quality

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The entire state of South Carolina holds a prominent place in U.S. history. A prime location for battles during both the American Revolution and the Civil War, the entire state was practically torn down and rebuilt.

Today, with a thriving economy and plenty of opportunities in the tourism industry South Carolina combines its own style with plenty of luxury along the coast.

South Carolina average rent prices

With strong local economies throughout the state and a healthy combination of affordable and quality housing — living in South Carolina has plenty of upsides.

The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the state is $1,246; only up 0.2 percent over last year. This tiny increase keeps housing in even the cheapest places to live in South Carolina at an affordable rate aligned with the national average.

The cheapest cities in South Carolina for renters

Whether you’re looking to live in the Lowcountry and feast on the best food and freshest seafood or you are looking for a restful spot a little further north, South Carolina has it all at a reasonable price.

With plenty of southern hospitality and over 2,800 miles of coastline, living here can feel like you’re on a permanent vacation.

If it’s time to make the Palmetto State your new home but you’re worried about breaking the bank, start your search with the 10 cheapest places to live in South Carolina.

10. Beaufort

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,191
  • Average rent change in the past year: -0.14 percent

Located on Port Royal Island, right off the coast of South Carolina’s mainland, Beaufort stands out thanks to its architecture. Concentrated mostly in the historic downtown district, you’ll find beautiful antebellum mansions perfectly preserved.

This little harbor town offers up affordable housing for year-round residents, but Beaufort also draws in a healthy bunch of tourists thanks to its assortment of hotels, bed and breakfasts, restaurants and scenery.

You could easily plan a day that involved dolphin watching, a long walk on the beach, a museum and finally a delicious Lowcountry seafood dinner.

A popular destination for retirees to call home, the city’s proximity to Savannah, Charleston and Hilton Head make it a convenient place to live even if you commute into a larger city for work.

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9. Greenville

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,166
  • Average rent change in the past year: 10.81 percent

For a home within South Carolina’s Upcountry, consider Greenville. Situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the city caters to all ages and walks of life. The downtown area features one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques alongside many art galleries and museums. There’s also no shortage of excellent outdoor activities to keep you busy.

The number of parks and green spaces, alongside the busy city center, gives Greenville an urban/suburban mix. You can spend one day sitting in a coffee shop or shopping until you drop, and the next at Falls Park on the Reedy with its 32 acres next to downtown.

Another perk of living in Greenville is its access to great weekend getaways. About an hour’s drive will get you to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As part of the Appalachian Mountain range, this national park offers spectacular, tree-lined views, fresh air and a peaceful break from the daily grind.

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8. Blythewood

Photo source: Blythewood Town Hall / Facebook
  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,152
  • Average rent change in the past year: 14.17 percent

Close enough to earn the designation as a suburb of Columbia, the town of Blythewood has its own historic charm. Steeped in southern hospitality and tradition, you’ll experience a close and diverse community who come together to celebrate the city’s interests including agriculture, horses and the arts. Even baseball gets taken pretty seriously here, according to locals.

Its location also enables it to provide small-town living without the loss of access to a big city. As a result, Blythewood attracts a lot of families who find the local parks, library and seasonal farmer’s market are all great places to let the kids run free while connecting with the community.

Live music also plays a role in bringing the community together, and a few annual events invite the whole town out to enjoy the weather and each other. These include a yearly Beach Bash, an official 4th of July celebration, the IPRA championship rodeo and a butterfly festival.

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7. Mauldin

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,126
  • Average rent change in the past year: 20.58 percent

Full of places to eat and places for families to play, you’ll find Mauldin nestled in the heart of upstate South Carolina. A safe and comfortable community, there are beautiful homes and well-maintained neighborhoods to pick from.

Its proximity to Greenville, only about 15 minutes away, means there are lots of opportunities to take advantage of larger city amenities without necessarily living in the city. You’ll also have access to more jobs with Greenville so close.

For those looking for some respite after a long week commuting — not five minutes away from Mauldin’s city center, you’ll find the Lake Conestee Nature Park. This 400-acre park is home to a variety of wildlife so get ready to spot deer, a raccoon or even a river otter when hiking.

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6. Duncan

Photo source: Town of Duncan, SC / Facebook
  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,032
  • Average rent change in the past year: 15.64 percent

A growing community, Duncan has that small-town feel but with easy access to other, more urban areas of the state. Attracting a younger crowd, as one of the cheapest places to live in South Carolina, the city really does have a lot to offer.

With a BMW manufacturing plant nearby, there are no shortages of jobs. Other key employers in Duncan within the area include Adidas, Chick-fil-A and Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System.

If you’re looking for outdoor fun — make sure to visit Shipwreck Cove. This pirate-themed water park lets you slide down spiraling water slides or float along a lazy river. There’s even a kiddie area for the little ones. It’s a little something special that goes beyond a casual hike or trip to a local playground.

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5. Greer

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $1,017
  • Average rent change in the past year: 9.70 percent

Another spot within the picturesque foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greer is one of the state’s fastest-growing cities. Natural beauty is everywhere you look — from the lakes to the mountains.

An exciting place to call home, most of the retail, dining, entertainment and professional services are within 12 square blocks in Greer’s Central Business District. You’ll also find plenty of community festivals throughout the year varying from live music in the park during the summer and Oktoberfest in the fall.

A few major employers call Greer home, helping provide plenty of job opportunities for locals. Here you’ll find the headquarters for Mitsubishi Polyester Film. You’re also not far from Michelin North America and the BMW manufacturing plant when you live here either.

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4. Rock Hill

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $984
  • Average rent change in the past year: 7.68 percent

Only 20 minutes south of Charlotte in North Carolina, the South Carolina town of Rock Hill blends historic charm with modern development. Rated one of the best places to live in the state, you get a quiet place to call home with access to plenty of economic opportunity in the bigger city down the road.

Living here, your central landmark is the Civitas statues. The four, 22-foot-tall sculptures sit in front of City Hall and represent the key themes of Rock Hill — Gears of Industry, Flame of Knowledge, Stars of Inspiration and Lightning Bolt of Energy.

When not admiring the statues, the rest of the city turns its attention to industry, the outdoors and education. It’s home to Winthrop University and 31 parks. This includes Cherry Park with 68-acres of hiking trails, manicured gardens and a large playground.

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3. Columbia

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $983
  • Average rent change in the past year: -6.93 percent

As the state capital, Columbia is a creative hub that combines old and new with nature, community and lots of shopping, eating and drinking. A true southern town, there are more than enough activities to pick from when planning out a day.

For a cultural experience, check out the Columbia Museum of Art with 26 different galleries containing treasures that date back up to 5,000 years.

When you need a dose of wildlife and plants, head to the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. You’ll find nearly 2,000 animals from around the world and a 70-acre botanical garden.

To unwind, Riverfront Park is a great place to hike and bike. You can even get a little history lesson by exploring an old pump house from the Columbia Canal and Water Works.

If a more collegiate experience is on your mind, Columbia is home to the University of South Carolina, Columbia International University and a few other colleges.

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2. Elgin

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $976
  • Average rent change in the past year: 12.86 percent

Another laid-back, suburban gem within the state, Elgin is one of the cheapest places to live in South Carolina.

The city’s claim to fame takes place on the first Saturday in December —this is the day of the annual Catfish Stomp, where you can try some of the best catfish ever while enjoying live music and a parade.

The rest of the year, there’s no shortage of fresh food, especially if you visit the Kershaw County Farmers Market. Everything from fruits and veggies to meat, eggs and baked goods go up for sale every Saturday morning.

With more of a rural feel, Elgin also boasts beautiful countryside and refreshing landscapes. Make sure to visit White Pond for some time in undisturbed nature.

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1. Spartanburg

  • Average 1-BR rent price: $823
  • Average rent change in the past year: -5.38 percent

Topping our list of the cheapest places to live in South Carolina, Spartanburg is so much more than affordable housing and virtually no traffic. It’s a vibrant city, packed with all the amenities. Living here gives you easy access to the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains alongside plenty of art, culture, festivals and history.

Spend one day visiting the Cowpens National Battlefield, the next day shopping in locally-owned stores and the next fishing on Lake Bowen.

The city also has a huge cultural presence with a designed cultural district downtown. Here you can walk through blocks of art galleries and studios, music venues, breweries, coffee shops, museums and libraries. You can easily get your fill of the arts with just a day’s stroll.

Among the family-friendly fun, outdoor activities, lively nightlife and more, you’ll also find a decent number of college students. Spartanburg is home to seven colleges and universities — making academia a major economic driver for the city.

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The most expensive places to live in South Carolina

It’s no surprise that the most expensive places to live in South Carolina are some of the state’s most well-known cities. Areas like Charleston and Mount Pleasant draw in large numbers of tourists each year, while other places on the list are popular suburbs. Check out where else in South Carolina may test your budget just a little when it comes to paying rent.

Methodology

Rent prices are based on a rolling weighted average from Apartment Guide and Rent.’s multifamily rental property inventory as of May 2021. Our team uses a weighted average formula that more accurately represents price availability for each unit type and reduces the influence of seasonality on rent prices in specific markets.

We excluded cities with insufficient inventory from this report.

The rent information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein do not constitute financial advice or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.

Source: rent.com

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Your home’s roof can take a beating, whether roasting in the sun during the summer, getting coated with ice in winter, and withstanding wind and rain year-round. In other words, it’s one of your house’s key MVPs. But eventually, roofs wear out and need to be replaced or fixed. You may notice a small (or big) leak. It could be 15, 20, or even 50 years, but at some point, your roof will likely need to be repaired or replaced. While costs can range widely, the average roof replacement currently costs $11,500.

In this guide, you’ll learn about roof replacement costs, as well as what your options are for paying for roofing expenses.

How Much Does a New Roof Cost?

The average roof lasts 25 to 50 years, though repairs (both minor and major) can pop up more often. Sometimes, damage to one part of a roof can nudge a homeowner to go ahead and replace the whole thing.

You likely got a general idea of the condition of your home’s roof during the home inspection, when you were buying your property. If now is the time to get the job done, though, you’ll want to understand the costs involved.

When looking at new roof installation costs, there are a number of factors that will impact the overall price:

•   Size of the roof being replaced

•   Material to be used on the roof

•   Style of the roof (those with multiple eaves, lots of detailing, or steeper pitches could take longer and cost more)

•   What part of the country you live in (cost of living can vary considerably)

•   What time of year you are having work done (doing so off-season could potentially save you extra money; roofers tend to be most in demand in late summer and early fall).

•   The size and style of the roof may contribute to the overall cost. The height and pitch of your roof are also important factors because there are additional safety and labor costs to consider.

The average cost to replace a roof is approximately $11,500 on average, but the price could range from $6,700 to $80,000.

When creating an estimate, roofers sometimes define costs per roofing square. One roofing square is equal to a 10-by-10-foot (100 square feet) area. So a 1,700-square-foot roof would be 17 squares. Currently, squares can range in price from $450 to $750, depending on materials and other costs.
💡 Quick Tip: A low-interest personal loan can consolidate your debts, lower your monthly payments, and help you get out of debt sooner.

Getting a New Roof

Some pointers on getting a new roof:

•   If you are replacing your roof as a part of general home maintenance, you may have a little more time to prepare for the costs associated with the repairs. It allows you to be more methodical about pricing the project out and selecting a roofer. And having a bit of a runway will allow you to start saving and develop a workable budget for the project.

•   Get an estimate from several reputable contractors. When doing so, be sure to pay close attention to the quality of the materials specified in the estimate. It’s even better if you can get a recommendation from someone you know. Regardless, definitely check reviews and references carefully.

•   Remember that, while a new roof can be a major expense, it can improve the value of your home for future sale, stave off ongoing repairs from leaks, and, of course, protect the residents.

Paying for Roof Repairs

If your roof is damaged, then you are faced with a different challenge than figuring the roof replacement cost.

•   In the case of a natural disaster caused by an earthquake or hurricanes, you may even be eligible for help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency“>Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Whatever the cause, it could be helpful to take photographs sooner rather than later to document the damage.

•   Your homeowners’ policy or home warranty may include coverage that could possibly help defray some of the costs, depending on the cause of the damage and the age of the roof.

•   If it’s determined that the damage is from normal wear and tear, then it will likely be considered regular maintenance and may not be covered. Many roofing jobs fall into that common home repair category.

•   Also, if your roof is older than 10 years, you may only be eligible for part of the cost determined to be a depreciated value of the roof. Whatever the circumstance, it could be worthwhile to call your insurance company and find out if you’re covered and to what extent.

•   And, before you start work, it bears repeating that it’s wise to get multiple estimates to help you make an informed decision and ensure that you’re getting the most value for your investment. You may want to consult with a few licensed roofing contractors and compare bids.

Recommended: How to Pay for Emergency Home Repairs

Ways to Help Pay for Home Repairs

Whether you are replacing your entire roof or just replacing a damaged portion, you may want to consider financing all or part of the work. One option worth considering: a personal loan.

•   A personal loan can be a good option for some homeowners. With a personal loan, you’ll usually get a lower interest rate than credit cards. Also, with an unsecured personal loan, there typically is no additional lien against your property. Often, these loans can be processed quickly and with minimal fees.

•   Another financing option homeowners turn to for home improvements is a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). The application for a HELOC is akin to that of a mortgage. How much you’re able to borrow depends on several factors, including the value of your home. You may also have to arrange and pay for a home appraisal.

As you consider your costs associated with a roofing or other home project, you may want to use a home improvement cost calculator to help you budget appropriately.

The Takeaway

Replacing your home’s roof is typically a big-budget home repair project; it often costs in the five-figure range. However, it’s an important investment in your home’s value and integrity. You can look into financing options such as HELOCs and personal loans to help you pay for the work.

Think twice before turning to high-interest credit cards. Consider a SoFi personal loan instead. SoFi offers competitive fixed rates and same-day funding. Checking your rate takes just a minute.

SoFi’s Personal Loan was named NerdWallet’s 2023 winner for Best Online Personal Loan overall.


SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.

Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

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.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

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Source: sofi.com

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Moving to Mexico, moving house or ready for makeover time? The holidays are upon us, and the shopping season is about to go mad! Buying furnishings within Mexico is the smart way to go, as the price of shipping to Mexico can be astronomical, and the delay in shipping goods might mean a Mexican wait (i.e. a looong time).

The Sales are NOW! 

November and December sales in Mexico roll over into January, when stores want to move out stock before their new arrivals. The ‘Back to School’ sales in August later in the year are something to watch out for also, but the time for bargains is from now until February! 

MND surveyed the scene of best places to buy cool home decor in Mexico – from basic necessities to up-scale, stylish furnishings with wow factor.

So, where do I begin shopping for home decor in Mexico? 

It’s true, there are many sites out there, so we found some of our – and our features editor’s – favorites. The cost of furniture in Mexico is about the same as what you would pay in Canada or the U.S.  Sprucing up your space with splashes of Mexican handicrafts, art and design elements is going to be a more affordable, and fun, part of your home interior design project. 

Inspirational tip: We liked AD Magazine, Mexico’s Architectural Digest, for awesome design ideas. 

Handy tips before you begin shopping in Mexico for home decor 

Mexico, like the US, has modern and antique furniture ranging from Contemporary to Victorian, and there’s no reason to pay full price when you can get up to 60% and, in some cases, 80% for last-minute bargains.  

Bargains

Beyond the regular sales times, the big department stores like Liverpool and Palacio de Hierro have specials all the time, plus brand ambassadors will often be there to offer even more discounts and big blowout sales. Placencia also has sales currently, offering 40% off (and sometimes more) on living room, bedroom, and dining room sets.  

Payment Plans

Remember layaway?  Some stores like Moblum and Gaia offer payment plan options with PayPal, scheduled bank transfers or recurring credit card payments. So you can splurge on a bulk buy, especially if you’ve got an empty house, or new rooms to fill, and catch up with payments in a leisurely way. 

Delivery 

Tiffany and Tom Pence moved to Querétaro from Florida in 2018 and report that “deliveries were the most interesting and entertaining part of buying furniture for us. Sometimes the delivery was scheduled 3 days away; other times the deliveries were 2-3 weeks later. Sometimes it was on an official store brand truck, other times on a pickup truck.”  So just double-check check you’re clear on the delivery date and get a contact person’s name and number!  You’re in Mexico now, and we came for a more relaxed lifestyle after all!  It’s just part of it; no sweat. 

Identification (yes, take it!) At each store, you’ll need to provide proof of address, and a passport as a form of identification before delivery approval. “My passport has been copied more times in the first 6 weeks here than all my previous years of having a passport. I’m sure my picture is up on the internet or a public bathroom somewhere,” Tiffany Pence says.  So – just a reminder!  

Give me the best shopping sites, beyond Amazon and Ikea! 

Sodimac 

It seems to be the most popular furniture and homewares emporium for the Mexican population, according to Similarweb’s traffic analytics. It’s a bit of a quagmire on the website, but bargain hunters and those on a budget can score.  

Why shop here?  Cheap and cheerful, all the simple basics. Good for kids. 

DICO

Basics and bargains! Like Sodimac, the least expensive.

Why shop here?  Deals! And cheap beds. Simple furnishings for a rental investment? 

Solutions Mexico

We liked this one in Puerto Vallarta and Nayarit, with its invite to, “easily furnish your home in Mexico, whether one piece or your entire home.”  They have professional interior decorators who will customize a furniture package and a wide range of gorgeous goods, from mid-range to higher-end.   

Why shop here?  They offer furnishing tips, over 200 suppliers and shopping tours to Guadalajara, Tonala and Tiaquepaque to hunt for wall art, rugs, decor items and lighting.  They offer rental packages for rental owners who don’t want to invest in all their furniture at once, but want to rent their property right away.  And their site is in English also, if that helps you! 

Gaia Design 

Stylish, modern, functional furniture, with a touch of the Scandi design vibe, and an easy-to-navigate website.  

Why shop here? 60% off most items right now, free delivery over 12,000 pesos, and an average of 4.6 stars from all the testimonials.  They also offer design services and discovery and design advice calls. 

Moblum

Mid-range price, modern and stylish furniture from the basic to the more interesting.

Why shop here? Offers immediate delivery, flash sales, promotions, one year warranties. They also have a blog and a roster of interior designers – so you can brainstorm and seek advice. 

Moda in Casa

More upscale contemporary furniture, with prices to match. Very stylish – which is immediately apparent on their home page, where the design editor has put some thought into presentation. They have stores in CDMX, Valle de Bravo and Mérida. 

Why shop here? “Each piece is made using the best technology and materials in combination with the expert hands of our artisans who craft each piece to be a unique object.” Say no more.

Mobica

Great standard, mid-range modern furniture with a wide selection. Free design services and ‘lookbooks’ to browse through. 

Why shop here? They donate to underprivileged children (always a plus point).

Bakan 

They specialize in stylish outdoor furniture – from dining sets to banks and benches, umbrellas, and accessories – which combines functionality with good quality and design.  

Why shop here?  Their exclusive brands have anywhere from 40% to 60% price reductions right now. 

Decada

I couldn’t resist these two hip young businesswomen who run this vintage furniture store in Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City, where “each piece tells a story.” 

Why shop here? Every piece of their eclectic collection is thoughtfully curated and hand picked, from a vast range of styles.  Adding just one or two pieces might jazz up your basic items.    

Lagunilla Market

If you’re looking for a quirky shopping experience, and a vast range of antique furnishings, head to La Lagunilla Market, a weekly morning traditional public market in Mexico City, located about ten blocks north of the city’s main plaza, in a neighborhood called La Lagunilla. There are three big, distinct zones dedicated to food, clothing, and furniture.

Why shop here?  The authentic Mexican experience is full of oddities and genuine Mexican antiques to die for. Take a break between shopping and having tacos and a michelada at the lunch counter! 

Mercado Libre 

Mexico’s “Facebook marketplace” is just as spectacular in its range of offerings as its U.S or abroad equivalents. Anyone can sign up, and it’s user-friendly. You just need the stomach for hunting, a bit like thrift shopping. Pick your region, and dive in. There are many current bargains, coupon offers and payment plans connected to all the major Mexican banks.  Interest free installment plans are also tempting for shoppers on a budget! 

So, take a deep breath and enjoy the ride of mixing and matching this huge and eclectic range of home decor on offer in Mexico, that suits your style and your wallet. Sign up for their mailing lists to get final sale alerts and flash sales – happening now – and take advantage of their payment plans and free design or delivery services.  And don’t forget Google translate – or your ID!

Henrietta Weekes is a writer, editor, actor and narrator. She divides her time between San Miguel de Allende, New York and Oxford, UK. 

Source: mexiconewsdaily.com

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Austin has a reputation as a global live music capital, a hipster haven and an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true. Best of all? The cost of living in Austin is still more affordable than most bustling metropolises.

Even though locals complain about skyrocketing prices, the overall cost of living in the Lone Star State capital is just a fraction higher — only 1.2 percent — compared to other cities.

The most expensive part of living in Austin is housing, but even that’s offset by savings on gas prices, transportation, utilities and food. It would be negligent not to mention the quality of life — which is impossible to put a price tag on — that Austinites will proudly tell you is one of the highest around.

Year-over-year cost of living changes in Austin

We’ll deep dive into the data and highlight the cost of living and rent in Austin, but first, here’s a snapshot of year-over-year changes in the cost of living in Austin.

  • Groceries: -0.22%
  • Housing: +1.82%
  • Utilities: no change
  • Transportation expenses: -3.57%
  • Healthcare: -3.41%
  • Miscellaneous expenses: -2.23%

As you can see, in most categories, the cost of living has actually decreased. However, the average housing costs increased by almost 2 percent.

Now that we’ve highlighted annual changes from the past year, let’s look into each category so you can put together a living calculator and determine if this is one of the best places for you to call home.

Average rent is cheaper than San Francisco

How you feel about the housing market in Austin depends on where you’re coming from. New York City and San Francisco transplants will find property value refreshingly affordable, while those moving to Austin from smaller cities may find average rent surprisingly expensive.

Average rents for Austin apartments have increased compared to last year. A one-bedroom apartment in Downtown Austin is up 45 percent and costs an average of $1,523 per month. Of course, the cost of housing varies pretty dramatically depending on what part of Austin you’re in.

Average apartment rent in Austin

When you compare the cost of rent for a one-bedroom in Austin to a one-bedroom in San Francisco, you’ll realize the price difference. A one-bedroom in San Fran averages $3,368 a month.

Minutes from Downtown and a short walk to all things boutique and hip, Bouldin Creek rents average around $3,037 per month. Triangle Slate, Central Austin and Barton Hills have all seen price hikes for one-bedroom apartments and range from $2,146 to $2,588. These are some of the most popular neighborhoods and you’ll pay a higher price to live here.

More typical, however, are the family-friendly neighborhoods of Clarksville and Brentwood, with average rents ranging from $1,825 to $1,839, respectively.

For bargain hunters, it’s possible to find even better deals on rent, like $950 in Crestview or $1,000 a month for a one-bedroom in North Loop.

Average cost of homeownership in Austin

Homebuyers will probably not be surprised to find that the real estate market is hot and housing prices are competitive. Housing costs in Austin are 11.8 percent higher than the national average. Data shows the average cost of a home in the best neighborhoods of Austin is $565,000.

Of course, home prices vary, but one thing is certain — most are going well above the asking price. In fact, according to Redfin, homes in Austin are selling at the biggest premium in the country, seven percent above asking prices and are on the market for an average of 38 days.

Cost of food in Austin

Food costs vary from Houston to Dallas to Austin, but one thing is for sure — foodies have much to celebrate in Austin. From celebrity chefs to taco trucks, good eats await around every corner, at every price point.

Budget diners can enjoy Taco Tuesdays at Quality Seafood with $2 beers and $2 seafood tacos. On the higher end, Sunday brunchers can savor authentic Mexican fare at Fonda San Miguel for around $39 per person.

Groceries in Austin cost about 8 percent below the national average. A dozen eggs will set you back $1.56, a half-gallon of milk is $1.98 and everyone’s favorite morning beverage, coffee, will cost $4.04.

Overall, Austinites will pay less for groceries compared to other cities. In fact, the cost of food decreased by 0.22 percent since last year in the same location, according to coli.org data.

Utility costs in Austin

Austinites are an outdoorsy bunch, whether it’s kicking back at a music festival or taking care of business from a coffee shop patio. But don’t be fooled by the sometimes mild climate — this is a city that loves its air conditioning and is willing to pay for it.

Luckily, utilities are about 5 percent below the national average, totaling around $155.01 a month for your total energy bill.

When you calculate the average rent and cost of living in Austin, don’t forget to include the cost of utilities. Your average rent budget should account for the cost of electricity, water, sewage, gas and internet.

Transportation costs in Austin

First, the good news: Transportation costs in Austin are about 14 percent lower than the national average. Now, the bad news: There’s a reason Austinites love to complain about the traffic.

With only two east-west interstates and no ring road around the metro, traffic in town is nothing to scoff at. Austin is often ranked in the top 10 worst commutes in the country, with average commute times around 40 minutes. One of the keys to happiness for life in this city is minimizing the time you spend on freeways.

Public transportation in Austin

The city has a fair transit score of 44 — primarily because of urban sprawl. Settling down in an area with access to public transportation can relieve some of the headaches of your daily commute. CapMetro is the local transit system, and it includes bus routes, light rail and university and airport shuttle buses.

Overall, CapMetro is an affordable option for getting around — if you’re not in a hurry. Kids under 18 ride free on all services, and the standard single-ride bus fare is $1.25. You can expect to pay $41.25 for a 31-day pass.

Even with the sweltering heat and sprawl, Austin’s overall walk score is 62. And with a bike score of 70, cyclists find Austin generally bike-friendly. However, the central parts of town are the most bikeable parts of the city and the most walkable: Downtown, Cedar Park, Central East Austin, all University of Texas areas, Hyde Park and Old West Austin. CapMetro buses and trains have bicycle racks that make it easy for folks to do a hybrid bike commute, even if they live in the suburbs.

Whether you’re using public transit to and from schools or your university or your job, renters can rely on public transit to get them around. Just don’t forget to account for this with your annual salary.

Driving costs in Austin

There are a handful of toll roads around Austin, which can significantly reduce driving times from the suburbs. The rates are confusing and vary dramatically, ranging from $0.62 to $2.79. For savings and convenience, a TxTag reduces tolls by about 25 percent and deducts from a prepaid account.

Driving is most people’s primary mode of getting around town, but it comes at a premium. Parking costs an average of $219 per month, and gasoline — while lower than the national average — still costs around $3.85 a gallon. Tire balancing costs about 10 percent less than the national average of about $43.10.

Healthcare costs in Austin

Always a hot-button issue, healthcare costs are one of those areas where your mileage may vary. Taking that into consideration, there are some general benchmarks that can give you an idea of overall healthcare costs in Austin.

A visit to an Austin dentist for a routine examination typically costs around $119, and a regular checkup with a family doctor will run you about $111.

If you’re paying out of pocket, expect to shell out around $473 for a prescription, which is right in line with the national average. But if an Ibuprofen is all you need, then you’re in luck — at $8.79 for a bottle, it’s a bargain.

Goods and services costs in Austin

Having covered the bare necessities, that leaves a world of non-essential — but not unimportant — spending to consider. Austin ranks well in this area, with goods and services just barely more than the national average.

Austin is a film buff’s dream — full of movie theaters showing everything from obscure classics to mega-blockbusters. An average movie ticket costs just $10.53, and if you’re at a BYOB backyard event, a six-pack of beer will set you back $10.12.

Staying fit and looking sharp is easy in Austin. Yoga studios dot the city, and the typical class fee is around $20, although monthly memberships will cut that fee in half or less.

Haircuts cost on average $28, and a visit to a beauty salon is usually around $50.

Even if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll find a ton of free entertainment and opportunities for physical activity in the many parks around town.

Taxes in Austin

For anyone new to the great state of Texas, the big bonus is that there’s no state income tax, which everyone loves come tax time. Effectively, tax rates are non-existent.

State sales tax is 6.25 percent which makes up most of the 8.25 percent sales tax in Austin. So, if you drop $1,000 on a flat-screen TV, you’ll spend an extra $82.50 in tax.

However, there are four sales tax holidays each year in Austin, each offering breaks in different categories. April is for emergency preparation supplies, Memorial Day weekend is for EnergyStar appliances and water-efficient products and August is for back-to-school items. These are perfect opportunities to buy big-ticket items at considerable savings.

How much do you need to earn to live in Austin?

For overall financial stability and well-being, finance experts recommend that your rent should not exceed 30 percent of your budget. For an average $1,599 apartment, that means that your average salary is $63,960.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau data, the average Austin income is $71,576. Use our rent calculator to see for yourself how you might need to tweak your budget to afford the average rent for an apartment in Austin.

Living in Austin

Most locals will tell you that life in the ATX lives up to the hype. “Come for the mild weather, stay for the Tex-Mex,” they say. OK, maybe nobody says that, but they definitely should.

Austin offers all the amenities of a big city — a booming economy, excellent food and world-class entertainment — while maintaining a famously small-town feel. From professional opportunities at tech companies to natural beauty, there’s always something more to explore in Texas’ capital city.

Regardless of your budget or tastes, there’s a home in Austin waiting for you. Check out the apartments for rent in Austin and find your landing spot today.

Cost of Living Index comes from coli.org.
The rent information included in this summary is based on a calculation of multifamily rental property inventory on Rent. as of March 2022. Rent prices are for illustrative purposes only. This information does not constitute a pricing guarantee or financial advice related to the rental market.

Source: rent.com

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star ratings rank Medicare plans from best (5 stars) to worst (1 star). The agency’s ratings are based on data measuring plans’ quality of care and customer satisfaction.

Based on the most recent year of data and weighted by enrollment, Baylor Scott & White Health Plan’s 2024 Medicare Advantage plans get an average overall rating of 3.96 stars

.

For comparison, the average star rating for plans from all providers for 2024 is 4.04

.

What does Baylor Scott & White Medicare Advantage cost?

Costs for Medicare Advantage plans will depend on your plan, geographic location and health needs.

Premiums

One of the costs to consider is the plan’s premium. In 2024, about 39% of Baylor Scott & White’s Medicare Advantage plans have $0 premiums

.

Even as a Medicare Advantage user, you’ll still be responsible for paying your Medicare Part B premium, which is $164.90 per month in 2023 ($174.70 in 2024), although some plans cover part or all of this cost

.

Copays, coinsurance and deductibles

Requirements for copays, coinsurance and deductibles vary depending on your plan, location and the services you use. Other out-of-pocket costs to consider include:

  • Whether the plan covers any part of your monthly Medicare Part B premium.

  • The plan’s yearly deductibles and any other deductibles, such as a drug deductible.

  • Copayments and/or coinsurance for each visit or service. For instance, there may be a $10 copay for seeing your primary doctor and a $45 copay for seeing a specialist.

  • The plan’s in-network and out-of-network out-of-pocket maximums.

  • Whether your medical providers are in-network or out-of-network, or how often you may go out-of-network for care.

  • Whether you require extra benefits, and whether the plan charges for them.

To get a sense of costs, use Medicare’s plan finding tool to compare information among available plans in your area. You can select by insurance carrier to see only Baylor Scott & White plans or compare across carriers. You can also shop directly from Baylor Scott & White Health Plan’s website by entering your ZIP code.

Baylor Scott & White Medicare Advantage plan types

There are several kinds of Baylor Scott & White Medicare Advantage plans, and they vary in structure, costs and benefits. About 65% of Baylor Scott & White Medicare Advantage plans include prescription drug coverage.

Plan offerings include the following types:

A health maintenance organization (HMO) generally requires that you use a specific network of doctors and hospitals. You may need a referral from your primary doctor in order to see a specialist, and out-of-network benefits are usually very limited.

Preferred provider organization (PPO) plans provide the most freedom, allowing you to see any provider that accepts the insurance. You may not need to choose a primary doctor, and you don’t need referrals to see specialists. You can seek out-of-network care, although it may cost more than seeing an in-network doctor.

Baylor Scott & White Medicare Advantage service area

Baylor Scott & White Health Plan offers Medicare Advantage plans in 47 counties in Texas. The company covers about 29,000 Medicare Advantage beneficiaries

.

Compare Medicare Advantage providers

Get more information below about some of the major Medicare Advantage providers. These insurers offer plans in most states. The plans you can choose from will depend on your ZIP code and county.

Find the right Medicare Advantage plan

  • What are the plan’s costs? Do you understand what the plan’s premium, deductibles, copays and/or coinsurance will be? Can you afford them?

  • Is your doctor in-network? If you have a preferred medical provider or providers, make sure they participate in the plan’s network.

  • Are your prescriptions covered? If you’re on medication, it’s crucial to understand how the plan covers it. What tier are your prescription drugs on, and are there any coverage rules that apply to them?

  • Is there dental coverage? Does the plan offer routine coverage for vision, dental and hearing needs?

  • Are there extras? Does the plan offer any extra benefits, such as fitness memberships, transportation benefits or meal delivery?

If you have additional questions about Medicare, visit Medicare.gov or call 800-MEDICARE (800-633-4227, TTY 877-486-2048).

Source: nerdwallet.com

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Located on The Drive, Island City Traders is Wilton Manors’ largest retailer and a mainstay of the city, opening up almost 20 years ago.

“We opened our doors during a time when Wilton Manors growth was in its infancy, and turned what used to be a hardware store into a furniture showroom,” said general manager Aaron Rochester. “We are so grateful to be recognized by our community. It feels absolutely wonderful to hear that we have the support and confidence of the people we serve.”

In the mood for a house or apartment makeover? This is the place to go. They carry a wonderful selection of contemporary and mid-century designer furniture peppered with unique home decor items from around the globe. There is a collection of furniture, rugs, accessories and original lighting fixtures.

“While our style has evolved and changed over the years, we remain focused on being an industry leader in style and trends,” he said. “We pride ourselves in our ability to find our clients unique and quality pieces that reflect their personal style.”

Make sure you stop in before year’s end to take advantage of their deep discounts.

2450 WILTON DR., WILTON MANORS
IslandCityTraders.com

Runner-up: Decades Design Group

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Here Are the Winners of Your Choice Awards 2023

Source: outsfl.com

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TPO, Anti-Valuation Bias Tools; Retail and Broker News; Interview on Home Equity Levels

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TPO, Anti-Valuation Bias Tools; Retail and Broker News; Interview on Home Equity Levels

By:
Rob Chrisman

Thu, Dec 21 2023, 10:43 AM

“What do you call a Christmas wreath made out of $100 bills? Aretha Franklins.” It’s cutting-edge humor like this that keeps readers coming back for more, right? Or astronomy tips, as today is the Winter Solstice, with the least amount of sunlight in the Northern Hemisphere and a little music to go along with it. “The winter is here again, oh Lord. Haven’t been home in a year or more.” (Look at that hair!) Lenders and vendors are hoping that the decline in rates keeps the “winter” away from lending, and holds more salary cuts, layoffs, and furloughs at bay. Mortgage banking is not alone in expanding automation and trying to save money. Do you think that you deserve a lower price for checking out of a store yourself and not using a paid clerk? Many do. The number of people who work as cashiers dropped from 1.4 million in 2019 to 1.2 million today, and over the next decade the BLS projects an additional 10 percent decline. (Today’s podcast can be found here, and this week’s is sponsored by Lender Toolkit’s AI-powered AI Underwriter and Prism borrower income automation tools. Get loans approved in under two minutes. By providing lightning-fast underwriting decisions, your market reputation with borrowers and Realtors will soar. Listen to an interview with Hometap’s Dan Burnett on record home equity levels and how Americans can best leverage them.)

Lender and Broker Products, Programs, and Services

“With increased regulatory focus on property-valuation bias, lenders need robust risk-management processes in place. The recently released interagency proposals on AVM-quality control and ROV-process guidance are designed to prevent valuation bias and help ensure industry stakeholders follow fair-lending practices. Watch our complimentary on-demand webinar to learn how you can prepare, and implement the tools needed to support the proposed changes.* Our experts discuss how to identify potential bias in valuations, ways to mitigate bias risk, how to monitor AVM and appraisal compliance with fair-lending requirements, and more. Watch this timely and important webinar here. *Check with your compliance or legal department for information on complying with applicable law.”

“As the year draws to a close, Planet Home Lending extends our heartfelt gratitude to our invaluable correspondent partners. Together, we’ve stood strong in the face of challenges in a demanding market. Thank you for being an integral part of our shared journey. As we look forward to 2024, we continue our commitment to being your go-to team, your reliable partner, your toolkit, and your product gateway. Here’s to a smooth finish for 2023 and a prosperous New Year.”

“Ready to make your borrowers’ dreams of homeownership a reality? Kind ‘s blended FICO (conventional representative score) loan options can help make it happen! With this option, your borrowers have a greater chance of final approval for a home loan based on their average combined score. Kind has the tools & resources to help you get the job done fast and easy! Using the Kwik Pricer in our broker platform, Kwikie – built with brokers in mind, you’ll be able to knock out deals hassle-free! Learn more by connecting with your Kind Account Executive. If you’re not yet a partner with us, join the #kindmovement today by submitting your broker inquiry.”

Disaster Updates and Other Industry News

On December 13, 2023, with DR-4751-TN, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) declared that federal disaster aid with individual assistance has been made available to four Tennessee counties; Davidson, Dickson, Montgomery and Sumner to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and tornadoes on December 9, 2023.

On 12/13/2023, with DR-4751, FEMA declared federal disaster aid with individual assistance has been made available to counties affected by severe storms and tornadoes on 12/9/2023. See AmeriHome Mortgage Disaster Announcement 20231205-CL for inspection requirements.

Hometown Equity Mortgage is offering G-PA 525 Fast closings 21-30 days, 5-25 units can be mixed use, Mixed use is viable with 70 percent residential, no prepay, I/O 12/24, Up to 75 percent LTV.

Create opportunities with ITIN borrowers in the new year. If you’re not sure how, reach out to the Champs of Non-QM. Champions Funding is steadfast in its mission to help you and your borrowers access loan products outside of traditional agency options. Don’t miss out on learning all the CDFI benefits too! Not yet partnered with the Champs? Sign up today!

loanDepot, Inc. a leading provider of home lending solutions that enable customers to achieve the dream of home ownership, unveiled its fully automated melloNow underwriting engine, changing the game for mortgage borrowers by delivering a fully conditional loan approval in minutes rather than hours or days. Utilizing a fully digital verification process, melloNow swiftly analyzes credit reports, detects fraud, and validates income and employment data at the point of sale, instantaneously generating unique borrower conditions. Now, with the melloNow digital underwriting engine, many loanDepot customers will enjoy a dramatically improved experience.

Newfi Wholesale announced its partnership with the popular technology solution, ARIVE to bring its full suite of Non-QM products to loan officers and brokers. With this partnership, ARIVE is now expanding its capabilities to include DSCR loans. This illustrates the industry-wide shift towards the growing Non-QM sector. Specializing in alternative lending products, Newfi has led the way with innovative solutions relevant for today’s markets. This strategic partnership will empower mortgage brokers with a one-stop shop mortgage experience to a wide array of niche loan programs. Newfi approved brokers will gain immediate access to Newfi’s diverse product lineup and competitive pricing in seamless technological experience, with deeper integrations in development and are set to be unveiled soon, further enriching our shared platform’s capabilities. Brokers interested in working with Newfi can sign up here.

Effective for FHA case number assignments on or after January 1, 2024, AmeriHome’s 2024 Loan Limit Pricing will be available. For additional information including updates on VA loan limits, see AmeriHome Mortgage announcement 20231207-CL for details.

For Mortgage Loans converted from interim construction financing to a permanent loan with a modification, the Loan Modification Agreement required to be included in the Collateral Package may be a certified copy with the original document treated as a Trailing Document. View AmeriHome Mortgage Product Announcement 20231206-CL for details.

VA announced an update to VA Lenders Handbook Chapter 4 Topic 7, Subsection b on Collection Accounts. See AmeriHome Mortgage announcement 20231204-CL for details.

Jet Mortgage is offering a new FHA DPA, 100 percent LTV FHA with New Improved Pricing. Jet 200 FHA DPA Highlights include 600 Min FICO, 1 Unit, Condo’s, Townhomes, Repayable & Forgivable Option, Max 2 percent BPC/LPC – Max 2 percent Discount Points. Must be DU Approve/Eligible, no Manual Underwrites allowed. Contact Jet Mortgage for more information.

VA has issued Circular 26-23-26 regarding the impact of 2024 Conforming Loan Limits on VA loans. Contact Kind Lending with questions about impacts to VA loans regarding changes to conforming loan limits for 2024

Capital Markets

Bonds enjoyed another winning session yesterday on the back of some market-friendly inflation data for November out of the United Kingdom, geopolitical angst tied to a potential military response to Houthi rebels disrupting shipping activity in the Red Sea, slowdown worries linked to disappointing forward revenue guidance from economic bellwether FedEx, and some safe-haven positioning before the extended Christmas weekend. The market largely overlooked some stronger-than-expected existing home sales activity in November, a nice pickup in consumer confidence in December, and a weak 20-year bond reopening auction.

In housing/real-estate news, Existing Home sales rose 0.8 percent month-over-month in November to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 3.82 million, ending a five-month decline. Despite the rise, sales still sit 7.3 percent lower than a year ago largely due to mortgage rates spiking in September and October. Sales of existing homes continue to be hindered by high mortgage rates, high selling prices, and limited inventory. Inventory remains light, with only 3.5 months’ worth at the current pace. Fortunately, the recent drop in mortgage rates is expected to be a driver of stronger sales activity in December. The median home price rose 4 percent year-over-year to $387,600, while the first-time homebuyer share rose to 31 percent from 28 percent from the month prior.

As previously mentioned, this week contains a lot of housing data. After learning Tuesday of a substantial pick-up in residential activity recently, it would appear that home builders are becoming more optimistic as mortgage rates trend lower and economic growth remains resilient. Speaking of optimism, we also learned yesterday that the Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index increased in December as there was renewed optimism across all ages and household income levels with attention being paid to improved inflation trends, business conditions, and job availability. Consumer confidence is highly influenced by gasoline prices, which have been falling.

There will be little data of importance on the economic front until we get into the new year, though we do have a busy economic calendar today that is underway with the third look at Q3 GDP (4.9 percent, revised slightly downward). We’ve also received weekly jobless claims (205k, up from 202k) and Philadelphia Fed manufacturing (-10.5, much lower than expected). The core PCE deflator was expected to be unchanged at 2.3 percent. Later today brings leading indicators for November, KC Fed manufacturing for December, Treasury announcing next week’s laundry list of supply including 2-, 5- and 7-year notes before auctioning $20 billion reopened 5-year TIPS, and Freddie Mac’s Primary Mortgage Market Survey with the prior week’s 30-year mortgage rate slipping eight basis points to 6.95 percent. We begin the day with Agency MBS prices unchanged from Wednesday night, the 10-year yielding 3.87 after closing yesterday at 3.88 percent, and the 2-year at 4.36. With yesterday’s gains, the 10-year note yield returned to unchanged for 2023 after hitting 5.02 percent intraday in the middle of October.

Employment

“Logan Finance bucks mortgage industry trends with strong Q4 growth! As the year-end fast approaches, Logan Finance finds itself in a thriving environment sparking growth that has more than doubled over the last two years. “There’s a great need for Non-QM lending and we are positioned well to handle the influx of new business,” says Aaron Samples, Logan’s Chief Revenue Officer. TPO partners, if you missed the year-end pricing special announcement, see our LinkedIn profile at Logan Finance Corporation. Mortgage broker clients can get rate discounts of up to .375 on select loan products through the end of December, so bring your deals to Logan! Logan’s growth is also fueling several new hires including Wholesale and Correspondent industry veterans Nick Pabarcus and Dave Weatherford, who will focus on recruiting and growing our network. And speaking of hiring, we’re looking for Non-QM superstar AE’s, so contact Aaron Samples for hiring information. Learn more about Logan’s growth at Loganwholesale.com and Logancorrespondent.com.”

Happy Holidays from PrimeLending! Looking back at 2023, are you wrapping up the year feeling more confident of where your career is headed than when you started? Did you receive the coaching and support needed to strengthen critical skills, harness cutting-edge tools, and propel yourself to new heights? As you gear up for 2024, why settle for treading water? Take charge and position yourself to thrive at PrimeLending. Our LOs are transforming their professional journeys through One More, our exclusive peer-to-peer coaching program. Designed to empower producers to excel in today’s volatile market, One More offers a dynamic, fast-paced, and results-oriented small group support system where LOs can connect, collaborate, and ultimately surpass their goals. We’d love to talk with you about how we can help you flourish more too. Contact Nic Hartke for more information.

A Greater Town has built a robust real estate portal into its national hyperlocal marketing site and is looking for one mortgage lender (or a few select mortgage lenders) to “own” it, similar to having your own Zillow or Rocket Homes. About 600 MLS associations are represented with over 1,100,000 listings & 750,000 real estate agents & brokers. A comprehensive directory of every mortgage lender & MLO in the country is in construction as well. It’s the ideal environment for a national lender to set up shop. Examples include Editors Picks, Sally Forster Jones, Founder & CEO of the Sally Forster Jones Group at Compass, and Jerry & Lisa String, Listing & Buyer Agents at Realty ONE Group DocksideSouth. For further information, please contact Drew Knapp, CEO of A Greater Town, (973-477-7154).

 Download our mobile app to get alerts for Rob Chrisman’s Commentary.

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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Kelsey Hermanson in a “The Little Mermaid”-themed bathroom at her Seattle-area home. Each room in her 3,300-square-foot house has its own Disney-inspired theme. The company celebrates its 100th anniversary on Monday.Credit…Meron Tekie Menghistab for The New York Times
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It’s Not Enough to Love Disney. They Want to Live Disney.

For some, a dream is a wish your heart makes at home.

  • Oct. 13, 2023

The Mickey Mouse-shaped topiaries in front of Kelsey Hermanson’s house are the first hint at what visitors will find inside.

“You know how when you’re walking through a Disney park, and you have the option to go to Tomorrowland or to Fantasyland, and you have these different worlds that you get to sort of walk through and be in?” said Ms. Hermanson, 37. “That’s kind of how our house is.”

That is to say, each room in Ms. Hermanson’s 3,300-square-foot Seattle home has its own Disney-inspired theme.

The stairwell, for instance, pays tribute to “Peter Pan” with star-shaped pendant lighting fixtures, vintage décor on the windowsill that recalls Captain Hook’s galleon and wall decals of Wendy, her siblings and Peter scaling the wall.

warm hospitality — and so on and so forth. “Our house is not subtle by any stretch of the word,” said Ms. Hermanson, a stay-at-home mom and content creator, of the home she shares with her husband, Eric, and two children. “But I think the styling is a little bit more elegant.” That is to say, the Disney characters aren’t always so obvious in her rooms and she doesn’t plaster her home in merchandise.

The desire to take home a piece of the Walt Disney Company, which marks its 100th anniversary on Oct. 16, goes back to the company’s earliest days. Walt Disney himself began selling Disney merchandise in the late 1920s and Disney memorabilia, like an original Space Mountain vehicle which sold at auction for $40,000, can garner high bids.

partnerships with Ruggable and the wallpaper manufacturer Sanderson. For some grown-up Disney evangelists (also known as “Disney adults”), it’s not enough to pepper in a few Donald and Mickey tchotchkes — they want the whole house swathed in Disney décor.

Part of Disney décor’s prevalence is its success on social media. On TikTok, for example, the hashtag “Disney home décor” has more than 42 million views and “Disney home” has over 275 million. Ms. Hermanson grew her Instagram following of more than 150,000 by sharing photos and videos of her rooms and her D.I.Y. projects.

Though Ms. Hermanson does earn some income from occasional sponsored posts (not for Disney) and affiliate links, she maintains that her designs are for her enjoyment first. “If social media went away tomorrow, I’d still be happy and be like, ‘Well, I’m so glad I was able to bring my little idea to so many people,’” Ms. Hermanson said. “I’ll probably be 80 years old and still decorating.”

Ginny Phillips, a blogger in Nashville, takes cues from Disney’s parks with a dopamine décor twist. “It’s just that super happy, bright, rainbow explosion,” said Ms. Phillips, 39. “I really think that it does boost my mood.” She shares her house with her husband and three children (all of whom, she said, are happily onboard with the Disney-inspired décor).

step-by-step tutorial, and people are still, almost four years later, recreating that,” she said. A gallery wall of Disney artwork sits opposite the hallway.

In her office, Ms. Phillips painted a rainbow version of the Spaceship Earth design, and incorporated retro accents like a burnt orange sofa set against a backdrop of rainbow-hued wooden planks and a monorail print. “The parks are just so, so important to me, and there’s so much nostalgia there because I visited as a kid,” Ms. Phillips said. “But then also my kids have grown up there.”

Adriane Brown, an associate professor of gender, sexuality and women’s studies at Augsburg University in Minneapolis. The “Disney renaissance” refers to the decade between 1989 to 1999 in which Disney’s animated films took on more Broadway-like qualities and sharper animation, with films like “Aladdin,” “The Little Mermaid” and “Tarzan.” Notably, the era produced “Beauty and the Beast” which, in 1991, became the first animated film to receive a Best Picture nomination by the Academy Awards.

experienced growth beyond the films: The brand expanded into the cruise industry, purchased Broadway’s New Amsterdam Theatre, and saw the Disney Channel become a central part of youth culture.

“I think the nostalgia millennials in particular have for Disney comes from growing up in a Disney-saturated media culture,” Professor Brown said. The television element was particularly instrumental in introducing children at home to Disney characters. “After Disney bought ABC in 1995, characters on ABC sitcoms — particularly the TGIF comedy block, which was popular with families — started visiting Disneyland and Disney World,” she said. “For many ’90s kids, this was their first real look inside the parks.”

Golden Oak, a development in the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., home prices start in the low millions (a 6,756-square-foot house currently on the market in the community is available for just shy of $12,000,000) and that’s not counting the décor.

Toni Sims, an interior designer in Orlando, worked on the Magic Kingdom’s design team before opening Toni Sims Design Studio and now has clients all over the country. For her clients in Golden Oak, she designs immersive Disney-themed rooms. “It’s like this challenge of, how can we give park-level-quality experience for our clients in their homes,” she said.

Galactic Garden Arts.

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Source: nytimes.com

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Banks and mortgage lenders have tightened their underwriting guidelines for all types of home loans amid the ongoing credit crunch, according to the quarterly loan officer survey released today by the Fed.

The so-called “Senior Loan Officer Opinion Survey”, based on responses from 56 domestic banks and 23 foreign banking institutions, found that roughly 55 percent of domestic respondents felt their banks were tightening lending standards, up from 40 percent in October.

And of the 39 banks that originated so-called nontraditional residential home loans, about 85 percent reported tougher lending standards on such loans over the past quarter, up from 60 percent in October.

The survey also found that five of the seven banks that originated subprime mortgages said they had tightened their lending standards, a similar proportion to the previous poll.

Home Loan Demand Down, Delinquencies to Rise

About 60 percent of domestic respondents indicated that demand for prime residential home loans had declined in the past three months, while 70 percent noted weaker demand for nontraditional and subprime mortgages during the same period.

And 35 percent of domestic banks reported weaker demand for home equity lines of credit over the past three months, likely because 60 percent of domestic respondents indicated that they had tightened their lending standards on such loans.

Regarding expected delinquencies tied to residential real estate loans, roughly 70 to 80 percent of domestic respondents expect the quality of their prime, nontraditional, and subprime residential mortgage loans, as well as of their revolving home equity loans, to deteriorate in 2008.

While about 70 percent of domestic respondents expect deterioration in the quality of both credit card accounts and other consumer loans.

With regard to loss mitigation, more than 85 percent of respondents expect individual loan modifications based on borrowers’ circumstances to be a somewhat significant strategy at their banks, though nearly two-thirds believe short sales or deed-in-lieu of foreclosures will be just as significant.

A lesser 35 percent expect streamlined loan modifications like those proposed by the Hope Now Alliance to be at least a somewhat significant loss-mitigating strategy for their banks.

(photo: iluvrhinestones)

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com