Selena Gomez has put her Fort Worth, Texas home on the market for $2.999 million. She bought the home about two years ago to stay close to her Texas roots.
In true Texas form, this place is massive. It’s just a hair over 10,000 square feet, with 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, and enough garage space for 8 cars. Its outdoor spaces are nothing to sneeze at, either. The 1.5 acre property comes equipped with a tennis and basketball court, a putting green, a saltwater pool, and an outdoor kitchen and cabana.
Though David Bowie moved on from this beautiful New York apartment with Central Park views in the early 2000’s, he left a special something behind.
His piano.
The delicate instruments are notoriously difficult to move, and the process doesn’t get any easier in an apartment, no matter how spacious. Since Bowie moved, the piano has changed hands with every owner, and now it’s up for grabs–as long as you also buy the $6,495,000 apartment that houses it. Of course, it’s a pretty nice apartment.
Its 3 bedroom and 3 bathrooms are spread out over 1,877 square feet, including a top of the line kitchen and all the amenities of the nicest hotel. Take a look below.
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Southern California, Malibu is a idyllic city that captivates with its breathtaking beauty and vibrant community. This charming city not only allures those seeking a luxurious beachfront living experience with exquisite homes for sale, but also welcomes those searching for apartments for rent in Malibu.
While the cost of living in Malibu is high, the city offers a wealth of natural wonders and fun activities you can enjoy without breaking the bank. This Redfin article will explore seven free things to do in Malibu to keep you and your wallet happy. Let’s get started!
1. Malibu beaches
Malibu is renowned for its stunning beaches that attract millions of people year-round. From the expansive shores of Zuma Beach to the rugged beauty of Point Dume State Beach, there’s something for everyone. Living in Malibu, CA, comes with strolls along the sandy coastline, opportunities to soak up the sun, and moments of serendipitous sounds of crashing waves. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves, have a beach picnic, or relax with a good book, Malibu beaches offer a slice of paradise that’s free for all to enjoy.
2. Malibu Creek State Park
Nature enthusiasts and hikers will solace in Malibu Creek State Park’s breathtaking landscape. This beautiful park features diverse hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging treks. Explore the picturesque Rock Pool, where you can cool off in the refreshing waters or have a peaceful picnic by the stream. The park’s rugged terrain, oak woodlands, and rich wildlife make it a haven for outdoor exploration and a perfect spot to connect with nature without spending a dime.
3. Getty Villa Museum
Nestled in the hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Getty Villa Museum is a must-visit destination for art and history enthusiasts. Showcasing an extensive collection of ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan artifacts, the museum offers a glimpse into the classical world. Wander through the meticulously designed gardens, admire the architecture inspired by ancient Roman villas, and enjoy the educational exhibits. Although admission is free, reserve your tickets in advance to experience this cultural gem.
4. Solstice Canyon
Embark on a scenic hike through Solstice Canyon, a lush oasis filled with oak groves, sycamore trees, and vibrant wildflowers. The Solstice Canyon Loop Trail takes you on a journey to the historic Roberts Ranch House ruins and culminates at the flowing Solstice Canyon waterfall.
5. Leo Carrillo State Park
Leo Carrillo State Park offers a coastal wonderland with sandy beaches, rocky tide pools, and picturesque sea caves. This park is perfect for beachcombing, exploring marine life, and enjoying a peaceful day by the ocean. The beautiful coastal views, tide pool discoveries, and opportunities for beach activities make Leo Carrillo State Park an ideal destination for those seeking free outdoor adventures in Malibu.
6. Malibu Pier
The historic Malibu Pier stands as an iconic landmark along the coastline. Stroll along the wooden pier and bask in the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s an excellent spot for watching local surfers ride the waves, spotting marine life, and capturing stunning sunset photos. With its free access and inviting atmosphere, the Malibu Pier is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists.
7. Pepperdine University
If you’re planning where to attend university, take a leisurely walk around the beautiful Pepperdine University campus. The expansive campus is perched atop a hill overlooking the ocean. Enjoy the stunning vistas and serene environment as you explore the well-maintained grounds. The university’s impressive Payson Library and the terrace with sweeping ocean views are open to the public, offering a peaceful retreat to read, study, relax, and appreciate the campus’s natural beauty.
Even if you’re not ready to buy just yet, it pays to be prepared. Keep these 5 tricks in your back pocket—they’ll come in handy later in the homebuying process.
1. Get multiple quotes
Lenders are required to provide a loan estimate for fees and other closing costs within 3 days of receiving your application. This gives you the chance to compare lender fees, or what the lender charges for services like underwriting and processing. Use it wisely and get several quotes before settling on a lender.
2. Shop around for third party services
Once you’ve selected a lender, review the list of third party vendors in your lender’s estimate. You can’t select the appraiser, but you can find alternative title companies, settlement services, and other services that might be listed in the lender’s estimate like surveyor and pest control. Shop around and get estimates.
3. Negotiate with the seller
Most lenders allow the home seller to pay for the buyer’s closing costs—the trick is convincing the seller to pony up the cash. Often, a home inspection will turn up issues that give you more room to reopen the conversation. This is where negotiating skills and a knowledgeable realtor will come in handy.
4. Close near the end of the month.
At closing, you’ll be required to prepay interest that accrues from the closing date to the end of the month. If you close the middle of the month, you will have to pay two weeks of interest. By closing at the end of the month, you will have to pay only a few days’ worth of interest.
5. Accept a higher interest rate
If you can’t afford closing costs and the seller won’t pay, talk to your lender about getting a noclosing-cost loan. With this type of loan, you agree to a slightly higher interest rate in exchange for zero closing costs. The bank pays your closing costs and makes its money back over time thanks to the extra interest.
Summer is usually the housing industry’s busy season for good reason, but a few things could make 2017 one of the best opportunities to buy for a long time.
1. Housing inventory is shrinking
An interesting trend this year? Tightening housing markets. Across the country, inventory has started to drop, and experts don’t see that changing any time soon, thanks to baby boomers choosing not to sell and developers responding slowly. If you really want options, summer is your best chance to find them.
2. Moving with children will be a whole lot easier
Buying a house and moving when the kids are out of school makes a lot of sense for families. It keeps children from missing too much school and gives them the opportunity to adjust before starting back up. Even if you don’t have children, the increased activity in the market from families selling, buying, and moving opens up opportunities–so keep any eye out.
3. Home prices are rising
When supply is tight and demand is high, prices rise. While it’s always possible for them to dip again, industry experts say that is unlikely to happen in the near future. So if you’re hoping to buy over the next few years, this summer is your best chance before prices creep higher.
4. The weather is better for moving and home improvements
If you live northern parts of the country, then you know that for half the year outdoor work gets unpleasant. If you’re buying a fixer upper—or even just doing the moving on your own—summer and early fall offer you the most daylight and the best weather for getting the job done.
5. Interest rates are low, but rising
After years of low interest rates, it’s hard to believe that they used to routinely hit double digits—or that they could again. Right now, interest rates are still historically quite low at under 4%. But they’ve already spiked twice so far this year, and most industry experts expect to see that rising trend continue throughout the rest of 2017 and into 2018.
Your interest rate will depend on several personal factors like credit score and debt levels. To get a rate quote from Total Mortgage, get in contact with us here.
Lamar Odom, former basketball player and ex-husband of Khloe Kardashian, has put his long-time Miami estate on the market.
He originally bought the property in 2003, just before his first and only season playing for the Miami Heat. Over his 14 season career, he went on to play for the Lakers, the Clippers, and the Mavericks and wed (and divorced) a Kardashian. After all that, it’s no wonder he could use a fresh start.
This 8,557 square foot pad comes with 6 bedrooms, 7.5 bathrooms, a media room, a pool and spa, and (of course) a basketball court. All that will set you back $5.2 million.
Today we’re going to look at ten notorious “bad guys” in history who, as it turns out, may not have been all that bad. From misunderstood Greek gods to uncredited dentists, we’re diving into the stories behind some of history’s most vilified figures. Here are who folks from a popular online community volunteered as “not the bad guys.”
1. Robert the Bruce from Braveheart
Historical portrayals can always be contested for accuracy, and Braveheart’s case proves just that. For example, someone pointed out how Robert the Bruce was loyal to William Wallace, unlike what the movie showcases.
1. Robert the Bruce from Braveheart
While sometimes events are rewritten for entertainment value, one person argued that the original story was more exciting and could’ve been portrayed as is. Someone should have told Mel Gibson to do his research.
2. Niccolo Machiavelli
History is full of stories about unfortunate, misunderstood men, and Machiavelli is one of them. As many pointed out, his name is wrongly muddled with vices such as dishonesty, manipulation, and lies.
2. Niccolo Machiavelli
In reality, The Prince was more of an observation about how governments are rather than a suggestion regarding how they should be.
3. The First Persian Empire from 300
Okay, this is no longer about bad guys but bad empires. But hear me out. If you recall the film 300, you can remember how the First Persian Empire really got the short end of the stick. As someone mentioned, the movie was made from a Spartan point of view, making it a biased depiction.
3. The First Persian Empire from 300
Of course, no empire was perfect, but it is always important to point out if a negative characterization is unwarranted.
4. Captain Hazelwood of the Exxon Valdez
Finding someone talking passionately about Captain Hazelwood in immense detail was amusing. However, to cut it short, the man is often considered a drunk captain who couldn’t manage his ship.
4. Captain Hazelwood of the Exxon Valdez
In reality, Hazelwood was not even in command during the spill. The man just wanted a nap, and suddenly he’s a drunken pirate? Give him a break!
5. William McMaster Murdoch from Titanic
I can’t think of anyone who hasn’t seen the film Titanic. Inevitably, most of us thought of Murdoch as a horrible person.
5. William McMaster Murdoch from Titanic
It is often forgotten that he was a real guy who saved many lives during the incident.
6. Hades from Greek Mythology
Hades wasn’t a bad guy, or at least not as bad as other Greek Gods. As one person mentioned, he was loyal to his wife (for the most part, at least).
6. Hades from Greek Mythology
He’s not as bad as everyone thinks. I mean, he named his dog Spot. That’s just too cute!
7. Tom from Tom & Jerry
Let’s delve into the classic skirmish between Tom and Jerry. Controversial, I know! However, many folks think that Tom wasn’t all that bad. One person speculated that the duo was putting on a show to avoid getting kicked out by their owners.
7. Tom from Tom & Jerry
Of course, most episodes are disconnected from each other and portray vastly different versions of the relationship between Tom and Jerry.
8. William Thomas Green Morton
William Thomas was an unfortunate dentist who did not get enough attention to discovering anesthesia. This may be because doctors at the time didn’t take him seriously.
8. William Thomas Green Morton
Many folks commented that his discovery is the only reason modern-day surgery is possible. It’s a shame he didn’t get the credit he deserved, but dentists and doctors have always been at odds.
9. Herbert Hoover
Hoover won the 1929 elections and took office as the US President. Unfortunately, he was subject to too much criticism as the world faced a horrific economic depression shortly after his tenure began.
9. Herbert Hoover
In reality, as someone commented, Hoover had brilliant administrative skills, which led him to win in the first place. However, a series of unfortunate circumstances brought forth a lot of criticism.
10. Pharaoh Cleopatra
Contrary to popular belief, Cleopatra was not an exploitative ruler. She’s not just a pretty face, folks. She was intelligent and dedicated as a leader. So let’s give credit where credit is due!
10. Pharaoh Cleopatra
In truth, one person mentioned how she was incredibly focused on the development and welfare of her nation. “You get a pyramid, and you get a pyramid, and you get a pyramid!”
Source: Reddit.
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On Friday I visited Office Depot for school backpacks at the killer price of $2.99. Along with other loss-leader school supplies, they’ll be donated to a local social services agency. At the checkout, I handed over a “20% off all backpacks” coupon from an Office Depot mailer. The cash register wouldn’t accept the coupon. “These are already on sale so the coupon won’t work,” the sales clerk said.
I noted, politely, that the coupon did not say “not good on sale-priced items.” The cashier tried again. No dice. “It’s not letting it go through,” she said, and waited. I got the distinct impression she wanted me to say, “Oh, that’s OK.” But I wasn’t going to say that, because my belief is that a store should honor its published offers.
She called a manager, who told me the coupon wasn’t intended for sale items. I again pointed out that nowhere on the coupon did it say that. This started off a 10-minute dance between manager and consumer over what would have been a $3 discount.
Before you write me off as an intractable miser, consider this: What happens when consumers do not insist that businesses keep their word?
All kinds of reasons
During our little discount minuet, the manager demanded to see the mailer from which I’d taken the ad, saying it would explain that the coupon was not good on sale items. I went out to my car and got the ad; it said no such thing.
The manager, whom I’ll call Nancy, tried several other tacks. She pored over the fine print in the store’s weekly ad — complaining it was hard to read because the doctor had dilated her eyes that morning — but nothing in the ad excluded coupons. She said that “corporate” never intended for coupons to be used with sale items, and that’s why the computer wouldn’t allow it — the computer is programmed by “corporate.”
If that’s the case, I suggested, then “not valid with sale items” ought to be written on the coupon.
She looked at it again, noting the phrase “we reserve the right to limit quantities.” I’d bought five, the limit noted in the weekly flier. Nancy said, “I’ll give you the coupon on one of them.” I replied that nowhere on the coupon does it say that it was good for just one item.
“It says ‘one-time use’, so I’ll let you have it for just the one.” I suggested that “one-time use” might actually mean that I couldn’t use the coupon again the next day.
Nancy said that when I signed up for the store rewards program, I would have gotten an e-mail explaining, among other things, why coupons couldn’t be used on sale items. I repeated, “Shouldn’t that be written on the coupon itself?”
A real headache
The manager said she’d send my “information” to corporate headquarters and have them explain why coupons can’t be used on sale items. First she asked for my driver’s license, which I would not have given, and then decided that just my rewards card would do. She wrote down the card number and told me that at $2.99, the store was losing money on the backpacks. Using a coupon made it worse.
I replied that I was familiar with the concept of a loss leader: you lose money on some items to get people into the store.
Finally, the manager told the cashier to override the register and ring up the discount for all five backpacks. “I don’t want to spend any more time on this. I have a headache,” she said.
You and me both, Nancy. Confrontation is not easy for me. I simply wanted Office Depot to make good on its published promise.
Why you should care
Some of you are probably thinking, It’s only $3 — give it up, already. I don’t think that the amount matters. The company mailed me a flier full of discounts in the hope I would come to one of its stores. When I tried to use one of those discounts, employees decided that it shouldn’t apply to sales.
Suppose you saw a coupon good for 20% off all winter coats, but when you get to the store you’re told, “Oh, it’s not good on red coats.” Or imagine seeing a car ad, “20% off all Chevrolets,” but when you get to the dealership you’re told that it’s only good on four-door sedans.
There’s a term for this. It’s called bait and switch. Get the customer into the store and then change the terms.
What happened at Office Depot was not a bait and switch per se, but it still wasn’t good customer relations. Yes, I understand that the company is taking a hit pricing its backpacks at $2.99 and that an additional 60-cent discount hurts even more. But that’s a cost of doing business: Advertise something really cheaply and hope people buy enough other things to make the loss leader worthwhile.
Certainly any company is within its rights to limit coupon use on loss leaders. But if that’s what corporate wants, then corporate needs to be very clear, and it needs to do so on the coupon. I don’t want to rely on the personal interpretation of a cash register. Or a manager with a headache.
J.D.’s note: I’m proud of Donna for standing up for herself. It can seem ludicrous to fight bureaucracy for just a few bucks, but I make a point of doing it, too. Later today I’ll share another tale of fighting corporate madness.