Yes, you can refinance student loans with a private lender more than once in the quest for a lower interest rate and different repayment term.
How Many Times Can You Refinance Student Loans?
If you’re a graduate who has the credit score and income to qualify, you can refinance your student loans as many times as you’d like. In fact, some folks refinance multiple times.
But before you get too refi-happy, it’s important to know the advantages and disadvantages of this strategy.
What Are Some Advantages of Refinancing Multiple Times?
One of the biggest advantages of refinancing your student loans is that you may be able to qualify for a lower interest rate, whether you refinance once or several times. A reduced rate can help you save money in the long run.
For example, let’s say you’ve been paying down an older federal Grad PLUS loan that currently has a balance of $40,000 and an interest rate of 7.90%. You have 10 years of payments left, which are currently $483.20 per month.
You have good credit and qualify for a seven-year, fixed refinance rate of 6%. If you were to go through with the refinance, you’d actually increase your monthly payment by about $100. However, you’d save about $8,900 in total interest.
Later on, you might qualify for a lower fixed rate or an even lower variable rate, and so on.
Or you might find it helpful to refinance to a longer term, with lower monthly payments. That will likely mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan, but lower monthly payments may put you in a better position to accomplish your short-term financial goals.
Reputable lenders charge no application or origination fees, so refinancing each time will not cost you anything.
💡 Quick Tip: Get flexible terms and competitive rates when you refinance your student loan with SoFi.
What Are Some Disadvantages of Refinancing Multiple Times?
One disadvantage of refinancing your student loans is that your credit score could temporarily drop by a few points. Whenever you apply for a loan, the lender performs a hard credit inquiry. One or two inquiries usually have a small and temporary impact on your score. However, too many hard inquiries within a short time frame could cause some damage. The good news is that many student loan refinancing lenders allow you to shop for rates and get quotes online using a soft credit pull, which has no impact on your score.
Another factor to consider is your time. Though you can refinance as many times as you want, it helps to make sure it’s worth the effort. That means researching reputable lenders and the rates and terms they offer.
It’s important to point out that refinancing federal student loans even once will cause you to permanently forfeit government-backed protections and benefits, such as federal student loan forgiveness programs, deferment, and forbearance.
How Is Student Loan Refinancing Different Than Consolidation?
It’s important to make a distinction between refinancing and consolidation. When you refinance your student loans with a private lender, you are borrowing one new loan with new terms, such as a lower interest rate or different repayment term, and using the proceeds to pay off your existing loans.
When you consolidate federal student loans into a Direct Consolidation Loan, you combine your existing loans into one. The term may be drawn out to up to 30 years, and the interest rate will be the weighted average of the original loans’ rates, rounded up to the nearest eighth of a percentage point. For this reason, your new rate may actually be higher than the rate of your previous lowest-interest loan.
Things to Look for When Refinancing
Whether you refinance your student loans for the first or sixth time, it would be smart to check that your new rate and term make sense for you.
You’ll encounter fixed-rate and variable-rate loans. Fixed-rate loans have one set interest rate that does not change over the life of the loan. The rates on fixed-rate student loans are typically higher than the initial rates of variable-rate loans. However, because the rate never changes, it can make budgeting easier.
Variable-rate loans have interest rates that start off lower, but can fluctuate based on the prime rate or another index. Rates can climb if the rate or index they are tied to goes up (and vice versa).
Variable-rate loans might be a good choice for shorter-term loans. The longer the loan term, the bigger the chance of a rate hike.
Also, beware of qualifying for a low interest rate that’s attached to a longer-term loan. Though monthly payments might be low, a longer term might mean you’ll end up paying much more in interest over the life of the loan. If you can afford the higher monthly payment, loans with shorter terms can be a good cost-saving option.
Consider looking for a refinance lender that offers competitive rates and flexibility in choosing the repayment term. And if you want to refinance both federal and private student loans into one new loan, look for a lender that does that.
Serious savings. You could save thousands of dollars. We offer flexible terms and low fixed or variable rates.
Refinancing Your Student Loans More Than Once
It’s all about the great rate chase.
Having a low debt-to-income ratio can help you qualify for a lower interest rate. So if you have a higher salary, get a big bonus, or pay off other debts, your debt-to-income ratio might improve.
Similarly, if your credit score increases, you typically become more attractive to lenders. This could happen if you are using a small amount of your available credit, or if you find and correct a mistake on one of your credit reports. (Do student loans affect your credit score? Continuous on-time payments may have a positive effect.)
Married couples may want to consider refinancing student loans together to put the power of two earners to use. A solid cosigner could also be brought aboard.
If you’re thinking about a refinance, it could help to keep an eye on the federal funds rate, which is the rate banks charge one another for overnight loans. When the Federal Reserve raises or lowers short-term interest rates, private lenders respond in turn. (This does not apply to federal student loans, whose interest rates have been set by Congress once a year since 2006.)
Even if interest rates rise now, they could still be considered low by historical standards.
Refinancing Your Student Loans With SoFi
Is it bad to refinance multiple times? If it saves you money, that’s nothing but a good thing. Refinancing won’t be the right move for all people, but everyone should know the rates they’re paying, their total student debt load, and their repayment strategy.
SoFi is a leader in refinancing student loans, with low fixed or variable rates and flexible loan terms.
Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.
With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.
FAQ
Can I consolidate student loans more than once?
You can consolidate federal student loans into a Direct Consolidation Loan more than once only if you have federal loans that were not included in a previous consolidation, or if you previously consolidated loans under the Federal Family Education Loan (FFEL) consolidation program. Remember that consolidation does not lower your loan rate.
How many times can you refinance a loan?
As many times as you qualify to do so.
How many times can you take out student loans?
When it comes to federal student loans, there is no time limit on how long a borrower can receive Direct Unsubsidized Loans or Direct PLUS loans, but annual and aggregate limits for Direct Unsubsidized Loans apply.
Private student loans, for which you must qualify or have a cosigner, usually have an annual limit equal to an institution’s cost of attendance minus other financial aid. Most have aggregate loan limits for undergraduate and graduate students.
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.
Student Loan Refinancing If you are a federal student loan borrower you should take time now to prepare for your payments to restart, including the opportunity to refinance your student loan debt at a lower APR or to extend your term to achieve a lower monthly payment. (You may pay more interest over the life of the loan if you refinance with an extended term.) Please note that once you refinance federal student loans, you will no longer be eligible for current or future flexible payment options available to federal loan borrowers, including but not limited to income-based repayment plans, such as the SAVE Plan, or extended repayment plans.
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.
Many people were thrown into financial turmoil at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Previously secure jobs disappeared, and monthly payments went from affordable to impossible overnight. A year later, borrowers are still catching up—and some are struggling to make ends meet. So, if you can’t afford your car payment, what are your options?
We have eight solutions to an unaffordable car loan in this article. Some are easier to implement than others—and some come with long-term credit implications:
How can you lower your car payments without refinancing? Before you do anything else, speak to your lender about modifying your auto loan. Call your auto loan company as soon as you can, and tell them about your financial troubles. Ask if they have any relief options for borrowers, including loan modifications.
Many lenders made changes to their modification policies in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Temporary loan forbearance and extension programs, for instance, help borrowers get back on track.
Perhaps surprisingly, many lenders let borrowers in good standing pause their auto loans for a month once a year. Of course, you’ll have to make an extra payment at the end of your loan term to make up the difference—and you might have a little extra interest to pay.
2. Refinance Your Vehicle Loan
How do you get out of a car loan you can’t afford? The answer might be to refinance your vehicle. If you have a good payment history and a strong credit profile, use it to your advantage. Here are two ways to play the refinancing game:
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Let’s imagine you bought your car for $20,000 two years ago. Your original 60-month auto loan came with a 5.5% interest rate, and your monthly payments are $382.02. Your current loan balance is $12,600.
If you extend your loan by five years, your monthly payments will drop to $241. You’ll have $141 more spending money each month—but you’ll pay more in interest over the life of your loan, plus you’ll have to make payments for a longer time period.
3. Trade in Your Car
If you can’t afford your car payment any more, consider trading in your vehicle. Think about your automotive needs—could you get away with a smaller car, for instance? Do you need a truck, or would it be easier to park a sedan in your driveway?
Swapping your SUV for a smaller model isn’t just environmentally friendly—it’ll also cost less to run. Switching from a new luxury vehicle to a slightly older regular brand auto, on the other hand, could cut your insurance bill significantly. Either choice will reduce your car payment.
If you do decide to trade in your car, get quotes from several dealerships. Then, negotiate a fair price with your favorite dealership and choose an alternative vehicle. If you’re not upside-down in your current loan—if you don’t owe more than it’s worth—you might even be able to trade upto a newer vehicle with better loan terms.
4. Let Someone Else Assume Your Loan
Some loans and leases are “assumable,” which means that they’re transferable from one party to the next. If you can’t make your loan payments any more but you want to avoid damaging your credit, consider passing the loan, and the vehicle, to someone else.
Before you agree to pass your car on, talk to your lender. Most lenders have minimum credit and income requirements for buyers—and the person you transfer your vehicle to will need to meet these terms.
5. Sell Your Vehicle
Do you need a vehicle right now, or can you use public transportation until your finances settle? If buses or trains are an option in your area, consider selling your vehicle privately and using the money to pay off the remainder of your loan. Doing so could help you escape a car payment altogether—plus private sales nearly almost generate more money than dealer trade-ins.
6. Turn the Keys In
Can you give your car back to the finance company? You sure can! Also called “voluntary repossession” or “voluntary surrender,” walking away from your vehicle is a last-resort option if you can’t refinance or sell your car.
Unfortunately, there are consequences associated with turning in your keys. On the one hand, the repo man won’t pay you a personal visit, which can save embarrassment. On the other, the lender might still try to collect money from you if you owe more than they can get for the vehicle at auction. A voluntary repossession will also show up on your credit report.
If you do decide to turn your keys in, contact your lender and tell them your intentions. Your lender will guide you through the process and let you know when and where to hand over your car.
7. Let Your Car Be Repossessed
The alternative to voluntary surrender is straight repossession. This option is perhaps the most stressful, and it can severely affect your credit. In a nutshell, you simply wait until you’re so behind with payments that your lender decides to repossess the vehicle. Then, your car—and anything you leave inside—is towed away. You might want to consider this as a last option—carefully look at your resources and consider exhausting your other options before you decide.
8. File for Bankruptcy
If you’re in a huge financial hole and you owe a lot of money beyond your car payment, you could consider bankruptcy. Bankruptcy is complicated and can pull your credit down for a decade, so it’s not an option to consider if there are any alternatives open to you. Before proceeding, take a good look at your finances and contact a well-regarded bankruptcy attorney.
Take Care of Your Finances with Credit.com
Whatever you decide to do, it’s important to keep track of your credit. Sign up with Credit Report Card to view your Experian VantageScore 3.0 and see a helpful credit snapshot, which you can use to create a financial plan.
You’ve done your research, checked your credit reports to make sure they’re accurate, and you’re ready to get serious about buying a car. You feel more than ready to sign on the dotted line and drive home in your new ride.
It could happen. Or, you could drive home in your old vehicle, kicking yourself for having forgotten one of the documents you need to finalize the purchase. Here’s how to lay the groundwork for getting the deal done on the day you’re ready to buy.
Four Steps to Prepare to Buy a Car
Step 1:
You’ll want to talk to your insurance agent about what it will cost to insure the make and model you are considering buying. You don’t want that figure to be a surprise, and you also want to find out how soon you will need to notify your insurer you have the new vehicle.
Step 2:
Talk to your bank or credit union and get pre-approved for the loan you’ll need—and do this close to your planned purchase date. You may get something resembling a blank check (up to a certain maximum) that must be signed by you and the dealer. By getting pre-approved, you will know the total loan amount and interest rate you qualify for. Even if you plan to finance at the dealer, it can’t hurt to come in with a pre-approval; you are far less likely to agree to a longer term or higher interest rate because you really want to drive that new car home today. It can also help you stay within your budget by serving as a solid reminder of how much you planned to spend and how long you were willing to make payments — before the showroom floor made it so hard to remember.
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Make sure you have your driver’s license and proof of auto insurance with you. You shouldn’t be driving without these documents anyway.
Step 4:
Obvious as this seems, be sure you have a way of funding your down payment. If it’s not cash, make sure the dealer accepts the form of payment you’re planning to use. (If you forget to do this, you would not be the first, but that would be little consolation.)
Expert Tip: Be cautious about having your credit pulled unnecessarily. Each inquiry made for the purpose of extending credit can cause a small, temporary decrease in your credit score. And while inquiries for the purpose of getting a car loan made in a two-week period should count as only one entry, we’ve heard from consumers who have told us their credit scores dropped as the result of multiple auto loan inquiries. Some dealerships now ask customers to fill out a credit application even before a test drive, and there are reports that some have checked credit without customer consent. It can help to keep an eye on your credit through this process for this reason. Hard inquiries into your credit require permission, and it can be illegal for your credit to be pulled without your approval in this manner. You can get a credit report summary and two credit scores, updated monthly for free on Credit.com, to track your standing.
Can You Purchase a Car with a Credit Card?
Speaking of your down payment, you may have wondered if this can be charged to a credit card — or if the entire car can be paid that way. The answer is yes and no. It is possible that the dealership will not accept a credit card payment for the car, as this can come with large merchant fees that lower their profits. However, if your credit is in good standing, then it is still possible.
A better option would be to use your credit card for just the down payment. Not only is this better for your credit, since using all of your available $10,000–$15,000 credit limit can damage your credit score, but it’s more likely to be accepted by the dealer.
Finally, you’ll want to use a credit card that has excellent benefits. An appropriate credit card can earn you big rewards on your car purchase or other auto-related purchases. We have given you a couple examples of worthy rewards cards below.
Planning to Trade In Your Car? Don’t Forget These Items for the Dealership
If you plan to trade in a car, you have a bit more to do.
You will need to bring the following items to the dealership:
Your car’s certificate of title (If it has gone missing, your state department of motor vehicles can tell you how to get it replaced.)
The car’s current registration
Your car keys and the owner’s manual
Your account number or a payment stub if you still have a car loan (We’re going to hope that if this is the case, your car is worth more than you owe.)
A clean car, paying special attention to areas out of sight but convenient for stashing things: under seats, over the visors, in the glovebox and in every corner of the trunk
Besides a new car, expect to come home with a good bit of paperwork. Pay special attention to the purchase and sale agreement. You will need the information there to get or update your insurance — and you might even need it at tax time next year if you bought a car that qualifies for a tax credit.
What Do I Need to Apply for an Auto Loan?
While you won’t need to drive all the way to a dealership to get an auto loan (you can simply apply online), you will still need some important documents in front of you to easily fill out the application.
What do you need?
Proof of identity through an ID or passport
Your credit report, which the lender can pull using your name, address, date of birth and social security number
A valid state-issued driver’s license
Proof of monthly income through pay stubs or social security income receipts
Proof of residence through mortgage statements or utility bills
Contact information for personal references (note: this may not be required)
Vehicle make and model
Proof of car insurance
Payment type (cash, credit, debit, etc.)
Your car’s registration if you are trading in the vehicle
The list is rather long, but having each document will speed up the process and prevent you from going back and forth between your files.
Get Your Auto Loan and Car with the Help of Credit.com
Make sure that you can qualify for an auto loan by checking your free credit score, provided through Experian. From there, you can apply for your auto loan with confidence and compare credit cards that can help you finance your new car.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my credit rating affect my auto insurance rates?
You should choose auto insurance coverage based on your credit rating and overall coverage needs. Check out Credit.com for car insurance quotes and to compare rates.
How can I find a credit card with a low interest rate to charge my car purchase?
We don’t recommend that you put your entire purchase onto your credit card, but there are cards with low APR or no APR for up to 15 months available to compare. If you can pay off the remaining balance during this period, then these credit cards may be for you.
How good should my credit be to get a credit card that is appropriate for a car purchase?
You mentioned that hard inquiries can affect my credit score. What is a hard inquiry?
A hard inquiry is a credit check that indicates you have applied for credit, usually through a loan. Each time a hard inquiry is pulled from a different lender, your credit score can drop by up to 10 points, because it indicates that a lender has reviewed your credit and that you are trying to open up a new line of credit.
Note: At publishing time, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and American Express Green card are offered through Credit.com product pages, and Credit.com is compensated if our users apply and ultimately sign up for this card. This content is not provided by the card issuer(s). Any opinions expressed are those of Credit.com alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer(s).
Note: It’s important to remember that interest rates, fees and terms for credit cards, loans and other financial products frequently change. As a result, rates, fees and terms for credit cards, loans and other products cited in these articles may have changed since the date of publication. Please be sure to verify current rates, fees and terms with credit card issuers, banks or other financial institutions directly.
Car insurance can be confusing. First, there are all the policy considerations: Do you want a policy with comp and collision? How much liability should you carry? Do you need uninsured motorist coverage? Even once you make decisions on all these things, the bill that arrives can be difficult to understand—exactly what goes into the pricing for your car insurance premium? Here’s what car insurance companies don’t want you to know about premium pricing.
Your car insurance may not be tied to the driver.
The type of car you drive matters.
Prior claims and questions raise rates.
You can check your report for errors.
Your credit score impacts your car insurance costs.
Where you live impacts your premium account.
Your age affects your car insurance premium.
Gender, marital status, job and education level can affect premiums.
If you bought your car with a loan, your premium may be higher.
You can lower your insurance rates.
You have options if insurance denies your claim.
Is Car Insurance Tied to Car or Driver?
Technically, car insurance is tied to the car. That means if you let someone else drive your car, your insurance may kick in if there is an accident. Not all insurance policies cover all uses of your vehicle, though, so read the fine print on yours before you allow someone else to drive it. You may also be able to exclude drivers who live with you from your policy if you don’t ever want them driving your car and don’t want them impacting the cost of your policy.
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Does It Matter What Kind of Car You Drive?
The total value of your car, what type of vehicle it is and what type of safety rating it has all factor into the cost of your policy. Other factors can include how many miles you drive each year, where you park your car, and how many expensive extra features your car has.
Does Your Driving Record Affect Your Insurance?
Every claim you make—and even if you ask an insurance agent about making a claim—gets entered into a database that your current and future insurance carriers can access. If you have had any recent accidents or traffic violations, you may be more expensive to insure than someone with a clean driving record. If you’ve made any recent claims, your insurance premiums will likely go up. And if you shop around for a new company, they’ll have access to your records and will take your driving record into consideration.
Can You Check Your Insurance Reports?
Your insurance companies share information with two databases: the Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange (CLUE) and the Automated Property Loss Underwriting System (A-PLUS). These databases are run by outside agencies—LexisNexis runs CLUE and Verisk Analytics runs A-PLUS—and any claims you make stay in your report for five to seven years, depending on the database.
The Fair Credit Reporting Act entitles you to one free copy of your report every 12 months. You can dispute inaccurate or incomplete information on your report. You are also entitled to notice about any negative decisions based on information in your report. Requesting your reports does not affect your credit score.
Request your CLUE report from LexisNexis online or call 866-312-8076.
Request your A-PLUS report from Verisk by calling 800-627-3487.
Does Credit Score Impact Your Car Insurance Cost?
In most states, your credit score can impact the cost of your car insurance. The only states that don’t allow car insurance companies to use credit score as a factor in pricing are California, Massachusetts and Hawaii. Statistical studies from the Federal Trade Commission and other research organizations show a correlation between credit score and how much a person is likely to cost a car insurance company. In short, someone with a poor credit score is seen as a greater risk, so the insurance company may charge more for the insurance to help cover expenses related to future claims.
Does Where You Live Impact Your Premium Amount?
Where you live can impact your car insurance cost. In 2018, for example, the average car insurance premium in Michigan was 64% higher than the national average. Other states with car insurance premium averages on the high end included Louisiana, Florida, Rhode Island and Connecticut. States with the least expensive average car insurance premiums included Vermont, Ohio, Virginia, Idaho and Iowa.
Does Age Impact Your Premium?
When it comes to what car insurance companies don’t want you to know, this one isn’t super secret. Age does impact your premiums, with the youngest and oldest drivers typically paying the most on average.
The youngest drivers pay the most for insurance. Premiums are highest at the age of 18 and decline steadily until the driver turns 25. In the eyes of carriers, drivers then enter adulthood, during which time premiums stay pretty flat for the next 30 years or so, until the age 55. Premiums inch up slowly between ages 55 and 65 before jumping way up around the age of 75.
In addition to your age, your gender, marital status, education level and even your job can affect your insurance rates.
If You Bought Your Car Via a Loan, Is Your Insurance Cost Higher?
If you don’t own your vehicle outright, then you may pay more to insure it. If you own a vehicle outright, you’re only required to carry liability on it. Liability is the part of your insurance policy that kicks in to cover damage caused to other people’s cars or property in an accident you’re at fault in.
When you have a loan, the bank is concerned about protecting its investment. That means it may require you to carry comp and collision as well. This is the part of an auto policy that covers damage to your car in an accident you’re at fault in. A policy with this added coverage is more expensive than one without it.
How Can You Lower Your Car Insurance Costs?
No matter your age, gender, or location, you can potentially lower your car insurance via a variety of methods. Here are some tips your car insurance company doesn’t want you to know to put into action to save on premiums.
Drive carefully. Not only does driving carefully help you avoid rate-raising accidents, but many companies also provide good driver bonuses when you haven’t had an accident or filed any claims for a certain amount of time.
Pay your bills on time. Paying your bills on time goes a long way toward improving your credit score, which can improve your rate depending on where you live. Paying your bills on time also demonstrates trustworthiness to your insurance company, which means you may be able to negotiate for a lower rate.
Ask for discounts. When it comes to your insurance rates, it doesn’t pay to be shy. Ask your insurance company about discounts, including multi-driver or multi-car discounts, good student discounts or safe driver discounts. You may be able to score a large portion off your premium because you’re a good student or you follow all the traffic laws.
Review your credit report. Know what’s on your credit report and what you can do to drive up your score. Once you’ve improved your score, ask for a new quote for car insurance.
>> Need to review your credit report? Sign up for the free Credit Report Card.
Consider a higher deductible. Look carefully at your coverage and consider whether you can tweak anything in your policy. If you can afford to cover $2,000 in damages if you get in an accident, consider changing your deductible from $500 to $2,000 to save on your monthly premium.
Shop around for a better rate with other insurance companies. The insurance market is highly competitive, and you may find a better rate with an online company or through a broker that works with multiple companies. If you find a better rate, go back to your current company to see if they’ll match or beat the offer.
Choose your next vehicle carefully. Because the type of car you drive affects your insurance rates, do your research before your next purchase. Look for a car with plenty of safety features (but without too many other bells and whistles) that will get you a lower rate.
What Happens When Car Insurance Denies a Claim?
Of course, you don’t just pay for car insurance for the fun of it. If you get into an accident, you expect the insurance to step in and help cover the expenses. If your insurance company denies your claim, you have some options for appealing the claim.
Contact the insurer. After you’ve reviewed your claim denial, reach out to the insurance company directly. You may be able to explain your claim better or gather additional information to help you understand the reason for the denial.
File an official appeal. Most insurance companies will have an appeals process clearly set out online. You’ll want to write a clear, direct letter that explains why the evidence you originally gathered and submitted with your claim contradicts the insurance company’s decision to deny the claim.
Talk to a legal professional. If you feel that your insurance company is denying your claim in bad faith, talk to a legal professional about your options.
Bringing Down the Total Cost of Car Ownership
Car ownership is expensive. Make sure you pay attention to all the potential expenses to get the best possible deal overall—and don’t forget to shop around for the best rates before locking yourself in.
At the start of every new year, people set goals. Many of the most common resolutions set during the new year are financial in nature. For instance, some people resolve to pay off their debt before the year ends. Others want to decrease their spending and save money.
If you’re one of those people who want to save money, decreasing your car insurance premium is one way to get closer to your financial goals. Here are seven hacks to help you save on car insurance this year.
1. Review Your Car Insurance Every Year
One of the simplest ways to reduce your insurance premiums is to shop around once a year. It may seem unnecessary, but comparing rates from a variety of insurance companies can be beneficial. Firstly, it gives you a sense of how much your car costs to insure on average. Secondly, doing your research lets you determine if you have the best car insurance for your budget.
Remember to compare quotes from at least three providers before making a decision. But what if your current insurer is the cheapest option?
2. Get Rid of Coverage You Don’t Need
Another way to decrease your car insurance costs is by dropping unnecessary coverage. In most states, drivers are legally required to have liability coverage and personal injury protection, or no-fault coverage. In states like New York and North Carolina, drivers must also have insurance that protects them against collisions with uninsured or underinsured motorists. Beyond that, rates vary by state and personal preference.
Types of Car Insurance to Consider
Liability Coverage: This coverage protects you against the costs of covering the medical bills of other drivers after an accident. Liability insurance may also reimburse you for damage to your car. If you don’t have a significant savings cushion or other assets to cover the cost of large claims, liability insurance will protect you financially in the event of an accident.
Collision Coverage: If you’re financing your vehicle, chances are the bank will require this coverage as well. Collision insurance will pay for damage to your car resulting from a collision with another vehicle. It does not cover car damage from potholes, broken windows, fire, or theft.
Comprehensive Coverage: This is like collision insurance, but it covers damage from non-collision incidents. The most common kinds of incidents are floods, vandalism, hitting an animal, or striking a non-moving object.
No-Fault Coverage: This type of insurance protects you against the medical bills of other drivers after an accident. Unlike liability insurance, your own insurer pays your claim; it then submits a claim to the other driver’s insurer. If you have this coverage, maintaining a high deductible can be beneficial because it reduces your premium.
As you review your vehicle insurance, make a list of your state-mandated coverage, bank-mandated coverage, and ones that make sense for your location. For instance, if you live in a town that is known for seasonal hurricanes, floods, or fires, dropping comprehensive insurance might not be the best idea. Consider working with an agent who is familiar with your area.
If your car is older, consider dropping collision and comprehensive insurance. Then, set aside an emergency fund that amounts to your car’s market value.
3. Ask Your Insurance Company about New Discounts
Your insurer may provide discounts for a variety of reasons. For instance, some insurers offer a “good student” discount for teens with good grades. Others may give discounts to drivers who are members of the military or attend certain types of college. If you are enrolled in an accredited driver’s safety course, contact your insurer about getting a discount for completing the class.
Save on Car Insurance by Paying Your Premium Annually
Payment methods can also affect your car insurance premiums. Most insurers offer a discount if you pay a year’s worth of premiums upfront. If you can’t afford an entire year’s worth of premiums at once, pay at least the minimum amount necessary to qualify for this discount.
4. Downsize Your Car
The most effective way to save money on car insurance is by driving a car that costs less to insure. The type of car you choose will depend on your budget and preference, but there are a few things to consider.
For instance, the cost of repairs and parts for some vehicles can be high. Secondly, there are insurance companies that offer discounts to drivers with hybrid cars or vehicles that use alternative fuel.
When you’re looking for a new vehicle, find a safe one with the lowest possible insurance rates. Talk with your insurer, and get online quotes from other car insurance providers to compare costs.
Related Read: What Credit Score Do I Need to Buy a Car?
5. Drive Safely to Save on Car Insurance
Driving safely is often underrated. If you’re a cautious driver, you might qualify for a reduced premium. When calculating your rate, insurance companies consider the following factors:
Age
Gender
The type of car
Your driving history
Improving your driving habits could save you money each month. Plus, it’s safer for everyone on the road. If your current vehicle doesn’t have an accident history, you might also want to consider increasing your deductible, which can save you money.
6. Increase Your Car Insurance Deductible
If you drive safely, you could lower your monthly premium by raising your deductible. Increasing your deductible from $200 to $500, for example, will decrease your monthly premium. And since you know how much your deductible is ahead of time, you can set aside the amount in an emergency fund.
7. Consider Usage-Based Programs
Another way to save on car insurance is by participating in usage-based programs. With this type of coverage, you put a device in your car that records your mileage and driving habits. This data is then sent to your insurer, who can use it to determine how much you should be paying for coverage. Among the common usage-based options are:
Pay-as-you-drive: This program charges you for the miles you drive. Your insurer will typically take mileage into account when calculating your premium.
Pay-how-you-drive: With this program, you pay for your insurance based on safe driving behavior. In some cases, your insurer might offer discounts if you’re an ideal driver.
Takeaway: Saving Money on Car Insurance
There are plenty of tactics to help decrease your monthly insurance costs if you take the time to assess your habits and your vehicle insurance needs. Once you know what must stay and what needs to go, contact your insurance company to make the necessary adjustments.
One interesting aspect of the home loan process is the sheer number of individuals you’ll work with along the way.
You don’t just speak to a salesperson and call it a day. Lots of people are involved in what is a very complex transaction.
Aside from salespeople, there are loan underwriters, processors, appraisers, escrow officers, real estate attorneys, and more.
Let’s discuss the roles these people hold to help you better understand what it takes to get a mortgage.
Remember, you’re asking to borrow a large sum of money, so it’s going to take time and energy (and lots of people) to get to the finish line.
The Sales Rep/Loan Officer/Mortgage Broker
The first step in the home loan process typically involves a sales person, which can be a banker at your local branch or credit union, a loan officer, or a mortgage broker.
If we’re talking about a purchase, this may come before/during your home search or after you’ve found your property with the assistance of a real estate agent.
If it’s a mortgage refinance, you’d simply jump right to this step to rework the details of your existing home loan if you wanted a rate and term refinance or a cash out refi.
You might be referred to an individual/company, or you might do your own discovery to find a suitable partner. Either way, always look beyond the referral you were given.
Your real estate agent might know a great lender, but you your own research as well.
It’s important to gather multiple quotes from different companies to ensure you get the best deal.
Now, this individual will be your main point of contact during the loan process, and perhaps most importantly, will provide you with pricing.
Bankers and loan officers work at the retail level, while mortgage brokers offer wholesale rates from their lender partners.
You can read more about the differences (banks vs. brokers) but either way they’ll likely be the person you speak with most.
Aside from providing pricing, these individuals can help get you pre-qualified or pre-approved for a mortgage, discuss different loan scenarios, and guide you on loan choice.
If you have mortgage questions, they should be able to provide answers and give you guidance.
They may make certain recommendations, such as down payment amount, loan type, or provide an opinion about paying discount points or when to lock your rate.
This individual will be with you from start to finish, but doesn’t work alone. They’ve got an entire team to help you close your loan in a timely fashion.
FYI, you may also come across a “mortgage planner,” which is an individual who may assist a busy senior loan officer.
They can communicate loan status, provide follow-up, collect conditions, and perform other tasks if the LO is unavailable or simply needs a hand.
The Loan Processor
Once you’ve spoken to a sales representative (or LO/broker) and have decided to move forward, you’ll be in put in touch with a loan processor.
The main goal of the processor is to put together a clean loan file that can be submitted to the underwriting department.
This means collecting key documents, ensuring there are no red flags, double-checking everything, and making any necessary corrections.
The processor may also reach out after the loan is approved to collect additional documents to satisfy any outstanding conditions.
They will also provide updates to the loan officer or broker, who will then keep you in the loop about where you’re at in the process.
The processor essentially acts as a liaison between the underwriter and sales rep/LO/broker.
This ensures things move along smoothly and any hiccups can be resolved quickly without delay.
The Loan Underwriter
The loan underwriter probably holds the most important role in the home loan process.
They decide if the mortgage is approved, declined, or potentially suspended pending further explanation.
It’s for this reason that the loan processor only sends the loan package to the underwriter once everything has been thoroughly checked.
You only get one chance to make a first impression, so it’s imperative to get it right. Otherwise you could face delays or simply get flat out denied.
Aside from approving the loan, the underwriter will also provide a list of conditions needed to close the loan.
Most mortgage approvals are conditional, meaning you might need to furnish additional information or documentation to obtain your final approval.
Once these documents are provided, whether it’s another bank statement or letter of explanation, the underwriter will clear the outstanding conditions and move the loan to the funding department.
The Home Appraiser
While your loan is being reviewed by the underwriter, an appraisal will be ordered to determine the value of the underlying property.
Remember, aside from determining your ability to repay the loan, the bank also needs to ensure the collateral for the loan is valued properly.
This individual will visit the property to assess its condition, take photographs, and determine recent sales comparisons.
They will formulate a valuation based on the property details, such as number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, amenities, location, lot size, condition, and so on.
The value they come up with, known as the appraised value, is used as the basis for the loan-to-value ratio.
Generally, the goal is for the appraiser to support the purchase price of the property or the value declared for a refinance.
If the value is lower, the details of the loan may need to be reworked, such as a higher down payment.
For certain types of loans, such as FHA loans and VA loans, the home appraiser will also ensure that certain Minimum Property Requirements (MPRs) are met.
This ensures the property is safe for the occupants, that there are adequate living conditions, and no major hazards, such as lead paint or termites.
The Home Inspector
If we’re discussing a home purchase, you’ll want to get an inspection done. And you’ll want to do it ASAP while any contingencies are still in place.
While a home inspection typically isn’t required, they’re generally a good idea.
Aside from finding out what’s potentially wrong with the property, you can ask for credits from the seller if the inspector finds any significant issues.
As the name suggests, a home inspector will come out to the property and assess the condition of the structure itself, the foundation, the interior, the roof, the electrical, HVAC, and more.
Some may also inspect the pool and spa, if one exists, though you could be charged extra.
They’ll make notes as they survey the property and issue a formal report afterwards. This can be used to negotiate with the seller if anything material comes up.
The Notary Public
Once it’s time to sign your loan documents, you’ll need to make an appointment with a notary public.
This individual serves “as an impartial witness” when signing important documents, such as those related to a home purchase or mortgage loan.
Your settlement agent should organize a time to meet with this individual to conduct your signing.
The notary may come to your home or meet you somewhere else to review and sign documents.
The main job of the notary is to verify the identity of the signer and ensure they are willing to sign the documents “without duress or intimidation.”
This requires you to furnish identification, such as a driver’s license, during the signing appointment.
The Escrow Officer
Another very important individual in the transaction is the escrow officer, a third-party who facilitates the loan closing and collects/disburses funds to the appropriate parties.
Some of their key roles include preparing final statements for the buyer, such as cash required to close, and determining costs such as property taxes, insurance, prepaid interest, and loan payoffs.
The escrow officer will send you a settlement statement that lists all the fees and closing costs associated with your loan, along with any lender credits and loan payoffs and funds required.
They will also liaise with a title company and forward necessary documents for loan recording.
Importantly, they’ll provide wiring instructions to all parties, including the buyer, so you know where to send funds (cash to close).
If you have questions about things like prepaid items, mortgage impounds, and loan payoffs, they can be particularly helpful.
The Title Agent
To ensure the property is free of any liens, encumbrances, or defects, a title insurance policy is usually required in order to take out a mortgage.
A title agent is the individual who conducts a title search, orders a preliminary title report, and eventually issues title insurance on the subject property. This makes them a licensed insurance agent
They are also in charge of recording the deed and loan documents with the county once the loan has funded.
You might hear the words title and escrow used interchangeably, but title has to do with property ownership/lien history, while escrow is about the calculation, collection, and disbursement of funds.
However, they may perform other settlement tasks beyond just title depending on the state where they’re located.
The Loan Closer/Funder
If you’ve made it this far, it means the loan is almost funded. But there’s still work to be done.
The loan closer/funder has to review the file to ensure everything is accurate and complete, and if not, address and fix any errors or outstanding issues.
They must ensure all prior to funding (PTF) conditions are satisfied and work with the settlement agent to prepare funding figures and timing of disbursement.
This includes the review of signed closing documents and items like hazard insurance and the preliminary title report.
And if everything looks good, request the wire instructions from escrow after a thorough review.
The Real Estate Attorney
Note that in certain states, a real estate attorney could be required to prepare certain documents and/or to conduct the loan closing.
This individual may order and certify a title report, review loan documents, and advise you if necessary.
Beyond that, they can ensure the interests of all parties are protected, and handle any legal issues or disputes that may come up.
One last thing. You may find that there is some overlap with a title company and escrow company, as the former can also provide escrow and notary services as well.
So depending on where you live, you could have one company or individual handle several tasks.
As you can see, there are quite a few people involved in the funding of a home loan, which explains why they take a month or longer to close.
Once you know more about each person’s role, it should be easier to navigate the home loan process and make better sense of it all.
And perhaps adjust your expectations that there isn’t a same-day mortgage and likely won’t be for the foreseeable future.
Looking for jobs where you work alone? If you’re an introvert or simply want minimal human interaction, here are 40 ideas.
Looking for the best jobs where you work alone? If you’re an introvert or simply want minimal human interaction, here are 40 ideas.
With there being so many different types of jobs out there nowadays, more and more people are looking for jobs where they can be by themselves, away from the busy office or customers. They find comfort in jobs where they can do tasks on their own, letting them really concentrate and do well in what they do best.
For me, I have worked mostly alone for over a decade now, and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I enjoy the flexibility of working on my own and having less stress.
Jobs that let you work this way are usually appealing to introverted individuals, those who like a calmer setting, or people who just work better with more independence.
Knowing which jobs let you work alone is really important for those who want to find the right mix of being on their own and getting things done well.
Top Jobs Where You Work Alone
There are 40 jobs where you can work alone listed below. If you want to skip the list, here are some jobs that you may want to start learning more about first:
Benefits of Jobs Where You Work Alone
More and more people are looking for jobs where they can work alone, and I get it! I have been working mostly alone for over a decade and I really love it.
After all, a person spends so much of their time working, so you might as well like what you’re doing. If you’re an introvert, or if you like working by yourself, there are jobs where you can do just that.
Some of the positives of working alone include:
Less stress if you’re an introvert – If you’re an introvert, then you may feel stress when working with other people, such as coworkers and customers.
Getting more stuff done in less time – Working alone may mean that you can complete your tasks faster because there are fewer distractions.
Having a more flexible schedule – Some jobs where you work on your own sometimes let you choose when you want to work, as long as you get the work done.
If you’re looking for jobs where you work alone, think about what you’re good at and what you enjoy (and also think about what you don’t like!).
40 Jobs Where You Work Alone
Below are 40 jobs where you can work on your own. The jobs below range from earning a part-time to a full-time income too.
1. Proofreader
Proofreaders check and edit written content for errors and inconsistencies, and this job requires strong attention to detail and excellent grammar skills.
If you’re good at paying close attention to details, then proofreading could be an ideal work-alone job for you.
Authors, website owners, and students often hire proofreaders to improve their work. There’s a high demand for proofreaders, and you can find jobs through many different platforms.
Even the most skilled writers can make mistakes in grammar, punctuation, and spelling. That’s why hiring a proofreader can be very helpful for pretty much anyone and everyone.
If you want to find online proofreading jobs, I recommend joining this free 76-minute workshop focused on proofreading. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to begin your own freelance proofreading business.
Recommended reading: 20 Best Online Proofreading Jobs For Beginners (Earn $40,000+ A Year).
2. Virtual Assistant
One of my first side jobs was as a virtual assistant and it was a fun and flexible way to earn income. While you do have a boss when you are a VA, a lot of the tasks that you do will require you to take charge and complete them by yourself in your own home.
A virtual assistant is someone who helps people with office tasks from a distance. This could be from your home or while you’re traveling. It might include things like replying to emails, setting up appointments, and managing social media accounts.
This job can pay you more than $50,000 each year.
If you want to find part-time or full-time virtual assistant jobs, I recommend joining the free workshop called “5 Steps To Become a Virtual Assistant“.
Recommended reading: Best Ways To Find Virtual Assistant Jobs
3. Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers are people who keep track of all the money-related things for businesses such as writing down sales, keeping a record of expenses, and making financial reports.
This is a job where you can work alone and a typical salary is $40,000+ each year. Plus, you’ll mainly be dealing with numbers and not people.
You can join the free workshop that focuses on finding virtual bookkeeping jobs and how to begin your own freelance bookkeeping business by signing up for free here.
Recommended reading: How To Find Online Bookkeeping Jobs
4. Blogger
Blogging is a great way to make money while working on your own. It’s one of the reasons I really enjoy it, haha! I get to work by myself, for myself, and I can pick the projects I want to work on.
As a blogger, you write content for others to read online. You get to choose what you want to write about as well as how you want to make money blogging because there are so many different options (like affiliate marketing or displaying ads).
You can begin a successful blog about a specific topic like finance, travel, lifestyle, family, and many others.
Blogging is my main source of income, and it has completely transformed my life. I have the freedom to travel whenever I want, set my schedule, and be my boss.
Since I began Making Sense of Cents, I’ve made more than $5,000,000 from my blog. I earned this money by working with companies through sponsored partnerships, affiliate marketing, display ads, and selling online courses.
Learn more at How To Start A Blog FREE Course.
5. Delivery Driver
Delivery drivers pick up and drop off packages. And, they get to work by themself most of the time as they are in the vehicle alone.
A delivery driver may drive a car, truck, or even a bike, depending on the company they work for. They don’t usually have a boss watching them all day nor have to deal with very many customers for long periods.
6. Book Reviewer
Book reviewers read books and share their thoughts in book reviews.
There are websites where you can get paid for sharing your thoughts about books and you may earn money through PayPal or a bank transfer, and sometimes you get to keep the book you reviewed.
They don’t just want positive reviews either, they want to know what you really think! You see, authors and publishers like to send out free copies of their books so that they can get honest opinions. Just like us, they know it’s helpful to read reviews before deciding if a book is worth the time.
Some sites that pay for book reviews include Online Book Club, Kirkus Media, and BookBrowse.
Recommended reading: 7 Best Ways To Get Paid To Read Books
7. Deliver RVs or Cars
You can earn money by traveling across the country and delivering vehicles for people and dealerships. Sometimes you’ll be towing the vehicle, and other times you’ll be driving it.
If you want a job with minimal human interaction, this can be a good one to look into as you are mostly by yourself. You simply pick up the vehicle, drive by yourself, and then drop it off.
For this job, you need to have a clean driving record. Those who do this type of work can earn around $300 to $400 (or much more!) for each vehicle they deliver. It depends on the distance they are traveling and what is being transported.
8. Digital or Graphic Designer
A graphic designer is someone who creates designs for others, such as people and businesses.
As a digital designer, you may be making things like images, printables, planners, t-shirt designs, calendars, business card designs, social media graphics, stickers, logos, and more.
Recommended reading: How To Make Money As A Digital Designer
9. Pet Sitter and Dog Walker
Pet sitters and dog walkers take care of pets while pet owners are away, such as on vacation or in the hospital. Some of the tasks include feeding, taking dogs for walks, and playing with them.
You might have pets come to your home or you can go to their owner’s place (this is something that is agreed upon beforehand). Dog walkers earn around $20 for every hour walking a dog. Looking after someone’s pet overnight can earn a person around $25-$100+ or even more each day.
I have personally paid a person to watch my dogs overnight in their home $100 a day. She was so wonderful too and my dogs loved her.
Now, with this job, you’re not working entirely alone, because you will be with pets. But, they can be great friends and companions!
Rover is a company you can sign up with and list your dog walking and pet sitting services.
10. House Cleaner
House cleaners make sure homes and businesses are nice and clean. They might work alone or with a small group. They can earn between $25 to $50 an hour for cleaning for others.
You can work for a cleaning company, but you’ll likely make more money if you have your own business.
Starting this kind of business isn’t expensive because you likely already have the cleaning supplies you need. You can advertise your services on Facebook, tell your friends and family, or make an account on Care.com.
11. Transcriptionist
An online transcriptionist’s main task is to listen to video or audio files and then type out everything that is being said, a process known as transcribing. The aim is to accurately write down what is heard, without any mistakes in spelling, grammar, or punctuation.
There are many different types of transcriptionists as well – legal, general, and medical transcriptionists.
This job requires strong typing and listening skills, and you can work from home all by yourself.
Online transcriptionists earn around $15 to $30 per hour on average, with new transcribers on the lower end of that.
A helpful free resource to take is FREE Workshop: Is a Career in Transcription Right for You? You’ll learn how to get started as a transcriptionist, how you can find transcription work, and more.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Online Transcription Jobs For Beginners To Make $2,000 Monthly
12. House Flipper
House flippers buy, renovate, and sell properties for a profit. This job involves managing renovation projects, and you can work alone or with a small crew.
House flipping is when someone buys a property at a lower price, fixes it up (like painting, redoing the kitchen, and improving the outside appearance), and then sells it for more money to make a profit. This is done to make a quick return on the investment.
Recommended reading: 10 Best Books on Flipping Houses To Make Money
13. Grocery Shopper
Grocery shoppers buy groceries for people like you and me, offering a helpful service for those who don’t have the time or can’t shop on their own. You’ll work on your own and talk to clients through an app on your phone.
One service you can easily sign up with to become a grocery shopper is Instacart. This is a popular site for people who want to make extra money by shopping for and delivering groceries.
Instacart shoppers make money from a mix of base pay, tips from customers, and sometimes bonuses or rewards (like for finishing orders during busy times).
You can sign up here to get started as a grocery shopper with Instacart.
Recommended reading: Instacart Shopper Review: How much do Instacart Shoppers earn?
14. Affiliate Marketer
Affiliate marketers share products or services with their followers for a commission. You do this by placing a referral link on your website, blog, or social media (like Instagram). When people use that link to buy something, you then get a commission.
For example, if you share a link to a book on Amazon and someone buys it through your link, you make some money. Companies like Amazon want people like you to help them sell things, so they’re happy to work with you as it helps them.
If you get someone to sign up through your special link, the company gives you a commission for telling others about their product. It’s like a little thank-you for your help!
This is one of my favorite jobs where you work alone from home, and what I do full-time!
Click here to get Affiliate Marketing Tips – Free eBook.
15. Flea Market Flipper
Flea market flippers find underpriced items at flea markets, yard sales, and thrift stores, then resell them for a profit. This job requires a good eye for valuable items and the ability to research market value.
Finding items to resell may be one of the best jobs to work alone on this list because we all have things in our house we could probably sell. Plus, there are always things that you can buy for a low price and possibly resell for a profit.
If you are looking for work-alone jobs, this is a great one to look further into.
I recommend signing up for this great webinar, Turn Your Passion For Visiting Thrift Stores, Yard Sales & Flea Markets Into A Profitable Reselling Business In As Little As 14 Days, that will help you learn how to make money by flipping items as well.
16. Sell Printables on Etsy
Creating and selling digital printables on Etsy is a great way to work independently and earn money.
Making printables can also be a pretty hands-off job since you only have to create one digital file for each product, and you can sell it as many times as you like. It’s quite affordable to start because you only need a laptop or computer and an internet connection.
Printables are digital items that customers can download and print at home. They can include things like bridal shower games, grocery shopping checklists, budget planners, invitations, printable quotes for wall art, and patterns.
I recommend signing up for Free Workshop: How To Earn Money Selling Printables. This free training will give you great ideas on what you can sell, how to get started, the costs, and how to make sales.
17. Mechanic
Mechanics diagnose and repair vehicles, working independently or in small shops. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of automotive systems are important.
Being a mechanic is a job where you often work on your own. While they might work in a garage with other mechanics, they often have their own tasks to do. They need to be really careful and pay close attention to make sure everything gets fixed just right.
18. Dog Treat Baker
Do you really like dogs? If you do, here’s a way to work mainly alone and make an extra $500 to $1,000 or even more each month.
You don’t need to know how to bake beforehand, because you can learn this skill. You can make special treats like cupcakes, cookies, cakes, and more, all for dogs.
You can sign up for this free training workshop that shows how to start a dog treat bakery.
You can learn more at How I Make $4,000 Per Month Baking Dog Treats (With Zero Baking Experience!).
19. Amazon Seller
Selling items on Amazon is a job where you work alone (mostly) and don’t have to deal with customers face-to-face.
Even if you’re new to selling on Amazon, you can make money by selling household goods, books, electronics, and more.
If you’re interested in learning about starting an Amazon business, you can join this free training that will teach you how to sell products on Amazon and make around $100 to $500+ each day.
20. Stock Photo Photographer
Stock photo photographers work on their own, and this job can be done without talking to anyone for the most part. Almost all of the tasks can be done with just a camera and then uploading photos on a site.
Stock image sites are some of the most popular ways for photographers to sell their pictures. These are sites where customers can buy pictures for websites, TV shows, books, social media accounts, and more. There are stock photos that I have purchased within this blog post that you can take a look at to see an example.
One great thing about stock photo sites is that they can be a great form of passive income. You can take pictures, upload them, and earn money from an older photo for months or even years in the future. There is no need to talk to anyone as everything is online and mostly automated.
Some stock photo websites include Shutterstock, iStock, DepositPhotos, and Dreamstime.
Recommended reading: 18 Ways You Can Get Paid To Take Pictures
21. Social Media Manager
Social media managers post on social media accounts for businesses and their goal is to bring in new customers and help a business grow.
Social media managers may post a picture or a video of a product or the company, join in a viral trend to get more views (such as on TikTok), answer common questions from customers, and more.
This includes social media platforms such as TikTok, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Salary can vary, and this job can be done part-time or full-time.
22. Landscaper
A landscaper improves and maintains outdoor areas, such as by taking care of the lawn, planting flowers, or even renovating a whole outdoor area (such as to make it more enjoyable to sit outside and have company).
If you’re interested in jobs where you work alone outside, this is one to consider as you will be outdoors and working on your own a lot. Customers may talk to you occasionally, but you are mostly by yourself.
Landscapers work at houses, apartment complexes, businesses, or somewhere else.
23. Data Entry Clerk
Data entry clerks enter, update, and check information in databases or spreadsheets. They type information such as numbers and names into computers to keep things organized and recorded.
This job can sometimes be done remotely and alone, with minimal supervision or interaction with customers.
Data entry jobs typically pay around $15-$20 an hour.
24. Editor
Editors review and improve written content for clients and they usually work on their own as most of their time is spent editing content.
Their job is to read articles, blog posts, advertising, books, and more to make them better. They fix any mistakes in grammar or spelling and help the words flow smoothly.
Editors typically earn anywhere from $40-$60+ an hour.
25. Freelance Writer
Freelance writers write content for clients, such as blog posts, advertising, and more. Freelance writing jobs where you work by yourself are common as you’ll be given a topic to write about from the client, and when you are done you may be given some feedback (such as paragraphs to improve or add to). But, that is usually as much human interaction as you’ll get if you want.
You can find different writing jobs on platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, or even find clients on your own.
I was a freelance writer for many years before switching to working full-time writing here on Making Sense of Cents. It is a great career path where you can work from home mostly by yourself.
Recommended reading: 14 Places To Find Freelance Writing Jobs – (Start With No Experience!)
26. Translator
Translators convert written content from one language to another, requiring fluency in at least two languages. Freelance and remote opportunities are available.
If you know another language, you might be able to find a work-from-home job where you can earn money by reading books and translating them. Another option is to get paid for proofreading or editing translated books to ensure they read smoothly and accurately.
There are lots of places you can find translation jobs, such as UpWork, Babelcube, Today Translations, Ulatus, Fiverr, and more.
27. Computer Programmer
Computer programmers write and maintain computer software, often working alone on projects.
They use coding to tell computers what to do and create all sorts of things like apps, games, and websites.
28. Canva Template Designer
Creating and selling Canva templates online allows you to work alone.
A Canva template is like a ready-made design that you can use for things like making posters, Pinterest pins, ebooks, or presentations. It’s like having a helpful starting point if you’re not super good at designing things from scratch. Canva templates come with empty spaces where you can put in your own words and pictures and you can also change colors and fonts to make them just how you like. They’re really helpful for people who want their things to look nice without spending a lot of time on it.
Making and selling Canva templates can be a great way to earn extra money as you only need to create them once, and then you can sell them as many times as you like.
Recommended reading: How I Make $2,000+ Monthly Selling Canva Templates
29. Voice Over Actor
A voice-over actor is the person whose voice you hear but don’t see in YouTube videos, radio ads, educational videos, and more.
Voice-over actors many times work right from their own homes!
Voice actors don’t need experience for this job (eventually, it does help, yes). Instead, they need to have a voice that the company is looking for.
Recommended reading: How To Become A Voice Over Actor And Work From Anywhere
30. Truck Driver
Truck drivers are people who move things from one place to another. To do this job, truck drivers need a commercial driver’s license (CDL). This job often involves working by yourself for long hours.
The salary for a truck driver can depend on things like what kind of items they’re moving and the miles they have to drive. Usually, they can make between $45,000 and $75,000 or even more in a year.
31. UPS Driver
UPS drivers deliver packages to people’s homes and businesses. They do this mostly on their own, in their trucks by themselves.
UPS drivers make a good income and they earn about $30-$45 per hour or even more, depending on how many years they have worked at UPS and where they work.
32. Security Guard
Security guards protect property and/or people, and they usually work alone.
A security guard’s salary depends on things like where they work, how long they’ve been doing the job, and what exactly they have to do. Usually, they can make between $25,000 and $35,000 in a year.
33. Self-Storage Facility Owner
Self-storage facilities are where people store their belongings, like boxes of their mementos, vehicles, RVs, and more.
Owning a self-storage business can be a way to make money and run a business with low expenses, plus they typically only have a couple of employees.
Many of the times when I’ve been to a self-storage lot, it’s been just the owner or an employee of theirs working. There are almost no customers either.
Recommended reading: How To Invest In Self-Storage For Beginners
34. Laundromat Owner
Similar to a self-storage business, a laundromat typically does not have very many employees.
Running a laundromat can be a way to make money, with low costs, as most things are automated (the washer and dryer machines do all of the washing).
Recommended reading: Are Laundromats Profitable? How Much Do Laundromats Make?
35. Get Paid To Text
When getting paid to text, you will many times be talking to someone else, but it is all done through text messages.
Some jobs may include:
Text Therapy or Coach
Answering questions, such as if you are a mechanic, doctor, lawyer, veterinarian, home expert, appraiser, computer expert
Customer support
Recommended reading: 28 Ways To Get Paid To Text And Make Money
36. Survey Taker
Taking online surveys and answering questions for focus groups is not a full-time job, but it can be a way to make some extra money.
You share your thoughts and answer straightforward questions, and in return, you can receive cash or rewards such as Amazon gift cards.
The survey companies I recommend signing up for and the best-paying survey sites include:
American Consumer Opinion
Survey Junkie
Swagbucks
InboxDollars
Branded Surveys
Pinecone Research
Prize Rebel
User Interviews – These are the highest paying surveys with the average being around $60.
Recommended reading: 18 Best Paid Survey Sites To Make $100+ Per Month
37. Twitch Streamer
Twitch is a site where you can make money playing video games, talking online in a live stream, and more. A streamer may be able to make money from their own home and all alone. Yes, they do need to be live recording their life, but they are their own boss.
There are many ways to make money on Twitch such as with paid subscriptions, display ads, selling merchandise (like t-shirts and mugs), and more.
Some of the most successful Twitch streamers make hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars each year, but, it’s important to know that most don’t earn much at all.
Recommended reading: How Much Do Twitch Streamers Make?
38. Litter Cleanup Worker
If you own a business, it’s important to keep your place clean and tidy. Nobody likes to see trash lying around, right?
That’s why some business owners are happy to pay for someone to clean up before their business opens for the day. A clean area makes the place look nice and welcoming for customers.
This business can be started all alone and earnings on average are about $30 to $50 for every hour you work. It’s pretty simple too. You’ll just need a broom, a dustpan, and some tools to help you pick up litter easily. It’s almost like taking a stroll while you work! Plus, you can choose when you want to do it, so it can fit nicely into your schedule.
Recommended reading: How I Started A $650,000 Per Year Litter Cleanup Business
39. Google Rater
A Search Engine Evaluator, also known as a Google Rater, is a person who looks at websites and blogs and gives them a score based on how good and helpful they are for Google.
You don’t need to be a tech expert or have a fancy background for this job. Google actually wants regular people, just like you, to rate websites. Plus, you can do this in your own language. Google works in lots of different countries, so you can help out right from where you are.
Recommended reading: How To Become a Search Engine Evaluator
40. Actuary
An actuary is a financial expert who helps businesses figure out and manage their money-related risks, such as for insurance, pensions, and investments.
They use mathematics and statistics to forecast what might happen and help companies make smarter financial decisions.
Actuaries can earn a good salary, and as they get more experience and pass more exams, they can make even more money. Depending on where they work and how experienced they are, actuaries earn average salaries of anywhere between $70,000 to well over $100,000 each year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jobs Where You Work Alone
Here are answers to common questions about finding jobs where you work alone.
What are jobs with no interaction?What jobs allow me to work by myself?
Yes, there are jobs where you don’t need to talk to people a lot. For example, being a night shift security guard, a transcriptionist, or a stock photo photographer.
How can I work alone from home?
There are jobs where you can work alone at home such as being a blogger, a transcriptionist, or a computer programmer.
What are jobs where you work alone with no degree?
Many jobs don’t require bachelor’s or master’s degrees (a high school diploma will work for many on the list above) and offer the opportunity to work independently. Mowing lawns, painting houses, repairing cars, or walking dogs often don’t require formal education and focus more on skills and experience.
Which part-time jobs are best suited for solitary workers?
Many of the jobs in this blog post can be done part-time, such as any of the freelance jobs, house cleaning, dog walking, and taking surveys. That is one of the joys of many of the jobs above – you can choose your schedule.
What trade jobs can one perform independently?
Trade jobs that you can perform independently include carpentry, welding, or plumbing. These professions usually require specific skills or certifications but may offer opportunities to work alone.
Are there any tech jobs ideal for people who prefer to work alone?
Yes, there are tech jobs that can work well for people who want to work on their own such as web developers, software engineers, or data analysts. These roles usually involve solving problems and working independently, though there might be some instances where collaboration is needed from time to time.
What jobs can be done in isolation with no experience required?
Jobs such as house cleaning, taking surveys, and flea market flipping can be good places to start for entry-level jobs.
How can I find work-alone job opportunities near me?
To find work-alone job opportunities near you, try perusing local job boards, classified ads, or online sites like Indeed or LinkedIn. You can also network with people in your community or join online forums related to your interests to find jobs.
Jobs Where You Work Alone – Summary
I hope you enjoyed this article on jobs where you work alone.
These jobs are like a safe space for people who like being by themselves. It’s a place where you can really concentrate and do your own thing with low social interaction. Jobs where you work alone often appeal to introverts and individuals who require fewer distractions.
Jobs like writing, coding, and freelancing let you work on your own. Not everyone may like working alone, but for those who do, it can be a lot less stressful and overwhelming.
I have been working mostly on my own for years now, and I really love it!
Mortgage rates began the day in slightly higher territory, but recovered after lenders offered mid-day price improvements. These sorts of mid-day changes are not uncommon when the bond market improves enough during any given business day.
Assigning objective numbers to the changes makes them less interesting. The average lender was only 0.02% higher than Friday this morning, and the improvement brought them 0.01% lower than Friday. These moves are so small that many borrowers would not see any detectable different in mortgage quotes between today and Friday.
Volatility stands a better chance of increasing on Wednesday afternoon when we get the next rate announcement from the Fed. Even if the Fed doesn’t hike rates (and they probably won’t), other information released in conjunction with that decision can have a big impact.
You want to become a homeowner but aren’t sure how you’re going to save up for your down payment. Typically, you’re going to need at least 3% to 5% for a down payment for a conventional mortgage, or 20% on a loan that doesn’t require private mortgage insurance.
Fortunately, there are a number of methods you can use to stash away money for your future home. Here are some of the best ways to save for a house and get one step closer to your dream.
1. Creating a Budget
Living on a budget may not be easy, but in the long run it can help you save money to put toward a home purchase. Creating a budget to track where your money is going is a good first step in a house savings plan.
Some effective ways to do this are recording expenses in a spreadsheet or using a budgeting app to determine your spending practices and identify where changes can be made to meet your savings goal. 💡 Quick Tip: Want to save more, spend smarter? Let your bank manage the basics. It’s surprisingly easy, and secure, when you open an online bank account.
2. Using Cash Envelopes
The theory behind this method is that it may be harder to part with cash than it is to swipe a debit or credit card. The cash envelope budgeting method involves distributing cash each month (or pay period) into envelopes based on categories you establish. When you’re out of cash for each category, you stop spending.
3. Deleting Your Stored Cards
Do you store your payment information on Amazon or other e-commerce stores? If so, it’s time to consider deleting them from each store or from your browser settings. If you have to manually input your card each time you want to make a purchase, you may just stop spending so much money online.
4. Downsizing Your Life
Another one of the tips for saving for a house involves downsizing your life. This could mean moving to a smaller rental or to a more affordable area of town. Just keep in mind that there is always a flip side to downsizing. For instance, your smaller apartment may not include parking, so you might be taking on an expense you didn’t have before. Moving to a different part of town might mean spending more on transportation costs getting to work each day. It’s a good idea to weigh the pros and cons before making any big decisions.
5. Setting Up Automatic Transfers
Reaching your savings goals might happen faster by setting up automatic transfers from checking account to savings account each time you’re paid. If your paycheck is direct-deposited, you may also be able to split the deposit into more than one account, on a percentage or dollar-amount basis.
6. Postponing Vacation
This method can reap plenty of savings if your usual vacation is a costly one. Instead of taking a big trip, a staycation may be entertaining and less expensive. Check out your local newspaper’s website to find free activities and events in your area. Art museums sometimes offer free admission days, and area nature trails are generally free and can be a good way to have fun and get exercise in one fell swoop. Now is the time to be creative since you’re working on your house savings plan.
7. Tackling Your Debt
If you get 4.50% APY in your high-yield savings account, but you carry a credit card balance with an interest rate of 23.99%, it may make more sense to put your money towards your debt right now rather than savings.
8. Eating at Home
Dining out is expensive. The average American household spends more than $3,000 per year on eating out. By skipping the takeout and restaurants and cooking your meals at home, you can add that money to your house savings plan.
9. Making Your Own Coffee
It’s a cliche, but it’s true: If you skip the lattes, you could boost your savings. The average American spends $92 per month on coffee, which adds up to about $1,100 per year. Purchasing a coffee maker and brewing your own cup of joe as opposed to hitting up a coffee shop every day will likely improve your home savings plan.
10. Using Coupons at the Grocery Store
Looking for coupons for items you normally buy anyway can trim your grocery bill. Coupons can be found on coupon websites and on brands’ websites.
Recommended: Tips for Grocery Shopping on a Budget
11. Buying Things on Sale
Just because you want something doesn’t mean you need to have it right away. Waiting to buy things when they go on sale is another one of the best tips for saving for a house. Along with looking at stores’ advertised sales, you could always create a Google alert to find out when things go on sale by typing in your favorite stores’ names + sales on Google Alerts. 💡 Quick Tip: If you’re saving for a short-term goal — whether it’s a vacation, a wedding, or the down payment on a house — consider opening a high-yield savings account. The higher APY that you’ll earn will help your money grow faster, but the funds stay liquid, so they are easy to access when you reach your goal.
12. Using Promo Codes
Promo codes are like coupons for online purchases. Browser extensions that search the web for deals can bring those promo codes to you and save you precious search time and effort.
13. Cutting Out Cable
Cable television can be a major monthly expense for some households, sometimes hundreds of dollars every month. One of the best ways to save is to cut the cord, switch to streaming services, and potentially pay much less per month on your favorite entertainment by saving on streaming services.
14. Canceling Your Subscriptions
You may be spending money on monthly subscriptions without realizing how much. Canceling subscriptions to things like lifestyle boxes you aren’t using anymore or magazines you don’t read can add up to significant savings.
15. Making the Most of the Library
The local library is a fantastic resource. You can borrow books, magazines, and movies instead of buying them, and some libraries even offer access to free audiobooks. Libraries are funded by taxes, so you’re probably already contributing to this resource—there’s little reason to pay twice for items it provides as a public service.
16. Canceling Your Gym Membership
Gym memberships can be pricey, but exercise is not. Using free, online workout videos and things in your home as exercise equipment (e.g., stepping on your stairs, doing wall or table pushups, or using a chair for barre exercises), or walking around your neighborhood can save money over a gym membership.
17. Shopping Around for Insurance
You may be overpaying for insurance. Comparing rates and getting different quotes for your car, renter’s, pet, health, and other types of insurance can ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.
18. Steering Clear of Checking Account Fees
Is your bank charging you a monthly maintenance fee just to keep your account open? If so, it might be worth looking into switching banks or asking your bank how you can avoid these fees. For example, if you have a direct deposit into the account or maintain a minimum daily account balance, you may be eligible for a fee-free account.
19. Selling Your Stuff
Do you have things you never use anymore? Could they fetch some cash? Holding a garage sale or selling your stuff online might net a few dollars to add to your house savings plan. You’ll probably want to buy new things for your new home anyway, and selling your old things will allow you to save up.
20. Asking Your Boss for a Raise
During your annual performance review, consider asking for a raise, highlighting your accomplishments and why you deserve more money. Be specific about improvements you’ve made to the company by backing up your accomplishments with data.
21. Switching to a Better Job
If you aren’t making enough money in your current position, then consider switching to a higher-paying job. It’s a good idea to keep your current job until you find a new one, though.
22. Taking on a Side Hustle
If you have the time and energy, earning extra money on nights and weekends with a side hustle might be an option. For instance, you could start a dropshipping business, take up freelancing, or do affiliate marketing.
23. Signing Up for a Travel Rewards Credit Card
If you need to travel or you are still planning a vacation, using a travel rewards credit card may be a good idea. These cards offer certain rewards for different categories such as travel, gas, and dining out, and allow you to put your rewards towards flights, hotels, rental cars, and more. Plus, many of them offer other ways to save, such as providing you with rental car and baggage delay insurance or no foreign transaction fees.
Recommended: Credit Card Rewards 101: Getting the Most Out of Your Credit Card
24. Getting a Cash Back Credit Card
With a cash-back credit card, you can earn cash rewards every time you spend. Putting that cash back toward a statement credit or bank transfer will help accelerate your savings.
25. Renting Your Spare Room
If you have an extra room in your apartment that you aren’t using, you could get a roommate or list it on a rental site to reduce your overall living expenses. Just make sure that you get permission from your landlord before inviting anyone else to move in.
26. Renting Out Your Storage Space
Another one of the best ways to save for a house is to rent out your unused storage space on a peer-to-peer site. You could generate income without having to do much work at all, and you won’t have to live with someone else—just their stuff.
27. Making Your House Savings Plan Known
Your Aunt Mildred may always get you boxes of chocolates for your birthday, and your dad might give you gift cards for Amazon. But letting your family and friends know you’re trying to save for a home might plant the seed for them to give you cash instead. If you’re getting married, this is a time to tell people about your plans so that instead of registry gifts, they might give you cash for your future home.
28. Opening a High-Yield Savings Account
Putting your money into a regular savings account may not result in much of a return. However, putting money in a high yield savings account may net more interest and get you closer to reaching your savings goals. A high-yield savings account typically offers 20 to 25 times the national average of a typical savings account.
29. Hiring an Accountant at Tax Time
If you’ve been doing your taxes on your own every year, you may have missed potential tax savings you might be eligible for. A tax professional may be able to maximize your savings, possibly resulting in a larger refund, or minimize taxes you owe.
30. Saving Your Tax Refund
If you get a tax refund, consider saving it instead of spending it. The money can be a nice addition to your down payment, possibly even earning interest in high-yield savings account until you need it.
31. Changing Your Tax Withholding
Among the best ways to save for a house is by keeping more money from your paycheck. If your withholding is too high, the IRS is essentially holding your money for you all year round. Instead of getting a large tax refund, keeping your money now and investing it in an interest-bearing account will help you save up for your home.
The Takeaway
Saving for a house takes some time and effort, but there are many different ways to do it. For instance, by eating out less, you could potentially save thousands of dollars a year. Launching a side hustle could increase your income. And opening a high-yield savings account, which typically offers considerably higher interest rates than a traditional savings account, could also help your money grow — and help you achieve your dream of home ownership.
Interested in opening an online bank account? When you sign up for a SoFi Checking and Savings account with direct deposit, you’ll get a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), pay zero account fees, and enjoy an array of rewards, such as access to the Allpoint Network of 55,000+ fee-free ATMs globally. Qualifying accounts can even access their paycheck up to two days early.
Better banking is here with up to 4.50% APY on SoFi Checking and Savings.
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4.50% APY SoFi members with direct deposit activity can earn 4.50% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Direct Deposit means a deposit to an account holder’s SoFi Checking or Savings account, including payroll, pension, or government payments (e.g., Social Security), made by the account holder’s employer, payroll or benefits provider or government agency (“Direct Deposit”) via the Automated Clearing House (“ACH”) Network during a 30-day Evaluation Period (as defined below). Deposits that are not from an employer or government agency, including but not limited to check deposits, peer-to-peer transfers (e.g., transfers from PayPal, Venmo, etc.), merchant transactions (e.g., transactions from PayPal, Stripe, Square, etc.), and bank ACH funds transfers and wire transfers from external accounts, do not constitute Direct Deposit activity. There is no minimum Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the stated interest rate.
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SoFi Bank shall, in its sole discretion, assess each account holder’s Direct Deposit activity and Qualifying Deposits throughout each 30-Day Evaluation Period to determine the applicability of rates and may request additional documentation for verification of eligibility. The 30-Day Evaluation Period refers to the “Start Date” and “End Date” set forth on the APY Details page of your account, which comprises a period of 30 calendar days (the “30-Day Evaluation Period”). You can access the APY Details page at any time by logging into your SoFi account on the SoFi mobile app or SoFi website and selecting either (i) Banking > Savings > Current APY or (ii) Banking > Checking > Current APY. Upon receiving a Direct Deposit or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits to your account, you will begin earning 4.50% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% on checking balances on or before the following calendar day. You will continue to earn these APYs for (i) the remainder of the current 30-Day Evaluation Period and through the end of the subsequent 30-Day Evaluation Period and (ii) any following 30-day Evaluation Periods during which SoFi Bank determines you to have Direct Deposit activity or $5,000 in Qualifying Deposits without interruption.
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Yesterday, President Obama gave a speech on homeownership at Desert Vista High School in Phoenix, Arizona, one of the hardest hit cities in the nation.
While it was mostly fluff many of us have heard before, there were some nice little takeaways. I’ve listed what I feel are the top 10 quotes, based on their impact, candor, and humor, in the order in which they were said.
1. I think about my grandparents’ generation…in that earlier generation, houses weren’t for flipping around, they weren’t for speculation — houses were to live in, and to build a life with.
Housing needs to be perceived as shelter again, not solely as an investment, according to the President.
2. We cracked down on the bad practices that led to the crisis in the first place. I mean, you had some loans back there in the bubble that were called “liar’s loan.” Now, something that’s called a liar’s loan is probably a bad idea.
Obama knows stated income loans are bad news, though it’s unclear if he knows they’ve already begun to resurface.
3. Congress should pass a good, bipartisan idea to allow every homeowner the chance to save thousands of dollars a year by refinancing their mortgage at today’s rates. We need to get that done. We’ve been talking about it for a year and a half, two years, three years. There’s no reason not to do it.
He continues to push for HARP3 or MyRefi, though such a program looks dead in the water because he’s asking Congress to get it done. And rates have risen substantially.
4. Housing prices generally don’t just keep on going up forever at the kind of pace it was going up. It was crazy. So what we want to do is something stable and steady. And that’s why I want to lay a rock-solid foundation to make sure the kind of crisis we went through never happens again. We’ve got to make sure it doesn’t happen again.
Here comes major housing reform…
5. …one of the key things to make sure it doesn’t happen again is to wind down these companies that are not really government, but not really private sector — they’re known as Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. For too long, these companies were allowed to make huge profits buying mortgages, knowing that if their bets went bad, taxpayers would be left holding the bag. It was “heads we win, tails you lose.” And it was wrong.
Yes, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were responsible for the housing crisis, though many other organizations were as well. To be frank, the entire system is broken.
6. …private capital should take a bigger role in the mortgage market. I know that sounds confusing to folks who call me a socialist — I think I saw some posters there on the way in.
A little bit of humor mixed in with a very serious point about the housing market being far too reliant on the government, with pretty much every loan backed by Fannie, Freddie, or the FHA these days.
7. …we should preserve access to safe and simple mortgage products like the 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage. That’s something families should be able to rely on when they’re making the most important purchase of their lives.
The good news is the 30-year mortgage isn’t going anywhere, regardless of the reform that takes place, or is it?
8. They’re designing a new, simple mortgage form that will be in plain English, so you can actually read it without a lawyer — although, you may still want a lawyer obviously. I’m not saying you don’t. I’m just saying you’ll be able to read it. There won’t be a lot of fine print.
This pretty much sums up the ongoing cluster that is the mortgage industry. Perhaps the concept of mortgage reform is more elusive than we think.
9. So I want to be honest with you. No program or policy is going to solve all the problems in a multi-trillion dollar housing market. The housing bubble went up so high, the heights it reached before it burst were so unsustainable, that we knew it was going to take some time for us to fully recover.
It’s going to take a while folks…be patient.
10. More Americans will know the joy of scratching the child’s height on the door of their new home — with pencil, of course.
Translation: The American Dream is still alive and well.
