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In 2019, one out of every 100 homes were purchased by an iBuyer, short for instant buyer, per a new report from real estate brokerage Redfin.

While it doesn’t sound like iBuying is catching on, consider the fact that the number is up nearly double from 0.6% in 2018.

And about 10 times higher than it was back in 2016, when virtually nobody sold their home via an iBuyer service.

Also recognize that iBuying at scale is a very novel concept, and a business that big household names have just recently got involved in.

Some of the larger names in the space include Offerpad, Opendoor, RedfinNow, and Zillow Offers.

Simply put, an iBuyer will purchase your home for a fee somewhat similar to what a real estate agent would charge, only to rehab it and list it weeks or months later to a new buyer.

The advantage is you don’t need to find an agent, list it, stage it, hold open houses, and deal with uncertainty from prospective buyers.

In essence, you can consider these iBuyers institutional home flippers.

If they streamline their operations enough to lower costs, they might grow even more popular and eventually displace thousands of real estate agents.

iBuying Most Common in Raleigh

iBuyer share

While iBuyers still account for a tiny piece of the overall pie, they snagged a whopping 7.3% share of home sales in Raleigh, North Carolina last year.

That was nearly double the 3.9% share reported in 2018, a testament to both the viability of iBuying and the good fit cities like Raleigh present to such companies.

Per Redfin chief economist Daryl Fairweather, places like Raleigh are “iBuyer sweet spots” because they are affordable, have newer housing stock, and are easy to price because many of the homes reside in homogeneous tract neighborhoods.

Raleigh is also a city poised to see home price growth, another important detail iBuyers have to consider when looking to turn a profit.

Lastly, it has been a pilot city for many iBuyers, who aren’t live in all cities across the United States just yet.

Similarly hot was Phoenix, AZ, where iBuyers scooped up 5.9% of homes for sale, followed by Charlotte and Atlanta (tied at 5.2%), and Las Vegas (4.1%).

iBuyers had a market share of 3% or more in 11 markets nationally, and at least 1% share in 21 total markets.

Again, because iBuyers haven’t rolled out to all cities nationwide, the numbers are still a bit scattered and lopsided.

In terms of volume, iBuyers purchased the largest number of properties in Phoenix (5,200+), followed by Atlanta (4,300+) and Houston (2,100+).

iBuying Surged in Tucson During the Fourth Quarter

iBuyer market share saw its biggest year-over-year increase in Tucson, AZ, where the number rose from 3.1% of homes in the fourth quarter of 2019 from zero a year earlier.

Again, this may reflect companies moving into new markets, but it also shows how quickly they are gaining traction and beating out traditional agents.

The second biggest increase was in Denver, CO, where the iBuyer share rose to 2.7% from 0.4% the year before.

Despite growing popularity, iBuyer market share did fall year-over-year in select markets, including Las Vegas (-3.4%), Phoenix (-1.2%) and Orlando (-1.0%), compared to Q4 2018.

However, Orlando was the only metro area to see its share fall on an annual basis from 2018 to 2019, declining from 2.6% to 2.2%.

iBuyers Like to Buy Homes on the Cheap

iBuyer median price

As noted, iBuyers tend to be interested in mid-market homes that are easily bought and sold, but there’s still quite a range nationwide.

The most expensive markets in 2019 were Riverside, CA, Denver, CO, and Portland, OR, where these companies purchased homes at a median $391,000, $386,000, and $377,000, respectively.

The cheapest markets included Tucson, AZ, Jacksonville, FL, and Atlanta, GA, where the median was $201,000, $202,000, and $212,000, respectively.

Overall, iBuyers paid a median $269,000 for the homes they purchased, up three percent from 2018, but well below the national median of $306,000 in January.

In every housing market other than Riverside, CA and Orlando, FL, iBuyers paid below the metro-area median.

In terms of unloading the homes once purchased, iBuyers were able to sell homes 15 days faster in 2019 than they did a year earlier, this despite the typical home sale taking two days longer.

iBuyer-owned properties were listed on the market for a median 38 days in 2019, compared to 53 days in 2018.

Meanwhile, a non-iBuyer home spent a median 37 days on the market last year, compared to 35 in 2018.

If iBuyers get better at what they do, it might become a more practical solution for home sellers, assuming these companies pass the savings onto consumers.

Source: thetruthaboutmortgage.com

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Applying for a life insurance policy often involves multiple steps and can take longer than getting other types of insurance. Let’s take a look at what’s commonly involved in the life insurance application process so you can proceed with confidence.

Term or Whole?

Before applying for life insurance, it’s a good idea to consider such things like how much coverage you need, how much you’re prepared to pay for premiums, and which riders you might like to include. You’ll also need to figure out whether a term life or permanent life policy makes sense for you. Whole life insurance is one type of permanent life insurance.

Term life and whole life insurance have important differences. Term life tends to be simpler and more straightforward. Someone purchases a policy for a certain dollar amount and term, and then has life insurance coverage for the designated time period (10, 20, 25, or 30 years, for example).

If the policyholder keeps up premiums and dies within that term, beneficiaries will receive the appropriate payout. Monthly payments are generally fixed with term life policies.

Reasons people choose term life include:

•   Term policies almost always cost less than whole life, sometimes significantly so.

•   Policyholders predict they’ll have enough money saved by the time the policy expires.

•   Beneficiaries are expected to be financially independent by the time the term expires.

Whole life policies, which also require regular payments, are intended to last the holder’s entire lifetime — there is no expiration date. They can cost up to 10 times as much as a term life policy because part of that money is invested into what’s called the policy’s cash value.

Policyholders can typically borrow against their cash value at an interest rate that’s specified in their policy. They may also be able to cash in their policy to receive money; that action closes out the whole life policy. Whatever is left over after the policyholder dies will be distributed to beneficiaries.

Recommended: 8 Popular Types of Life Insurance for Any Age

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The Application Process

When you’re ready to get the ball rolling on obtaining a policy, the first step is to fill out an application with your carrier of choice. The insurance company will review the application for completeness. If any information is missing, they’ll likely follow up to ensure that the application is completely filled out. Some carriers may conduct a phone interview when someone applies, while others do so only if an application is incomplete.

Recommended: How to Buy Life Insurance in 9 Steps

The Underwriting Phase

Next comes the underwriting phase, which every applicant goes through. There are two tracts of underwriting available: traditional and accelerated. The traditional tract requires a medical exam, and your blood and urine samples may be collected. The accelerated tract typically does not require a medical exam or blood or urine tests.

During this time, the insurance company will review your application for a wide range of factors that may include:

•   Your age

•   Your gender

•   Your current health

•   Your personal health history, including prescriptions

•   Your family health history

•   Your lifestyle and personal habits (for instance, a history of alcohol abuse or tobacco use)

•   Your occupation

•   How frequently you participate in hobbies that could be considered high risk

•   Other factors, including your driving record

The insurance company uses this information along with actuarial tables to determine your risk profile, or how much of a risk you are to insure. Your risk profile can impact how much coverage you qualify for and at what cost.

Medical Exams

A life insurance carrier will sometimes require a medical exam before issuing a policy.

The exam may be similar to a person’s regular annual physical. A medical tech will likely ask questions that are similar to those on the application, and a professional will conduct a physical exam. It can include measuring height and weight, checking blood pressure, and taking blood and urine samples.

In some cases, an EKG may be performed to measure the electrical activity of the heart. Men over age 50 may need to have a prostate-specific antigen test done to check prostate health.

When medical exams are required in applying for life insurance, it’s part of the underwriting process that helps a carrier understand the risk level of insuring the applicant. The tests performed can indicate if a person has high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol, elevated glucose, or other health issues.

Contestability

Some people may be tempted to downplay personal health issues when filling out a life insurance application. That is never a good idea. If someone didn’t fully disclose the truth about their state of health and died within two years of getting a policy, the insurance company can delve into the details. If information is found to be lacking or inaccurate, the carrier could deny beneficiaries the death benefit.

The Takeaway

Applying for life insurance often starts with deciding how much coverage you need, how much you’ll pay in premiums, and whether a term life or permanent life policy is right for you. Once you’ve finished comparison shopping and weighing your options, the first step is to fill out an application with the carrier of your choice and then undergo an underwriting process. During this time, the insurance company will consider a number of factors, including your age, gender, current health, personal health history, family health history, and lifestyle. A medical exam may also be required. The insurer uses this information, along with actuarial tables, to determine your risk profile, which can impact how much coverage you qualify for and at what cost.

If you’re shopping for life insurance, SoFi has partnered with Ladder to offer competitive life insurance policies that are quick to set up and easy to understand. You can apply in just minutes and get an instant decision. As your circumstances change, you can easily change or cancel your policy with no fees and no hassles.

Complete an application and get your quote in just minutes.

FAQ

Are there advantages to applying for life insurance when you’re young?

Yes, because carriers generally base policy price on risk factors, buying a policy when you’re young and healthy typically means lower premiums. Plus, with some term life insurance policies, buyers can lock in pricing when they purchase, and locking in at a low rate can be a financial plus.

Can I change the specifics of a life insurance policy — for example, change the amount of coverage?

Yes, some insurance carriers do allow this kind of flexibility. Current policyholders should check with their carrier. New applicants can check with the carrier to see what kind of flexibility is provided.

Is having employer-sponsored life insurance enough?

Maybe. While having this benefit is good, these policies are generally in the amount of one to two times an employee’s salary. That’s typically not enough to address debt and provide sustained financial help to beneficiaries, which is why it may make sense to purchase a second policy. Plus, employer plans may not be portable: If the employee leaves the company, the policy may be terminated.

What’s the right amount of coverage?

Each person’s situation is unique. Some use the DIME formula to determine the right amount. That acronym stands for Debts, Income, Mortgage, and Education. What will be needed to cover all of those bases? To streamline the process, you might want to calculate your life insurance needs.

Does it make sense to use an agent when buying life insurance?

Possibly. An agent can educate a consumer about what’s involved in getting a life insurance policy. This can be especially helpful if the process seems overwhelming. Many agents work on commission, so using one that does charge a commission can cause the cost of the policy to go up. Higher commissions are typically charged on whole life policies than on term life. However, not all agents charge a commission.


Coverage and pricing is subject to eligibility and underwriting criteria.

Ladder Insurance Services, LLC (CA license # OK22568; AR license # 3000140372) distributes term life insurance products issued by multiple insurers- for further details see ladderlife.com. All insurance products are governed by the terms set forth in the applicable insurance policy. Each insurer has financial responsibility for its own products.

Ladder, SoFi and SoFi Agency are separate, independent entities and are not responsible for the financial condition, business, or legal obligations of the other, Social Finance. Inc. (SoFi) and Social Finance Life Insurance Agency, LLC (SoFi Agency) do not issue, underwrite insurance or pay claims under Ladder Life™ policies. SoFi is compensated by Ladder for each issued term life policy.

SoFi Agency and its affiliates do not guarantee the services of any insurance company.

All services from Ladder Insurance Services, LLC are their own. Once you reach Ladder, SoFi is not involved and has no control over the products or services involved. The Ladder service is limited to documents and does not provide legal advice. Individual circumstances are unique and using documents provided is not a substitute for obtaining legal advice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
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Source: sofi.com

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The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) this week announced that it had secured a settlement of more than $3 million from Philadelphia, Penn.-based ESSA Bank & Trust over allegations that the company engaged in redlining majority Black and Hispanic communities from access to credit services around the Philadelphia area.

According to a complaint filed by DOJ in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, ESSA “failed to provide mortgage lending services and did not serve the credit needs of majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods in the Philadelphia metropolitan area” from 2017 to 2021.

“For too long, residents of communities of color have been unlawfully denied equal access to credit and shut out of economic opportunities,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the DOJ Civil Rights Division in the DOJ announcement. “When banks engage in redlining, they perpetuate existing patterns of segregation and widen the racial wealth gap in our country. This resolution makes clear our commitment to holding banks and financial institutions accountable for modern-day redlining while ensuring access to fair lending in communities of color.”

Under a consent order still subject to court approval, ESSA has agreed to invest $2.92 million in a designated loan subsidy fund designed to increase access to credit for home mortgage, improvement and refinance loans, as well as home equity loans and lines of credit, in majority-Black and Hispanic neighborhoods within the bank’s lending area.

ESSA has also agreed to spend $125,000 on community partnerships and $250,000 on advertising, outreach, consumer financial education and credit counseling to the impacted communities specified in the complaint and consent order.

“The consent order also requires the bank to hire two new mortgage loan officers to serve its existing branches in West Philadelphia and conduct a research-based market study to help identify the needs for financial services in communities of color,” the DOJ added.

In a statement announcing the settlement, ESSA “categorically denies violating any fair lending laws or engaging in ‘redlining,’” according to a press release.

“ESSA and its Board of Directors believe this is a constructive resolution to a dispute that has lasted several years,” said Gary Olsen, ESSA’s president and CEO. “It is consistent with our guiding principles and longstanding commitment to provide equal lending opportunities to all of the communities we are privileged to serve. We plan on using these loan subsidy funds to expand opportunities for qualified borrowers who can benefit from this assistance. We’re happy and pleased to help families purchase homes. It is simply the right thing to do.”

Olsen added that during the the time period covered by the government’s complaint, “ESSA did not receive a single fair lending complaint from any customer or potential customer.” He also said that the company opened a branch and business center in downtown Allentown, “in a majority minority census tract.”

DOJ opened the investigation into ESSA after being referred by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

“ESSA fully cooperated with the department’s investigation and worked expeditiously to resolve these allegations,” DOJ said.

ESSA’s redlining settlement agreement is the latest in a series of cases brought by the DOJ. In January, Los Angeles-headquartered City National Bank agreed to pay $31 million to settle a case that alleged it avoided providing mortgage services to majority Black and Hispanic neighborhoods between 2017 and 2020.

In July, the DOJ and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau announced a $24.4 million consent order with Trident Mortgage Co., a subsidiary of Warren Buffet’s Berkshire Hathaway.

In September, the DOJ also reached a $12 million-plus settlement with Lakeland Bank over claims the lender engaged in redlining in the Newark, New Jersey metropolitan area.

Source: housingwire.com

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Table of Contents

FAQ

What is the VA Loan Limit?

2021 VA Home Loan Limit: $0 down up to $5,000,000* (Subject to lender limits) /2 open VA loans at one time $548,250* (Call 888-573-4496 for details).

How to Apply for a VA Home Loan?

This is a quick look at how to apply for a VA home loan in San Joaquin County. For a more detailed overview of the VA home loan process, check out our complete guide on how to apply for a VA house loan. Here, we’ll go over the general steps to getting a VA home loan and point out some things to pay attention to in San Joaquin County. If you have any questions, you can call us at VA HLC and we’ll help you get started.

  1. Get your Certificate of Eligibility (COE)
    • Give us a call at (877) 432-5626 and we’ll get your COE for you.
  2. Are you applying for a refinance loan? Check out our complete guide to VA Refinancing.
  3. Get pre-approved, to get pre-approved for a loan, you’ll need:
    • Previous two years of W2s
    • Most recent 30 days paystubs or LES (active duty)
    • Most recent 60 days bank statements
    • Landlord and HR/Payroll Department contact info
  4. Find a home
    • We can help you check whether the home is in one of the San Joaquin County flood zones
  5. Get the necessary inspections
    • Termite inspection: required
    • Well or septic inspections needed, if applicable
  6. Get the home appraised
    • We can help you find a VA-Certified appraiser in San Joaquin County and schedule the process
    • Construction loan note: Construction permit/appraisal info
      1. Building permit
      2. Elevation certificate
  7. Lock in your interest rates
    • Wait until the appraisal lock in your loan rates. If it turns out you need to make repairs, it can push your closing back. Then you can get stuck paying rate extension fees.
  8. Close the deal and get packing!
    • You’re ready to go.

What is the Median Home Price?

As of March 31st, 2021, the median home value for San Joaquin County is $448,453. In addition, the median household income for residents of the county is $64,432. which is higher than the national average.

How much are the VA Appraisal Fees?

  • Single-Family: $600.
  • Individual Condo: $600.
  • Manufactured Homes: $600.
  • 2-4 Unit Multi-Family: $850.
  • Appraisal Turnaround Times: 7 days.

Do I need Flood Insurance?

  • The VA requires properties are required to have flood insurance if they are in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
  • In San Joaquin County, there are several flood hazard areas around the San Joaquin River which run through the county. However, several levies have been built to manage potential flood areas around the county. In addition, areas surrounding French Camp Slough, the Old River, and Mormon Slough are also considered potential flood hazards.

How do I learn about Property Taxes?

  • Steve J. Bestolarides is the San Joaquin county tax assessor. His office can be reached at 44 North San Joaquin Street Second Flood, Suite 230 Stockton, CA 95202. In addition, his office can also be reached by calling (209) 468-2630.
  • The state of California offers incentive programs that expand statewide for new, growing, and relocating businesses. Two of these programs are the California Competes Tax Credit which offers qualifying businesses with a tax credit and the New employment Credit. The latter of which offers a tax credit for taxpayers who hire full-time employees. Furthermore, the state offers several other programs to further diversify the state’s economy.

What is the Population?

  • The county’s population of 762,148 is 41% Hispanic, 31% White, and 17% Asian.
  • Most county residents are between 18 and 65 years old, with 27% under 18 years old and 13% older than 65.
  • In total, the county has about 226,727 households, with an average of three people per household.

What are the major cities?

The county has seven cities, including the city of Stockton which serves as the county seat. Also, the county is home to six other cities including Escalon, Lathrop, Lodi, Manteca, Ripon, and Tracy.

About San Joaquin County

As a result of neighboring San Francisco’s growth, San Joaquin County has seen a big increase in its population and as a result has seen increased economic growth. In addition, the county is also home to the Employment & Economic Development Department which provides employee training, education, and economic services for new and growing businesses.

When it comes to education, the county is home to 14 public school districts as well as various school districts. In addition, the county is also home to higher education institutions like San Joaquin Delta College, University of the Pacific, and Teachers College of San Joaquin. Furthermore, the most common concentrations for students in the county are humanistic studies, liberal arts, and social sciences.

In addition to its strong economy and quality educational institutions, the county is also a great place to enjoy the local culture and history. These include the Bakersfield Museum of Art, the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History, and the Stockton Field Aviation Museum. Moreover, the county is also home to art institutions like the Stockton Symphony, and the Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium.

Finally, the county is also full of recreational opportunities like Micke Grove Park, the Regional Sports Complex, and the Woodridge Wilderness Area. Furthermore, the county is also home to several celebratory events which include the Greek Festival, the Lodi Obon festival, and the San Joaquin County fair.      

Veteran Information

The county is currently home to 30,296 veterans.

  • Bases Nearby:
  • San Joaquin County is home to four VFW post:
    • Post 52 Luneta – 513 North Center Street, Stockton, CA 95202.
    • Post 6311 Jimmie Connors – 580 Moffat Blvd. Manteca, CA 95336.
    • Post 1051 Nicholas P. Kukulica Sr. – 12455 W Ripon Rd., Ripon, CA 95366.
    • Post-1537 Tracy – 35 E. 6th Street, Tracy, CA 95376.
  • VA Medical Centers in the county:
    • Delta Vet Center – 1327 historical Plaza Way, Manteca, CA 95336.
  • County Veteran Assistance Information
    • San Joaquin County Veteran’s Services Office – 105 South San Joaquin Street, Stockton, CA 95202.

Apply for a VA Home Loan

  • For more information about VA Home Loans and how to apply, click here.
  • If you meet the VA’s eligibility requirements, you will be able to enjoy some of the best government-guaranteed home loans available.  
  • VA loans can finance the construction of a property. However, the property must be owned and prepared for construction as the VA cannot ensure vacant land loans.

VA Approved Condos

Name (ID): BRIDGEBERRY CONDOMINIUMS (008472)
Address: TRACT 2575

WOODBRIDGE CA 95258
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: HUD Accepted
Request Received Date: 11/19/2009
Review Completion Date: 11/23/2009

 Name (ID): BROOKSIDE TERRACE (C01355)
Address: TOWNHOUSE CONDOMINIUMS

LODI CA 95267
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted Without Conditions
Request Received Date: 06/18/2002
Review Completion Date: 07/01/2002
Name (ID): CAMBRIDGE PLACE (007697)
Address: 

MOUNTAIN HOUSE CA 95391
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted Without Conditions
Request Received Date: 03/13/2008
Review Completion Date: 03/13/2008

 Name (ID): CASTAWAY AT RIVER ISLANDS (000354)
Address: 1493 CURRENTS WAY

LATHROP CA 95330
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted With Conditions
Request Received Date: 10/16/2018
Review Completion Date: 10/30/2018
Name (ID): CAVENDISH SQUARE (008271)
Address: CONDOMINIUMS

STOCKTON CA 95219
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted Without Conditions
Request Received Date: 06/10/2009
Review Completion Date: 06/10/2009

 Name (ID): EMBARCADERO WEST (000218)
Address: 6669 EMBARCADERO DRIVE #18

STOCKTON CA 95219
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted Without Conditions
Request Received Date: 10/06/2016
Review Completion Date: 10/26/2016
Name (ID): FOX CREEK I & II (C00520)
Address: 

STOCKTON CA 99999-0000
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted With Conditions
Request Received Date: 11/17/1111
Review Completion Date: Unavailable

 Name (ID): LODI WOODLAKE NORTH (000328)
Address: 2401 EILERS LANE

LODI CA 95242
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted Without Conditions
Request Received Date: 04/15/2018
Review Completion Date: 05/01/2018
Name (ID): PARKSIDE CONDOMINIUMS (007902)
Address: 

STOCKTON CA 95204
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: HUD Accepted
Request Received Date: 08/03/2008
Review Completion Date: 08/04/2008

 Name (ID): RIVER ROCK CONDOMINIUMS (007751)
Address: PACIFIC COMMONS TRCT 1600

STOCKTON CA 95207
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: HUD Accepted
Request Received Date: 04/28/2008
Review Completion Date: 04/28/2008
Name (ID): RIVERGATE COMMONS (000253)
Address: 1142 RIVERGATE DRIVE

LODI CA 95240
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted Without Conditions
Request Received Date: 03/28/2017
Review Completion Date: 05/23/2017

 Name (ID): THE REGENCY CONDOMINIUMS (007408)
Address: 

STOCKTON CA 95204
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: HUD Accepted
Request Received Date: 06/11/2006
Review Completion Date: 06/11/2006
Name (ID): VICTORIAN VILLAGE ONE (007472)
Address: 

STOCKTON CA 95207
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted Without Conditions
Request Received Date: 02/13/2007
Review Completion Date: 02/14/2007

 Name (ID): VILLAGE AT SUMMERGATE (C00528)
Address: TR. 2510, PHASES I – V

TRACY CA 99999-0000
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted Without Conditions
Request Received Date: 08/16/1992
Review Completion Date: Unavailable
Name (ID): WESTLAKE VILLAGE CONDO’S (C01264)
Address: UNITS #1 – #52 ONLY

STOCKTON CA 95207-0000
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted Without Conditions
Request Received Date: 05/19/1997
Review Completion Date: 05/19/1997

 Name (ID): WOODLAKE PLACE SOUTH (000355)
Address: 2400 EILERS LANE

LODI CA 95240
SAN JOAQUIN
Status: Accepted Without Conditions
Request Received Date: 11/05/2018
Review Completion Date: 11/19/2018

California VA Loan Information

VA Loan Information by State

Source: vahomeloancenters.org

Apache is functioning normally

This reader story come from SB, a regular reader and commenter on GRS. SB writes about personal finance and personal development topics at One Cent at a Time.

Some reader stories contain general advice; others are examples of how a GRS reader achieved financial success or failure. These stories feature folks with all levels of financial maturity and income. 

This is my second guest post at this blog. I am grateful to J.D. and his team’s humble gesture in allowing me to do it. I hope to provide the same value regular writers of this blog provide to you.

My grandmother was nearly illiterate, born and reared in rural India during the British occupation of the country. At the age of 14, she was abducted by the British army (later released), which ultimately caused her to marry early at the age of 16. She couldn’t complete school beyond basic education. Still, she became a very wise woman and mastered many skills.

My aunt happened to write down some of my grandmother’s home-remedy techniques from her narration. Recently, my cousin forwarded me a soft copy of that compilation. I’ll mention a few common symptoms and their natural cures, all at a fraction of the cost of medicine. But before that, let me tell you why I find home-based cures so beneficial.

The Benefits of Home Remedies

  • Drugs contain unnatural substances and chemicals, which are foreign elements to our body.  Natural remedies, on the other hand, are not synthetic molecules like drugs; they are made of living organisms which we eat anyway.
  • Some drugs act as a manipulator and force the brain to think differently — an example is an anti-depressant. The problem with this is, the moment you stop taking the drug, the symptoms often recur.
  • Natural remedies have fewer side effects compared to prescription drugs, as drugs tend to alter the chemical and hormonal balance of our body.
  • Natural remedies are available at a fraction of the cost of prescription drugs. Your grocery bill will cover them.

The Benefits of Prescription Drugs

It is important to remember that most drugs are developed by studying the natural cures and identifying ingredients which actually affect the symptoms. Still, prescription drugs are more useful under most circumstances. They work faster. We can’t afford to be bedridden for days and hope for natural cures to work someday. Life is tough and we must get well sooner.

We don’t have time to be sick. Prescription drugs provide the quickest recovery. They start fighting the bacteria and antibodies as soon as we take them. You may argue that we take chemically altered substances every day, be it the milk or the apple, or even the chicken. They have pesticides, growth hormones and God knows what.

An Introduction to Home Remedies

My grandmother was raised in a 100 percent organic environment. With near zero pollution, she ate healthy, farm-harvested food. Since childhood, I took medicines almost for any illness; rarely was I given a natural cure, except honey and basil leaves for a cold. Our bodies are used to chemicals anyway; therefore, natural remedies may not work the way they worked for our grandparents. Still, there is no harm in detoxifying our bodies to the extent we can, over time. My grandmother’s advice may help to  accomplish that goal.

Here are some excerpts from the treasure I was handed recently.

Acidity: Acidity is caused by excess acid secretion from the gastric gland, the acid which is used for digestion.

  • Chew a piece of clove, and take some time to swallow. It provides instant relief.
  • Another immediate relief is to eat a small cup of yogurt.
  • For more sustainable relief, drink warm water every day early in the morning.
  • Drink coconut water regularly.
  • Mix a few drops of honey in water to drink.
  • If you know what a jaggery is, suck a small cube of it after lunch/dinner.
  • A glass of water with a teaspoon of soda can also provide immediate cure.
  • A couple of pieces of dates can also give you instant relief.

Backache: If you happen to work in a chair, you may have this symptom already. As a software professional, I have had backaches for the last few years. The natural cure is garlic. Eat a couple of cloves of garlic every day.

  • Prepare an ointment by frying a few cloves of garlic in olive oil, strain and let it cool. Apply to your back every day.
  • Indian masala tea can be a cure too — the one with cloves or ginger. Take it daily. (Two cups of masala tea can boost your energy as well, which is a low-cost replacement of Red Bull or 5-Hour Energy drinks.)
  • Eating oranges, lemons and berries can reduce the pain over time.
  • Drinking water with a tablespoon of honey can make your day pain-free as well.

Cough and cold: When allergens or viral infections cause an inflammation in the upper respiratory tract, we get cough and cold. Here is a less-costly alternative to Tylenol or Excedrin. (This is a remedy I learned in childhood: My mother used to give me a teaspoon of honey and a few basil leaves  –Indian Tulsi — to chew. To get instant relief from congestion of nasal passages, she used to heat water with some cloves, cardamoms and cinnamon sticks and peppercorns.)

  • A soup with a lot of garlic in it can also bring relief.
  • Cut okra into small pieces and boil it, inhale the steam to get relief as well.
  • Take a hot-water bath when you catch a cold.

Migraine: This is caused by a contraction of blood vessels in the head. It can be caused by stress, lack of sleep, anxiety, nicotine and alcohol consumption.

  • Concentrated grape juice can bring relief.
  • For a more sustainable remedy, put tomatoes and cabbage into your daily salad.
  • A daily dose of garlic can treat this symptom as well.
  • Grind cabbage leaves and apply to the affected area for relief.
  • When migraines occur, excuse yourself from work. Find a dark room and lie down. Exposure to sunlight may cause the migraine to intensify.
  • Per my grandmother, even if the migraine is in the back of your head, applying sandalwood powder on the forehead can cause blood vessels to function properly. You may have seen Indian religious workers applying a patch of sandalwood powder on the forehead throughout the day. It’s an age-old practice.

Snoring: I am afflicted with this disease for sure. My wife says I am the worst offender and she can’t sleep because of my snoring, so I have started following these tactics already.

  • Stop smoking. Smoking causes more mucus formation around the throat.
  • Go to the gym. Weight loss can even end snoring.
  • Alcohol increases snoring. (When you drink, you’d better sleep in a separate room!)
  • Sleep side-wise rather than on your back.
  • Avoid heavy meals before going to bed.
  • Stop eating oily/spicy foods at dinner.
  • Maintain a regular sleep schedule, and don’t sleep during the day.
  • Wash the bed sheets and pillow covers frequently, and even change your pillow after a few months. The dust and allergens can accumulate on them, causing nasal passage blocks.

Stress: It’s amazing that stress was a concern even 60 years ago in a rural village. Here is her wisdom, which may reduce stress because you’re saving money. But more than the money saved, the main point here is reducing the dependence on synthetic drugs.

  • Chewing Indian basil (Tulsi) leaves every day is the best natural cure.
  • Yoga and Dhyana (meditation) can also cure this.
  • Milk and almonds in the morning keep you fresh and energetic.
  • Bad eating, oily foods, eating meals quickly, and drinking alcohol may cause depression over time. One of her tips to cure stress is to “love everybody and everything”!
  • Applying betel leaves on your forehead can ease your tension.

A few ingredients which are repeated here (and in the rest of the natural cures my grandmother used but which I don’t mention here) are mint, honey, water and garlic. Have sufficient supply of these items at your home, if you plan to follow the tips.

Also, another synergy I can see here is the morning drinking and eating habits. If you start your day the right way, the rest of your day should follow that lead and keep you upbeat.

Readers, even if you rely on these natural remedies, when the situation warrants it, there’s no alternative to a doctor and the prescription medicine. You need to know when to rely on home remedies and when to go to a doctor. Don’t ignore your doctor for a bit.

Source: getrichslowly.org

Apache is functioning normally

A restored and rarely available home known as a “super Eichler” in Walnut Creek, CA, flaunts an amazing architectural pedigree.

Listed for $1,995,000, the 2,435-square-foot dwelling is in the North Gate subdivision, the last Eichler development in the East Bay.

So, what is a super Eichler anyway?

“They were on larger parcels and the houses were larger,” says  Thomas Westfall, of Compass. “All of them had four bedrooms—if not five, even six.”

Completed in 1969, the four-bedroom, 2.5-bath home was designed by Claude Oakland, “one of the most prolific [Eichler] architects,” says Westfall. “Joe Eichler was the developer.”

Roughly 11,000 of these modest, midcentury modern, tract homes were designed and built between 1956 and the late 1960s, mostly in Northern and Southern California. As ranch-level dwellings, they feature atriums and range between 1,300 and 1,500 square feet.

This home is one of just five super Eichler designs in the East Bay. The extra-large floor plan and cheery, yellow decor made the listing a magnet for vintage-home enthusiasts.

And within a week, multiple bids were made. An offer was accepted, and the property is listed as pending sale.

“There is definitely a following of people who want to live in an Eichler,” Westfall says.

In 2004, the sellers—who previously lived in another Eichler home—snapped this one up for $720,000. After almost 20 years and major restorations, they are now letting it go.

The sellers added an insulated, foam roof to improve heating and cooling efficiency. There’s also a new boiler, updated electrical system, flooring, and custom closet doors.

The sellers “did all of the landscaping, including irrigation, accent lighting, and paving,” says Westfall. “They [also] remodeled the bathrooms and the kitchen and replaced the interior doors with solid-core doors, as well as heightened and lightened them.”

The listing includes an attached, two-car garage.

Entry

(Open Homes Photography)

Living room

(Open Homes Photography)

Kitchen and adjacent outdoor dining area

(Open Homes Photography)

Fireplace

(Open Homes Photography)

Den

(Open Homes Photography)

One of the bedrooms

(Open Homes Photography)

One of the baths

(Open Homes Photography)

Standout space

The super-sized Eichler design has what’s known as the “H Plan” layout, a truly notable style.

“It’s the only Eichler with the double-door entrance and the only atrium, I’m aware of, that is more than 500 square feet,” says Westfall. “That’s the whole Eichler philosophy—bringing the outdoors in.”

Nearly all rooms open to the outdoors via sliding-glass doors.

The prospect of living in Walnut Creek is a major draw for buyers.

“It has some of the highest-rated schools in the Bay Area,” Westfall notes. “It’s like the Palo Alto of the East Bay. There’s a downtown with shopping, nice restaurants, and the Apple Store. North Gate is very walkable.”

Source: realtor.com

Apache is functioning normally

Here’s a novel idea. If you’re having trouble paying the mortgage, and you can’t get any assistance from your lender/servicer, you don’t need to give up your home. You just can’t live in the main house anymore. That’s what one guy did out in Palmdale, California, although he wasn’t actually struggling to pay his bills.… Read More »If You Can’t Pay the Mortgage, Live in Your Awesome Garage

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100+ Not So Great Places to Buy a Home

Below is an extensive and exhaustive (and silly but somewhat serious) list of places where it might not make the best sense to buy a house, assuming you want to realize healthy home price appreciation and enjoy a high quality of life. Obviously there are exceptions to the rule, and it’s not always easy to… Read More »100+ Not So Great Places to Buy a Home

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Why Your Mortgage Lender Asks for More Than Is Required

It’s no secret that there is a lot of confusion surrounding mortgages. One of the main gripes is that requirements aren’t the same across different banks and lenders. See why every mortgage lender will disappoint you for more on that. Unfortunately, it’s very difficult for lending standards to be uniform from bank to bank because… Read More »Why Your Mortgage Lender Asks for More Than Is Required

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