In our latest real estate tech entrepreneur interview, we’re speaking with John Rowland from S2A Modular.
Who are you, and what do you do?
My name is John Rowland and I’m the president and co-founder of S2A Modular. I consider myself a visionary with a passion for designing homes, communities and real estate. My 20+ years of experience spans across land entitlement, land development and development feasibility analysis – but most recently, has shifted focus to engineering the most advanced, self-sufficient homes in the world.
After seeing a gap in the market, my partner Brian Kuzdas and I founded S2A Modular – the company to produce electrically self-sustaining, custom luxury homes. We’re changing the way the world understands residential buildings – creating a new standard in stylish design, construction speed, tailor-made features with high-end materials, “surplus energy income” and smart-connected living.
What problem does your product/service solve?
There’s a multitude of worldwide changes happening in the residential and commercial real estate industry that our #GreenLuxHomes address:
Energy bills are rising and there’s too much reliance on an energy grid that’s vulnerable and antiquated.
Property values are dipping
Commercial buildings are inefficient.
New houses haven’t caught up to advances in technology
Sustainability is changing worldwide
S2A Modular is truly creating a new category of custom homes that simply aren’t comparable to any traditional site-built, modular or other types of residences.An S2A home is immediately superior in long-term value, upon appraisal, to a traditional home – and for good reason. Simply put, a Green Lux Home saves money, time and energy, while reflecting the ultimate level of sustainability, luxurious design, high-end materials, full smart home ecosystem features and an overall better way of living. Our homes are constructed with high-end custom or predesigned models and superior performance materials, which provides self-sustaining power, using exclusive energy storage and solar technology that eliminates energy bills (and may even result in energy companies paying you for your contribution back to the grid). Our homes are fully connected smart homes with smart appliances, energy features and security features controlled with a single mobile app. Not to mention, all these exclusive features result in a higher home value than traditional homes.
What are you most excited about right now?
I’m most excited to be bringing our product to mass market. Over the past year, we’ve focused our efforts on fundraising, networking with key industry players, getting involved in major sectors of the market, showcasing how our product works and the impact we can make on the world. We’ve truly been focused on building a strong foundation that can help us take S2A Modular worldwide, even further than we could’ve ever imagined.
What’s next for you?
We’re working on something exciting for 2020, which we haven’t actually shared too much of yet. S2A Modular is currently developing housing solutions for the nation’s homelessness population by providing affordable, sustainable housing that can be built for 20 cents on the dollar compared to similar structures being purchased by the U.S. government. We plan to sell these homes nationwide for less than the cost of an average car, and they’ll be electrically self-sustaining to run completely off grid.
We’re also in the works of finalizing a licensing agreement, which will allow us to expand the S2A MegaFactory worldwide. We will be working with a few major industry partners to quickly and efficiently build and fulfill large orders of #GreenLuxHomes across the globe.
What’s a cause you’re passionate about and why?
There’s a huge human trafficking problem right now, and as a father, this cause is near and dear to my heart. I recently got involved in supporting the organization Operation Underground Railroad (O.U.R.), which works to rescue victims of human trafficking and sex trafficking, with a specific focus on children. Over the past five years, O.U.R. has rescued 2,603 victims and assisted in the arrests of more than 1,365 traffickers around the world. To support this organization, I took a little-known passion of mine in the design, engineering and manufacturing of sunglasses to donate 100 pairs of glasses that will be sold to help raise money to support the work of O.U.R. This is an incredible organization and it was an honor to be able to use my passion in sunglass design to support their efforts to help human trafficking victims.
Thanks to John for sharing his story. If you’d like to connect, find him on LinkedIn here.
We’re constantly looking for great real estate tech entrepreneurs to feature. If that’s you, please read this post — then drop me a line (drew @ geekestatelabs dot com).
Citi said today that it plans to reduce its residential mortgage assets by a whopping $45 billion within the next 12 months while cutting the amount of new loans to be held in its portfolio by more than 50 percent.
The flagging bank also plans to integrate virtually all aspects of its U.S. mortgage operations under the CitiMortgage brand, moves the company believes will lead to roughly $200 million in annual savings to free up much needed capital.
CitiMortgage, Citi Home Equity and Citi Residential Lending will all fall under this umbrella, offering a single set of loan programs and “staffing levels that reflect market and economic realities.”
Not sure how many layoffs that equates to, but it’s sure to be several hundred if not more given the sheer size of their operations.
“Consistent with the key priorities of Citi Chief Executive Vikram Pandit, this end-to-end realignment will create a simplified and streamlined organization that is more sharply focused on clients and able to direct resources to the business lines and customer segments with the highest growth potential,” said Bill Beckmann, President of CitiMortgage Inc., in a statement.
“At the same time, these changes will enable us to manage the business unit’s capital for enhanced returns.”
Additionally, the New York-based bank and mortgage lender said it would cut back on portfolio lending dramatically, with plans to increase agency-backed lending to 90 percent of production by the third quarter, up from 65 percent in 2007.
Citi also intends to make sure its capital markets unit Citi Markets & Banking has a large hand in determining which products and pricing are available to consumers, perhaps to avoid any snafus this time around.
To that effect, the loan origination process will also be revamped to ensure higher loan quality, with pullbacks in areas like second mortgage lending, higher fico score requirements, lower maximum loan-to-value ratios, and more direct-to-consumer lending (bye mortgage brokers).
CitiMortgage already reduced third party second-lien lending by more than 90 percent from a year ago, and said it will only work with top quality (profitable) brokers.
The mortgage unit has also stamped out loans on 3-4 unit investment properties, eliminated short-term adjustable-rate mortgages, and ditched home equity loans for borrowers with poor credit.
Shares of Citi fell 98 cents, or 4.42 percent, to $21.17, hitting a fresh 52-week low during the session.
Redfin has decided to end its support of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) for two primary reasons. Firstly, Redfin disagrees with NAR policies that require a fee for the buyer’s agent on every listing. Secondly, Redfin is concerned about a pattern of alleged sexual harassment within the organization.
Redfin has engaged in numerous discussions with NAR executives to find compromises on these policies. Since joining NAR in 2017, Redfin has paid over $13 million in dues to influence NAR to advocate for a technology-driven marketplace that benefits consumers. However, Redfin will now explore alternative ways to advance these goals.
Besides disagreement over commissions, Redfin became increasingly uncomfortable with NAR after learning about reports of sexist behavior and sexual harassment involving NAR’s president. These allegations came to light through interviews with 29 former NAR employees. Redfin is concerned that NAR was aware of these allegations for an extended period but only took action after they became public.
Redfin had already resigned its national board seat in June before the allegations of sexual harassment became public. NAR’s policies continue to restrict sellers from listing homes that do not pay a commission to the buyer’s agent, and they also prevent websites like Redfin.com from displaying for-sale-by-owner listings alongside agent-listed homes. Redfin believes that removing these restrictions would make the industry more consumer-friendly and competitive.
After careful consideration, Redfin has decided to go beyond resigning from the NAR board. Redfin will require its brokers and agents to leave NAR wherever possible. While most brokerages operate as loose affiliations of independent agents, Redfin wishes to refrain from imposing a policy that could alienate its revenue-generating individuals.
However, Redfin’s decision to leave NAR is only partially voluntary. NAR rules mandate that Redfin must leave local and state associations, even if its grievances are solely with the national association. These rules stipulate that a broker must pay dues for each agent under their supervision, regardless of whether the agent wants to be a member. No agent under their leadership can be a member if a broker is not a member. Given this all-or-nothing approach, Redfin has decided to choose the latter.
Unfortunately, in many markets, Redfin does not even have the option to make this choice. Approximately half of the U.S., including Charlotte, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Long Island, Minneapolis, Nashville, Phoenix, and Salt Lake City, requires NAR membership for agents to access listing databases, lockboxes, and industry-standard contracts. It is impossible to be an agent without the ability to view available homes, unlock their doors, or write offers.
Redfin urges NAR to separate local access to Multiple Listing Services (MLS) from support for the national lobbying organization. Agents should not be required to support policies and legal efforts that harm consumers, especially when they intend to help consumers.
Despite the disagreement with NAR, Redfin remains committed to the real estate industry. The company will continue to fully support the MLSs that brokers use to share listing data, and it will maintain positive relationships with the many dedicated individuals working at NAR and its local affiliates on matters such as economics, diversity, and pro-housing policies.
Victoria Udrea, a talented author who specializes in real estate and technology, is a valued contributor to Realty Biz News. With her keen eye for detail and passion for keeping readers informed, she diligently covers the latest developments in the industry, focusing particularly on the exciting realm of smart home technology.
You try to set goals and stay on top of your finances. But sometimes life gets in the way and throws you off your game. You forget to pay a bill or accidentally overdraw your checking account — then kick yourself for getting hit with hefty fees.
Without an organized system in place, it’s easy to lose track of what’s coming in and going out every month. People with cluttered finances are more likely to miss payments, continue poor spending habits, and save less. Disorderly bills and budgets are not only stressful but can actually help drive you deeper into debt.
Organizing your money takes a little up-front time and effort but comes with a big payoff: It can help you live within your means, pay bills on time, reach your financial goals, and build wealth over the long term. Keeping track and organizing your finances also gives you a better sense of control over your financial life.
And, it’s not that hard to do, especially if you break the process down into small, manageable steps. What follows are eight effective ways to keep your finances organized and in check.
Whether you’re aiming to save for a big purchase, build an emergency fund, or invest for the future, a structured approach to managing your finances can make a significant difference. The following steps can help you stay on top of your financial life and save you money in the long run.
Having a few clear, realistic financial goals is essential for staying organized. Knowing what you want to accomplish in the next months and years can guide your financial decisions. You can break down goals — like paying down debt, going on vacation, or putting a downpayment on a home — into smaller tasks and set deadlines to track your progress. This strategy can help motivate you to stay focused and disciplined with your finances. For example, brown bagging lunch might not feel like a pain if you have your sights set on a winter getaway to Mexico.
One of the fundamental pillars of financial organization is creating a budget. Having a basic plan for spending and saving can lead to more financial freedom and a life with a lot less stress. Start by assessing how much, on average, is coming in and going out of your checking account each month. If you find that your monthly outflows tend to equal — or exceed — your monthly inflows, you’ll need to rejigger your spending.
There are all different ways to budget — the best approach is simply the one you’ll stick to. One simple framework is the 50/30/20 budget, in which you divide your monthly take-home income into three categories, spending 50% on needs, 30% on wants, and 20% on savings and extra debt payments. Once you have a budget in place, it’s a good idea to periodically check in and make sure you’re sticking to the plan.
There are a number of personal finance apps that are free to use on your phone and make it easy to organize your money. Basic budgeting apps, like Goodbudget, EveryDollar, and PocketGuard, allow you to connect with your financial accounts (including bank accounts, credit cards, and investment accounts), track spending, and categorize expenses so you can see where your money is going. Regularly reviewing your expenses will help you determine if you’re sticking to your budget plan, as well as identify any unnecessary costs and areas where you can cut back.
Automate Bill Payments
One way to make sure you always pay your bills on time is to automate the process. You can do this by setting up automatic payments for recurring bills, such as rent or mortgage, utilities, insurance premiums, and loan repayments. Simply log into each account and authorize the provider to debit your checking account or charge your credit card each month. Alternatively, you can use your bank’s online bill pay service. Just be sure to keep track of the payments you have automated, so you know when to stop them or update credit cards.
5. Put Saving on Autopilot
If you wait until after you pay your bills and do all your spending to move money into savings, you may not have anything left to transfer. Why not pay yourself first? Also known as automating your savings, this organizational step ensures you are always working towards your goals.
Simply set up an automatic transfer for a set amount of money from checking into a savings account each time you get paid. It’s fine to start small — since the transfer happens every month, even small deposits can grow to a significant sum over time. If you want to earn a competitive rate and pay the lowest fees on your savings, consider storing this money in an online savings account. Thanks to reduced overhead, online banks are typically able to offer more favorable returns than national brick-and-mortar banks.
💡 Quick Tip: Want a simple way to save more everyday? When you turn on Roundups, all of your debit card purchases are automatically rounded up to the next dollar and deposited into your online savings account.
6. Manage Mail as Soon as It Arrives
Despite living in a digital world, many important bills and documents likely still arrive in your regular mail. This might include stock statements, property tax bills, homeowners’ insurance bills, and medical bills. As a result, you’ll need a system for managing paper bills and statements. Generally, the most efficient way to deal with mail is to organize it as it comes in. You might create three “in” boxes or files labeled: “to pay,” “to file,” and “requires action.” Set a day and time each month to go through these boxes to make sure nothing gets ignored.
7. Organize Your Online Accounts
You likely have a number of online accounts — including bank and brokerage accounts, service provider accounts, and shopping accounts — each with a unique (a.k.a, hard-to-remember) password. It’s a good idea to make a list of all of your online accounts, including usernames and passwords, and keep it in a notebook stored in a safe place. Even better: Consider using a password manager tool, such as Dashlane, 1Password, or Apple’s built-in Keychain. These tools will start saving the passwords you use to log into your accounts and will automatically insert them into log-in forms. Typically, they will also generate hard-to-guess options when you sign up for new sites (no more “123456”).
Recommended: 11 Tips for Cleaning Up Your Finances
8. Make a Plan to Manage Debt
If you typically pay just the minimum on your high-interest debt, like credit cards, you are likely spending a lot on interest, while never getting ahead on your debt. Coming up with a system to knock down — and eventually eliminate — high-interest consumer debt can help you save money and make it easier to reach your financial goals.
To get a better handle on your debt, you may want to make a list of all your high-interest debts, including amounts owed and interest rate. Then focus your efforts on erasing one debt at a time while still making the minimum payment on all other debts. Where to start? You can use the debt snowball method and start with the smallest balance first, or use the debt avalanche method and pay down the highest interest debt first.
The Takeaway
If it feels like your money is all over the place and you’re living paycheck to paycheck without a plan, don’t get discouraged. You can get your financial act together one step at time.
By implementing some basic systems — like setting goals, creating a budget, automating payments and saving, and using an app that tracks your spending —- you can gain control over your finances and pave the way for a more secure financial future. Remember, financial organization is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort, but the rewards of financial stability and peace of mind are well worth it.
Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.
Better banking is here with up to 4.60% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.
FAQ
How do I organize my personal household finances?
You can organize your personal finances by setting up a budget and putting some simple systems in place. You might, for example, put all of your regular bills on autopay so you don’t accidentally miss a payment and get hit with late fees. It’s also a good idea to automate savings by setting up a recurring monthly transfer from your checking account into your savings account right after you get paid.
For statements and bills that still come by regular mail, consider setting up an organization station with three in-boxes: “to pay,”“to file,” and “requires action.” Set a day and time each month to go through these boxes to make sure nothing gets ignored.
How do I organize my monthly bills?
Start by making a master list of all of your regular bills, including the provider, billing amount, and due date. To simplify payment (and avoid late payments and fees), consider setting up autopay for each bill. If you prefer to handle payments yourself, set aside a day and time each month that’s dedicated to bill paying. A structured schedule will help you meet all of your deadlines. An alternate approach is to pay each bill as soon as it comes in, then file it away.
SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.60% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.
SoFi members with Qualifying Deposits can earn 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Qualifying Deposits means one or more deposits that, in the aggregate, are equal to or greater than $5,000 to an account holder’s SoFi Checking and Savings account (“Qualifying Deposits”) during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Qualifying Deposits only include those deposits from the following eligible sources: (i) ACH transfers, (ii) inbound wire transfers, (iii) peer-to-peer transfers (i.e., external transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc. and internal peer-to-peer transfers from a SoFi account belonging to another account holder), (iv) check deposits, (v) instant funding to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, (vi) push payments to your SoFi Bank Debit Card, and (vii) cash deposits. Qualifying Deposits do not include: (i) transfers between an account holder’s Checking account, Savings account, and/or Vaults; (ii) interest payments; (iii) bonuses issued by SoFi Bank or its affiliates; or (iv) credits, reversals, and refunds from SoFi Bank, N.A. (“SoFi Bank”) or from a merchant.
SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.60% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.
SoFi Bank reserves the right to grant a grace period to account holders following a change in Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits activity before adjusting rates. If SoFi Bank grants you a grace period, the dates for such grace period will be reflected on the APY Details page of your account. If SoFi Bank determines that you did not have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits during the current 30-day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, then you will begin earning the rates earned by account holders without either Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits until you have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits in a subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period. For the avoidance of doubt, an account holder with both Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits will earn the rates earned by account holders with Direct Deposit.
Members without either Direct Deposit activity or Qualifying Deposits, as determined by SoFi Bank, during a 30-Day Evaluation Period and, if applicable, the grace period, will earn 1.20% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances.
Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 10/24/2023. There is no minimum balance requirement. Additional information can be found at http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet..
The SoFi Bank Debit Mastercard® is issued by SoFi Bank, N.A., pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated and can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
PROVIDENCE, R.I., November 16, 2023 (Newswire.com)
– CMG Financial, a well-capitalized and privately held mortgage banking firm based in San Ramon, CA, is thrilled to announce the addition and integration of Shamrock Home Loans’ origination team. The team of sales and support professionals will be branded as Shamrock, Powered by CMG Home Loans, andled by Shamrock’s Chief Growth Officer, Kurt Noyce, and President, Rod Correia. The team will remain in their current locations. This significant expansion is set to enhance CMG’s presence in New England and introduce multiple branches to the Rhode Island and Massachusetts regions.
Powered by a solid foundation of over 30 years, the Shamrock squad is a six-time recipient of the “Best and Brightest Companies to Work For” award from the National Association for Business Resources. The team brings vast experience and shared core values to CMG. In fact, what inspired Noyce, Correia, and nearly all of Shamrock’s originators to join forces with CMG was its synergy of innovation and forward-thinking focus.
“CMG’s commitment to its customers – evidenced by its innovative products – was unmatched in our search for a new organization,” said Correia. “Our team’s excitement level is matched only by our optimism for what this opportunity means for our colleagues, customers, and community,” added Noyce. “Bringing together the best of our team with the industry-leading qualities of CMG makes this unison truly greater than the sum of our separate parts.”
Christopher M. George, CEO of CMG, shared their enthusiasm. “We are thrilled to welcome Shamrock’s successful origination team to the CMG family,” noted George. “We take great pride in creating a home for the nation’s top talent by investing time, money, and resources into their origination businesses.”
CMG’s determination to help its originators succeed is made clear by its standout growth over the past year. During a crucial time for the mortgage industry – where many companies are closing doors, downsizing, or losing origination ground – CMG has grown. Last year, CMG added a net 5% in personnel while most companies saw a net decrease of 24% in personnel. CMG also earned a spot as Scotsman Guide’s Top-12 Overall Mortgage Lender. This year, CMG was recognized as a top growth lender by Inside Mortgage Finance for its success in Q1 through Q3. Just four companies, including CMG, had a positive year-over-year growth in volume during this period. The average production volume for most of the top lenders in the nation was an annual decrease of 35.1%, which is a stark contrast from CMG’s annual increase of 17.5%.
Another reason for CMG’s success is its focus on developing a wide array of proprietary products to accommodate a diverse range of borrower needs. Some of these innovative offerings include the All In One Loan™, HomeFundIt™, List & Lock™, construction to perm, renovation financing, reverse financing, builder programs, home equity line of credit (HELOC) financing, and much more.
Learn more about CMG’s successful culture here.
About CMG
CMG Mortgage, Inc. (NMLS #1820) is a well-capitalized mortgage bank founded in 1993. Founder and CEO, Christopher M. George, was Chairman of the Mortgage Bankers Association in 2019. CMG makes its products and services available to the market through three distinct origination channels including retail lending, wholesale lending, and correspondent lending. CMG currently operates in all states, including the District of Columbia, and holds approvals with FNMA, FHLMC, and GNMA. CMG is widely known through the mortgage banking and housing markets for responsible lending practices, industry and consumer advocacy, product innovation, and operational efficiency.
H&R Block announced today that it reached a definitive agreement to sell off the servicing unit of its now defunct mortgage lender Option One to WL Ross & Co. LLC.
The sale is expected to generate proceeds of roughly $1.1 billion for Block and based on January 31 values, reduce debt by approximately $700 million and return another $270 million in cash.
Per the agreement, both parties will be freed from any obligations if the deal fails to close by May 30, although Ross will need to pay a reverse breakup fee if his side is unable to satisfy financing conditions by that time.
And in the event that 30+ day delinquencies of mortgage loans serviced by the servicing business as of the closing date exceed a specific threshold, a purchase price deduction would occur.
“In today’s turbulent markets, the challenge is to complete a transaction, not simply announce an agreement. We have reached what we consider to be a good agreement with WL Ross & Co., whose reputation for completing transactions is excellent,” said Richard C. Breeden, Chairman of H&R Block.
“However, there is still much work to be done until the business is safely transferred at closing.” Mr. Breeden added “We believe that this servicing business can best be carried out by an organization like WL Ross & Co. that is committed to continuing and growing the business. At the same time, completing this transaction will allow our company to be more squarely focused on what we’ve done best since 1955 – preparing America’s taxes.”
Breeden knows this all too well, after Option One’s proposed sale to Cerberus Capital fell through in December, leading to the subprime mortgage originator’s demise and the loss of more than 600 jobs.
Late last year, Ross acquired the servicing rights of $42 billion in mortgages from American Home Mortgage, seeing the business as a bright spot in an otherwise dreary industry.
According to the AP, this transaction will create the country’s second-largest subprime servicing portfolio after Countrywide, with roughly $53 billion in loans coming from Option One.
Ross has agreed to offer job positions with comparable terms to a “substantial number” of those currently employed in Option One’s servicing business.
Shares of H&R Block were up 24 cents, or 1.37%, to $17.71 in early afternoon trading on Wall Street.
Looking to rent in a tight, competitive market or even a specific apartment community? A renter cover letter may not be required, but it could set you apart from the other potential candidates, increasing the odds that you’ll be the one signing that coveted lease.
Approaching the rental process as though you were vying for a coveted job — with a renter cover letter and resume — will leave a lasting positive impression and match the standards and criteria landlords have in place.
What to include
Much like the cover letter you’d send to a potential employer, a renter cover letter should showcase your best attributes for the landlord or property management company and let the decision makers know you’re the best choice among those presented, showcasing your professionalism and responsibility, two qualities landlords prize among tenants. It’s important to understand that a cover letter is supplemental to your required rental application, so only include information not listed in the application.
Property managers have a vested interest in choosing the most qualified applicants for their rental units, increasing the odds that the community rules will be adhered to, that the apartments will be well taken care of and that rent will be paid on time. Keep this in mind when writing your rental application cover letter, bragging and explaining your best qualities and attributes as a tenant is encouraged.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits landlords from discriminating against potential tenants on the basis of things such as race, religion, gender, disability, national origin and sexual orientation. However, they will pore over other criteria, including credit and employment history and the references they furnish, to make their decisions when filling vacancies with the ideal tenant.
If you have great credit and have been steadily employed, include it in your rental cover letter, along with things such as a positive rental history. Tell them who you are, but also who you aren’t. For example, if you’re applying with two other college students, you might be seen as irresponsible, inconsiderate or loud. Include in your cover letter — if it’s true — that you’re study-centric, not the type of people who would throw wild parties or play loud music. Showcasing hobbies that lend themselves to such traits like reading, gardening or volunteering for a local organization won’t hurt, either.
Renter cover letter template
Check out the below template as a baseline for your own renter cover letter, a foundation on which you can build. Simply fill in the information for sections in parentheses ( ), while the section in brackets [ ] is for your information, not to be included in the letter.
Download a Word document of the rent cover letter template
(Your Name) (Address) (City, State Zip)
(Date)
(Landlord or Property Manager Name) (Address) (City, State Zip)
Dear (Name of landlord or property manager),
My name is (Your name) and I have a keen interest in renting the apartment you have available at (Property name or address).
I currently live at (Your current address) and have lived there for (XX) years. I am looking for a new place to live because (reason for moving: closer to home, closer to family, downsizing, etc.). I find your (apartment community/available unit/rental home) particularly appealing because (list specifically why you want to live in this property).
[The next two paragraphs apply only to potential tenants who will be utilizing an assistance program; omit if not applicable.]
While my current monthly income is $(X,XXX), I have been approved for rental assistance through the (name of your program). This program is funded by and administered by (the organization funding the program). A brief fact sheet about the program is attached to this letter.
Per the plan, I will pay (XX percent) of my monthly adjusted income toward rent, enabling me to make rent, in full, each month with no problem. (Program name) pays the remainder of my rent each month.
I believe I’d be a wonderful addition to your rental community — and here’s why. I am employed at (Your employer) and have been working there for (XX) years. In my free time, I (list some interests here and other things about yourself. For instance: play on the company softball team, coach your daughter’s soccer team, volunteer at specific organizations and enjoy hiking and baking. My current neighbors will miss my banana bread when I make the move to your community!)
I am quiet and friendly, a good neighbor who always pays bills on time. Attached you will find my renter resume, along with several references from neighbors and co-workers, as well as staffers from my current rental community.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to call or e-mail me at (Your phone number) or (Email address).
Thank you very much for considering my rental application. I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
(Signature)
(Printed name)
Have everything ready to go
In addition to having all your paperwork in order, be sure to show up to view the rental property and furnish these documents on time and dressed appropriately. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, or answer them. First impressions count!
With these tips, tricks and templates, you’re ready to write your rental application cover letter to successfully prove you’re an ideal tenant who will pay rent, take care of a rental unit and keep a steady income. Good luck and happy renting.
Inside: Are you looking to achieve financial freedom? This guide teaches you the 12 habits you need along the journey. Learn how people changed their lives with simple steps of savings and minimized expenses.
Achieving financial freedom is often misconceived as simply accumulating great wealth.
However, as David Bach, a renowned financial expert and top-selling author emphasizes, “Financial Freedom is about a lot more than money, it’s about living a richer life.” Indeed, true financial freedom is not solely dictated by the figures in your bank account, but more by the ability to live life on your terms, unencumbered by financial restraints.
There are reasons financial freedom is a coveted goal for many. Having more than enough monetary resources to finance your desired lifestyle without being driven by the need to earn a certain amount every year can be liberating.
This post will explain financial freedom in-depth, its benefits, the keys, and simple strategies to attain it.
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.
What is Financial Freedom?
Financial freedom is understood in various ways depending on people’s personal goals and values. Essentially, it’s having ample savings, cash, and investments to live as desired, both presently and in the future.
Those who reach financial freedom find themselves in control of their money, not allowing it to control them. Imagine enjoying your favorite hobby, traveling, or simply relaxing without stressing about money.
That’s the essence of financial freedom.
Why is Financial Freedom Good?
Financial freedom is a game-changer. It gives you complete control over your finances, allowing you to make choices that align with your values and long-term plans.
Financial independence reduces anxiety tied to unforeseen expenses and offers a safety net during unexpected hardship. It also allows you to work on your terms, pursue passions, take risks, and ultimately, leads to a more fulfilling and happier life.
This is something I can attest to when my husband was able to leave a toxic work environment on his terms.
What is the key to financial freedom?
The key to financial freedom lies in attaining financial literacy, prioritizing your goals, and cultivating good financial habits.
This involves setting and being adamant about your life goals, living within your means, saving diligently, investing wisely, diversifying income streams, and regularly reviewing and adjusting your financial plan.
Control over your finances and informed decisions pave the way toward financial freedom.
12 Simple Strategies for Financial Freedom
Achieving financial freedom requires strategic planning and disciplined execution. It’s not just about earning more, but about saving wisely, spending judiciously, and investing intelligently.
This section introduces you to key strategies for securing financial independence, illustrating their importance and demonstrating their role in paving the way toward a stress-free financial future.
Remember, financial freedom is not just about an affluent lifestyle, but about taking control of your finances, making your money work for you, and living a life on your own terms.
Something we emphasize around here at Money Bliss.
1. Set Life Goals
Setting clear, tangible life goals — both big and small, financial and lifestyle — is the first step towards achieving financial freedom. These smart goals form the backbone of your financial plan.
For instance, you may aspire to own a house, increase your liquid net worth, or retire early. The more specific your goals, with concrete amounts and deadlines, the higher the likelihood of achieving them.
2. Create a Monthly Budget
Creating a monthly budget is an instrumental step towards financial freedom.
Start by taking account of all your income like your paycheck and expenses.
Identify non-essential items you can cut down, and set money aside for emergencies and savings.
Focus on mindful spending and curb the urge to splurge.
Following a monthly budget guarantees that all bills are paid, and savings are progressing at a solid pace. Get solid budgeting advice to help you get started.
3. Spend Less Than You Earn
To reach financial freedom, it’s fundamental to spend less than you earn. This tip may seem overly simple, but it lays the foundation for wealth accumulation.
I cannot stress this concept of spending less and saving more enough. By reducing discretionary expenses and embracing frugality where possible, you maximize savings.
This doesn’t mean an austere life but simply cutting back on unnecessary expenses to create more room for savings and investments.
4. Invest in Your Future
Investing is a path towards creating wealth for your future. Even small amounts invested wisely can have big results, thanks to the power of compound interest.
Whether it’s real estate, the stock market, or mutual funds, investing can generate an income stream and significant long-term growth. This also means increasing your financial literacy to bring direction and discipline to your investment journey.
Learn how to start investing 10K.
Trade & Travel
Learn to trade stocks with confidence.
Whether you want to:
Retire in peace without financial anxiety
Pay your bills without taking on a side hustle
Quit your 9-5 and do what you love
Or just make more than your current income….
Making $1,000 every.single.day is NOT a pie-in-the-sky goal.
It’s been done over and over again, and the 30,000 students that Teri has helped to be financially independent and fulfill their financial dreams are my witnesses…
5. Stay Educated on Financial Issues
Staying attentive to financial news and developments is crucial. Knowing current trends can aid in timely adjustments to your investment portfolio.
Staying educated on financial issues and increasing financial literacy is an effective step toward achieving financial freedom. This includes acquiring competencies in areas such as understanding debt, budgeting, keeping track of cash flow, and investing wisely.
From changes in tax law to swings in the stock market, keep informed to make well-rounded financial decisions. Remember, knowledge is your best protection against fraud or investing missteps.
6. Develop Passive Income Streams
In your hunt for financial freedom, developing passive income streams can be a great advantage.
Passive income refers to earnings derived from a rental property, selling printables, or other enterprises in which you’re not actively involved. This could be writing a book, starting a blog, or investing in stocks.
These income streams can dramatically boost your earnings and aid your journey to financial freedom.
7. Diversify Your Investments
Diversifying your investments is a key strategy to mitigate risk and potentially increase returns. Remember the statement of don’t put all of your eggs in one basket.
Portfolio diversification involves spreading investments across different asset classes – such as cash, stocks, bonds, and real estate. Diversification ensures downturns in a single area won’t devastate your finances.
The best tool to track your investments would be Empower and you can use it for free.
Empower
Empower offers powerful tools to help you plan your investment strategy along with basic budgeting features and a great net worth tool.
As a free app, Empower can help you to save money, save time, and even make more money.
Get Started
Empower Personal Wealth, LLC (“EPW”) compensates Money Bliss for new leads. Money Bliss is not an investment client of Personal Capital Advisors Corporation or Empower Advisory Group, LLC.
8. Maintain Your Property and Health
Maintaining your property and health is vital to your financial wellness. Regular care and maintenance for your properties, like homes and cars, help prevent expensive repair costs in the future.
Investing time and effort in your health, with regular doctor visits, a healthy diet, and exercise, prevents long-term costly health issues, securing your financial future. This is why I decided to share my spinal fusion journey to help others because your health is vital to your wealth.
This investment is integral to a life of financial freedom.
9. Build a Retirement Savings Plan
Building a robust retirement savings plan is a significant step towards financial freedom. Contributing to a 401(k) or an IRA can lead to tax advantages while saving for retirement.
Here is the key to success: don’t wait to start saving for retirement until you feel like you have extra money lying around. Because that will never happen.
Start simple by maxing out your Roth IRAs and contributing enough to your employer’s 401k to receive any matching. Initiate early and let the compounding interest work in your favor for a secure retirement fund.
10. Calculate Your Financial Independence Number
Your financial independence number is a benchmark for your financial freedom goals. I’ll be honest this is one of the hardest things to do is calculate how much you need to retire.
Recently, I had a conversation with someone who retired early and she said it is so hard to know how much you need and then also live off your savings.
However, calculating this FI number can provide a roadmap for your financial freedom journey.
11. Increase Your Income
Increasing your income can expedite your journey to financial freedom. Around here at Money Bliss, we stress the need for multiple streams of income.
Consider asking for a raise, taking on more responsibility at work, or learning new skills to command a higher salary.
Explore side hustles fitting your skills and interests. This may lead to a new career for you!
And don’t forget about passive income.
Generating more income not only enhances your lifestyle today but also boosts your savings and investments for a financially free tomorrow.
12. Regularly Review and Adjust Your Financial Plan
Your financial plan is not a static document but a living, changing guide. As your life and goals evolve, so should your financial strategy.
Regularly reviewing your plan helps assess your progress, make necessary adjustments, and keep you focused on your financial freedom journey.
This is something you need to prioritize on your calendar.
Dealing with Debt in the Path of Financial Freedom
Our journey of student loans was deeply intertwined with our pursuit of financial independence as we wanted more money in our budget. This systematic approach not only expedited our progress but also instilled a discipline that prepared us for a future of responsible financial decisions.
While not easy, it is best to pay off debt sooner than later.
Prioritize Paying Off Debts
Addressing debt is imperative on your financial freedom journey. Prioritize paying off debts, particularly high-interest ones. This could mean scaling back your lifestyle temporarily.
You might find strategies like the debt snowball method, paying off the smallest debts first, effective. Or the debt avalanche as we chose. Find out which way to debt payments is best for your situation.
Clearing debts reduces monthly bills and creates more room in your budget for saving and investing.
Minimize Reliance on Borrowings
If you are consistently relying on debt methods to make ends meet, that needs to stop. Instead of taking loans for significant purchases, it’s more beneficial to accumulate savings first and then purchase in cash. For instance, when looking at car loans, the interest rate is pretty high, so this is a great example to save first.
This is backward of what most people do. However, it provides wise decisions with your money like having an emergency fund to fall back on.
Just to note… for most people, a mortgage may be cheaper than renting in their area.
Commit to Debt Free Living
Committing to a debt-free lifestyle is not about sacrificing everything today for tomorrow, but about making smarter financial choices. These include fully paying off credit cards each month, preparing a budget and sticking to it, and systematically paying off any existing debts.
Over time, these actions lead to a reduction or elimination of debt contributing significantly to your financial freedom.
Achieving Financial Freedom: Success Stories
There is no shortage of inspiring stories of people going from rags to riches or overcoming financial hardships to achieve financial freedom.
One notable example is the story of Grant Sabatier, who went from having only $2.26 in his bank account to reaching financial independence in just five years.
Similarly, Kristy Shen was an ordinary programmer who quit her job and, with calculated financial decisions, managed to retire as a millionaire.
Farnoosh Torabi, a celebrated financial correspondent, was once overwhelmed by $30,000 in student loan debt. Through disciplined budgeting and effective money management, she was able to shake off the chains of debt and now leads a financially free life.
Likewise, Robert Kiyosaki, the author of “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” started his journey with little and is now known for his financial education organization.
There are numerous success stories affirming the attainability of financial freedom. These success stories inspire and offer valuable insights into achieving financial freedom.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Financial freedom means having sufficient savings, investments, and cash at hand to afford the lifestyle you desire without being burdened by economic constraints.
In essence, it’s about more than just having money – it’s about having financial choices, control, and security to live life on your own terms, both now and in the future.
Achieving financial freedom isn’t about get-rich-quick schemes. Instead, it typically involves a combination of saving, investing, and increasing your income.
This can mean anything from asking for a promotion at work or starting a side business to investing in stocks or real estate. Building multiple income streams, particularly passive ones, and maintaining a disciplined budget can significantly speed up the journey.
The amount of money required to attain financial freedom varies from person to person, as it’s highly dependent on individual lifestyle aspirations and expected annual expenses.
A general rule is to multiply your expected annual income by 25. For example, if you need $50,000 a year for your dream lifestyle, your financial freedom amount would be $1.25 million. It’s crucial to reassess this number regularly and adjust for changes like inflation. Learn more on saving for retirement.
Create Financial Freedom Journey for Yourself
Achieving financial freedom is a journey, not a destination. It demands consistent effort, discipline, and wise decision-making.
Every step you take towards reducing debt, saving, investing, or earning more income brings you closer to a life self-directed rather than dictated by economic constraints.
You have the opportunity to change your family’s future for many generations to come.
Although challenges will arise, remember, as Arthur Ashe once said, “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” With determination, you can achieve financial freedom.
Start by learning to become financially independent and grow from there.
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
CUSO Home Lending rolled out Dark Matter Technologies’ Empower loan origination system (LOS) for its credit union owners.
CUSO Home Lending — a lender owned by Maine credit unions — became the first credit union service organization to leverage Empower’s newly developed joint-venture feature that allows credit unions to offer individualized branding, products and pricing while saving costs under CUSO’s shared services model.
“We are proud to introduce expanded support for joint ventures that frees credit unions to offer customized member experiences while reaping all the benefits of the CUSO model,” Rich Gagliano, CEO of Dark Matter Technologies, said in a prepared statement.
“Technology has become a central focus of our business strategy because of the value it drives for our credit union owners and partners and the superior mortgage experience it enables us to deliver to consumers,” said CUSO Home Lending president and CEO Lori Michaud.
CUSO Home Lending — established in 1993 — supported its owner credit unions and the communities with cost-effective access to mortgage fulfillment services, loan servicing and origination technology, according to its website.
Dark Matter Technologies, which completed the acquisition of Black Knight’s Empower and Optimal Blue in September, is prioritizing bringing down origination costs for lenders.
Speaking to HousingWire previously, Gagliano noted the firm saw up to 300% year-over-year growth in new user numbers for the past couple of years as an increasing number of lenders are focused on cutting origination costs.
“We actually do well in any kind of market,” Gagliano said in an interview in September.
“Now we’re in a down cycle, they need to do it with fewer people and they need to be more efficient to get the cost down. So it’s really the same story, just different markets,” Gagliano said.
Dark Matter Technologies, under Constellation Software‘s umbrella, is also focused on working towards a smooth transition over to Constellation with its 1,300-plus employees for the remainder of 2023.
Americans at risk of eviction are already stretched thin. This can make applying for eviction resources seem overwhelming.
“They’re also struggling to put food on the table, struggling to secure employment, going to appointment after appointment to secure benefits to keep their families safe,” says Emily Benfer of The Eviction Lab. “That’s a lot of toxic stress that that household is already undergoing, so the idea of adding 20 more calls to social services is daunting.”
Service providers understand this and are making the application process easier.
“It’s on us service providers to make it as low-barrier as possible,” says Emma Schmit, housing director of Lakes and Prairies Community Action Partnership (CAPLP), in Moorhead, MN. “They can call us, they can text us, we can do it over the phone, they can also walk in. You just need to do one assessment.”
Eviction resources specialists across the county can connect renters with the services they need. Schmit says people should reach out at the first sign of trouble.
“If they get a late notice or a disconnection notice, we want them to contact us as soon as they can,” she says. “It does take time.”
There are many eviction resources that renters can use to stay in their homes. Some renters will qualify for federal housing programs. Others can use emergency rental assistance, get help paying for utility bills, food, moving expenses and more.
1. HUD
If you’re part of a low-income household, start by applying for federal housing programs. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) runs several affordable housing and grant programs in the U.S.
To see if you qualify, contact a Public Housing Agency (PHA) at (800) 569-4287. You can also search for a qualified agency online. Just enter your state to find a HUD-approved adviser in your region. Housing counselors can help you sign up for programs if you’re eligible.
Demand for these programs is high and the waitlist is very long. Some qualified applicants wait for months or years before they can get help. So, apply for short-term eviction resources, food aid and other programs in order to offset rental costs while you wait for a long-term solution.
2. Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA)
The U.S. Government stepped in to help Americans pay their rent and utility bills in 2021. The Federal Emergency Rental Assistance program distributed 46 billion dollars to states, U.S. territories, local governments and Native American tribes.
This program is pandemic-related and funds will run out. So, renters at risk of eviction should apply soon as possible. Search the federal database by city, ZIP code, state or tribe.
3. The NLIHC
The National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) also maintains a list of emergency eviction resources across the country. Many of the programs in this database will show up in other databases as well.
Sarah Gallagher, senior project director for the NILHC’s ERASE project (Ending Rental Arrears to Stop Eviction), says that the NLIHC database is updated weekly. This helps applicants feel confident that funding is still available when they sign up.
The database includes state, county and city aid organizations. They distribute the funds to renters in many ways. Some help pay back rent or utility bills. Others provide legal help or cover moving expenses.
To see what’s available near you, just enter your state, U.S. territory, tribe or locality into the online tool. The results will include a link to the program and a description of the communities that it serves. It also describes what the program funds, so you can target your applications effectively.
You will need to apply for each program individually. Be prepared for a wait.
“Many of the programs are pretty overwhelmed,” explains Gallagher. “You want to make sure that they’re applying for everything that they’re eligible for. But they can only receive assistance from one. If they have two applications in, they can always withdraw one.”
4. The CFPB
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) offers eviction resources for a variety of circumstances. You can search for advice about what to do if the eviction process has just started or if you’ve already been evicted. Resources are available in many languages, including Spanish, Vietnamese and Tagalog.
The CFPB also maintains an emergency rental assistance database. It includes organizations that will help renters pay overdue utility bills as well. Just enter your state, territory, tribe or tribal land into the dropdown menu to find available city, state, county and tribal programs near you.
You can also find housing counselors and agencies that offer free or discounted credit and renting advice. Enter your ZIP code to find resources in your neighborhood. All agencies are approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), so they can also determine if you’re eligible for HUD programs.
5. 211
“One good place to start is 211,” explains Emma Schmit of CAPLP. “They can do that quick screening and then connect a family who needs diapers or food.”
In addition to nutrition programs and services to help families meet their basic needs, 211 also provides mental health resources and help with medical bills and prescription medication. Some local programs also provide information about housing expenses and programs to pay utility bills.
You can call 211 from any telephone. When you share your location, you’ll get updated information about programs that are available in your area. All calls are confidential.
You can also explore your options online at 211. Enter your address or ZIP code into the search tool to get connected with health and human service agencies close to home.
6. Direct-To-Tenant Resources
ERASE’s Sarah Gallagher explains that some landlords are slow to accept Federal Emergency Rental Assistance, even though it can keep renters in their homes. Others refuse to accept it at all. A recent ERASE survey of participating programs across the country shows that this is a widespread problem.
“Overall, we found that the lack of participation was much more prevalent among landlords,” she says. “Of the programs that responded, 27 percent said that landlords often or sometimes refused to participate.”
Their reasons vary. Some landlords were unresponsive, unavailable or behind on paperwork. Others didn’t want to produce a W-9 tax form or report their income. Still, others wanted to retain the ability to evict tenants, even though the tenants had been approved for ERA funds.
The NLIHC says that direct-to-tenant programs can help renters bypass uncooperative landlords. These programs pay tenants directly. The tenants use the funds to pay the landlords, and the landlord never knows where the money came from.
Renters can search a list of direct-to-tenant programs within the NLIHC database. If you have an unresponsive landlord, tell your housing counselor early in the application process. Focusing the search on direct-to-tenant resources — and using aid to pay for utilities or food — will save everyone time and energy and increase your odds of success.
7. Disability Services
There are a variety of federal programs to assist Americans with disabilities. These include public housing, subsidized housing and rental assistance programs.
The Disability Services homepage includes information about these programs, as well as links to state and local opportunities. Use it to see if you’re eligible for a Non-Elderly Disability (NED) voucher to get help with your medical bills or to file a complaint. There’s a special section for disabled veterans, as well.
8. The U.S. Department Of Veterans Affairs
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (or the VA) operates a number of services for veterans in crisis or at risk of homelessness. If you’re at risk of eviction, contact your nearest VA medical center and ask to speak with a VA social worker. Female veterans can request the Women Veterans Program Manager. You can also chat online with a housing assistance specialist.
If you’ve already been evicted, call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at (877) 424-3838. You can speak with a trained VA counselor for free. This service is available 24 hours a day.
9. The Apartment Guide Eviction Resource Guide
The Apartment Guide Eviction Resources Guide provides a short summary of each state’s eviction laws. It also lists rental assistance programs and other eviction resources.
Search for services in your state using the interactive map. Or, browse federal rent aid options and nationwide nutrition programs.
10. LIHEAP
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers help with home energy bills and minor energy-related repairs. Enter your household size and household income to see if you’re eligible.
This program doesn’t provide grants to individuals. Instead, it works with partner organizations across the country.
Search for partner organizations by your tribe or your state. You can also call the National Energy Assistance Referral (NEAR) hotline at (866) 674-6327 or email [email protected] for more information.
11. The Community Action Partnership
Renters in need can also reach out directly to a Community Action Agency. Many help with moving expenses, paying back rent and providing other eviction resources to renters at risk. This might be a good option if you’re overwhelmed by the number of choices or if you’re not sure which programs you qualify for.
“If someone is in that kind of situation, I’d encourage them to call their local Community Action Agency,” says Emma Schmit. She explains that her organization, CAPLP, works like many Community Action Agencies across the country. “Since we have so many different programs, we can screen people for what kind of program they might be eligible for based on their income and the number of people in their household.”
The Community Action Partnership maintains a database of all nonprofit and public groups funded by the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG). Type your state, county or ZIP code into the search tool to find a Community Action Agency near you. You can also browse the interactive map or search by agency name.
12. Salvation Army
Community Action Agencies and other state and local programs often partner with national organizations to help people meet their basic needs. The Salvation Army is one of those programs. It offers grants, emergency rental aid, nutrition programs and utility payment programs to renters across the country.
The services provided vary, depending on your location. Enter your city, state or ZIP code for information about the programs in your community.
13. Catholic Charities
This national network of faith-based charities provides food, affordable housing and other services to more than 15 million people across the country. The services provided vary by location.
Search for a church or service center in your area to see which services are available. Some partners pay for rent. Others offer help with security deposits and overdue utility bills. There may also be emergency grants available for renters at immediate risk of eviction.
14. United Way
This organization connects renters with federal eviction resources and nonprofit organizations close to home. Many rent aid options are already covered in other national and federal databases. But the organization’s local connections can uncover additional funding sources.
Use the immediate needs tool to determine the kind of help you need most. You can also explore short-term and long-term financial resources and educational materials.
15. Just Shelter
Just Shelter connects renters with a range of eviction resources. Look for information about rental and tenant’s rights. The site also includes legal aid organizations and pro bono attorneys who will represent low-income tenants in eviction cases for free.
Look for services by state using the interactive map or review the national resources.
16. Legal Services Corporation
The Legal Services Corporation gives you a list of Legal Aid attorneys who can take your case for free or for a reduced cost. Search by city or address to find one near you. Or use the interactive map to browse partners and legal aid firms across the country.
It includes links to free legal forms. You can also search recent datasets, research and studies by geography or legal problem area.
17. LawHelp.Org
Go to Law Help for legal advice and free legal aid programs by state. It also includes a list of legal resources.
Renters can search by state on the interactive map or browse the list of partners across the country. Spanish speakers can get legal help on the Spanish language site.
18. FindLegalHelp.Org
The American Bar Association’s Find Legal Help provides a list of legal aid services across the country. It also connects low-income renters with pro bono attorneys.
These attorneys are available to answer simple legal questions online. The site also includes links to state-specific legal resources.
19. U.S. Armed Forces Legal Assistance
Active-duty service members in the continental U.S. can contact U.S. Armed Forces Legal Assistance. Search for legal help by state or ZIP code.
Enter your branch of service into the online search tool. Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Navy and Marine Corps service members are eligible.
Eviction resources are available
Eviction remains a threat for many U.S. renters. But there are many eviction resources that can keep you in your home.
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. Readers are encouraged to seek professional legal or finance advice as they may deem it necessary.