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You’ll find amenities galore and a wide range of communities and rent prices among the best apartments in Phoenix.

As one of the best places to live within Arizona, Phoenix has plenty to offer those on the hunt for a new home. You get a bevy of scenic views, cool amenities for those hot days and access to luxury. It’s no wonder people are looking to rent in neighborhoods across this desert city.

Whether selecting a home in a more high-end spot, gravitating toward downtown or settling into the suburbs, most of the 1.6 million inhabitants of Phoenix moved here from somewhere else. They started off their journey just like yours; each trying to find the best apartments in Phoenix to call home.

To make your search easier, here are 25 of the best apartments in Phoenix to consider.

Offering upscale living with plenty of opportunities for entertainment and relaxation, Fairways on Thunderbird has a great amenities package. In addition to a pool and spa, media center and business center, you’ve got a picnic area with barbecues to use. There’s even a clubhouse with billiards.

Close to freeways and shopping, this community offers studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. Most floor plans also come in under the average rent price in Arizona.

One of the few green communities on best apartments in Phoenix list, North Mountain Village offers up a modern, urban feel. Along with the two playgrounds and three pool areas, you get access to a breakfast/coffee concierge when you live here.

With studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units, this quiet community is pet-friendly and within walking distance to shops and restaurants. There’s even a dog park nearby.

The lush greenery and a fun stucco aesthetic at Vaseo will catch the eye of just about anybody.

On-site, you’ll find basketball courts and tennis courts for the athlete. A movie theater is there for the pop-culture fan. Complimentary charging stations for eco-vehicles make things great for the environmentally conscious. The playground and pool are also open for a little rest and recreation.

A variety of floorplans make this a dynamic community. One-bedroom and two-bedroom units vary in price. But if you live here, expect to pay a little more than the average rent rate in Arizona.

Located in the urban village of Ahwatukee, Pacific Bay Club is close to shops, boutiques and restaurants. All combined, they provide so much appeal, most residents never feel like leaving.

Pets are welcome in the one- and two-bedroom units and you’ll find a dog wash area on site. However, expect to pay a little more for the location and the extra amenities. With a variety of floorplans, most units rent for more than what you’d pay on average in the state.

Situated right near Desert Sky Mall, Del Mar Terrace is conveniently located within Phoenix. It’s a great spot to commute from. The on-site soccer field provides a unique recreational opportunity, and the onsite market and preschool make the community feel like its own little village.

One- and two-bedroom units are all within a very affordable range. Monthly rent is considerably less than the average you’d expect to pay throughout Arizona.

Plenty of trees and polished landscaping give the Villages at Metro Center a homey feel. The community is also across the street from Metro Center Mall when the shopping bug bites. Units come with covered parking and private patios or balconies. Additionally, there are three resort-inspired pools, a clubhouse and a playground

With studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom units available there’s a floor plan to meet anyone’s needs. Pets are also welcome, and most units fall under the state’s average monthly rent.

A sleek and colorful aesthetic gives Novella a fun feel. The design fits the tone of the neighborhood, known for its vibrant, up-and-coming vibe and its variety of shops and restaurants.

These luxe, three-bedroom units include all the high-end amenities that come with the community. These include a barbecue area, fire pit, lounge space and pool.

The eye-catching yellow doors will draw you into the newly renovated space at Amara. Located near the downtown campus of Arizona State University, this community is also close to plenty of entertainment, shopping and dining.

New interiors and a great pool put the studio, one- and two-bedroom units in demand, and the price is right too. All units have a lower monthly rent than the state’s average.

A senior living community with a long list of amenities, Phoenix Manor is a great place to retire to. This is a smoke-free space with a dog park, two heated pools and a nine-hole putting green. Two clubhouses, a library, lounge and coffee bar round out the special spots. You’ll also find invites to social actives like bingo and dances to make it easy to get to know your neighbors.

This community is all about creating an elegant and independent lifestyle. Studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units are all available. Most even price out under what the average tenant pays each month throughout the state.

An urban vibe permeates the boutique apartment complex of MODE Midtown. Another green community, living here is all about location. Nestled among the East Alvarado Historic District and Central Arts District, you’re close to so much local culture. There are art galleries, parks, boutiques and unique eateries. You’re also close to the Phoenix Art Museum, the Heard Museum, the Arizona Opera and the Phoenix Theatre.

Affordable one- and two-bedroom floor plans give you plenty of space both inside and out. Large rooms and a nice-sized patio are the perfect combination for comfortable living.

A covered playground, basketball court and pet play area means every resident at San Marina can find happiness and activity. There’s also a hot tub, pool and clubhouse. It’s in West Phoenix, putting you near great shopping and dining. You’re also minutes from outlet shops and close to State Farm Stadium.

One- and two-bedroom apartments, priced well below the state’s monthly rent average, give you plenty of choices. And, none of them will take a big bite out of your budget.

Water-scape views make Riverwalk stand out in the middle of Phoenix’s desert landscapes. Close to Scottsdale, the Camelback Corridor and Papago Park, you’re never far from, excellent shopping, dining, hiking and biking. You’ve even got a golf course around the corner.

Within the community itself, you’ll have access to a 24-hour heated, Mediterranean-style pool and spa. There’s also a cabana, sand volleyball court and a playground.

Live in a little luxury with these condominiums, some of the best apartments in Phoenix.

Upscale amenities and excellent service make 59 Roosevelt another solid community to consider calling home. A resort-style pool, clubhouse and community lounge provide residents with spots to relax and socialize.

Two- and three-bedroom units feature oversized closets, stainless appliances and hardwood floors. You’re conveniently located to shopping and dining as well. Commuting is also easy via the South Mountain 202 Freeway and I-10.

If you live a more active lifestyle, consider calling Los Vecinos home. Not only will you find a playground, swimming pool and picnic area, but plenty of athletic options. Right out your door are basketball courts, a soccer field and a volleyball court. Perfect your skills in one sport or more while meeting your neighbors while you do it.

This community is also a win based on its location. It’s close to great dining, shopping and public parks as well. Studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments rent below the average for the state, for an affordable find.

Twenty-four-hour customer service makes The Cove stand out as a great Phoenix find. Combining comfort with a resort lifestyle, here, luxury awaits. One-, two- and three-bedroom apartments rent with all the expected amenities.

Only blocks away from a grocery, and great dining options, you’re also within range of a lot of activity. This includes the Phoenix National Raceway, Ak-Chin Pavilion and American Family Field of Phoenix. With all the perks, rent prices are slightly higher than the state average.

Up in North Mountain, Azura is an allergen-free apartment community. It’s both pretty to look at and functional to live in. You’ll find a 24-hour fitness center, three pools, a dog park and more.

From this vantage point, you also have access to plenty of hiking trails and scenic landscapes. There’s no shortage of great pubs, bars and casual eateries as well.

Studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments are affordably priced. They rent under the state average, making it possible to get coveted amenities at a great rate.

Walking distance to shopping plazas makes it a no-brainer to check out Village Square. This apartment community is in Paradise Valley. You’re close to Phoenix Mountain Preserve as well as plenty of parks with biking and hiking trails. You also have easy access to downtown.

This ideal location, coupled with amenities like a media center, business center and pool, comes at a very reasonable price. One- and two-bedroom units rent for under $1,000 a month.

A modern feel makes Rise on Thomas something a little different. With studio, one-bed and two-bedroom apartments, you have plenty of choices when picking your perfect floor plan. The community features a fitness center and swimming pool, too. You’re able to stay in shape and cool off on all those hot days without going far from home.

Rent prices are close to what you’d pay, on average, throughout Arizona. The location is also central to downtown, Biltmore Fashion Park and Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

Giving off more of a house vibe, the best features of Thunderbird Villas are the garages and the balcony/patio most units have. You’ll also find renovated interiors and plenty of shops and restaurants nearby.

These townhomes are in South Phoenix, an area rich in local history and culture. Two-bedroom units have starting rental prices below the state average. Rents may stretch slightly above though, based on the amenities within.

Taking all its tenants’ needs into consideration, The Curve at Melrose is full of amazing amenities. Not only that, but the look of the community is hip and modern. You’ll want to hang out in the common spaces. This is all to keep up with the vibe throughout the Melrose District. This Downtown Phoenix neighborhood is known for being vibrant, eclectic and very urban.

Specific amenities throughout the community include a business center with a conference room, a Starbucks coffee bar, valet trash service and charging stations for electronic vehicles. You’ll also find a great pool area with a hot tub, a 24-hour fitness center, a clubhouse and even complimentary beach cruiser rentals.

Living in a park-like atmosphere gives Verde Vista wide appeal. The community has two pools, a picnic and grill area and a covered playground. When the days aren’t too hot, you can also use the soccer field and basketball and volleyball courts.

Floor plans are spacious. And, everything in the studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units has gotten remodeled recently. The price is right, too, with all units renting for under $1,000.

Congregate around the fire pit at Atwater. Get to your know neighbors in this pet-friendly, recently-renovated community. There’s also 24-hour maintenance, a barbecue and picnic area, pool and conference room.

A part of the Camelback East neighborhood, living here puts you beside Squaw Peak and entitles you to amazing views. You’re also nearby some dining gems and top-notch hiking. Two- and three-bedroom options mean plenty of space and like-new amenities.

What’s not to love about Desert Star? Studio and one-bedroom apartments are affordably wrapped up with amazing amenities. Not only is there a fitness center, but also a jogging track, basketball court and tennis court. You get a pool and two jacuzzis. For the kids, there’s also a playground. It’s fun for all.

This community’s location within Deer Valley also puts you in walking distance to Turf Paradise. This horse racetrack is the third-largest sport’s attraction in the entire state. You’re also not far from great shopping and restaurants.

A nice outdoor grilling space is just the start at Boulder Creek. This community prides itself on service. You have access to a 24-hour wellness center and 24-hour emergency maintenance. You’re also located near Arizona State University, Sky Harbor Airport and the Phoenix Zoo. When nature calls, you’re across from Papago golf course and park as well.

Priced below the state’s average, you’ll find studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units for rent.

With a sleek look, Proximity 16th Street brings plenty of updates to this South Phoenix community. A smoke-free residence, you’ll find charging stations for electric vehicles as well as smart thermostats, doors and locks within each unit. There’s Wi-fi access at the resort-style pool and video doorbells, as well.

A brand-new community along the Western Canal, one of the best amenities is Bark Park, the community’s dog park. This isn’t the only pet-conscious feature though. You’ll also find in-home doggie doors that go out to private patios.

The price tag matches the perks. One-, two- and three-bedroom units all price higher than the state’s average.

Renting the best apartments in Phoenix

There are so many choices when it comes to renting in The Valley of the Sun. Make sure you come prepared when the hunt begins. No matter where you start your search, it’s an exciting process to find apartments for rent in Phoenix. This is thanks to the variety of vibrant and picturesque neighborhoods all around town.

We looked at all available multifamily rental property inventory from January to June 2021 on Rent. to determine which properties with a Phoenix mailing address are most viewed by organic internet searches. The information included in this article is used for illustrative purposes only. The data contained herein does not constitute financial advice, availability or a pricing guarantee for any apartment.

Source: rent.com

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Underwriting, Outsourcing, CRM, POS Products; IMB earnings for Q3

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Underwriting, Outsourcing, CRM, POS Products; IMB earnings for Q3

By:
Rob Chrisman

Thu, Nov 16 2023, 11:02 AM

“Every disaster movie starts with the government ignoring a scientist.” Vendors and lenders can’t ignore red ink. Here in Kansas City, one of the discussion topics is how relationships are important during these days when the balance sheets of many lenders and vendors don’t look so great after, for many companies, several quarters of losses. How much pain do some owners want? Balance sheets were plump after 2020 and 2021, and warehouse banks and investor counterparties continue to do business with companies that are losing money based on those balance sheets along with the servicing income. Now? The MBA’s oft-quoted Marina Walsh, VP of Industry Analysis, reported, “Independent mortgage banks and mortgage subsidiaries of chartered banks reported a pre-tax net loss of $1,015 on each loan they originated in the third quarter of 2023, an increase from the reported loss of $534 per loan in the second quarter of 2023. (Today’s podcast can be found here, sponsored by LoanCare, the mortgage subservicer known for delivering superior customer experience through personalization and convenience. Its award-winning portfolio management tool, LoanCare Analytics, supports MSR investors with a focus on customer engagement, liquidity, and credit risk.)

Lender and Broker Software, Products, and Services

Plug-n-play your way to better relationship marketing with Velma, an effortlessly simple CRM tailor-made for smaller lenders, banks, and credit unions. Say goodbye to expensive, complex systems. Velma delivers budget-friendly marketing automation solutions featuring zero implementation fees and seamless, hassle-free setup. With hyper-personalized engagement, effortless efficiency, and a proven track record with over 40,000 mortgage professionals since 2007, Velma simplifies your journey, supercharges your marketing, and keeps your loan officers doing what they do best. Join the Velma revolution today and transform your lending business!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… budget planning! A great POS shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg, and a budget-friendly POS shouldn’t suck. Check out LiteSpeed by LenderLogix – great, budget-friendly, and integrates seamlessly with Encompass® by ICE Mortgage Technology™.

As we head into the holiday season, also known as the time to review your 2024 plans, AmeriHome Correspondent, backed by the strength of Western Alliance Bank, wants to speak to you about how a relationship with them will help you navigate the coming year. Combined with AmeriHome’s industry leading loan purchase platform, this is a “must-have” relationship for mortgage bankers of all shapes and sizes. Financial institutions, IMBs and Emerging Bankers alike benefit from AmeriHome’s Delegated and Non-Delegated options, full suite of conventional and government products, and Bulk, Bulk/AOT and Best-Efforts delivery options. Learn how Leveraging Western Alliance Bank’s Warehouse Lending, MSR Financing, and Treasury Management services can enhance your bottom line and improve execution with AmeriHome. Check out Upcoming Events for details on where they’ll be through year-end, find your sales rep here, or send them an email to learn more about partnering with AmeriHome!

Remember when you could just pick up your phone and text a client with news about their loan? Nowadays, a few bad actors are using texts to bombard people with texts that they don’t want. And go figure, the FCC and the TCPA implemented new A2P 10DLC requirements, to try and stop the junk texting. And the fines for noncompliance are serious. Recently, a mortgage company was fined north of $7 million by the TCPA. That’s scary. Are your salespeople texting their databases? Have your compliance teams even heard about 10DLC federal regulations? Since ALL texting through mortgage CRMs falls under this federal law, it is imperative that you utilize texting legally and compliantly. What have your CRM providers done to help you navigate this challenging compliance landscape? Click here to learn more about the regulations and what you need to do. Share this Infographic with your team.

Ever heard the one about the investor who didn’t need more value? Neither have we! Join Planet Loan Servicing at the IMN SFR Forum West Dec. 4-6 to explore how our expert blend of technology, service, and cost-efficiency enhances Single-family Rental investments. Managing $100B+ in total assets, Planet provides top-tier expertise and savings-focused strategies to support robust portfolio performance. Enjoy complimentary access to our proprietary tools and discover how we create lasting value. Let’s connect in Scottsdale and unlock the full potential of your investments. To schedule your meeting now Email [email protected] or call (585) 512-1030.

Despite the recent rally, this year’s deterioration in the MBS market, marked by both its scale, duration, and concurrent surge in rates, is consistently surprising observers with its resilience. Seeking insights from historical patterns, MCT’s industry webinar titled “The Great Inflation vs. 2024: Analysis & New Tools for the Current Market” aims to provide answers and current market analysis. Phil Rasori and Andrew Rhodes will delve into the current market scenario, draw comparisons with pertinent historical precedents, and introduce new MCT software functionality. Register for today’s webinar at 11am PT for information and valuable insights to navigate the challenges of this historic market.

“Turn fixed costs into variable costs on a dime. When the market zigs, lenders need the flexibility to zag. Richey MayAdvisory brings the mortgage industry expertise and agility you need to convert fixed costs into variable costs. Our difference maker is your ability to outsource services to highly trained experts in a model that fits your needs. Whether that means loan-level accounting, advisory, business intelligence, compliance support, cyber services, internal audits, or underwriting automation, we have the tools, knowledge, and experience to deliver value and improve your financial performance unlike any competitor, anywhere. You’ll feel it almost immediately in your day-to-day operations. Even better, you’ll notice the difference in your bottom line. Reach out or visit our website to learn more about how we can help your operation.”

Processing and Fulfillment Tools

ACES Quality Management Announces Preliminary Speaker Lineup and New Location for ACES ENGAGE 2024! ACES ENGAGE conference will take place at the Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain hotel in Tucson, Ariz. on May 19 – 21, 2024. Attendees learn from industry experts and thought leaders, network, and leave with the knowledge necessary to increase efficiencies, improve productivity and further quality at their organizations. This year’s keynote speaker is Robyn Benincasa, a two-time world champion adventure racer, 20+ year veteran San Diego firefighter and 2014 CNN Hero. In addition, ACES has gathered industry experts for this year’s speaker lineup, including Joel Kan, vice president and chief economist at the Mortgage Bankers Association; vice president at Fannie Mae, Bill Cleary; and Richard J. Andreano, Jr., partner, and practice leader of Ballard Spahr’s Mortgage Banking Group. Discount pricing available. Register today!

“We are painfully aware of the emotional and financial stress lenders are experiencing in the current environment. Many of you have been forced to choose between saving great people or saving the company: a horrible set of choices. However, with the help of our patented machine + human mortgage loan fulfillment solution, you will never find yourself in that situation again. By harnessing the CandorPLUS™ full loan lifecycle solution and its decision-ready file output, will ensure that you can quickly and confidently scale up or down to match your volume while simultaneously improving your performance metrics: cost, speed and quality. Click here to schedule a call to explore how CandorPLUS™ can help you change the way your business navigates market volatility going forward.”

MBA on Origination Volume

According to the Mortgage Bankers Association’s (MBA) newly released Quarterly Mortgage Bankers Performance Report, “A decline in originations volume worsened net production losses in the third quarter of 2023. While production revenues stayed relatively flat, per-loan production costs reverted to the third-highest level in the history of MBA’s survey, which reversed a portion of the cost improvements made in the second quarter.”

Ms. Walsh elaborated. “Net production income has been in the red for six consecutive quarters. MBA forecasts lower industry volume over the next two quarters compared to last quarter, which means a turnaround is unlikely until the second quarter of 2024. One silver lining is that mortgage servicing continues to be a bright spot for many companies. Combining both the production and servicing business lines, roughly half of mortgage companies stayed profitable in the third quarter of 2023. Were it not for mortgage servicing, only about one in three companies would have been profitable.”

Including all business lines (both production and servicing), 51 percent of the firms in the study posted pre-tax net financial profits in the third quarter, down from 58 percent in the second quarter. The average pre-tax production loss was 34 basis points (bps) in the third quarter of 2023, compared to an average net production loss of 18 bps in the second quarter of 2023, and a loss of 20 basis points one year ago. The average quarterly pre-tax production profit, from the third quarter of 2008 to the most recent quarter, is 45 basis points.

The average production volume was down 5 percent from the second quarter. Total production revenue (fee income, net secondary marketing income and warehouse spread) increased to 329 bps in the third quarter, up slightly from 328 bps in the second quarter. On a per-loan basis, production revenues decreased to $10,426 per loan in the third quarter, down from $10,510 per loan in the second quarter.

The purchase share of total originations, by dollar volume, was constant at 89 percent. For the mortgage industry as a whole, MBA estimates the purchase share was at 82 percent in the third quarter of 2023.

Total loan production expenses (commissions, compensation, occupancy, equipment, and other production expenses and corporate allocations) increased to $11,441 per loan in the third quarter, up from $11,044 per loan in the second quarter of 2023 versus an average of $7,305 per loan over the last fifteen years.

Servicing net financial income for the third quarter (without annualizing) was $90 per loan, down from $94 per loan in the second quarter. Servicing operating income, which excludes MSR amortization, gains/loss in the valuation of servicing rights net of hedging gains/losses, and gains/losses on the bulk sale of MSRs, was $104 per loan in the third quarter, down from $105 per loan in the second quarter. (Any questions should be addressed to Marina Walsh.)

Capital Markets

Cooling prices and slipping retail sales are pointing to a fabled soft landing. We learned yesterday that U.S. producer prices declined 0.5 percent last month, the most since April 2020. The decline was mostly due to a drop in gasoline prices, adding fuel (sorry) to the assumption that global central banks are finished with interest rate hikes. If you strip out food and energy, the producer price index was flat on a month-over-month basis and registered lower than expectations.

Meanwhile, we also learned that U.S. retail sales fell 0.1 percent month-over-month in October after a summer spending flurry: should we be cautious about the consumer? The report isn’t adjusted for inflation, so consumer demand for goods in October fell off noticeably from September but was better than expected as expectations were for a larger decline. Sales were up 2.5 percent on a year-over-year basis. Overall, PPI was supportive of bond prices, while the retail sales number was negative for bond prices.

Yesterday’s reports followed consumer price data from Tuesday showing that inflation is broadly slowing. Additionally, recent figures have indicated tempered job growth, suggesting the economy is slowing after aggressive rate hikes by the Federal Reserve. Pricing in fed funds futures markets currently implies a zero chance of another rate hike this year, and that the first interest rate cuts will come in May of next year. Of course, the Fed has indicated that it will remain data dependent. My personal opinion is that the bond market is at risk of leaning too heavily toward rate cuts next year.

Today’s economic calendar is already under way with import prices (+.6 percent, much higher than expected, but down ex-petroleum; -2.0 percent for the year), weekly jobless claims (231k, up from 218k; 1.863 million continuing claims), and Philadelphia Fed manufacturing (5.9). Later today brings industrial production and capacity utilization for October, the NAHB Housing Market Index for November, Kansas City Fed manufacturing for November, Treasury announcing next week’s auctions of 20-year bonds, reopened 10-year TIPS, and 2-year FRNs, Freddie Mac’s latest Primary Mortgage Market Survey, and a full slate of Fed speakers (Vice Chair for Supervision Barr, Cleveland President Mester, New York President Williams, Fed Governor Waller, and Fed Governor Cook. We begin the day, one week before Thanksgiving, with Agency MBS prices better by about .250 and the 10-year yielding 4.46 after closing yesterday at 4.54 percent; the 2-year is down to 4.84.

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

Source: mortgagenewsdaily.com

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Amged Baker, a 40-year-old software developer, wanted to move to a bigger home as the Florida native transitioned into a new role at work that allowed him to be permanently remote. He also wanted more space for his two kids.

But Baker, who works for a real-estate platform, knew that it wasn’t that simple to trade up. Mortgage rates had doubled and home prices continued to rise. In his hometown of Palm Beach County, Fla., home prices soared by nearly 60% over the last five years.

He sold his previous home for $600,000, which had a 30-year mortgage rate of 2.8%. However, he was prepared to give up that rate if he could avoid paying a rate of 7%.

Baker was intrigued by assumable loans. Having refinanced his current home during the pandemic, he was keenly aware of the value of his ultra-low mortgage. He knew his monthly payments would be a lot more affordable with an assumable mortgage — and so his search began.

He’s not alone. It appears to be the housing market’s latest obsession — homeowners, buyers, and real-estate agents are all talking about assumable mortgages.

Across real-estate brokerage sites, listings boast that the home comes with an “assumable mortgage,” described in glowing terms as a “rare find,” “game-changer,” or as one buyer said on social media, “white whale.” 

What are assumable mortgages? 

With assumable mortgages, the loan — and, importantly, its interest rate — is passed from the seller to the buyer when a house changes hands.

With the U.S. housing market frozen by high rates and low inventory, it’s clear why people have turned their attention to assumable loans. They’re particularly appealing now because they offer homeowners a way to potentially capitalize on their pandemic-era ultra-low mortgage rate by passing it on.

Here’s the catch: Only certain types of loans can be assumable mortgages. The seller must have a government-backed home loan, which is insured by the Federal Housing Administration, Veterans Affairs, or certain loans by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. 

“‘Folks don’t want to give up those assumable mortgages because they’re just as attractive to them as they are to you.’”


— Andy Walden, vice president of enterprise research strategy at ICE

These government agencies allow homeowners to transfer ownership of the mortgage to a new home buyer under certain conditions such as the new buyer having good credit, an acceptable debt-to-income ratio, and more.

For the typical home buyer today who is facing a 30-year mortgage with a rate over 7%, assuming an existing mortgage with an interest rate as low as 1.75% is an enticing proposition. It offers an alternative to buying points — fees a borrower pays the lender to cut the mortgage rate on their home loan —  or taking out an adjustable-rate mortgage, which comes with its own risks.

For the seller, an assumable mortgage presents another feature to play up when listing their home. There is also, perhaps, some comfort in knowing that their ultra-low interest rate will be inherited by the buyer. 

Assumable mortgages were popular in the 1980s

“For the last 40 years, rates have been falling, so nobody cared about assumability,” said Tod Tozer, former president and CEO of Ginnie Mae. “So we’re basically back to the future — we’re back to 40 years ago when 30-year mortgages were close to 13%, 14% back in 1981. And they’ve been falling ever since.”

Ginnie Mae securitizes all FHA, VA, and USDA mortgages for the secondary market. Tozer has also written about assumable mortgages being a “solution” to today’s frozen housing market, as the seller will be able to “receive top dollar for the sale of their home,” and move to another place.

Amged Baker, a homeowner in Florida, bought a single-family home in June 2023, and assumed the seller’s mortgage.


Amged Baker

Assumable mortgages were popular in the 1980s when mortgage rates were in the double digits. Back then, many conventional loans were assumable. “It was the standard of the industry,” Tozer said.

But assumable mortgages aren’t as common as a conventional loan, making them hard to come by. 

Based on the market today, only 12 million mortgages are potentially assumable, which is less than a quarter of all mortgages in the U.S., according to loan-level data from ICE. Of these mortgages, which are primarily FHA, VA, and USDA loans, about 7.2 million or 14% have a mortgage rate of below 4%.   

Assumable mortgages can be difficult to find, and it can also be difficult to get homeowners to part with their loan if the alternative is to buy a house with a much higher interest rate. 

“Folks don’t want to give up those assumable mortgages because they’re just as attractive to them as they are to you,” said Andy Walden, vice president of enterprise research strategy at ICE, or Intercontinental Exchange, a data company.

Additionally, even after a buyer takes over the mortgage, they will still need to cover the difference between the outstanding balance and the sale price, Walden told MarketWatch. 

How assumable mortgages work

So how do they work? Imagine an aspiring homeowner views a home valued at $375,000, and the home comes with an assumable mortgage of $225,000. The buyer in this situation will need to put down $150,000 in cash, or find other financing after they assume the mortgage. 

If the buyer requires secondary financing, it will likely come at a higher interest rate, which will offset some of the savings from the assumable mortgage. Nonetheless, for homeowners who are keen on selling, if they have an assumable mortgage, their house will become more attractive to buyers.

“Veterans across the country are sitting on these ultra-low rates,” Chris Birk, vice president of mortgage insight at Veterans United Home Loans, told MarketWatch. “So they’ve got this incredible marketing opportunity.”

“‘Veterans across the country are sitting on these ultra-low rates. So they’ve got this incredible marketing opportunity.’”


— Chris Birk, Veterans United Home Loans

And yet of the 69,000 VA purchase loans that his company processed in 2022, only about two dozen were assumptions.

There’s a lack of awareness about assumable loans, Jason Mitchell, chief executive of Jason Mitchell Group, a Scottsdale, Ariz.-based real-estate brokerage, told MarketWatch. 

The first question real-estate agents should ask homeowners who are listing their homes is whether their mortgage is assumable. “If you can mark it as an assumable mortgage at 3.5%, you’re gonna get a better price on your house,” he added. 

What happens if the new buyer defaults on the assumable mortgage?

The person who assumes the mortgage also becomes responsible for paying the loan on time. If the new buyer stops making their mortgage payments and goes into default, that does not mean the original owner will be required to pay up.

With FHA loans, “once the assumption is complete, it is a full release of liability for the previous borrower, which means the new borrower (the borrower that has assumed the mortgage) has full responsibility for all aspects of the mortgage,” a HUD spokesperson told MarketWatch.

Similarly, with VA loans, when another buyer assumes the mortgage, there is a release of liability, Birk added. The veteran who owned the home previously isn’t financially responsible if the new owner defaults.

One man’s search for an assumable mortgage

During his search, Baker, the software developer, contacted Chris Tapia, a 41-year-old real-estate broker with Compass Florida. Tapia had met Baker three years ago when the homeowner bought his first home in Palm Beach, and the pair had become good friends. 

Tapia had recently introduced the idea of assumable mortgages to Baker. The agent believed that it was one key way for home buyers to take back the purchasing power they lost as homeownership became more expensive.

“Everything is so phenomenally expensive that no one can really afford anything right now,” Tapia told marketWatch.

In his quest for assumable loans, Baker specifically looked for homes that were financed with a mortgage from the Federal Housing Administration, Veterans Affairs, or the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

He then searched home listings from various online brokerages to identify those that were financed with an FHA or a VA mortgage. He also looked at services such as FHA Pros, a site that provides real-time data for FHA and VA condominium approvals.

But homeowners can also look for listings with assumable loans via Google with the following search term: site:compass.com “assumable.”

MarketWatch found several new and old listings advertising assumable mortgages in the home’s description.

Finding an assumable rate of 3.05%

Baker and Tapia attended 20 open houses in Palm Beach County. 

They made four offers and ultimately closed on a four-bedroom single-family home in Palm Beach County for $620,000. Baker took over the seller’s 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, under the assumption rules. It has a 3.05% rate. 

He currently holds a Federal Housing Administration loan with an outstanding balance of $324,000. As a result, he put down $269,000 in cash.

The seller had only paid off about 3 years on their 30-year loan, so Baker took it over with a monthly payment of about $1,500. He estimated that buying the home with a conventional mortgage at the prevailing rate would cost closer to $2,300 a month. 

Baker closed on the home in June 2023, and because he assumed the seller’s loan he did not have to pay thousands of dollars in closing costs. 

“You will be hearing about assumable loans more often,” Tapia, the broker, said.

Baker agreed. “To be honest with you, it was always a good deal — it was always better than going the conventional route,” he said.

Source: marketwatch.com

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Mr. Cooper reported Thursday it had a cybersecurity incident earlier in the week, in which an unauthorized third party gained access to certain technology systems. 

Though the lender did not expand upon the attack and its scope, which took place Oct. 31, it did note that for now, some of its systems are offline. 

Customers have been alerted of this issue and those “who have tried or need to make payments will not incur fees, penalties or negative credit reporting as we work to resolve this issue, ” a company spokesperson said in a statement. 

The lender has “initiated response protocols, including deploying containment measures to protect systems and data.” The timeline for when some of its systems will be restored was not disclosed.

“We value our customers and take their data privacy very seriously, and we have launched an investigation with assistance from leading cybersecurity experts and notified law enforcement,” the spokesperson said.

The attack coincides with a number of other cybersecurity incidents hitting the mortgage industry of late.

Earlier this year, companies such as Planet Home Lending and Mutual of Omaha Mortgage disclosed both were impacted by attacks that compromised the personally identifiable information of consumers. 

Additionally, home builder Lennar Corp. disclosed that the social security numbers of 7,448 consumers were exposed in a July hack, while Scottsdale, Arizona-based V.I.P. Mortgage was the victim of a malware attack in December 2022, according to a September notice.

Reporting these types of instances will become mandated for mortgage shops early next year as the Federal Trade Commission Friday voted unanimously in October to approve an amendment to its Safeguards Rule to include nonbank financial institutions. 

The FTC’s rule requires nonbanks to notify the agency no later than 30 days after discovery of a breach involving the information of at least 500 consumers. Incidents are defined by the agency as events where unencrypted customer data has been acquired without authorization. 

The notices must include information about the breach, such as the number of consumers either affected or potentially affected. The reporting requirement goes into effect April 27, 2024.

Source: nationalmortgagenews.com

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If you’ve got your eye on a Taylor Morrison home, you may have come across their affiliated lender “Taylor Morrison Home Funding.”

As with many other home builders, they’ve got their own in-house mortgage lender to streamline the home buying process.

This affords them better control, ideally boosting customer service, and gives them the ability to offer special pricing incentives.

With fewer parties involved, they should be able to get you from application to closing quicker than the other guys.

And if they can throw in a big mortgage rate buydown as well, it might be a win-win. Read on to learn more about the company.

Taylor Morrison Home Funding Fast Facts

  • Affiliated lender for home builder Taylor Morrison
  • Offers home purchase financing to new home buyers
  • Founded in 1982, headquartered in Maitland, Florida
  • Has 84 licensed mortgage loan officers
  • Parent company is publicly traded (NYSE: TMHC)
  • Licensed to lend in 11 states nationwide
  • Funded over $3 billion in home loans in 2022
  • Most active in Texas, Florida, Arizona, and California

Taylor Morrison is one the largest home builders in the United States, serving home buyers and renters in 19 markets across 11 states.

Only a handful of builders are larger, including D.R. Horton, Lennar, Pulte, NVR, and Toll Brothers.

The company was formed in 2007 after Taylor Woodrow Inc. and Morrison Homes Inc. merged. Dispute this recent development, their building operations date back to the early 1900s.

They are now headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona and build new homes in 11 states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, and Washington.

These are also the states where they are licensed to lend, as their primary focus is extending financing to the buyers of their new homes.

Taylor Morrison Home Funding is most active in the state of Texas, which accounts for about 25% of total loan production.

At last glance, there were 84 licensed mortgage loan officers working for the company throughout the country, per the NMLS.

They also own Inspired Title Services, which is a full-service title insurance and real estate settlement provider operating in the states of Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, and Texas.

How to Apply

To get started, you can either visit a new home sales office and get connected to a sales rep, or simply navigate to their website.

If you go online, they have the option to pre-apply via “Dorothy,” which is their “state-of-the-art mortgage technology that can take you home with just a few clicks.”

A play on the Wizard of Oz, Dorothy works alongside a human Taylor Morrison Home Funding team to get you to the finish line quicker and easier.

The process includes a digital loan application with automated verifications to reduce the need for paperwork and documentation, powered by fintech company Blend.

Applicants can eSign disclosures and take advantage of secure document uploading to ease the burden.

Once complete, you will be presented with tailored mortgage solutions based on the information you provide.

And a licensed loan officer will then provide solutions and “market-competitive rates” with your goals and budget in mind.

Those who prefer more guidance can simply click on “Contact a Loan Consultant,” where they’ll find contact information for loan officers near their market.

After your loan is submitted, you’ll be able to check loan status via the online portal, satisfy outstanding conditions, and get in touch with your lending team if and when you have questions.

Able Ready Own (ARO)

Those who need help qualifying for a home purchase can take advantage of their complimentary program called Able Ready Own (ARO).

In a nutshell, ARO Consultants work with prospective home buyers to strengthen their credit profiles and boost their chances of getting approved for a home loan.

The goal is to educate consumers about the home buying and mortgage process, and create tailored plans that produce better qualified home buying candidates.

If successful, they might be able to boost your credit scores and fine tune other areas that are key for mortgage qualification.

In the end, these changes could put you in a stronger position when it comes to buying and financing a home.

If they’re able to increase your credit scores, you may also qualify for a lower mortgage rate.

Available Loan Programs

  • Home purchase loans
  • Conforming loans backed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
  • Jumbo loans
  • FHA loans
  • VA loans
  • Fixed-rate and adjustable-rate options
  • Temporary buydowns including 3-2-1
  • Permanent buydowns for life of loan

Taylor Morrison Home Funding has a limited menu of loan programs, but still all the main stuff to satisfy the needs of most home buyers.

They are fully focused on providing home purchase loans to their customers, meaning no mortgage refinances here.

In terms of loan choice, you can get a conforming loan backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, or a jumbo loan if purchasing an expensive new home.

Government-backed loans are also available, including FHA loans and VA loans.

They don’t appear to offer USDA loans or second mortgages, including any sort of home equity loans or lines.

However, you can get both a fixed-rate mortgage, such as a 30-year fixed or 15-year fixed, or an adjustable-rate mortgage, such as a 5/6 ARM or 7/6 ARM.

Additionally, buydowns might be offered, including temporary and permanent buydowns, to help reduce payments for the first couple years or for the life of the loan.

Taylor Morrison Home Funding Rates and Fees

While they don’t have a page dedicated to their mortgage rates and lender fees, my guess is they provide special financing if you use them to buy a Taylor Morrison home.

This is a common setup for home builders with their own financing departments. They’re able to structure deals that include big mortgage rate buydowns.

Not only does this help the home buyer qualify, it also allows them to avoid price reductions if affordability is strained.

If you visit the Taylor Morrison Homes website, you’ll be able to see special offers by clicking on a particular market they serve.

I came across some pretty spectacular deals, including a combination of a temporary and permanent buydown where the interest rate started as low as 2.75%.

Just pay attention to closing costs and the mortgage APR, which factors in the lender fees and the interest rate.

And always take the time to gather outside mortgage rate quotes so you can negotiate with the builder’s lender.

Taylor Morrison Home Funding Reviews

There don’t seem to be a ton of reviews online for Taylor Morrison Home Funding, though I was able to track down a handful.

Their Irvine, CA location currently has a poor 1.0/5-star rating on Yelp from 32 reviews. Poor communication seems to be the main gripe.

You might also be able to find individual loan officer reviews on Zillow and other websites.

Or you can search their many home builder locations and check out their Google reviews. Granted, those might combine the home builder and lender experience.

Over at the Better Business Bureau (BBB) website, the company has an ‘A-‘ rating based on customer complaint history. There don’t appear to be any complaints on file at the moment.

Their parent company has an ‘A+’ BBB rating, but over 200 complaints filed over the last three years. And over 100 in the past 12 months.

But the high letter grade should indicate that they handle those complaints in a timely and professional manner.

At the same time, the customer reviews for the parent company on the BBB website aren’t great, with a 1.15/5 rating at last glance.

So be sure to take a gander to determine what customers are complaining about, and how you can avoid those same issues.

To sum things up, Taylor Morrison Home Funding could be a good option if you’re buying a Taylor Morrison property.

The biggest incentive being the special mortgage rate offers that are hard to beat, especially from an outside lender.

However, you should still take the time to comparison shop as you would any other lender.

While they might make things easier, and have better communication between builder and lender, their mixed reviews indicate some hiccups too.

Taylor Morrison Home Funding Pros and Cons

The Good Stuff

  • Can apply online via a digital mortgage application
  • Mostly paperless process with the latest technology
  • Plenty of loan programs to choose from including ARMs
  • Offer temporary and permanent buydowns
  • Can get a long mortgage rate lock
  • Big mortgage rate incentives on Taylor Morrison properties
  • Complimentary ARO service
  • Free mortgage calculator and mortgage glossary online

The Perhaps Not

  • Only offers home purchase loans
  • No refinance loans, USDA loans, or second mortgages
  • Do not list rates/fees online
  • Mixed customer reviews
  • Not licensed in all states
  • May not service your loan after funding

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com

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The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice. See Lexington Law Firm’s editorial disclosure for more information.

The debt avalanche method is an accelerated debt repayment strategy that involves paying off the debt with the highest interest first, then rolling those payments to your next highest-interest debt until all your debt is paid off.

Getting out of debt can seem overwhelming when you’re sitting at your kitchen table trying to pay bills each month or if debt collectors are harassing you. It’s even worse when all you can think about is everything else you could spend money on: a family vacation, a new car. But with a bit of dedication and a plan, it’s possible to regain your financial freedom with an accelerated debt repayment strategy like the debt avalanche method.

Read on to learn how to use the debt avalanche method to pay off your debt faster than you may have thought possible.

What is the debt avalanche method?

The debt avalanche method is an accelerated debt repayment method. When using this strategy, you make minimum monthly payments on all your debts and put any additional funds toward paying down the debt with the highest interest rate.

Once you’ve repaid that debt, roll that minimum payment and additional funds over into the debt with the next highest interest rate. Repeat the process until you’ve paid off all your debts.

The debt avalanche method is a good strategy for most types of debt:

  • Student debt
  • Credit card debt
  • Auto loans
  • Medical debt

Debt avalanche vs. debt snowball: What’s the difference?

The debt avalanche is often compared to the debt snowball—another accelerated debt repayment method. In a debt snowball, instead of paying off the debt with the highest interest rate, you direct all your extra money toward paying off the debt with the lowest balance.

While both methods will pay off debt faster than if you had no strategy, you’ll see more quick wins if you opt for the snowball method, making it a good option for people who are easily discouraged.

You can also combine the two methods by prioritizing paying off the smallest debt with the highest interest rate to save on interest and see quick wins.

How to use the debt avalanche method to pay down debt

To use the debt avalanche method, follow these steps:

  1. Build up an emergency fund. This will ensure an unexpected bill doesn’t throw off your payment plan. Experts recommend having enough in your emergency fund to cover six months of living expenses.
  2. Make a list of all your debts. Include their balances, interest rates and minimum payment amounts. Organize your list from the highest interest rate to the lowest.
  3. Total your monthly expenses and income. Add up all the money you spend on monthly living expenses and monthly minimum payments on debt. Also note your monthly income.
  4. Determine how much money you have to put toward additional debt payments. Tally what you have left over each month after paying monthly expenses and minimum payments. You’ll put this “extra money” toward debt each month.
  5. Each month, put the extra money toward the debt with the highest interest rate. This should be in addition to the regular monthly minimum payments.
  6. Put any unexpected income toward the debt with the highest interest rate. If you get any unexpected income, such as a tax refund or bonus at work, put that toward your accelerated payment as well.
  7. When you’ve paid that debt off, roll over that debt’s minimum payment and your extra monthly income toward the debt with the next highest interest rate. Continue paying the minimum payment on all other debts.
  8. Repeat until you’ve cleared all your debts. As you pay off debts, your payments to the other debts will increase.

Debt avalanche example

Let’s look at an example use of the debt avalanche method.

You have three outstanding debts:

  • A student loan for $10,000 with 5 percent interest and a minimum monthly payment of $400
  • A credit card debt of $5,000 with 25 percent interest and a minimum monthly payment of $100
  • A home repair loan for $3,000 with 15 percent interest and a minimum monthly payment of $275

And after monthly living expenses and the three minimum payments, you have $250 leftover in your budget to put toward accelerated payments.

Since your credit card debt has the highest interest rate, start by paying the extra $250 in addition to the $100 monthly payment. That means you’ll pay $350 each month.

Once you’ve paid off your credit card debt, your debt with the next highest interest rate is the home repair loan, so that’s where you’ll start sending your extra payments each month. Roll over the $350 you paid monthly for the credit debt to the home repair loan. Added to the minimum payment of $275, you’ll pay $625 toward the loan each month.

When the home repair loan debt is clear, focus on your student loan, which has the lowest interest rate of your three debts. Roll over the $625 you were paying to the home repair loan to the minimum payment for the student loan, for a total monthly payment of $1,025.

If you use the debt snowball method discussed earlier, you’d start by paying off your smallest debt, which in this case is the home repair loan.

Pros and cons of the debt avalanche method

The debt avalanche method is one of the most logical and cost-effective debt repayment plans, but it isn’t perfect.

The advantages of the debt avalanche method are:

  • You’ll save on interest. This method helps you pay off your debt early, saving you what you would have paid in interest.
  • You’ll pay back your debt faster. By steadily making payments larger than the minimum, you can shave months off your repayment plan.

The disadvantages of the debt avalanche method are:

  • Larger debts can take longer to pay back. If you know you need small wins to stay motivated, this can negatively impact your ability to stick with your accelerated payment plan.
  • Unexpected bills or unstable income can hinder your progress. This method only works if you can make regular payments larger than your minimum payment.

Other ways to pay off credit card debt   

While many people find the debt avalanche method to be a helpful strategy for getting out of debt, there are other ways to pay off debt that may better fit your situation.

You can also use any of the following methods:

  • Balance transfer credit card: Some credit cards have promotional offers for 0 percent APR on balance transfers to new customers. If you qualify, you can transfer your debt on a high-interest credit card to one of these cards. Pay attention to when the promotional 0 percent APR ends, or you’ll have to pay interest again. In this situation, it makes the most sense to devote any extra income after monthly expenses to this debt to clear it faster.
  • Debt consolidation loan: Take out a loan for the amount of all your debt and use the money to pay off those individual debts. Then pay off your consolidation loan each month. This makes repayment easier because you’re only making one monthly payment, but be careful that the interest rate on your consolidation loan is less than the interest rates on your other debt. Otherwise, you’ll end up paying more in interest over time.
  • Home equity line of credit: Borrow against your home’s equity. Often these lines of credit have lower interest rates than credit cards.
  • Debt management plans: If you cannot pay off your debt within five years even with a strict budget, or if your total monthly minimum payments are more than your monthly income, consider getting professional help. A debt counselor can help you create a debt management plan to pay off your debt. However, secured debt (a debt with collateral, such as your car or your home) won’t qualify for a debt management plan.

Is the debt avalanche method right for you?

The debt avalanche method is an excellent option for repaying debt faster, but it doesn’t fit every situation. If you are intent on saving money while you repay debt and are motivated enough to keep going without small wins along the way, the debt avalanche method may be your path to financial freedom. While using the debt avalanche—or any accelerated debt repayment plan—it’s essential to continue with behaviors that maintain or improve your credit. Stay current on all your bills, create and stick to a budget and track your spending. Lexington Law Firm may be able to help you on your journey to repair your credit. Take our free credit assessment today to learn more.

Note: Articles have only been reviewed by the indicated attorney, not written by them. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, act as legal, financial or credit advice; instead, it is for general informational purposes only. Use of, and access to, this website or any of the links or resources contained within the site do not create an attorney-client or fiduciary relationship between the reader, user, or browser and website owner, authors, reviewers, contributors, contributing firms, or their respective agents or employers.

Reviewed By

Alexis Peacock

Supervising Attorney

Alexis Peacock was born in Santa Cruz, California and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona.

In 2013, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology, graduating cum laude from Arizona State University. Ms. Peacock received her Juris Doctor from Arizona Summit Law School and graduated in 2016. Prior to joining Lexington Law Firm, Ms. Peacock worked in Criminal Defense as both a paralegal and practicing attorney. Ms. Peacock represented clients in criminal matters varying from minor traffic infractions to serious felony cases. Alexis is licensed to practice law in Arizona. She is located in the Phoenix office.

Source: lexingtonlaw.com

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Online banking has made managing money easier than ever. However, it has also led most people to rely solely on digital assets.

Precious metals are a popular investment choice for people wishing to buy a tangible asset that retains its value over time. In particular, gold and silver generally maintain their value even when the stock market faces major financial fluctuations.

They also do well in times of inflation and political uncertainties. When traditional stocks fluctuate due to these external factors, precious metals only become more valuable.

Investors who prefer a hands-off approach have the option of purchasing gold and silver stocks. These stocks are traded daily just like any other stock. However, many people prefer to keep a physical store of their precious metal.

While relatively illiquid, buying physical gold and silver is typically viewed as a long-term investment. It’s certainly a practical option if you’re concerned about inflation or the future of fiat currency.

Best Places to Buy Gold and Silver Online

eBay and Craigslist are both great places to start. But unless you’re confident that you’re dealing with a reputable seller, you might want to look into other sites that specialize in precious metals.

To help you find the best place to buy gold and silver, we’ve compiled a list of the best online gold dealers.

Money Metals Exchange

Money Metals Exchange, or MoneyMetals.com, has received several accolades, including the “Best Overall Gold Dealer” by Investopedia.

They’ve also done over $2 billion in transactions.

Money Metals Exchange has an A+ rating from the BBB. They offer 24/7 online support, indicating a strong commitment to customer service.

Products include gold, silver, rhodium, palladium, and platinum. You can also invest in a self-directed precious metals IRA.

You can often find great deals and promotions on Money Metals Exchange, so it’s a site you may want to bookmark.

Silver Gold Bull

Silver Gold Bull offers a suite of services for their customers. In addition to buying and selling through the company’s website, you can also store your hard assets in their secure facilities.

Another helpful feature is an automated spot alert. You can get up-to-the-minute data on where prices are throughout the day and buy when they hit your target price.

Plus, the Silver Gold Bull sales team is full of seasoned veterans, so you can get answers to your questions from people who truly know their stuff.

The company sells a wide range of gold, silver, platinum, palladium, copper, and collectibles online and over the phone.

Gainesville Coins

With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, Gainesville Coins has been keeping customers happy for more than ten years.

In fact, the company has also received a five-star rating from the National Inflation Association—the only bullion dealer to receive such a distinction.

You’ll find a wide selection of gold, silver, platinum, and other metals like copper, palladium, and rhodium on the Gainesville Coins website.

The company also sells pre-1933 gold and has an extensive clearance section with time-sensitive deals. In addition, you can calculate shipping based on your zip code and items placed in your cart. Only Florida residents pay sales tax on their purchases.

Gainesville is one of the best places to buy gold online.

Golden State Mint

Golden State Mint is a trusted source for premium precious metal products, providing buyers direct access to top-notch items straight from the manufacturer.

With 40+ years of experience, the company inspects each piece with precision before shipment, ensuring its authenticity and quality.

Customers can rest assured that all products are brand-new, never previously owned or circulated.

Investing in precious metals for retirement? Golden State Mint offers expert support in establishing an IRA account, stocked with an array of products that fully comply with IRS standards.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Golden State Mint is committed to helping you achieve your investment objectives through purchasing physical gold and silver.

Provident Metals

What started as a precious metals trade show business has launched into one of today’s largest online bullion dealers.

Provident Metals holds several professional memberships. These include the American Numismatic Association, the Professional Coin Grading Service, and the Numismatic Guaranty Corporation.

Provident’s collections include gold, silver, copper, platinum, and palladium, with an extensive selection of each one. In addition to coins, rounds, and bullion bars, Provident Metals also sells U.S. and foreign coins, wholesale products, and IRA bullion products.

You’ll appreciate the company’s attentive service and timely delivery. And if you order $99 or more, shipping is free; otherwise, it costs just $5.95 to ship.

APMEX (American Precious Metals Exchange)

APMEX is one of the largest online dealers in the world, which allows it to pass along savings to its customers. This is due to the sheer volume of business it does each day. Not only can you buy silver, gold, and other metals, you can also sell or trade from your current holdings.

The selection is huge, covering the major precious metals, historic gold coins, “elite” coins, old banknotes, and foreign coins. It also has an extensive collectibles section with rare coins and currency from around the world.

Scottsdale Mint

Scottsdale Mint (formerly Scottsdale Silver) focuses on silver and gold while also offering each in different collectible series. They sell both types of metal in coins, bullion bars, and rounds, with a particular premium set on artistic minting.

For example, some recent popular collectible sets include a Vikings series and a Godfather set featuring images from the iconic movie franchise.

To qualify for free shipping with insurance, you must make a minimum purchase of $500. This may seem steep compared to some other companies providing free shipping at $99. However, much of the allure of Scottsdale Mint comes from the company’s creative minting process.

JM Bullion

Shipping is free on all JM Bullion orders over $199. They sell physical gold, silver, platinum, and other bullion that arrive directly at your door. They inspect every inventory item to ensure only quality products are sold. Payment options include Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, PayPal Credit, bank wires, paper checks, and Bitcoin.

JM Bullion is fully accredited at both state and federal levels. They also have reliable customer service that you can reach via phone or 24-hour Live Chat. Sign up for email, and they will mail you exclusive sales and promotions.

Kitco

Kitco has many precious metal types, including gold, silver, palladium, platinum, and rhodium.

The website also provides a slew of data and news to help you with your portfolio decisions. You can even download apps for gold news, market alerts, and scrap value calculations for your smartphone.

GoldSilver.com

As its name implies, GoldSilver solely sells gold bars, coins, and jewelry and silver bars and coins. They also sell products such as safes and storage containers. You can also create an account to sell back your gold bullion, gold coins, and silver bars through the website.

There’s a flat rate shipping fee of $25 for any order under $500. Otherwise, shipping, handling, and insurance are free. In addition to traditional payment options, GoldSilver also accepts PayPal.

Silver.com

Don’t be fooled by the name. While Silver.com could be the best place to buy silver online, they also sell various gold, platinum, and copper products. In addition to government mints, you can also find gold coins, gold bullion, silver coins, silver bars, and more from private domestic and foreign mints.

The order threshold for free shipping is high at $3,000, but their tiered flat rate shipping fees are reasonable. Smaller orders up to $299 cost just $4.95 for shipping and insurance. The highest tier of orders from $1,000 to $2,999 cost just $9.95.

SD Bullion

Silver, gold, platinum, and copper comprise SD Bullion’s core product line, with coins, bars, and rounds from around the world.

They also sell lead bullion in the form of ammo as well as vaults, survival food, and herbal medicine. In addition, SD Bullion offers weekly specials and currently has a promotion for all orders shipped at just $7.77.

Texas Precious Metals

Texas Precious Metals offers several unique features, including the ability to sign up for limit orders. For example, you can automatically place a standing order if gold or silver reaches your desired value.

All orders ship for free using UPS Next Day Air, and all orders ship within three business days of payment. The website offers a curated selection of gold coins, gold bars, silver coins, silver bars, and pre-1933 gold.

Golden Eagle Coins

Golden Eagle Coins is a place for gold and silver investors and collectors alike. Take one look at their website, and you’ll see why — their inventory is enormous.

Prices are updated in real time as their quotes come directly from the commodities exchange. This is a great site to use if you are researching when to buy.

Shipping is free on orders $99 and over. Also, be sure to check out their bi-monthly blog for new items and savings.

Gold Dealer

Quoted on CNN, CNBC, and PBS, Gold Dealer offers a complimentary newsletter written by industry masterminds Ken Edwards and Richard Schwary.

They have a physical office moments away from LAX. However, if you don’t want to travel to Los Angeles, you can visit website instead. It has everything you’d expect from a reputable gold dealer.

Gold Dealer offers free, insured shipping on every order. Their low prices are the result of reducing operating expenses over time.

Monarch Precious Metals

Monarch Precious Metals is a newer company established in 2008 to help with the immense public demand for gold bullion. They only use quality metals, so anything you buy from them will be .999+ fine.

They triple-check the weight of every bar they ship. If it is ever underweight, they re-melt it. If it’s ever overweight, it’s a win-win for you because they always let it pass and ship it as is.

Everything is custom hand-poured and marked in the old way, giving their metals a unique, old-fashioned look. They accept all methods of payment except PayPal, and every order is properly insured.

CMI: Gold & Silver

An A+ Accredited Business, CMI is located in Phoenix, Arizona. However, CMI will buy and sell precious metals online to investors all over the United States.

Its president, Bill Haynes, considers it his responsibility to educate the public about the dangers and benefits of buying gold and silver products.

He regularly updates his blog on global factors that influence the prices of metals. It’s a helpful resource for determining when to buy.

With solid prices, IRAs, and a plethora of educational material to read, CMI should be a website you routinely check if you are a serious investor.

BGASC: Buy Gold and Silver Coins

With thousands of positive customer reviews, it’s not hard to realize why BGASC is an A+ BBB accredited business. They offer free shipping on orders $99 and up. Every order is insured while in transit. Additionally, they always ship your order the next business day.

BGASC is one of the largest coin and bullion dealers in the US. They sell nearly every type of US coin ever made. They also have a large selection of mints from other countries, such as China, Mexico, and Canada.

The Basics of Precious Metals

Before buying gold or silver, it’s important to understand the different forms they come in. Each type has its pros and cons. Some people focus on one kind they prefer, while others create a diverse mix of different kinds. Before you buy precious metals, figure out which strategy is best for you.

Silver

Let’s start by talking about silver. Typically, you can buy silver either in the form of bullion or junk silver. Silver bullion refers to silver as a bar, coin, ingot, or round.

Silver Coins

The most popular silver coins you’ll come across are as follows:

  • American Silver Eagle
  • Canadian Silver Maple Leaf
  • British Silver Britannia
  • Mexican Silver Libertad
  • Austrian Silver Philharmonic
  • South African Silver Krugerrand
  • Australian Silver Kangaroo
  • Chinese Silver Panda

Junk Silver

Junk silver, on the other hand, is any type of old U.S. currency containing real silver. Any U.S. half-quarters, quarters, or dimes minted before 1965 are considered junk silver. However, in reality, they aren’t very junky at all.

You can sometimes find junk silver below the spot price. This can often allow you to start with a profit on your investment.

Silver Rounds

Silver rounds are privately minted silver pieces shaped like coins but produced by private mints. They are not government minted or legal tender, so they are not referred to as coins. The most popular silver round is the American Silver Buffalo. However, Scottsdale Mint also produces some beautiful rounds called “Omnia.”

Gold

Gold also comes in bars and coins, each one giving you a different type of entry point into precious metal investing. Buying gold coins is the easiest way for gold investors to start because you can begin by just purchasing a few at a low price point.

Gold Coins

The most popular gold coins to buy are as follows:

  • American Gold Eagle
  • Canadian Gold Maple Leaf
  • British Gold Britannia
  • British Gold Queen’s Beast
  • Mexican Gold Libertad
  • Austrian Gold Philharmonic
  • South African Gold Krugerrand
  • Australian Gold Kangaroo
  • Chinese Gold Panda

Gold Rounds

Similar to silver rounds, the most popular is the American Gold Buffalo.

Perhaps you’re stocking up as a hedge against inflation or to use as currency in a potential crisis. If so, you’ll find that coins of any type (gold or silver) will be easier to barter with than bars.

If you decide to buy bars, you can get them in different sizes to suit your space or budget. For example, you can purchase 1 to 10-ounce gold bars or up to 100-ounce silver bars. You can even find bars at just a fraction of an ounce if you want to start small.

One of the most significant advantages of this tactic is that you get the lowest premium when you buy larger bars. So while they might not be as easy to sell when you’re ready, you’ll get a better value if you can make that large of an investment upfront.

Copper

While silver and gold are the most popular, there are other precious metals to consider as well. For example, copper also comes in bars, rounds, and coins and is very affordable for novice investors.

Some experts believe it’s a wise investment opportunity because of its rising demand and shrinking supply.

Platinum and Palladium

Platinum is perhaps the most precious of all metals. It’s 15x rarer than gold, and its value exceeds that of gold. Platinum is usually sold as coins minted in the U.S., Canada, or Australia.

Palladium is similar to platinum in its properties and is actually 30x rarer than gold. Because these metals are so rare, not many people invest in them. However, a growing number of investors are adding them to their portfolios. It’s something you may want to consider as well.

Gold and Silver: Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the best place to buy gold?

The two best places to buy gold are online retailers and local coin shops.

Online retailers, such as the ones we’ve listed above, offer a wide selection of gold coins, bars, and rounds at competitive prices. These retailers often offer free shipping and insurance, making it easy and convenient to buy gold from the comfort of your own home.

Local coin shops are another great option if you want to prefer gold in person. These shops often have a knowledgeable staff who can help you find the right gold products for your needs and budget. You may also be able to negotiate on price of the gold.

Where is the best place to buy silver?

The best place to buy silver is typically also the best place to buy gold: online dealers and local shops. These options provide a wide range of products to choose from and allow you to compare prices and quality before making a purchase.

Online dealers offer the convenience of shopping from home, while local shops provide the advantage of in-person interaction with knowledgeable staff who can answer your questions and guide you towards the right products for your investment goals.

Whether you want to buy silver coins or silver bars, these options typically offer competitive prices, flexible shipping policies, and convenient payment options.

We recommend checking out at least a few of the best online gold dealers we mentioned above, regardless of what your needs are. Compare prices, selection, and shipping policies on numerous sites.

What is the cheapest way to buy gold and silver?

The most cost-effective method of acquiring gold and silver is by buying bars. They tend to have smaller markups compared to spot prices compared to coins, due to their lower production costs.

Buying in bulk is also a smart way to lower the cost per ounce as many online dealers offer discounts for larger purchases.

Is it safe to buy gold and silver online?

Buying precious metals online is as safe as any other transaction you make online. It’s also just as safe to buy online is as it is to buy from a physical retailer. The key is to buy gold and silver from a reputable gold dealer.

Is it better to buy gold coins or bars?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question. It depends on your situation, your needs, your budget, and what you prefer. As mentioned, it’s typically cheaper to buy gold bars. However, you will most likely get a better value from gold coins when it comes time to sell your gold.

Gold and silver coins and small bars offer more flexibility when it comes time to sell. Owning smaller units of gold and silver allows you to sell only a portion of your precious metals instead of your whole portfolio.

How much gold and silver should I own?

Experts recommend holding 5-25% of your net worth in precious metals. However, it depends on your goals, your situation, and risk tolerance. Precious metals can be a great addition to your portfolio as long as you know why you’re adding it.

Can I store gold at home?

Storing gold in your home offers a sense of security and privacy for your valuable assets. As a form of wealth preservation, it provides complete control without the need for outside storage. However, it’s crucial to be mindful of potential security threats and to ensure your assets are adequately insured.

To mitigate these risks, it’s advisable to implement a secure storage system. Ultimately, home storage is a viable solution for individuals who value personal ownership and control of their gold holdings.

Source: crediful.com

Apache is functioning normally

Apache is functioning normally

Immerse yourself in the sunny Phoenix suburbs.

As the sun-soaked capital of Arizona, Phoenix isn’t just a bustling metropolis in its own right. It’s also surrounded by a ton of stellar suburbs, each offering its own unique flavor and charm.

From luxury enclaves to tech hubs to serene family-friendly neighborhoods, the Phoenix suburbs described below provide great options for every lifestyle. This article dives into the crème de la crème of the Phoenix suburb scene, providing insights into what makes each spot stand out in the heart of the Southwest.

  • Population: 242,753
  • Average age: 47.7
  • Median household income: $97,409
  • Average commute time: 22.9 minutes
  • Walk score: 32
  • One-bedroom average rent: $2,024
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $2,984

In the picturesque landscape of Phoenix suburbs, Scottsdale stands out as an oasis of luxury, art and outdoor activities. With world-class golf courses that would make any link lover’s heart race, upscale shopping districts that can satiate even the most discerning shopper and restaurants that range from gourmet to eclectic, Scottsdale is the epitome of suburban elegance.

Three great apartment complexes in Scottsdale

But it’s not all about the glitz and glam. This Phoenix suburb supports an array of outdoor activities, from the scenic trails of McDowell Sonoran Preserve to horseback riding under the vast Arizona sky. Dive into Scottsdale and discover what makes this Phoenix suburb a crown jewel of the Southwest.

  • Population: 279,458
  • Average age: 36.7
  • Median household income: $91,299
  • Average commute time: 24.9 minutes
  • Walk score: 35
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,785
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $2,000

Among the constellation of Phoenix suburbs, Chandler shines brightly with its unique blend of tech-driven progress and laid-back Southwestern charm. As the hub of the Silicon Desert, Chandler boasts a growing technology industry, attracting innovators and professionals eager to make their mark.

Three great apartment complexes in Chandler

What sets Chandler apart in the lineup of Phoenix suburbs is its commitment to balancing urban sophistication with hometown warmth. From high-end shopping centers to local farmers markets and from cutting-edge theaters to the annual Ostrich Festival, this Phoenix suburb ensures residents never have a dull moment.

  • Population: 273,136
  • Average age: 34.5
  • Median household income: $105,733
  • Average commute time: 27.1 minutes
  • Walk score: 29
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,747
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,991

Once known as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World,” Gilbert has grown exponentially, trading hay bales for innovative businesses and growing communities. Gilbert is a shining example of how a city can expand without losing its historic charm.

Three great apartment complexes in Gilbert

Dive deeper into what Gilbert offers among Phoenix suburbs, and the picture only gets rosier. It’s a haven for families, thanks to its top-rated schools and pristine parks. And for those craving some sun-soaked adventure, there are outdoor concerts, farmers markets and green spaces where residents can relax. In the vast sea of Phoenix suburbs, Gilbert floats to the top and provides an unbeatable mix of the past, present and future.

  • Population: 509,475
  • Average age: 36.2
  • Median household income: $65,725
  • Average commute time: 25.4 minutes
  • Walk score: 38
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,360
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,637

As the third-largest city in Arizona, Mesa doesn’t merely ride the coattails of its size. It’s an epicenter for aerospace ventures, higher education institutions and tech enterprises, making it a hotspot for those with an eye on the future. Yet, with the backdrop of the majestic Superstition Mountains and access to the shimmering Salt River, Mesa ensures that residents are never too far from Arizona’s captivating wilderness.

Three great apartment complexes in Mesa

But wait, there’s more that sets Mesa apart from other Phoenix suburbs. The city prioritizes fun and adventure, evident in its sprawling golf courses, thrilling water parks and extensive trail systems. Add to that a healthy selection of restaurants, cozy cafes and ritzy retreats, ensuring that every culinary whim is always catered to.

  • Population: 12,682
  • Average age: 54.9
  • Median household income: $203,659
  • Average commute time: 24.5 minutes
  • Walk score: 14
  • One-bedroom average rent: $2,050
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $2,100

The name itself evokes images of a dreamy haven, and Paradise Valley doesn’t disappoint. Famed for its upscale estates and celebrity residents, Paradise Valley offers a level of opulence seldom seen elsewhere. Breathtaking mountain views, especially from the vantage point of Mummy Mountain or Camelback Mountain, serve as daily reminders of the stunning natural beauty Arizona has to offer.

Three great apartment complexes near Paradise Valley

But Paradise Valley is not just about grandeur in the Phoenix suburbs landscape. It strikes a harmonious balance between luxury and leisure. Championship courses call to all golfers, while swanky resorts offer an oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation. Dining here is an experience unto itself, with a ton of gourmet restaurants tantalizing the taste buds.

  • Population: 249,630
  • Average age: 33.8
  • Median household income: $60,499
  • Average commute time: 28.0 minutes
  • Walk score: 40
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,299
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,650

Recognized as Arizona’s Antique Capital, Glendale offers a delightful stroll down memory lane with its historic downtown, where boutiques and eateries provide a nostalgic setting for casual shopping and good conversation. Yet, this Phoenix suburb isn’t just about looking back; it’s also home to the State Farm Stadium, where adrenaline-pumping Cardinals games and massive concerts ignite the spirits of thousands.

Three great apartment complexes in Glendale

Switching gears, Glendale wears another feather in its cap in the Phoenix suburbs scene as a premier destination for events and festivals. From chocolate fests that satiate the sweet tooth to hot air balloon shows painting the sky, there’s always something happening in this dynamic corner of the desert.

  • Population: 194,917
  • Average age: 40.3
  • Median household income: $81,017
  • Average commute time: 29.4 minutes
  • Walk score: 30
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,555
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,776

Peoria is an adventurer’s paradise with the sprawling Lake Pleasant Regional Park in its backyard, offering the perfect setting for water-based activities all set against the backdrop of the sun-kissed Arizona landscape. On land, Peoria’s P83 District is where the action’s at, boasting a ton of dining options, bars and events that keep the energy up year-round.

Three great apartment complexes in Peoria

But Peoria doesn’t stop at fun and games in the world of Phoenix suburbs. It’s also a beacon for those seeking a serene suburban life, characterized by beautifully master-planned communities and top-tier educational institutions. Couple this with a forward-thinking local government and an engaged community, and it’s clear why Peoria consistently ranks high on the desirability scale.

  • Population: 149,191
  • Average age: 41.9
  • Median household income: $76,623
  • Average commute time: 30.7 minutes
  • Walk score: 21
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,525
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,825

Expectations run high with a name like Surprise, and this Phoenix suburb delivers in spades. From the city’s Spring Training baseball games to its well-maintained parks, there’s an avenue for everyone to feel the rush or simply unwind.

Three great apartment complexes in Surprise

But there’s another layer to Surprise that distinguishes it in the Phoenix suburbs roster. It’s a growing hub for education and healthcare, boasting some of the region’s top schools and hospitals. Add to that a commitment to sustainable growth, a friendly community spirit and a diverse range of housing options, and the allure of Surprise becomes undeniable.

  • Population: 24,987
  • Average age: 59.7
  • Median household income: $87,080
  • Average commute time: 28.7 minutes
  • Walk score: 19
  • One-bedroom average rent: $3,000
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $2,100

Fountain Hills is a visual masterpiece, where the Sonoran Desert’s natural beauty gets a touch of architectural elegance, providing residents with panoramic views that will steal your breath away. From the rolling desert hills to the shimmering blue of Fountain Lake, it’s a treat for the senses at every turn.

Three great apartment complexes near Fountain Hills

But Fountain Hills isn’t just about aesthetic appeal. It’s also a community that prides itself on community events. The town hosts renowned art fairs, craft shows and local markets that draw both residents and visitors alike. With spacious parks, scenic hiking trails and a commitment to community engagement, Fountain Hills provides an idyllic blend of leisure and lifestyle.

  • Population: 90,564
  • Average age: 31.6
  • Median household income: $69,241
  • Average commute time: 28.4 minutes
  • Walk score: 26
  • One-bedroom average rent: $1,421
  • Two-bedroom average rent: $1,678

Avondale is home to the Phoenix Raceway, where the roar of engines and the thrill of nail-biting races draw legions of NASCAR fans every year. But Avondale isn’t just for the adrenaline junkies; it’s home to many parks, trails and open spaces that serve as perfect spots for family picnics, weekend strolls or quiet afternoons with a good book in hand.

Three great apartment complexes in Avondale

Yet, there’s another side to Avondale that solidifies its spot on the Phoenix suburbs’ leaderboard. Its flourishing local economy presents plenty of employment opportunities, making it an attractive place for professionals and entrepreneurs. Add in a dash of delightful restaurants, shopping areas and a community that’s warm and welcoming, and it’s evident why Avondale has become one of the go-to Phoenix suburbs for those seeking a balanced life.

Find the best Phoenix suburb for you

Navigating the Phoenix suburbs can be a journey of discovery, as each presents its distinct character and amenities. Whether it’s the allure of lakeside views, the thrill of a raceway or the serene embrace of the desert landscape, there’s a Phoenix suburb tailored for every dream and desire.

As the city continues to grow and evolve, its surrounding suburbs are sure to remain as diverse and dynamic as ever, offering residents a slice of paradise in the desert. Today’s the day to make your move to the perfect apartment for rent in one of Phoenix’s top suburbs.

Source: rent.com

Apache is functioning normally

Apache is functioning normally

The United States, as has most of the world, has made stricter and stricter building codes over the years. However, the United States does not have any national building codes the states or local cities make their own rules. I have found the states or areas with the strictest building codes also have the highest prices. The harder it is to build or repair homes, the more expensive they become because people stop building, and when they do build, they have to raise the price for it to make sense. So what areas have the strictest building codes in the US?

How do building codes change over time?

100 years ago there were basically no building codes. Anyone could build whatever they wanted, wherever they wanted with some minor restrictions. Over time, the government decided that houses and commercial properties were not safe enough and there needed to be standards set for construction and even repairs. Some cities, states, and counties choose to have stricter codes than others and the federal government has let local governments make those decisions.

You can see how building codes have changed over time by looking at houses built in different eras. 100 years ago some houses were built with amazing carpentry and we often hear “they don’t build them like they used to”. There were also many houses that were built like shacks that have since fallen down. I have bought many of those shacks as a real estate investor and am surprised many of those houses lasted as long as they did.

You can see improvements in houses by looking at houses from different eras. Houses that are 100 years old may not have any windows in the basement where egress windows are now required. Houses from 50 years ago had very little insulation whereas houses now are required to have a minimum amount. You used to be able to put three layers of shingles on a roof and now most areas only allow one. Areas close to the coast may require hurricane glass and reinforced structures.

The stricter building codes make houses safer and more energy efficient but they also make them more expensive.

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What areas do not have building codes?

Believe it or not, there are still some areas in the US that do not have building codes! These states do not have building codes:

  1. Alabama
  2. Arizona
  3. Colorado
  4. Illinois
  5. Mississippi
  6. Missouri
  7. North Dakota
  8. Tennessee
  9. Texas
  10. West Virginia
  11. Wyoming

While these states do not have standard building codes, the local cities and counties usually do. I live in Colorado and while there is no standard building code for the entire state, Denver and Boulder have some of the strictest building codes in the nation. Louisville, where the Marshall Fires occurred in 2021 requires fire sprinkler systems in all new houses although they did remove that requirement for houses destroyed in the fire!

Here are some counties without building codes (from https://offgridgrandpa.com/states-and-counties-with-no-building-codes/):

  • Delta County in Colorado
  • Montezuma County in Colorado
  • Arcosanti Urban Laboratory in Arizona
  • Brewster County in Texas
  • Wonder Valley in California
  • Marfa County in Texas
  • Terlingua Texas
  • Miller County Missouri

In these areas, you might be able to get away with building whatever you want as long as you are not in a city with more strict codes but remember codes can always change!

Do you need to get building permits?

What areas have the strictest building codes?

I found it interesting but not surprising that the areas with the strictest building codes tend to have the highest prices. When you look at the list below the most strict areas are definitely the most expensive as well.

1. San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA 1.18 18

2. New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA 1.04 57

3. Providence-Warwick, RI-MA 0.93 14

4. Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA 0.73 22

5. Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA 0.73 48

6. Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA 0.68 18

7. Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV 0.66 16

8. Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL 0.66 35

9. Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ 0.64 11

10. Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA 0.60 18

11. Madison, WI 0.60 13

12. Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD 0.48

13. Albany-Schenectady-Troy, NY 0.47 10

14. Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO 0.41 16

15. Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, OH-PA 0.32 10

16. Boston-Cambridge-Newton, MA-NH 0.30 44

17. Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, IN 0.30 14

18. Scranton–Wilkes-Barre–Hazleton, PA 0.30 10

19. Syracuse, NY 0.25 11

20. Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI 0.24 22

21. Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton, PA-NJ 0.22 14

22. Nashville-Davidson–Murfreesboro–Franklin, TN 0.17 12

23. Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX 0.17 49

24. Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT 0.14 14

25. Portland-South Portland, ME 0.13 16

26. Kansas City, MO-KS 0.13 17

27. San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX 0.10 10

28. Buffalo-Cheektowaga-Niagara Falls, NY 0.05 12

29. Harrisburg-Carlisle, PA 0.01 15

30. Lancaster, PA −0.01 14

31. Columbus, OH −0.01 17

32. Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX −0.04 16

33. Pittsburgh, PA −0.06 56

34. Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI −0.10 48

35. Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI −0.10 94

36. Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA −0.12 27

37. Worcester, MA-CT −0.23 16

38. Cleveland-Elyria, OH −0.28 19

39. Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI −0.31 24

40. Rochester, NY −0.38 26

41. Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC −0.38 12

42. Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN −0.38 26

43. Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI −0.42 60

44. St. Louis, MO-IL −0.51 37

You can read up on how they made the list and what the numbers mean here: https://realestate.wharton.upenn.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/w835.pdf

Why do tougher building codes make it more expensive to build?

You will find that the most expensive places in the world and the US tend to have the strictest building codes. It is not real estate investors that push up prices as many people claim, it is the government. The harder it is to build and repair houses, the more expensive they are going to be when they are built. The harder it is to build houses, the fewer houses that will be built which will also cause an imbalance in the housing market driving prices up even further. You will also find fewer investors in these areas because it is hard to build, expensive to own, and a pain to do business in those areas.

Conclusion

Building codes do make houses safe and more energy efficient but they also make houses more expensive at a time when houses are becoming less and less affordable. If you are pushing for stricter building codes and more energy-efficient homes, you are also pushing for higher prices. While homes in the US seem to be out of range for many people thanks to high-interest rates, remember the US actually has the 5th most affordable housing in the world.

Build a Rental Property Empire

Categories Real Estate

Source: investfourmore.com

Apache is functioning normally

Apache is functioning normally

Former Major League Baseball outfielder Justin Upton is looking for a buyer for his ultra-stylish Orange County home.

Upton, who played for the Arizona Diamondbacks, Atlanta Braves, San Diego Padres, and Los Angeles Angels before becoming a free agent in 2022, wants $6,795,000 for the 5-bedroom home, which sits in a prime area in the notoriously pricey Newport Beach.

Justin Upton left fielder for the Detroit Tigers at Chase Field in Phoenix AZ USA June 9, 2017. Photo credit: Keeton Gale / Shutterstock

The property is located in the coveted Dover Shores neighborhood, a small community on the Back Bay in Newport Beach, where homes are rarely up for grabs.

“The Dover Shores area is highly desirable due to it being located in Mariners School District which is a blue ribbon school nearby,” listing agent Annie Clougherty of Compass tells us. “Prices are holding and demand continues to be strong in this area due to many buyers relocating to Newport Beach.”

And Justin Upton’s house has quite a few features that stand out — even for the posh area it’s set in. According to Annie, “In this area most commonly referred to as Dover Shores, finished basements and subterranean levels are very rare.”

Upton’s house “boasts an impressive, fully livable finished entertainer’s basement. Exceptional details include 100-year-old fabricate wood turned wood floors and a tri-level floating staircase with three-inch treads.”

But before we move on to the impressive entertainer’s basement, let’s take a minute to gloss over the many other attributes of the Newport Beach house.

Justin Upton’s house in Newport Beach, California. Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass

Clocking in at almost 6,000 square feet of living space, the former MLB player’s house has 5 bedrooms, 6 full baths, and 1 half-bath.

Originally designed by Randall Coombs Architects and reimagined by Scottsdale-based DeCesare Design Group, the residence’s polished interiors feature rich solid oak hardwood floors (carefully milled from 125-year-old reclaimed barnwood), expansive 17-foot and 15-foot sliding door systems that open to the outdoor areas, and plenty other luxe finishes.

The home has an open floor plan anchored by a chef’s kitchen, fitted with top-of-the-line Thermador appliances, juxtaposed against handmade butcher blocks and lava stone countertops. From the main living area, floor-to-ceiling sliding doors lead to an outdoor deck, built-in barbecue, and fire pit.

Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass

But the pièce de résistance is the three-level centerpiece floating staircase with 3-inch solid oak treads, a striking symbol of architectural ingenuity.

Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass

Four bedrooms are on the upper level, while a fifth bedroom, bonus room, and kitchen sit on the main level of the stylish abode.

Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass

The basement level is where the fun’s at, featuring a surround sound movie theater, bar with popcorn maker, and a glass-enclosed wine cellar — making it the ideal space to entertain guests.

Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass
Photo credit: Alejandro España courtesy of Compass

The upscale Newport Beach house is listed for $6,795,000, with Annie Clougherty at Compass holding the listing.

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Source: fancypantshomes.com