Your air conditioner is crucial, especially during scorching hot days. But what happens if your AC unit breaks down? Will your home insurance cover the cost to repair or replace it? Here’s what you need to know.
Does home insurance cover AC units?
Home insurance will cover your AC unit if it’s damaged by fire, lightning, vandalism, storms or other scenarios, or “perils,” your policy covers.
For instance, if a tree lands on your AC unit during a storm, your home insurance will likely cover the cost to repair or replace it. Similarly, if someone steals your AC unit, your insurance can help pay for a new one.
Your coverage also depends on what type of AC unit you have. Central air conditioning systems are typically covered under the dwelling portion of your home insurance policy because they’re attached to the home. Dwelling coverage is usually offered on an “open perils” basis, which means your central AC unit is probably covered unless it was damaged by an event specifically excluded from your policy.
However, if you own a portable or window AC unit, that likely falls under your personal property coverage, which pays for damage to movable belongings. Because personal property coverage is typically covered on a “named perils” basis, your policy may only cover damage to your window AC unit if it’s caused by a specific event named in your policy.
Insurance companies use precise language to describe what is and isn’t covered, so review your policy carefully and contact your carrier if you have questions about your coverage.
When does home insurance not cover your AC unit?
Home insurance typically won’t cover damage to your AC unit in these cases:
Wear and tear. Home insurance doesn’t cover damage caused by gradual wear and tear or aging. If your AC breaks down due to normal use over time, you’ll likely have to handle the repair or replacement costs on your own.
Lack of maintenance. Your insurer may deny your claim if the damage happened because you neglected your air conditioner’s regular maintenance.
Flood damage. Standard home insurance generally excludes coverage for damage caused by flooding, including damage to your AC unit. You’ll need separate flood insurance for that.
Mechanical breakdowns. Mechanical breakdowns usually aren’t covered under standard home insurance unless you’ve added equipment breakdown coverage to your policy.
Do you need equipment breakdown coverage for your AC unit?
Equipment breakdown coverage is an optional add-on to your home insurance policy that protects you financially against unexpected mechanical failures of essential household equipment, including your AC unit. It goes beyond standard home insurance by covering mechanical breakdowns that aren’t normally included in regular policies.
🤓Nerdy Tip
Think of it like this: Home insurance pays for AC unit damage due to fire, lightning, wind, hail and other covered perils. Equipment breakdown coverage pays for damage from sudden and accidental breakdowns caused by a faulty motor, circuit breaker or compressor.
How to file a claim when your AC breaks down
If your AC unit is damaged and needs repair or replacement, follow these steps to file a claim:
Document the damage. Take photos or videos of the damaged AC unit and any other affected areas to support your claim.
Decide if you want to file a claim. If your loss is covered by your policy, you now have to decide whether to file a claim. Take your home insurance deductible into consideration when deciding whether to file a claim, as it may be higher than the cost to repair the AC unit. Also consider the possibility that filing a claim may increase your premiums, which means you may not want to file a claim for a smaller payout.
Contact your insurer. If you decide to file a claim, you can usually do so online or over the phone. Be prepared to share photos, receipts and other documents. Keep copies of all of it.
Get an estimate. Ask a licensed contractor how much it will cost to repair or replace the AC unit.
Work with the adjuster. Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to your claim to assess the damage. Work with the adjuster to get your claim processed as quickly as possible.
Wait for payment. Once your claim is approved, your insurance company will provide payment for the repair or replacement of the AC unit. Follow up with your insurance company if you have any questions or concerns about the payment.
Welcome to a world where pixels and properties collide, where a well-composed image can spark dreams of a new home and a poorly presented one can make a potential buyer click away in seconds. In today’s competitive real estate market, the old adage “a picture is worth a thousand words” couldn’t be more accurate.
In this Redfin article, we’ll unveil the secrets behind crafting real estate listing photos that not only stop potential buyers in their scrolling tracks but also beckon them to explore further. Whether you’re selling a home in Los Angeles, CA or a charming house in Salem, MA, these tips will elevate your real estate photography game and leave a lasting impression on those searching for their next home.
Why real estate listing photos are so important
Home listing photos are the virtual introduction of a property to the online real estate market. These visuals enable potential buyers to explore your home’s layout, features, and ambiance from the comfort of their screens. Clear and well-captured photos can highlight a property’s best features, create an emotional connection, and entice viewers to learn more. In contrast, poor-quality or unappealing photos can turn potential buyers away before they even consider visiting the property in person.
Essentially, listing photos act as the virtual curb appeal of a home, setting the tone for a potential buyer’s interest and influencing their decision-making process.
10 expert tips for standout home listing photos
1. Create an inviting atmosphere
“Creating captivating home photos requires a delicate blend of craftsmanship and precision,” mentions fine art photographer Sam Isaac Photography. “Natural light is harnessed to infuse warmth into interiors, while strategic composition highlights space and employs wide-angle lenses for expansiveness. Attention to vertical lines enables potential buyers to envision themselves in each room. Additionally, thoughtful furniture arrangement creates an inviting atmosphere.”
2. Balance techniques and artistry
“Crafting the ultimate home photo requires a fusion of technique and artistry,” states real estate visuals company, Repropix Corp. “Essential pro equipment, including wide-angle lenses, showcases expansive vistas while delicately balancing natural and artificial lighting. Precise camera settings accentuate the property’s finest features, while strategic staging boosts buyer engagement by 30%.”
3. Add drone and twilight photography
“In the modern era of home sales, professional photography and cinematic videos play a pivotal role in leaving a lasting impression on potential homebuyers,” says real estate marketing agency Circle Visions. “These visuals serve as the initial introduction to your property, igniting buyer interest and drawing them to explore further. Drone-captured elevated views, carefully composed interior shots featuring expert staging, and captivating twilight photos of the exterior evoke an emotional response, resonating with buyers on a personal level.”
4. Focus on framing
“One key tip stands out – framing is everything,” states seasoned real estate photographer Aaron Curtis Photography. “Ensure your camera is positioned at chest height – a rule that maintains vertical lines, offering a balanced floor-to-ceiling ratio. Limiting the view to two walls opens up the space, allowing potential buyers to envision furniture placement. Carefully select detailed shots, including fireplaces and light fixtures, while omitting less appealing features like toilets, A/C units, and water heaters.”
5. Capture the entire space in one frame
“Adopt the buyer’s perspective and capture the entire space in one frame,” recommends video production company Finally Real Estate Video & Photography. “Yes, I’ve even hopped into bathtubs to capture sinks and showers or rearranged furniture (including moving a whole couch) to achieve that perfect angle.”
6. Illuminate the home effectively
According to architect and interior design photographer, Charles Mitri Photography, “A crucial tip is to illuminate your space effectively. Before the photography session, switch on any permanent light fixtures, such as chandeliers or under cabinet lighting in the kitchen. Showcase how these fixtures elevate the ambiance of each room. Disconnect and tuck away any electrical cords associated with appliances on the kitchen counter. Often, you can wind them up and hide them behind the appliance, creating a cleaner, less cluttered look and feel.”
7. Schedule shoots during mornings or late afternoons
“Achieving captivating home listing photos hinges on timing and lighting,” advises HDR real estate photographers XLRE Photography. “Opt for soft, evenly distributed sunlight by scheduling shoots during mornings or late afternoons, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing appeal. Consider the home’s orientation to prevent direct sunlight and unflattering shadows. Precision with aperture (around f/8) ensures clarity and depth, while adjusting shutter speed balances interior and exterior exposure. Mastery of these techniques results in photos that showcase your property in its best light.”
8. Remember the important of editing
Kouros, the Redfin in-house and third-party photographer at VistaLux Studio emphasizes that the real magic happens during the post-editing phase. Statting, “Employing bracketing, a technique where a series of shots with different exposures are merged, ensures flawless lighting and details. This process sets the stage for subsequent editing steps, like replacing skies and adding the gentle flicker of fireplace flames, which significantly enhance the property’s visual appeal. Moreover, the inclusion of twilight shots with their soft, inviting glow adds an enchanting allure. All these carefully orchestrated elements come together harmoniously, crafting a captivating visual narrative.”
9. Tell a story with listing photos
“After capturing millions of property photos, we’ve learned a valuable lesson, finding a photographer who can enchant with images that narrate your listing’s story generates more interest (and offers),” insists real estate photographers Open Homes. “A photographer focused on your success will expertly guide and capture that ‘magic shot.’ Remember, it’s not just about one listing; exceptional visual marketing builds seller confidence and secures future listings.”
10. Don’t forget to clean and declutter
“Regardless of property value, certain factors are universal for outstanding listing photos,” says seasoned real estate photographers PHRAME Photography. “We prioritize cleanliness, depersonalization, and decluttering to let your property shine. Additionally, choosing a skilled photographer matters.”
A final note on capturing stunning real estate listing photos
As you embark on your journey to create exceptional real estate listing photos, remember that these images are the bridge between a listing and a homebuyer’s aspirations. By applying the insights shared in this article, you’re not only capturing rooms and walls, but you’re crafting the visual narrative of a potential future.
After many years in her one-bedroom Manhattan apartment (which has been on the market for $2M since last November), comedian Amy Schumer is getting an upgrade.
All of the details aren’t available yet, but TMZ broke the story, and reportedly her new pad is somewhere on NYC’s Upper West Side.
The 5 bed, 5.5 bath penthouse has been described as a “Malibu beach house mixed with sophisticated Manhattan architecture.” With lots of windows, open living spaces, a fireplace, and a private terrace, it certainly seems like the 35-year old will be able to kick back in style.
Check it out here:
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All photos via TMZ
Carter Wessman
Carter Wessman is originally from the charming town of Norfolk, Massachusetts. When he isn’t busy writing about mortgage related topics, you can find him playing table tennis, or jamming on his bass guitar.
Two weeks since the first report of a wildfire in Lahaina, Hawaii, the scope of the tragedy is coming into focus.
Search teams looked through every single-story residence in the disaster area and found the remains of 115 people. The death toll is likely to grow as teams now look through multi-story residences and commercial properties.
As of Aug. 21, the fire, which began on Aug. 8, was considered 90% contained and has burned through more than 2,100 acres, according to Maui County.
More than 2,000 buildings in Lahaina were destroyed or damaged by the blaze, according to an artificial intelligence model compiled by Esri, a geographic information system software provider.
The AI model reviewed satellite photos of Lahaina before and after the fire and estimated on Aug. 11 that 2,088 structures – about 63% of all structures in the examined area – had been destroyed or damaged.
Most buildings were homes. The Federal Emergency Management Agency estimated on Aug. 12 that the fire had destroyed 1,466 houses; 85% of all structures that were assessed were destroyed.
Based on Esri’s estimates of damaged structures and building types provided by USA Structures, nearly 1,800 residential structures were damaged in the fire. USA Structures is a dataset maintained by the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration, FEMA, Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the U.S. Geological Survey.
The financial toll of the damage is vast for a town of about 12,000 people. Rebuilding costs could total more than $450 million for residential structures alone, based on Esri’s damage assessment and Maui tax roll data.
That includes $242.1 million in total building value for owner-occupied homes, $136.1 million for non-owner occupied homes, $40.7 million for short-term rentals and $23.2 million for long-term rentals, based on the building values of parcels that overlap Esri’s assessed damaged buildings.
The median residence assessed damaged by the fire was a 62-year-old, three-bedroom, two-bath structure valued at $242,700, excluding land value.
The damage also complicates hundreds of millions of dollars’ worth of mortgages. Lenders originated more than $670 million in mortgages for borrowers to purchase, improve or refinance single-family dwellings in the census tracts covering Lahaina in 2018-2022, the most recent Home Mortgage Disclosure Act data available.
Lenders originated more than 1,200 such loans over that period, led by Bank of Hawaii with 525, First Hawaiian Bank with 490 and HighTechLending Inc. with 470.
Many of the loans loans originated by these lenders were then purchased by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
The Department of Housing and Urban Development has granted homeowners with Home Equity Conversion Mortgages or mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures. HUD also announced a package of regulatory and administrative waivers for further assistance to those in the disaster area.
Homeowners may also borrow up to $500,000 to repair or replace their homes in a low-interest disaster loan from the Small Business Administration. Real estate professionals, too, have provided relief funds.
Officials’ primary efforts are still directed towards meeting the immediate needs of people in the disaster area; a full assessment of the damage and what rebuilding will cost will come later.
So far, FEMA has approved more than $5.6 million in assistance to nearly 2,000 households, including more than $2.3 million in initial rental assistance. Maui County officials estimate about 1,900 people are currently sheltered in hotels. The Environmental Protection Agency and Army Corps of Engineers have started debris collection.
Beyond the need for rebuilding, the wildfire’s long-term impact on insurance and affordable housing remain to be seen.
Hawaii is one of several states recently affected by natural disasters, including wildfires.
Your friendly neighborhood actor has just put his California home on the market for $2,995,000.
This listing comes on the heels of the announcement that Maguire and his wife, Jennifer Meyer, have filed for divorce. They purchased the home for $2.7 million just a year ago.
The home was originally a single story 1920’s bungalow later expanded and renovated by architect Ruben Ojeda. Now it boasts 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 bathrooms, and 2,401 square feet. The property also comes with two other structures: a studio with high ceilings and plenty of windows, and a converted gym.
Staying at a hotel so famous that it’s printed on a country’s currency isn’t something that was on my travel bucket list. In fact, I didn’t even know that such a hotel existed. But it turns out that the Grand Pacific Hotel in the capital of Fiji is famous enough to earn that honor.
While it’s no longer the most luxurious hotel in the country, the Grand Pacific Hotel is still the go-to hotel for celebrities, politicians and business travelers when visiting the Fijian capital of Suva. Here’s what it’s like to stay at this historic hotel.
During my stay in April 2023, the Grand Pacific Hotel still operated as an independent IHG hotel — not flagged as any particular IHG brand. However, the hotel is in the process of joining the InterContinental Hotels & Resorts brand.
At the time my wife and I booked our stay, award nights at the Grand Pacific Hotel cost a steady 30,000 IHG One Rewards points per night. As an IHG® One Rewards Premier Credit Card holder, I received a fourth night free on this stay.
That means my four-night stay only cost 90,000 IHG points. At NerdWallet’s valuation of 0.7 cent per IHG One Rewards point, that’s approximately $630 worth of points.
An equivalent cash booking cost $1,006 total at the time we booked. That means this fourth-night free award booking netted around 1.1 cents per point in value.
The Grand Pacific Hotel is located on harborfront land in the Fijian capital of Suva, surrounded by some of the nation’s most important sites. The hotel is just a few minutes walk from the nation’s seat of power, historic Thurston Gardens and the Fiji Museum.
Directly in front of the hotel, you’ll find Albert Park. This expansive park has hosted dignitaries throughout the years, was the site of the unveiling of the new Fijian flag when the archipelago gained independence from the British and remains a center of Fijian culture.
During our stay, Albert Park constantly bustled with life — from soccer and rugby practices to a cricket tournament featuring teams from all across the island nation.
The Grand Pacific Hotel is located just south of other Suva highlights. The bustling Suva Municipal Market, historic Carnegie Library and shopping streets are all located within a mile.
The Grand Pacific Hotel is the most storied hotel in the country of Fiji — so much so that the hotel is featured on the back of the Fiji $10 bill. Originally opened in 1914, this fittingly named grand hotel has hosted a long list of celebrities. Among the most famous are Queen Elizabeth II during several visits to the once-British colony and Charles Kingsford Smith in his famous “Southern Cross” flight from the U.S. to Australia in 1928.
A display case near the entrance to the hotel displays memoirs of the hotel’s past.
Photos of the hotel’s history line the walls of the original building, with plenty of photos of Queen Elizabeth’s multiple visits fittingly surrounding the so-called Queen Elizabeth Suite.
The hotel maintains a “Wall of Fame” with the many politicians and celebrities who have stayed at the hotel. Next to the Wall of Fame, the hotel hangs a mirror with the label “our most important guest of all.”
Accommodation
The original Grand Pacific Hotel building hosts just 10 so-called “heritage rooms” and suites. These are the classic rooms originally built in 1914 but updated in a 2014 remodel.
However, there’s much more to the Grand Pacific Hotel than just these 10 rooms and suites. A 2014 expansion added the Harbour and Kingsford Smith Wings to the hotel — adding over 100 new rooms. Most of the rooms in the Harbour Wing offer a balcony with an angled view over the pool or harbor.
At the far end of the Harbour Wing are 16 harborfront rooms and suites — eight standard rooms plus eight so-called “Grand Pacific Club” corner rooms.
As a Diamond Elite, I received an upgrade to one of these harborfront rooms, which was dubbed “Daveta” per a sign next to our door.
This harborfront room offered an expansive view of the beautiful — but surprisingly quiet — Suva harbor.
The nice — if a bit plain at first glance — room offered all of the standard amenities you might expect from a hotel room. The king-size bed visibly consisted of two twin beds but was plenty comfortable.
The 42-inch flat-screen TV offered only around a dozen mostly sports-related channels.
A minibar fridge came stocked with around a dozen self-serve drinks. As is customary in Fiji hotels and resorts, the fridge had a carton of complimentary fresh milk for your coffee or tea.
Tucked away in drawers, the hotel provided complimentary teas, French press coffee and even “drinking chocolate” packets.
The closet housed staples such as a blow dryer, safe, laundry bags, hangers, an iron and an ironing board — as well as luxury items, including robes and InterContinental-branded slippers.
The open-design bathroom offered a partially walled shower and refillable Pure Fiji-branded white gingerlily-scented amenity bottles.
Food and beverage
Guests have two options for breakfast: a la carte or a breakfast buffet costing around $20 ($45 Fijian dollars) per person. As an IHG One Rewards Diamond Elite member, I opted for the daily breakfast as my welcome amenity.
Each morning, the buffet breakfast spread was a bit different. However, the expansive buffet always offered more than a half-dozen main dishes — including a couple of vegetarian options and one vegan option — plus fruits, deli meats, cereals, breads, baked goods, salads and juices.
If you want something fresh, you can order from a menu of custom-made egg dishes.
I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the eggs Benedict I ordered a couple of mornings.
On Thursday and Friday evenings, the Grand Pacific Hotel offers tapas complete with a live band out on the veranda.
Thankfully, our stay overlapped with the events and we could enjoy a selection of reasonably priced tapas and local Fijian beer.
Our appetite not quite suppressed, my wife and I split a bowl of kokoda — the Fijian national dish.
Pool
The Grand Pacific Hotel pool is located adjacent to the Heritage and Harbour Wings. This long but rather simple pool is open from dawn to dusk.
Fitness center
The Grand Pacific Hotel fitness center was located next to the spa. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., the fitness center has several stationary bikes, treadmills, a rowing machine, free weights and various weight machines.
Spa
The Grand Pacific has a full-service Bliss Spa on-site. During our visit, the spa offered reasonably priced specials including:
60-minute table massage: around $54 ($120 Fijian dollars).
45-minute hot stone therapy: around $61 ($135 Fijian dollars).
30-minute foot massage: around $20 ($45 Fijian dollars).
50-minute pedicure or manicure: around $27 ($60 Fijian dollars).
After a long day of walking around Suva (and then a shower), my wife and I opted for one of the 30-minute foot massages. The therapists adapted to our pressure preferences and provided a wonderful massage.
🤓Nerdy Tip
You cannot charge gratuities to the room. While tips generally aren’t expected in Fiji, you might want to have cash on hand in case you want to tip your therapist.
Wi-Fi
Located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the internet in Fiji can understandably be spotty — even at some of the top resorts on the islands.
Thankfully, Wi-Fi was not an issue at the Grand Pacific Hotel. While not particularly speedy, the Wi-Fi was solid throughout our stay. A Wi-Fi speed test reflected download and upload speeds of around 10 Mbps.
Business center
Need a place to get some work done? The Grand Pacific Hotel offers a business center on the ground floor of the heritage building with a couple of computers, a printer, magazines and newspapers.
If you’re considering staying at the Grand Pacific Hotel
Many foreign tourists stick to Fiji’s excellent resorts when visiting the island nation — as my wife and I did on a previous trip and much of this trip.
However, if you want a true taste of Fijian culture, I recommend basing your visit to the Fijian capital at the Grand Pacific Hotel.
(Top photo by JT Genter)
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When you really get down to it, Halloween is about two things: costumes and candy. While some trick or treaters aim to get praise for their creative costumes, most Halloween goals revolve around candy.
Often times, kids will measure the success of their Halloween haul by how many pounds of candy they collected, but as my seventh grade social studies teacher often preached, “Quality is better than quantity.”
After all, no one wants 10lbs of peanuts, pretzels, and candy corn. So to make sure you get the tastiest of treats this Halloween, here are four tips to help you find the best candy houses.
1. They have great decorations
If a household is willing to transform their front yard into an eerily perfect haunted graveyard, there’s a good chance that they’re going to put in the extra effort with their candy.
I’m not saying that there’s always a direct relationship between the amount of decorations and the quality of the candy, but it’s true enough to warrant an investigation of any house with more than just a few jack o lanterns.
2. Lots of kids are going there
I understand that you don’t know what you’re going to get until you walk up to the door, but if a house is flooded with trick or treaters, I’d be willing to bet that they aren’t serving up fun size granola bars.
The key here is to hone in on the details; use all of your senses to try and get a read on the crowd. Are they excitedly skipping down from the front steps? Do you hear high pitched giggles? Smiling faces are the surest sign, but with masks, makeup, and the dark of night, you can’t always count on visual clues.
3. Talk to other trick or treaters
It might seem a little odd to engage in a conversation with a masked stranger, but talking to other trick or treaters is the ultimate way to ensure you are hitting all of the top candy houses.
Maybe try breaking the ice with a comment about their costume. After that, you could get the candy conversation going by talking about one of the best houses you’ve visited so far.
Stepping outside of your comfort zone is definitely worth the satisfaction you will feel when you have a pillow case filled to the brim with king sized candy bars. Who knows, you might even make some new friends.
4. Use an App
For the technologically advanced, you can check out the app Nextdoor, which allows neighbors to post about their surrounding houses.
There’s probably not going to be information on every single house, but it’s worth looking into if you’re really trying to cover all of your angles. You could even get some good karma by posting about the houses you’ve gone to.
Bottom Line
Using a little common sense and some critical thinking will go a long way when you’re out on the candy hunt. Just be safe out there, and after you’ve chowed down on your seemingly endless supply of quality treats—make sure to brush your teeth!
Photos via residencestyle and zliving.
Carter Wessman
Carter Wessman is originally from the charming town of Norfolk, Massachusetts. When he isn’t busy writing about mortgage related topics, you can find him playing table tennis, or jamming on his bass guitar.
Cruising is a huge industry, so it makes sense that the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) — which started out shipping cargo — got in on the venture in 1988 with the purchase of its first cruise ship. Since then, the company has been steadily growing, adding new ships and destinations to its thriving cruise line.
Although it’s headquartered in Switzerland, you’ll find MSC cruises all over the world, including throughout the United States. Let’s take a look at MSC’s cruises, where they sail and what to expect when you’re aboard.
About MSC cruises
Here’s a quick overview of some of MSC’s key features.
Package types: There are three levels of experience to choose from on MSC. Bella is the least expensive, while Fantastica allows you to get free in-room breakfast and select your room type. Aurea is MSC’s top-tier package and includes access to exclusive amenities, as well as additional discounts and dining privileges.
Cabin types: On MSC ships you’ll find the standard cruise ship cabins, including interior, ocean view, veranda and various types of suites.
Main U.S. routes: MSC has only a handful of departure ports from within the U.S. Most of its routes depart from Miami to the Caribbean and the Bahamas.
Points currency and loyalty program: The loyalty program of MSC is called the Voyager’s Club. Points are earned for the cruises you take and the money you spend while on board.
MSC cruise destinations
You can find MSC cruises all over the globe, including the Caribbean, Canada, New England, the Mediterranean, the Middle East, Northern Europe, South Africa, South America and Asia. There are also worldwide cruises that sail to several regions around the globe.
MSC’s worldwide cruises come in as the longest trips, with itineraries lasting as many as 127 nights. Meanwhile, the cruise line’s shortest options include weekend trips to the Bahamas sailing for just two nights.
MSC cruise prices
The reviews of MSC Cruises will likely mention the price of your trip, which is often cheaper than comparable trips on other popular cruise lines. Of course, the total cost will vary based on the trip duration, time of year and what kind of room you select. The least expensive options you’ll find are on short Mediterranean cruises, which can cost as little as $119 per person.
Prices are also affected by the dates that you’re traveling. A three-night cruise to the Bahamas can cost as little as $149 per person, but that same trip can cost up to $349 per person during periods of high demand.
As you’d expect, the most expensive cruises on MSC are the longest. For example, the 127-night World Cruise costs $21,929 per person.
What is the best MSC ship?
There are a total of 23 ships in MSC’s fleet. According to U.S. News, the best MSC ship is the MSC Bellissima. Launched in 2019, the ship boasts a full-sized bowling alley and multiple pools, along with an array of restaurants, a spa and live entertainment. The ranking was calculated using a mix of user reviews and health ratings.
What is the newest MSC ship?
The MSC World Europa, MSC’s newest ship, officially debuted at the end of 2022 in Qatar. This ship features more than 2,600 cabins, 33 restaurants and six swimming pools.
What’s included in an MSC cruise
MSC’s cruise packages are on par with other mid-tier cruise lines. No matter what package you purchase, all food and entertainment is included, as is access to the main parts of the ship. This includes pools, the buffet restaurant and a nightly seated dinner.
If you purchase a higher-end package, you’ll be able to enjoy more amenities. The Fantastica experience, for example, includes free room service delivery for breakfast. The top-tier Aurea package includes complimentary room service for all meals.
Neither Wi-Fi nor specialty drinks are included as part of the base price, but they can be purchased separately. The drink package has a range of options, including non-alcoholic drinks such as soda and different types of alcohol.
MSC loyalty program: Voyager’s Club
Voyager’s Club is the loyalty program for frequent MSC cruise passengers. There are four levels in the program, and each has its own benefits.
Voyagers Club levels
The Voyager Clubs levels are Classic, Silver, Gold and Diamond.
Classic
How to earn: Classic membership is earned by going on at least one MSC cruise or having a confirmed booking on an upcoming cruise. This tier is for members who have between 1 and 2,199 points.
Best benefits: 5% discount on future cruises, discounts on packages.
Silver
How to earn: Earn 2,200 to 4,299 points.
Best benefits: $50 onboard credit per person on cruises booked at least nine months before departure, double points for cruises booked more than 12 months in advance.
Gold
How to earn: Earn 4,300 to 9,999 points.
Best benefits: One hour of complimentary thermal area access, priority disembarkation, complimentary photos.
Diamond
How to earn: Earn 10,000+ points.
Best benefits: Complimentary tasting dinner, one free dance lesson, complimentary slippers and bathrobe, priority embarkation and disembarkation.
How to earn Voyager Club points
There are two ways to earn Voyager Club points. First, you’ll earn a set amount of points for taking a cruise — the specific amount will depend on the length of the cruise and the experience level you choose. Second, you’ll earn points for the activities you pre-purchase and for any onboard expenses that you incur.
Frequently asked questions
Does MSC have free Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is not included in MSC’s basic fare. There are different packages available to those who are sailing which can be purchased before you travel or during your cruise. MSC doesn’t publish its Wi-Fi package pricing online, but for example, you can expect to pay around $270 for a two-device upgraded Wi-Fi package on a seven-day cruise with MSC Seascape.
Is MSC all-inclusive?
MSC cruises are not entirely inclusive, though they do provide a lot with your base package. This includes your cabin, food, live entertainment, port stops and coffee, tea and water. They don’t include specialty drinks such as soda or alcohol, nor do they include Wi-Fi or any port excursions you’d like to go on.
How much is the MSC drink package?
MSC Cruises reviews will let you know that MSC allows passengers to add on a drink package to their cruise. The price will vary depending on your actual cruise, as well as the type of package that you choose. There are five types of packages available: Easy, Easy Plus, Premium Extra, Alcohol-free and Minors.
Expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $88 per day for any drink packages that you purchase.
Does MSC require a COVID vaccine or test?
Whether or not you’ll need a COVID vaccine or COVID test while sailing on MSC cruise lines will depend on where you’re going. For cruises leaving from the United States, you don’t need either. However, you will need to provide other personal information, such as your name, address and date of birth.
(Top photo courtesy of MSC)
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Want to learn how to sell DVDs online and near you? Here’s how you can make extra money selling used DVDs.
Do you have a stack of DVDs taking up space in your home? If so, you can sell DVDs online as a way to declutter and put some extra cash in your pocket.
While you may no longer need or want the DVD, there are people still buying DVDs out there.
This guide on how to sell used DVDs includes tips on:
The best places to sell DVDs online
How to get started selling DVDs online
How to make the most money selling DVDs
How much you can earn selling used DVDs online
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started and teach you how to sell used DVDs online.
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Best places to sell DVDs online
There are many online platforms and vendors where you can sell DVDs. Before choosing a platform, make sure to find out what fees and payment methods (for example, some may only pay via trade-in credit, whereas others may pay cash) each website provides, as well as what the customer reviews say.
Here are the most popular options for selling DVDs online.
1. eBay
eBay is one of the largest online marketplaces and lets you list both new and used DVDs. You can set your own prices and choose between auction-style listings or fixed-price listings. eBay is user-friendly and the site is easy to navigate and create listings.
My sister has sold on eBay plenty of times, and it is easy.
It’s important to accumulate positive feedback as you complete transactions because it will improve your ratings, which increases your visibility on the website.
2. Amazon
Selling new DVDs on Amazon can be a great way to get started.
Amazon has a massive reach and customer trust. Everyone knows what Amazon is!
Sellers can list DVDs as individual items or in bulk. You can choose between an individual seller account or a professional seller account.
For individual sellers, this account is best for people who are not selling regularly. You pay per-item fees for every sale. A professional seller account is different. You pay a monthly subscription fee to have this account and it’s designed for people who are selling regularly on Amazon. With this account, you can list an unlimited number of products.
With Amazon, you can choose between Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) or Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM). Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) means Amazon will store, pack, and ship your products to customers. Fulfillment by Merchant (FBM) means you have to handle the fulfillment process yourself and ship products to customers.
There is also the Amazon Trade-In program that you may want to try too.
3. Decluttr
Decluttr is a platform that buys and sells items, including new and used DVDs. The website and mobile app are incredibly easy to use.
All you have to do is scan the barcode of your DVDs and you’ll get instant price quotes. Decluttr stands out from the other platforms on this list because the app provides a quick valuation process. This makes it quick and easy to get an idea of how much you can earn for your DVDs.
Decluttr even provides you with a free shipping label, so all you have to do is pack the items in a box and ship them to Delcuttr. Decluttr covers shipping costs making the process easy for sellers.
Keep in mind that you are likely to receive lower profits since Decluttr is doing a lot of the work for you. You will likely earn more money if you decide to sell directly to consumers on a different platform. But, you’ll also have to do more work on other platforms.
4. Bonavendi
Bonavendi is a website that lets you compare different platforms for your used items like DVDs. Bonavendi works as a price comparison tool so you can see which site will pay you the most for your item.
To find out how much you can receive for a DVD, all you do is enter the barcode of the item you’re selling. A list pops up with each platform and how much each site offers for the DVD.
This saves you a ton of time and helps you make more profit since you’ll know which platform is best for selling your DVDs.
5. Facebook Marketplace
Facebook Marketplace is an easy way to list DVDs to sell to local buyers in your town or neighborhood. If you already have a Facebook profile (which most people do), you can start creating listings immediately on Facebook Marketplace and in local buy and sell groups. Simply provide accurate information on your listing and maintain good communication on the platform.
Make sure to choose a public and safe location for the exchange, like a police station parking lot. You may even consider bringing a friend along or letting someone know where you are meeting this person. This is important when using Facebook Marketplace because you are personally meeting up with a stranger from the internet and exchanging money.
Facebook Marketplace is a great option for people who do not want to deal with the hassle of shipping and want to sell an item as quickly as possible.
6. Etsy
If you have collectible DVDs, Etsy is a great place for selling your items to a niche audience. Etsy is known for selling items that are handmade, vintage, or unique. Keep this in mind when you consider selling DVDs on this platform. You probably can’t just sell a DVD without it being unique in some way (although, I did check Etsy and I did see just normal DVDs listed on the site).
DVDs that are a good fit for Etsy should have a unique or collectible aspect. This could be a DVD with special packaging, limited editions, or signed copies by a director or actor.
7. Craigslist
Craigslist is similar to Facebook Marketplace as it allows you to sell to local buyers. It’s quick and easy to list DVDs on Craigslist. It’s also important to have good communication and be responsive to emails about your items. People generally like to hear back quickly (the same day if possible).
Once you’ve connected with a buyer, determine where you will meet and what time. Make sure to choose a safe location like a police station or public space. You may even want to bring a friend or let someone know where you are meeting the person.
One idea for Craigslist is to simply list all of your DVDs in a single listing, which can make it easier instead of making separate listings for each DVD that you have.
8. SellDVDsOnline.com
Sell DVDs Online is a platform that allows you to sell DVDs directly to SellDVDsOnline.com. The process is easy.
To get started, all you have to do is enter the DVD’s UPC code, which is usually on the back of the DVD by the barcode. You’ll receive an instant price quote. Sell DVDs Online offers free shipping and you never come in contact with customers.
9. EagleSaver
Eagle Saver is a website that lets you sell books, CDs, DVDs, and games for cash. Eagle Saver has a free app so that you can scan your DVDs and value your items faster.
Benefits of selling DVDs on EagleSaver.com include getting paid quickly, risk-free quote guarantee, no fees, and free shipping. With EagleSaver.com, all orders qualify for a free FedEx shipping label, tracking number, and $100 of packing insurance.
10. Yard sale
Though yard sales aren’t online, they are a quick way to get rid of your DVDs and blu-ray movies. You can gather all of your DVDs into one place so buyers can browse through them quickly. Price them competitively at $1 for standard DVDs or $2 for special editions.
Then, organize your DVDs neatly so buyers can go through them without any problem. You may even want to consider offering bundle deals, like “Buy 5 DVDs for $3”. This can encourage garage sale buyers to buy more DVDs.
To sell more DVDs, you could even have a DVD player and TV set up so you can demonstrate that the DVDs are in working condition. This is going to help the buyer feel confident and make their purchase.
Make sure to promote your yard sale through local community groups, local yard sale apps, social media, and by placing signs around your neighborhood.
11. FYE
FYE is an entertainment retailer that sells new and used music, DVDs, video games, and more.
While their online store is not currently accepting used items, most of their store locations currently are. You can use their store locator to find a store near you. This can be an easy way to sell your items in person by simply bringing a big stack with you.
How to get started selling DVDs online
Now, we’ll talk about how to get started selling DVDs online, so you can start making money from selling DVDs ASAP.
1. Gather your DVDs together
Grab all of your DVDs and sort them into one area. Go through each DVD and make sure they are in good condition with intact cases and minimal scratches. Open up the case, of course, and make sure there is a DVD in there (sometimes they disappear over the years).
2. Research what is selling
Do research and find out which DVDs are in demand and what they are selling for. Some of the sites above will give you an idea of how much you can get for a used DVD.
3. Pick a platform to sell DVDs
One of the most important steps on this list is choosing a selling platform. For example, Bonavendi is a great tool for comparing different platforms and getting the best price on a DVD. Facebook Marketplace or a garage sale may mean selling an item very quickly, though, and in person.
4. Create DVD listings and set pricing
If you plan on selling the DVD yourself, you will need to create a listing for each DVD. Make sure the listing is accurate, detailed, and has clear photos of the DVD, case, and any special features.
Next, you will set a competitive price based on the research you do. Keep in mind the DVD’s condition, rarity, if it’s a set, and market demand when pricing the DVD.
5. Payment methods
Once you know which platform you’re going to use to sell DVDs, make sure there is a secure payment method for the platform. If you’re selling DVDs on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist, expect to receive payment as cash or through a platform like Venmo.
Personally, I would not accept a check for a small payment such as a DVD from a person I met on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist for example, as though are common scams.
6. Customer service
When selling used DVDs online, try to keep your reviews and ratings high on platforms by responding to questions and solving any problems (reading your reviews can also help you to improve your process). Remember, positive reviews are important for selling a lot of DVDs online so that future buyers can trust that your DVDs work. For example, if you have a lot of reviews that mention that the DVDs do not work, this may prevent other people from buying from you.
7. Shipping and packaging
Figure out how you want to ship, which carrier you want to ship with, and if you want to ship at all. You may prefer skipping shipping altogether and meeting customers in person to sell DVDs.
If you do decide to ship your DVDs, they need to arrive in good condition. Make sure to use proper packaging materials and be transparent about delivery times and shipping costs in your listing.
8. Keeping track of inventory
Whenever a DVD sells, take down the listing immediately if it isn’t done automatically. This is going to help you avoid any issues with other customers trying to buy the same item and save you time and headaches.
Best tips for selling DVDs online
Here is a list of the best tips for selling DVDs online.
Optimize your DVD listings by using high-quality images of your DVDs and writing clear and detailed descriptions
See what similar DVDs are selling for and set competitive pricing
Bundle similar titles and offer a deal to encourage buyers to buy more items at once
Be honest about the condition of the DVDs and disclose any scratches or missing items (like original cases or inserts)
Mention special edition DVDs and other collector’s items you have (if you have one of these)
Use multiple platforms to reach a broader audience
Provide tracking information to buyers
How much can you make selling DVDs online?
What you can earn from selling DVDs online depends on a few different factors, such as the condition of the DVDs, the rarity of the DVD, demand, which platform you use, and what’s trending in the DVD market.
Here are a few things that may impact how much money you can make from each DVD:
Condition – If your DVD is brand new, unopened, and wrapped in plastic still, the DVD may be able to be priced higher. However, if your DVD has scratches or dented cases, those things can impact pricing.
Market demand – If you have a DVD that is rare, a special edition, or a collector’s item, this DVD will sell for a higher price due to the rarity and increased demand for the item.
Platform – The platform you choose has a big impact on your profits. Some platforms have fees, some don’t, and others have more dedicated DVD collectors, while others don’t.
FAQs about selling used DVDs
Here are answers to common questions about selling used DVDs online and locally.
Are used DVDs worth anything?
Yes! You can actually make money selling used DVDs and blu-rays. If you have a DVD collection, you may want to think about going through it and seeing what movies you can sell. After all, with Netflix and Hulu being around, there’s a good chance that you haven’t touched your DVD collection in a long time.
How do I know if my DVD is valuable?
You can check some of the different websites that sell DVDs to see what they are selling for.
Where is the best place to sell DVDs? Where can I sell DVDs?
Some of the best places to sell DVDs online and locally include eBay, Amazon, Decluttr, Bonavendi, Facebook Marketplace, Etsy, Craigslist, SellDVDsOnline.com, Eagle Saver, and having a yard sale. A used bookstore may buy used DVDs as well. Some of the easiest online sites will work right from an ios or Android device too, meaning you can sell DVDs from your phone!
How much can you sell a used DVD for?
The amount you can sell a used DVD varies, but generally, you can earn about $0.50 to $20. It depends on what you are selling (for example, box sets or TV series usually will earn you more money).
You will want to think about costs for the different selling sites, as things like shipping fees can add up quickly.
You may receive money through PayPal, direct deposit, paper check, trade-in credit (yes, you may be able to trade in movies), store credit, or even cash by selling your old DVDs.
Is Decluttr a trusted site?
Yes, Decluttr is a trusted site to sell used DVDs online. You can even sell your used video games, textbooks, video game consoles, tablets, or old cell phones on this site too.
How much do pawn shops pay for DVDs?
Pawn shops usually pay around $0.50 to $5.00 for used DVDs.
Sell DVDs online – Summary
Now you can get started selling DVDs online and making extra money with this side hustle. Selling your used DVDs online has so many benefits, including decluttering, freeing up shelf space, and making extra cash for vacations or paying off debt.
If you’re no longer using your DVDs, put them to good use by selling them to people who want to buy them and use that money to reach your financial goals.
Have you ever sold DVDs online? What was your experience like?
If you don’t currently offer a tenant portal to your renters, the COVID-19 situation currently disrupting the world brings to light several reasons why you might reconsider. For the most part, landlords and property managers who already communicate and interact with tenants online are facing less business disruption than those who do not. In addition, landlords utilizing tenant portals are actively promoting the health and safety of their tenants, their employees and themselves.
Even when we aren’t facing a global pandemic, a tenant portal is becoming critical to success for any property management business. I’ve encountered countless situations where my tenant portal has helped me be a better landlord.
Once while on vacation, I was notified that one of my tenants had submitted a maintenance request thanks to my own tenant portal. This one happened to be for a leaking sink, which always catches my attention because water damage can become expensive or dangerous very quickly. Using our tenant portal, my renter was able to upload a few photos of the issue, and I was able to determine that the leak needed immediate attention. I contacted my plumber and was able to get him out to the house quickly. All said and done, this entire process took less than an hour and I was able to get back to enjoying my vacation.
Landlords who don’t currently use tenant portals often underestimate the convenience and affordability of providing this option for tenants. Many are concerned that tenants may be resistant to paying rent online, but one statistic shows that more than 80% of Americans prefer banking online. Funds can be available as soon as the next day, which is often much faster and more convenient than the time it takes for a check to arrive and clear.
Tenant portals allow your renters to do things like:
Pay rent online – Gone are the days of collecting rent via check in the mail. Believe it or not, I actually know a fellow landlord who had to send out a notice to all of his tenants asking them to stop sending cash rental payments because his dog had eaten hundreds of dollars worth of rent one day. Renters can set up one-time or automatic recurring rent payments via bank transfer, or pay with a credit or debit card. The convenience of paying rent online and setting up automatic payments will help you reduce late payments (and reduce late fees for your renters.)
Track payment history –You and your renters can both easily access payment history including payment dates, payment amounts and any late fees or charges. This can help you avoid any disagreements or misunderstandings about payments and payment dates.
Place maintenance requests – If you provide a streamlined process for your tenants to submit maintenance requests or work orders, your tenants are more likely to be proactive in bringing potential issues to your attention. This can mean big savings for your business by preventing problems from going unreported and causing preventable damage to your property.
Communicate – If you manage multiple properties or a multi-family unit, you might not want to hand out your personal phone number to every tenant you rent to. Tenant portals provide a viable solution for tenants to reach out to you, and for you to communicate updates and notices to all of your tenants at one time.
Access important files – File sharing is one of my favorite features of using a tenant portal. Tenant portals provide the opportunity to quickly upload and share files with your renters – things like the lease agreement, move-out instructions, important contact information, or seasonal maintenance information.
It’s no secret that technology is changing the rental industry, and choosing not to provide a tenant portal in this day and age may even hurt you in a competitive marketplace. Renters value technology and demand the ability to complete tasks online, and landlords need to comply to keep up with the competition. You need to be able to run your business from anywhere – and because rental payments are where you turn a profit on your investment, your renters need to be able to pay rent from anywhere.