of W2s
    • Most recent 30 days paystubs or LES (active duty)
    • Most recent 60 days bank statements
    • Landlord and HR/Payroll Department contact info
  4. Find a home
    • We can help you check whether the home is in one of the Lawrence County flood zones
  5. Get the necessary inspections
    • Termite inspection: required
    • Well or septic inspections needed, if applicable
  6. Get the home appraised
    • We can help you find a VA-Certified appraiser in Lawrence County and schedule the process
    • Construction loan note: Construction permit/appraisal info
      1. Building permit
      2. Elevation certificate
  7. Lock in your interest rates
    • Pro tip: Wait until the appraisal lock in your loan rates. If it turns out you need to make repairs, it can push your closing back. Then you can get stuck paying rate extension fees.
  8. Close the deal and get packing!
    • You’re ready to go.

What is the Median Home Price?

As of February 28, 2021, the median home value for Lawrence County is $69,091. In addition, the median household income for residents of the county is $39,993.

How much are the VA Appraisal Fees?

  • Single-Family: $500.
  • Individual Condo: $500.
  • Manufactured Homes: $550.
  • 2-4 Unit Multi-Family: $550.
  • Appraisal Turnaround Times: 10 days.

Do I need Flood Insurance?

  • The VA requires properties are required to have flood insurance if they are in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
  • There are some minimal flood hazard areas in Lawrence County, particularly by Lake Charles, Black River, and its attached streams such as Flat Creek.

How do I learn about Property Taxes?

  • Becky Holder is the Lawrence County tax assessor. Her office can be reached at 315 West Main St. Walnut Ridge, Arkansas, 72476. Additionally, Becky’s office can also be reached by calling 870-886-1135.
  • As a homeowner, Amendment 79 and Act 142 provide that tax relief to make them eligible to receive up to $350.00 tax credit on the property that is their principal residence. Also, homeowners who are 65 years of age or older or 100% disabled may receive a freeze on their assessed value, so their taxes do not increase over the years. Mobile homeowners are also eligible.

What is the Population?

  • The county’s population of 16,406 is 95% White, 2% Hispanic, and 1% Black.
  • Most county residents are between 18 and 65 years old, with 22% under 18 years old and 19% older than 65.
  • In total, the county has about 6,463 households, with an average of 2.4 people per household.

What are the major cities?

The county has at least 5 large cities and communities, including Walnut Ridge, which serves as the county seat. Some other cities and towns making up this county are Imboden, Hoxie, Black Rock, and Ravenden.

About Lawrence County

Lawrence County, Arkansas farmers produce mostly corn, rice, sorghum, and soybeans. Additionally, other industries contribute to the county’s economy, such as manufacturing, poultry, and cattle.

Regarding education, more than 3,000 students benefit from the academic programs provided in its 10 public schools. Besides, higher education can be achieved at the historic Williams Baptist University, which is now famous for its liberal arts program.

The wide variety of rivers and lakes found in Lawrence County offer excellent outdoor opportunities for entertainment such as kayaking, rafting, and canoeing. Furthermore, in Lake Charles State Park, locals and visitors enjoy fishing, camping, and hiking.

Furthermore, the county offers many historical landmarks to visit, so tourists can benefit from its rich history and culture. Also, one of the most famous and visited annual festivals is the Lawrence County Fair, featuring rodeos, shows, exhibitions, and much more.

Veteran Information

Lawrence County has a veteran population of 1,082.

  • County Veteran Assistance Information
    • Lawrence Veteran’s Services Office – 315 West Main Street STE 1, Walnut Ridge, Arkansas 72476.

VA Home Loan Information

  • For more information about VA Home Loans and how to apply, click here.
  • If you meet the VA’s eligibility requirements, you will be able to enjoy some of the best government-guaranteed home loans available.  
  • VA loans can finance the construction of a property. However, the property must be owned and prepared for construction as the VA cannot ensure vacant land loans.

VA Approved Condos

There are no VA-approved condos available in Lawrence County Arkansas. For more information about the VA condo approval process give us a call at (888)573-4496.

Source: vahomeloancenters.org

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In today’s modern world, the house goals of yesteryear are a distant memory.

Long gone are the days of window shutters, oversized crystal chandeliers, multiple small rooms, intricate designs, wrought-iron railings, small windows, and large porches with overhanging beams.

Modern mansions favor simple and clean designs with open spaces.

While traditional mansions offer intricate and elegant details, today’s luxury homes feature straight lines, geometric shapes, a flat or low-sloped roof, and clean exteriors with little to no texture.

Luxurious homes of the past featured building materials such as brick, wood, plaster, stucco, and stone. Meanwhile, contemporary mansions favor newer, more technologically-advanced building materials including reinforced steel and concrete.

And windows, lots and lots of floor-to-ceiling windows.

Sophisticated smart homes are all the rage, as are connected outdoor spaces, white rooms and simple color palettes, open floor plans, glass walls allowing for ample natural light, green features, security settings, and the utmost privacy.

While traditional mansions typically featured a number of small, single-purpose rooms, modern floor plans include seamless open-ended spaces.

After all, one cannot be confined to small spaces while living that luxurious lifestyle! 

A closer look at 18 of our favorite modern mansions

When it comes to stunning estates, we’ve got you covered.

From wraparound pools featuring panoramic views to glass walls for days, to dream chef kitchens, to seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces, we’re taking a look at 18 modern mansions that have knocked our socks off.

And we think you’ll (really, really) like them too.

A Marc Whipple-designed modern mansion with a wraparound pool

Designed by acclaimed architect Marc Whipple, this massive 11,200-square-foot home in Beverly Hills is quite a stunner.

aerial view of a Marc Whipple-designed modern mansion with a wraparound pool
Photo by Tyler Hogan, courtesy of Sally Forster Jones of Compass

Offering six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, and two half baths, the multi-million dollar manse features disappearing walls of glass, so that its residents can enjoy the stunning views from each and every room.

Speaking of views, they’re completely unobstructed, with downtown Los Angeles, Catalina Island, and the coastline on full display. Those lovely landscapes can be seen from the home’s stunning wraparound pool.

Other luxurious amenities include a movie theater, a secret Zen garden, gym, guest house, glass wine cellar, gated driveway, and an outdoor kitchen.

Photo by Tyler Hogan, courtesy of Sally Forster Jones of Compass
Photo by Tyler Hogan, courtesy of Sally Forster Jones of Compass
Photo by Tyler Hogan, courtesy of Sally Forster Jones of Compass
post malone rental beverly hills
Photo by Tyler Hogan, courtesy of Sally Forster Jones of Compass

This Beverly Hills manse had its moment of fame a few years back, when it was rented by Rockstar hitmaker Post Malone. It was later listed for sale with a whopping $26 million asking price.

A breathtaking Hollywood mega mansion with museum-quality energy crystals throughout

Built in 2021, this mega mansion is located in the heart of Hollywood.

Boasting panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles, the Pacific Ocean, and the canyon, the home offers six beds, nine baths, and nearly 10,365 square feet of living space.

modern mansion built on spec in Hollywood
Photo credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The Agency

The sophisticated smart home features museum-quality crystals sourced from around the world and placed with extraordinary care throughout to energetically enhance the residence.

Offering double-height ceilings and incredible indoor/ outdoor living spaces, the California compound also includes a custom home theater, fitness center, wine cellar, second living room and all the finest custom finishes.

Photo credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The Agency
indoor-outdoor-living-modern-mansion-1871-N-Stanley-Avenue-Los-Angeles
Photo credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The Agency
Photo credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The Agency
Photo credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The Agency
Photo credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The Agency
Photo credit: Sean Gordon courtesy of The Agency

Setting a new gold standard for Southern California living, the picturesque backyard — which is front row to the city and canyons — features a beautiful sparkling pool/spa, a built-in BBQ area, and a grassy green lawn.

See more of this unique Hollywood mega-mansion here.

A striking $150M modern mansion in Bel-Air with 360-degree views

This beautiful home in Bel-Air has all the bells and whistles you’d expect in a modern mansion (and then some).

a modern mansion with city views is the most expensive house in Bel Air, California
Photo credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of Compass

Designed by award-winning architecture and design firm, Saota, the private compound is perched on a promontory high above the city — opening up to unobstructed, 360-degree views of Los Angeles.

Set on a 1.15-acre lot, the swanky crib offers nine bedrooms and fourteen baths spread across 20,841 square feet.

Some of the luxury amenities include an infinity pool with a secluded cabana and pool-side sunken fire pit, three separate staff quarters, and a one-bedroom guest house with a separate, private pool.

Photo credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Matthew Momberge courtesy of Compass

This magnificent manse was owned by George Ruan, co-founder of online coupon-clipping company Honey (now part of Paypal).

The Razor House in San Diego, the real-life Iron Man house

The one-of-a-kind architectural masterpiece known as The Razor House was designed in 2007 by San Diego-based architect Wallace E. Cunningham.

alicia keys house
Photo credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The Agency

The striking concrete and glass mansion — dubbed ‘the Iron Man house’ due to its resemblance to Tony Stark’s mansion in the famous Marvel movie — is perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Offering endless concrete terraces, the stunning estate has mesmerizing views of surrounding hills and the ocean below.

Photo credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The Agency
Photo credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The Agency
Photo credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The Agency
Photo credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The Agency
Photo credit: Gary Kasl courtesy of The Agency

Featuring several outdoor lounge areas, the luxurious three-story home comes with six bedrooms and six baths, with nearly every room opening up to jaw-dropping views. 

In 2019, Grammy Award-winning singer Alicia Keys and husband Swizz Beatz bought The Razor House in a $20.8 million deal.

Villa Vella, one of Europe’s finest contemporary homes

Spanish dream house, anyone?

Dubbed Villa Vela, this sprawling 23,476-square-foot property is located in the sun-bathed province of Andalusia, Spain.

Photo credit: The Agency

Sitting behind its own gates, at the end of a sweeping driveway, Villa Vela offers a total of six bedrooms and six baths. 

The posh property has been designed to be free-flowing and, as such, has an open plan, including floor-to-ceiling retracting windows that open directly onto a terrace that stretches from one end of the house to the other.

Photo credit: The Agency
Photo credit: The Agency
Photo credit: The Agency
Photo credit: The Agency
pool view of the Villa Vela in Andalusia, Spain
Photo credit: The Agency

Not to mention, each of the suites has its own outdoor space, and they also all connect directly to the vast upper terrace, its lawn, garden, and dining area, and benefit from breathtaking views.

A futuristic, yacht-shaped mansion perched high atop the Los Angeles hills

This 17,000-square-foot modern residential oasis in the upscale LA neighborhood of Brentwood is redefining luxury living.

ultra-modern-mansion-los-angeles
Photo credit: The Agency

Southern California-based architectural firm de Loren & Associates purposefully designed the building by superior wellness standards, without sacrificing on design but rather adding to it.

Inspired by the clean lines and interior spatial layouts of yachts paired with the motion of the sea, the curving exterior facades are reminiscent of ocean waves, wind, and clouds that make not only for an exhilarating lifestyle but also appealing to the eye.

The modern mansion boasts seven bedrooms, eight bathrooms, and three powder rooms across three levels.

Photo credit: The Agency
inside travis scott house in Los Angeles
Photo credit: The Agency
Photo credit: The Agency
travis scott house inside
Photo credit: The Agency
travis scott house bedroom
Photo credit: The Agency
ultra modern mansion in los angeles 12255 sky lane
Photo credit: The Agency

Featuring a massive list of upscale amenities, the beautiful Brentwood home offers a 610-bottle wine cellar, commercial speed glass elevator, movie theater, state-of-the-art gym, a 300 sq. ft. green wall, and a lower-level entertainment area with a full bar, pool table and more.

And there’s plenty of room for Stormi and Wolf to explore! Turns out, this luxurious residence is owned by none other than rapper Travis Scott.

A newly-built Encino mansion with bright, airy, and warm interiors

We can’t get enough of this amenity-rich mansion with modern interiors and a killer guest house.

exquite-home-for-sale-in-encino-los-angeles
Photo credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury Level

The seven-bedroom, eight-bathroom Encino home offers 9,081 square feet of living space enclosed within a private, gated estate with surrounding landscape.

The stunning estate is a beautiful example of modern California living, with picture-perfect interiors, exquisite finishes, jetliner views, and plenty of attractive amenities.

Featuring warm wood tones, the large windows and Fleetwood doors open up to unobstructed views and plenty of natural light.

jesse tyler ferguson kitchen
Photo credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury Level
jesse tyler ferguson's dining space and wine cellar
Photo credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury Level
jesse tyler ferguson's living room
Photo credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury Level
jesse tyler ferguson's living room and home bar
Photo credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury Level
jesse tyler ferguson's pool and backyard in his new house
Photo credit: LA Light Photography and The Luxury Level

The carefully thought-out finishes give the home a modern vibe that extends into the bedrooms as well. The second level of this luxury Encino home has four bedrooms, including the master suite, which walks out to a 1,200-square-foot balcony with a fire table. 

Naturally, this wonderful modern manse caught the eye of a famous buyer; it’s now owned by Modern Family star Jesse Tyler Ferguson and husband Justin Mikita.

A modern 4-story house facing one of the most beautiful coastal shorelines in all of California

We love this modern mansion set in the most desirable area of Manhattan Beach, The Strand, an oceanfront neighborhood lined with modern-looking mansions that typically sell in the $5 million to $15 million range.

modern house on four levels in Manhattan Beach, CA
Photo credit: Paul Jonason courtesy of Stroyke Properties Group

Spanning 6,978 square feet of modern living space, the home offers six bedrooms and eight baths.

Designed by renowned L.A. studio KAA Design, this four-story home was envisioned around life, in all its texture, at the beach.

Rather than cluster sleeping areas on a single floor, they’re strategically spaced across the four levels, with the third floor being home to a primary suite with a private office that’s luxuriously sequestered in the style of a penthouse.

Photo credit: Paul Jonason courtesy of Stroyke Properties Group
Photo credit: Paul Jonason courtesy of Stroyke Properties Group
Photo credit: Paul Jonason courtesy of Stroyke Properties Group
exterior view of Manhattan Beach's most expensive house at 308 The Strand
Photo credit: Paul Jonason courtesy of Stroyke Properties Group

The private elevator takes residents and guests down to the beach room, which is level with the Strand itself, and lounge on the patio, front row to a peaceful scene of sea, sand, and sky.

Read more about this beautiful modern mansion here.

A $70M contemporary marvel that reimagines luxury living for the 21st century

Located in the coveted Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, this modern mansion is what happens when a star-studded team consisting of award-winning architect Noah Walker, AD 100 interior designer, Jamie Bush, and renowned landscape designer, Christine London LTD comes together.

newly-built-contemporary-home-brentwood
Image credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The Agency

Spanning 19,000 square feet, this beautiful abode is set on a sprawling four-acre lot and offers six bedrooms and 12 bathrooms alongside many recreation rooms.

The plush property has 270-degree views of the city, ocean, and canyon, and a long list of amenities that include a theater room — with acoustical wall paneling and a commercial cinema-quality projection system — a gym with a steam room, a 75-foot indoor lap pool, outdoor architectural pool and dual offices.

modern-mansion-in-brentwood-los-angeles
Image credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The Agency
Image credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The Agency
Image credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The Agency
Image credit: Benny Chan courtesy of The Agency

We first covered this luxurious contemporary home when it first came to market last year with an ambitious asking price of $70 million.

Just a few months later, it was purchased by music mogul Scooter Braun (better known as Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande’s manager, and Taylor Swift‘s manager-turned-foe) for $65 million.

The Ora House in San Diego, where contemporary architecture meets serene living

In the hilly, seaside neighborhood of La Jolla in San Diego, a modern cliffside mansion has all the dream house vibes.

exterior of a newly-built modern mansion in La Jolla, San Diego
Street view of the property. Photo credit: Blue Heron

Built by Blue Heron’s BH Elite custom home division, the Ora House, as the property has been named, is a true architectural marvel.

The stellar design team incorporated the same innovative biophilic design and advanced Savant technology used in Blue Heron’s flagship home, VM001 in Las Vegas, to “enhance the flow of life while creating an overall sense of peace and natural wellbeing.”

The cliffside estate is set in La Jolla’s exclusive Bird Rock Waterfront enclave and totals 8,878 square feet of living space.

Photo credit: Blue Heron
Photo credit: Blue Heron
The Ora House in La Jolla, San Diego
Photo credit: Blue Heron

The architectural marvel has five bedrooms and eight baths across its four levels, with each level embracing the outdoors with spaces tailored for both entertaining and private moments.

A striking celebrity compound with a modern heptagon-shaped house

Check out this contemporary compound in La Crescenta, Calif.

flea-house-shaped-like-a-starship
Photo credit: Cameron Carothers courtesy of Compass

Designed by AD100 architect Michael Maltzan, this dramatic, heptagon-shaped house has spaceship vibes, is surrounded by seven exterior walls (some made out of glass), and is anchored by an open-air courtyard that sits right at the center.

Nearly all the rooms of the house come with sliding floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to either the serene courtyard or beautiful mountain and city skyline views.

Some of the stand-out features of the modern mansion include a primary suite with an entire wall of glass that opens up to a generously sized balcony and a particularly unique bathroom with a blue curved penny-tiled wall surrounding the shower.

Futuristic architectural home with seven sides
Photo credit: Cameron Carothers courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Cameron Carothers courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Cameron Carothers courtesy of Compass

This unique home was owned by Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Michael Peter Balzary, known professionally as Flea.

A $25 million Napa Valley glass house with killer views 

Surrounded by over 40 acres of lush grounds set amidst California’s world-class wine country, this striking architectural home goes by the name of Karinya.

The highly suitable moniker originates from the Australian aboriginal culture and is simply translated as “peaceful home.”

modern glass house with pool in front
Image credit: Adam Rouse courtesy of Coldwell Banker

Built in 2017, the stunning estate is nestled in the small community of Deer Park right next to St. Helena in Napa County.

Spanning 8,837 square feet, the impressive residence was built with natural materials, a deep connection to the valley’s views, and a design that boasts both beauty and luxury.

Not a detail is spared at Karinya, with many luxurious features such as endless walls of glass, a 2,000-bottle wine room, and an acoustically-designed media/ theater room.

Image credit: Adam Rouse courtesy of Coldwell Banker
Image credit: Adam Rouse courtesy of Coldwell Banker
Image credit: Adam Rouse courtesy of Coldwell Banker
Image credit: Adam Rouse courtesy of Coldwell Banker

Fitting a modern dream house, it also comes with a detailed smart home system with mobile phone control access that controls the music, air conditioning, security and programmable LED recessed lighting in 11 separate zones and a fire sprinkler system.

See more of this lovely Napa Valley home here.

A modern mansion that was once featured in the Oscar-winning “La La Land” movie

Set in the popular Encino neighborhood of Los Angeles, this modern mansion offers an impressive cutting-edge design.

modern mansion with a pool in front
Photo credit: Compass

The six-bedroom home wows with its soaring ceilings and walls of glass that bring the outdoors in.

Complete with an infinity pool and spa (with a cascading waterfall) and a nifty pool/guest house with a sundeck for outdoor entertainment, the home is peppered with outdoor spots to relax and enjoy the lovely Cali weather.

In case you’re getting a strong sense of deja vu, this beautiful home was featured in the popular film, La La Land.

Photo credit: Compass
Photo credit: Compass
Photo credit: Compass
Photo credit: Compass
Photo credit: Compass
Photo credit: Compass

As the story goes, Mia (played by Emma Stone) and her friends attend a lavish party hoping to meet influential people in the business and finally get their lucky break.

You guessed it, this memorable movie scene was filmed at this gorgeous Los Angeles estate.

A celebrity chef’s former home with a massive kitchen anchored by a 24-foot stone island

Located in the coveted Via Bluffs enclave of Pacific Palisades, this modern mansion spans 6,500 square feet of luxurious living.

modern mansion with sliding doors opening the living room to the pool area
Photo credit: credit: Smith Cho / Compass

Offering massive sliding windows that open up to beautiful views of Potrero Canyon and beyond, the sumptuous five-bedroom, five-bathroom home is filled with natural light streaming in from the surrounding floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors, while the skylights pour even more light onto the main and top floors.

The Pacific Palisades property also flaunts features like a dual-faced fireplace, a nearly 24-foot kitchen island, and a distinct living room that’s pouring out onto the outside deck overlooking the pool.

A large open-layout living area is anchored by an impressive dream kitchen. 

Photo credit: credit: Smith Cho / Compass
Photo credit: credit: Smith Cho / Compass
Photo credit: credit: Smith Cho / Compass
Photo credit: credit: Smith Cho / Compass
Photo credit: credit: Smith Cho / Compass

This beautiful home was once owned by celebrity chef, Everyday Italian, and Giada At Home star Giada de Laurentiis.

A beautiful modern mansion tucked in the Hollywood Hills

Built in 2019, this Marc Whipple-designed home is a true Hollywood gem.

Located on the glamorous Sunset Strip, in the Hollywood Hills West neighborhood of Los Angeles, this home oozes that clean-lined modernist approach, while still offering warmth and comfort.

luxury home 6902 los tilos road los angeles
Photo credit: credit: Jonathan Ducrest and Tom Hunter

The posh property incorporates five bedrooms, six bathrooms, as well as two half-bathrooms, all with breathtaking views spreading from the Hollywood sign right to the Pacific Ocean. 

The main entrance offers an open-concept kitchen and three terraces that total 5,000 additional square feet of outdoor living space.

And, the middle level features a second living room and a luxurious ‘floating glass box’ master suite.

Photo credit: Tom Hunter Photography.
Photo credit: credit: Jonathan Ducrest and Tom Hunter
Photo credit: credit: Jonathan Ducrest and Tom Hunter
Photo credit: Tom Hunter Photography.
Photo credit: credit: Jonathan Ducrest and Tom Hunter

All the bedrooms offer easy access to the infinity pool, which provides stunning views of the surroundings and a perfect setting to enjoy summer nights and sunsets in complete privacy.

A Malibu gem that’s often rented to high-profile celebrities

This Malibu celeb magnet is the epitome of indoor-outdoor Cali living, featuring large glass walls that seamlessly blend the interior with the grounds.

Perched above the Pacific Ocean, the three-bedroom, three-bathroom, 2,100-square-foot Malibu mansion is every bit the modern gem.

malibu rental where celebrities stay
Photo credit: Hagai Aharon

It’s the perfect property for entertaining, as it includes an infinity pool with fabulous ocean views, a spa, and a fire pit.

The entertainment continues inside, as the house includes not one, but three indoor fireplaces, as well as a media room, making sure you stay entertained throughout the entire year.

Amenities include everything you could possibly need, from in-unit laundry and air conditioning to five parking spaces, an outdoor patio, and a cabana. 

Photo credit: Hagai Aharon
Photo credit: Hagai Aharon
Photo credit: Hagai Aharon
Photo credit: Hagai Aharon

The house not only rents out to celebrities such as Matthew Perry, Cardi B, and Taraji P. Henson, but it’s also owned by one.

Betty Moon, a celebrated Los Angeles musician, songwriter and producer, currently owns the plush property which she recently renovated before listing it for rent.

An impeccably designed modern mansion that embraces indoor-outdoor living

Located in the upscale neighborhood Pacific Palisades in Los Angeles, this three-story home was designed and built by renowned developer/designer duo David and Eliana Rokach.

ultra luxury house in pacific palisades
Photo credit: The Agency

This multi-million dollar mansion offers a sprawling 13,543 square feet of modern living space and packs nine bedrooms and twelve bathrooms.

Boasting unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Canyon, the stunning estate offers an open-concept living/dining room finished in a chic, contemporary style.

The living room features custom-made electronic sliding steel doors that open to a beautiful outdoor area, which features a barbecue area, a grassy backyard, and an infinity-edge swimming pool opening up to views for miles.

Photo credit: The Agency
Photo credit: The Agency
Photo credit: The Agency

A modern hillside lair with canyon views

Situated in Los Angeles’ coveted Brentwood neighborhood,  this hillside lair with expansive living spaces, eco-friendly details, and ultra-high-end finishes gives us serious dream house goals.

ibrahim-alhusseini-house-los-angeles
Photo credit: Noel Kleinman courtesy of Compass

The main entrance features a Japanese-imported Yakisugi front door and bonsai adorned atrium that leads to the open-concept living space.

Here, a chic palette of luxurious stone and reflective glass is accented by unique designer details, and floor-to-ceiling windows provide natural light throughout the day.

Photo credit: Noel Kleinman courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Noel Kleinman courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Noel Kleinman courtesy of Compass

Offering sweeping views of the canyon, the four-bedroom home comes equipped with the latest technology for entertainment, comfort, and sustainability.

This includes a full automation system, Lutron Solar System lighting, home theater and surround sound from Bang & Olufsen, a home gym, and much more.

More stories you might like

The One mansion saga: from a $500M listing to its $141M auction sale
The Architect of Hollywood: the Irresistible Appeal of Paul Williams-Designed Homes
What Are Spec Homes? A Recent History & the Biggest, Boldest Spec Mansions to Come to Life
Massive Home in the Sky Above MoMa Asks $46.7 Million

Source: fancypantshomes.com

Apache is functioning normally

Today is Best Viewed as “In-Range Volatility”

By:
Matthew Graham

Wed, May 24 2023, 4:27 PM

Today is Best Viewed as “In-Range Volatility”

Bonds began the day on the back foot as UK inflation crushed forecasts.  Treasuries sold in sympathy, but found their footing before the start of the US session.  From slightly lower opening yields, the rest of the day was spent selling, apart from a brief bounce surrounding the 5yr auction and Fed Minutes release.  Yields were less than 3bps higher at the 3pm close and haven’t gone much higher after hours.  No one likes higher rates, but today is best viewed through the lens of in-range volatility.  MBS can’t quite make that claim as 5.0 coupons are a bit lower than they were yesterday, but 10yr yields traded under yesterday’s ceilings.  Nothing was decided in the bigger picture.  The Fed is data dependent.  Inflation is still too high. Corporate earnings suggest a resilient economy.  And we’re waiting until early June for more relevant econ data.  

    • S&P Manufacturing PMI
      • 48.5 vs 49.0 f’cast, 50.2 prev
    • Services PMI
      • 55.1 vs 51.5 f’cast, 53.6 prev

09:44 AM

MBS down an eighth of a point, underperforming.  10yr also losing ground, near AM highs, but still down 0.6bps at 3.692.

11:57 AM

Steady weakness throughout AM hours and another pop of selling following debt ceiling progress headlines.  10yr up 2.8bps at 3.726.  MBS down 9 ticks (.28).

02:04 PM

No major reaction to FOMC Minutes.  10yr up 2.3bps at 3.721.  MBS down a quarter point.

03:24 PM

Modest gains until about 2:40pm, but losing ground since then.  10yr up 3bps at 3.728.  MBS down 3/8ths with almost an eighth of that due to illiquidity.

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for MBS Commentary and streaming MBS and Treasury prices.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

Apache is functioning normally

All right, let’s get this out of the way, right up front.

Dining alone in a restaurant is neither a shameful thing nor an experience to avoid.

Maybe you’ve had an experience like Jason Segel in “Forgetting Sarah Marshall.” Sometimes a server does make a fuss, but, really, most are happy you’re there — if you are happy to be there, yourself.

There’s an art to the solo dine. In the right frame of mind and with reasonable expectations, a solo diner can have a delicious experience.

It helps if you like to eat, of course.

These tidbits should help the reluctant learn from my own mistakes. Know thyself, dear diner, and feel free to enjoy a great meal, regardless of situational solitude!

[find-an-apartment]

There’s an Art to Dining AloneSolo Dining 101
Ok, so the moment finds you hungry, sans social engagement. What to do?

Let’s start with a basic tenet: you’ve got to dispel any insecurity you might have about your right to eat alone.

American culture is a little crazy about food. As a result of what we’ve been taught, some of us feel self-conscious about enjoying eating, especially in public. But the fact is, we’ve all done it.

Confidence is key, here. If you find yourself wondering whether others in a restaurant are looking at you or judging your presence, remember they’re really more interested in the cannelloni.

Location, location, loca…
Where you choose to sit in a restaurant has perhaps the greatest impact on whether you’ll enjoy your solo dining experience.

It’s up to you to share your seating preference: want to be situated in eaves-dropping distance of an interesting-looking group of folks? Prefer to pass the time in a more secluded area? Unless the joint is really jumping, any friendly establishment should be happy to accommodate your pleasant request.

Don’t feel that you have to dress to match the furniture. Whatever you’re wearing is just fine.
Don’t feel that you have to dress to match the furniture. Whatever you’re wearing is just fine.

Read the restaurant
Ah, this is important. I like to know a little bit about a place before I go there, just so there are no unpleasant surprises.

When you know the details – like how much the food costs, or that there will likely be patrons dressed to the nines – you can adjust your expectations. I’m not saying you should feel compelled to conform, but know the general guidelines. The point of the solo dine is for you to enjoy yourself.

Your meal on mobile (or, the smartphone connection)
Here’s a call: to eat while connected, or no?

A meal alone certainly gives you a chance to catch up on emails, fave websites, and memes you’ve yet to have the time to embrace. Or you might want to cherish a few moments to yourself, entirely disconnected from the grind.

When I’m feeling digitally social in these situations, I like to philosophize by text with a friend who likely won’t respond right away. (Do you have those, too?) I might describe the scene, the people, the food. It’s sort of like talking to myself in the presence of another, online. I’ll hear what my friend has to say later, but, for now, I just want to put my impressions out there — and I want to enjoy the food.

What if you want to be social?
Just because you arrive alone to a hip eatery doesn’t necessarily mean you wish to stay that way. Again, it’s up to you to signal your intentions.

Your body language tells the tale about whether you want to engage with other diners. A seat taken at the bar is a reasonable give-away, too.

The Staff and the Solo Diner
Servers are generally friendly to those dining alone; ones who are frustrated about the desire for a larger table (and tip) really only spite themselves, if they take these feelings out on the solo diner. I choose to be super-nice to servers, but I tip based on the bill and the quality of service received — generally no more merely because I happen to be eating alone.

Here’s a man who knows what he likes. Sweet…or is it savory?
Here’s a man who knows what he likes. Sweet…or is it savory?

Enjoying a food scene with friends is one of the great pleasures in life, but there’s no rule that says it’s the only way to experience a restaurant. Go ahead, muster up your courage: “table for one, please.”

Photo credits: Shutterstock / Rovenko Photo, Tyler Olson, Tanya Uralova, Nejron Photo